North Buncombe – A change from swimming to track and cross-country running has earned a North Buncombe High senior a scholarship to college. Avery Mays signed to run for Western Carolina University next year. The signing occurred in the high school’s cafeteria on Thursday (Nov. 9th), surrounded by family, coaches, and friends.
The more than 75 people gathered to congratulate Avery made a low rumble of noise as they talked, standing around waiting for the signing ceremony. But as the event got underway, a silence fell over the crowd, anxious to watch Avery fulfill a dream.
After the ceremony got underway, Avery signed the commitment letter with her two younger brothers and mom and dad by her side. Afterward, the Tribune had a chance to talk to the two-time state champion.
“I got into running to be in better shape for swimming and found out I really liked it,” Avery told the Tribune. “I switch to track.” Avery was a swimmer from the age of 8 until middle school, where she started running.
When discussing what she would be studying at Western Carolina, Avery said, “I want to be an elementary English teacher.” When asked why, she said, “I know a lot of people who’ve struggled coming into school and not knowing English. So hopefully, I’ll be that teacher who will make a difference.” Don’t think Avery is just a good athlete. She is also a good student, as she is the valedictorian of her class.
“We are thrilled for her,” said Megan Mays, Avery’s mom. “She’s found a school that’s a great fit and a team she’s really excited to be on. We are just really excited for her to continue to do the things she loves. Megan said Avery is the first in her family to go to Western Carolina.
“She definitely worked very hard for it [the scholarship],” said Jason Mays, Avery’s father. “She’s been in sports her whole school career, and it has finally paid off for her. So, I’m proud she put in all that effort. I’m glad it paid off.”
So, how did Avery switch from swimming come about? Jason said a swimming pool was not always available, so Avery decided to change to another long-distance endurance sport. “She was a swimmer, and it was just more accessible to a lot of kids to be able to run. She was already an endurance athlete, and when she got into running, she found out she liked it, she excelled, and she just kept at it.”