Young Reaches Milestone of 100th Ace

Our August Athletes of the Month started off our 2022-2023 fall sports season with the determination and commitment that creates success. Exemplifying the PRA Way (Prepared, Respectful, and Accountable), they are leading their teams in a variety of ways. Read more about each one of our Athletes of the Month in this set of features.

The dedication that Ella Young ’23 has brought to the season has been important to the PRA varsity volleyball team. After graduating about half of the 2021-2022 team, which qualified for the regional tournament, it was important for this year’s seniors to come back strong.

Ella started the season off incredibly strong and helped the team have a consistent back row. Her competitive drive has kept the team focused ad helped us win the last three games.

Rachel Renville, PRA Volleyball Coach

Young said that being a student athlete is about commitment, both to her sport and in other areas of her life as well. Being committed to the team means doing her best in her school work, as well, so she can keep her eligibility.

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned from volleyball is that when you being to slack off, it shows,” she said. “When you work hard it shows no matter who you’re playing with or against.”

With a team dedicated to improving every day, they have set their sights on winning the conference title.

“The part I like most about my team is the personalities of the girls and their drive to want to get better every day,” Young said.

In mid-September, Young hit a milestone in her high school volleyball career, getting her 100th ace in the Miners game against Valley. At the end of the game, the PRA Athletic Department presented her with a plaque commemorating her achievement. Young said she sees getting her 100th ace as evidence of the important role she has played for her team during her time as a Miner.

“It was amazing,” Young said of the evening. “They presented me with a plaque for it in front of everyone. I’m very grateful.”