Skinner Hopes to Build on Stellar Freshman Season

Kentucky volleyball standout Avery Skinner had a big season as a freshman, both individually and with the Wildcats, who made the NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight. Now, Skinner hopes to build on her experiences from last season to make her sophomore season even better.

The 6-1 outside hitter from Katy, Texas, proved her worth during her freshman year, when she recorded 362 kills, which was second on the team. She also had 38 total blocks and 38 digs while being named to the SEC All-Freshman team.

Skinner proved to be a clutch player for the Cats in 2017. In fact, her career high in kills came in a five-set, NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 win over BYU in December. Now, she hopes to lead her team into a similar spot this season, although she knows it won’t be easy.

“We have to take care of our business on the court,” Skinner said. “We have a target on our back. We try to focus on each game and take it step by step.”

Skinner had the opportunity to play overseas during the summer, joining teammate Leah Edmond on the USA Collegiate National Volleyball team that played in Croatia in July. It turned out to be a trip that Skinner will not ever forget.

“It was such a great experience, I was so excited to make the team,” Skinner said. “Just going over and being to play with other girls who are great in what they do and to get to do it another country was amazing.”

Kentucky head coach Craig Skinner, no relation, thinks that Avery Skinner’s experience of playing overseas this summer will prove to be beneficial for her this season.

“(It provides) a jolt of confidence that you are playing with, and amongst the best college players in the country,” Coach Skinner said. “You have to be creative in finding ways to be successful, you have to try new ways. Travelling the world and maturing as a person and a player.”

Coach Skinner hopes to see Avery broaden her skillset this season, which would allow her to impact the game in even more ways.

“For Avery, being able to consistently score when it’s not an ideal situation is important,” Coach Skinner said. “The little things, taking care of her defense, serve receive, serving, which has gotten a lot better. More fine tuning.”

Skinner’s teammates enjoy her positive presence on the floor.

“Avery is my best friend, she’s my roommate, she’s so much fun to play with,” setter Madison Lilley said. “The smile that comes from Avery, she just loves playing. I know that’s someone I love to play with, and I think everyone can say the same.”

For Avery Skinner, the challenge this season is to raise the bar for a program that has already reached lofty heights. But she knows how the team can accomplish even bigger goals.

“I think we’re working to change the culture in the gym,” Skinner said. “Doing the common things in an uncommon way.”

That’s a method that should lead Skinner and the Wildcats to another successful season.