By Derrick Smith

Most athletes make the decision to play a sport because they enjoy it and want to be a part of it. Throughout their career, they become better at their sport, both physically and mentally. Rachel Avedon says that playing sports has helped her in other areas of her life as well. 

“My sports have helped me so much with discipline and time management,” she said. “Having to deal with school, practices, and training, I have learned how to balance my schedule and work.”

Avedon is a senior at Bishop Kelley where she is a multisport athlete. She plays combo guard on the basketball court, while on the track she runs short distances, relays, and competes in the long jump. 

As she looks back on her career, Rachel says that her first memory of playing sports is on the basketball court where she received a word of encouragement from an unusual source.
“My first memory of playing basketball was when I started in fourth grade,” Avedon recalled. “My dad was our coach and during a game, the ref came up to and said I was going to be a good player when I grew up. That really made my day.”

There are a few athletes that she has looked up to throughout her career, but Avedon says that there is one female athlete that has been a role model for her. 

“I look up to Paige Bueckers who is a women’s basketball player at the University of Connecticut,” she said. “She has been my inspiration for basketball and I love watching her play.

Rachel is a member of the National Honor Society, Leadership Council, Student Council, and BKTV. Away from school, she is a member of Team Griffin, a competitive basketball team. She is also an active member of her church, St. Marys.

Bishop Kelley has been a great school for Rachel and she says that she has enjoyed every aspect of it. 

“I enjoy the atmosphere and community at our school,” Avedon said. “Bishop Kelley really is the best at making sure everyone comes together and has fun.”