ORLANDO, Fla. – Avalynn wears the number 13 on her volleyball jersey, not because it’s her favorite number, but because it was her brother’s favorite.
“It’s just like a way for me to carry a piece of him on the court,” Avalynn said.
Avalynn, 13, plays with Game Point Volleyball Club in Orlando. It’s one of 625 local teams at the AAU Junior National Volleyball Championships, happening from now until July 10th at the Orange County Convention Center.
Over 100,000 girls and boys are bringing their best volleyball to Orlando, and the economic impact is expected to be over $760 million. It’s Avalynn’s first time getting a taste of this competition.
“It’s very fun,” she said. “It’s a new experience, and it’s very cool.”
After the loss of her brother, Avalynn had a hard time getting back on the court. But she said now, she’s getting better.
“It’s a little bit easier on me because I’ve gotten used to it, but I’m still a little bit sad because there’s always an empty seat.”
The girls play volleyball through July 10, while the boys start on July 3.
For more information and tickets, visit the AAU sports website.