By Derrick Smith

Throughout the career of an athlete, no matter the sport, are numerous moments or experiences that they will not forget. This could be a personal milestone or a team achievement, but nonetheless, the moment is engrained in their mind for the rest of their lives. Ashley Winter says that she has a moment like that in which they had success in an unlikely season. 

“The highlight moment of my volleyball career was this year,” she said. “We made it to the state tournament. We did not have a great regular season and we were ranked 27th. But we came ready to play at our regional game and beat the sixth-ranked team in the state. It was a great feeling, everyone was really proud of our perseverance.”

Winter is a senior at Chisholm High School, where she is a member of the volleyball and tennis teams. She is a setter on the volleyball team, a sport she has played since she was in the second grade. She plays doubles with her best friend on the tennis court. She first began playing tennis as a freshman. 

As an athlete that plays multiple sports, Ashley has to train and prepare to be ready to compete.

“It has taken a lot of practice time and patience to become successful in the sports I play,” she said. “I started out as the worst but when I invested lots of time at my camps, practice, and club teams I saw a lot of improvement.”

She has also had some help along the way. Winter says that she has been blessed to have a couple of people who have always been with her supporting and encouraging her. 

“My parents, Mark and Katrena Winter, are definitely my biggest influences and role models,” she said. “They have given up a lot to help me to succeed in everything I work hard for. They have taught me how to be productive and kind and have pushed me to be who I am today.”

Along with playing sports, Ashley is a member of the student council, National Honor Society, Chisholm Community Outreach team, Spanish club, Future Farmers of America, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.