Whitehorse native Danica Avery has been named junior volleyball's outstanding player for her commitment and success to the sport at Shawinigan Lake School.

The private boarding school is located on Vancouver Island.

"Danica is a very talented member of the volleyball program at Shawnigan Lake School,” said head coach Carmen Boudreau.

"Her athletic ability, commitment, and leadership make her a great role model for her teammates.”

Avery has played competitive volleyball for the past three years, including one year on the girls' Sub Zero team in Whitehorse.

This year marked Avery's first with the Shawnigan Lake School volleyball team.

When asked if volleyball was in her future, the Grade 10 student said, "Yes, especially for my high school years because I think it is a great sport. I hope that I can continue volleyball into university also.”

Volleyball is offered in the fall term at Shawnigan Lake as a competitive option for girls.

Avery also enjoys playing basketball and soccer, and hopes to play competitively at Shawnigan this year.

Shawnigan's goal in all sports is to develop the athletic potential of each student, and to create genuine opportunities to excel with others. The over-arching values of respect and sportsmanship colour our entire approach.

"I think for the level of experience the team started out with, we have improved drastically and every player brought strengths to each game,” Avery said. "The team's ability to stay positive, to always try no matter what the circumstances are, and most of all, to have fun together,” is what she enjoys most.

Shawnigan Lake School's athletic programs provide athletes an opportunity for travel, and leadership within the school.