D6 Athlete of the Week: Ava Dominguez, University High School

"For the past four years, Ava has been an integral part of the track team. Her dedication, drive, and leadership have been invaluable to the athletes and coaches. Ava has worked very hard to be one of the best hurdlers in the state of Colorado, and will be competing in Europe next year for Rome City Institute." - Dan Betz, Track Coach

Student Name

Ava Dominguez

School

University High School

Grade Level

Senior

Sports

Track and Field and Volleyball

Positions

Hurdles and Relays

Stats

• 100 Meter Hurdles: 16.24
• 300 Meter Hurdles: 48.12

"I am most proud of my commitment to run track in Rome, Italy, because I feel like this is such a rare and amazing opportunity that not a lot of people are blessed with."  

What are your goals for this season?

"Personally, I'd like to break the school record in both hurdle events, and place well at state!" 

Who are your role models in your sport or life, and how have they influenced you?

"My biggest role models are my parents because they've built themselves up from nothing into these amazing, successful people, and I really admire how far they've come. They've supported me through it all, and I'm so grateful."  

How do you manage the balance between academics and athletics? What strategies have been most effective for you? 

"I like to dedicate a lot time to my homework after practices, but in all reality, I get a majority of it done in class so I won't have to stress about it later."

How do you handle pressure and maintain mental resilience during high-stakes competition?

"One thing I learned about sports is mistakes are supposed to happen. There's not a single athlete who hasn't made a mistake, and I take it as a lesson to learn from. You aren't defined by your athletic ability, and letting go of mistakes and moving on is where the real mental strength lies."   

What are your career or college plans after you graduate high school? 

"I plan to continue my education and athletic career at Rome City Institute. The college is located in Rome, Italy, and I'll be competing in track there. I want to major in International Business. I hope to come back to Greeley and stay in the business industry."  

What advice do you have for younger athletes who want to join your sport?

"Comparison is the thief of joy. You're going to have your ups and downs, but that's okay. Don't expect greatness until you work for it."  

Do you have any funny pre-game rituals or superstitions that you stick to?

"I really hate warming up with shoes on. If I'm on a turf or grass field while warming up, you best believe I'm in socks."  

If you were to participate in a talent show unrelated to your sport, what would your act be?

"Any sort of handstand contest."