Every event asks something different of Avariona Sexton. On the volleyball court, she attacks from the outside. In powerlifting, she measures herself through the squat, bench press and deadlift. During track season, she steps into the circle to throw the discus and shot put. No matter the setting, the Chickasha High School junior approaches competition with the same goal: keep improving.
“I want to be the best at what I do, and there will always be something I can improve,” Sexton said. “That’s what motivates me to keep going.”
That mindset has helped Sexton become a multi-sport athlete while also maintaining a strong focus on academics. She competes in volleyball, powerlifting and track, balancing the different physical demands and responsibilities that come with each sport. Volleyball requires quickness, communication and timing; powerlifting calls for technique, strength and discipline; while the throwing events in track demand power, balance and attention to detail.
Sexton said success has not come by chance. It has required hard work, dedication, commitment and discipline, qualities she continues to develop throughout the year.
One of the major highlights of her athletic career has been making the transition from middle hitter to outside hitter in volleyball. The move presented a new challenge and required Sexton to expand her game, but it also gave her the opportunity to embrace a different role for her team.
As an outside hitter, Sexton is expected to contribute at the net while also handling a variety of responsibilities across the court. The change reinforced her willingness to adapt, learn and do what is needed for the group.
Away from competition, Sexton is a member of Chickasha’s National Honor Society. Her academic responsibilities remain her top priority, even with a demanding schedule that includes practices, workouts, meets and matches.
“My schoolwork will always come before any of my other activities because school will always be more important for me and my future,” Sexton said. “If an activity gets in the way of my schoolwork, then I will choose to stop doing the activity.”
That commitment reflects the way Sexton views her role as a Chickasha student-athlete. Representing her school and community means taking pride in where she grew up, supporting teammates and competing with consistent effort.
“It means being proud of where I grew up, supporting my teammates and always giving my best,” Sexton said. “How I play and act reflects the people who support me, and I want to make them proud.”
She also understands that younger students are watching. Through hard work, positivity and respect, Sexton hopes to set an example that extends beyond the scoreboard.
