At six feet tall, junior Aviya Russo never falls short, especially when it comes to volleyball. Since starting the sport eight years ago, she has consistently pushed herself to reach new heights, including her most recent achievement: her commitment to Texas Tech University. 

She was inspired to take up the sport by her sister, whose support and encouragement throughout the college search process helped her find the right school. During the search, her main priority was to find quality coaching and leadership to continue her love for volleyball. 

“That was a super important part to me, just because my sister lost her love for the game because of harsh coaching at her college,” Aviya said. “I would never want to be in that situation.”

Luckily for Aviya, she found exactly that in Texas Tech’s volleyball program, choosing it over schools in California, Arizona, and on the East Coast. 

“I like how they run their program, similar to the experience I wanted to have in college,” Aviya said. 

Another deciding factor for Aviya was the level of competition. Ranking third in the kills and hitting percentage categories in the De Anza league, with an average of 5.2 kills per set, Aviya is a powerful force on the court. 

These qualities have prepared her for the competitive nature of Division I volleyball. Texas Tech competes as a member of the Big 12 conference, in which 16 universities from around the country compete in. 

“It’s a super competitive conference,” Aviya said. “I’ve always wanted to do that, even in club right now, being able to play against the best.”

Although Aviya followed in some of her sister’s footsteps, she chartered her own path to become a unique person and athlete. In her three years on the Los Altos High School varsity team, she is someone many players turn to for support, both on and off the court. 

“Everybody looks to her to make big plays,” Head Coach Peter Kim said. “And what she’s unique at is that she can make those plays that help us move forward and be more excited about the match.”

Outside of games, volleyball brought Aviya close friendships and strong bonds with teammates that have only grown over time. 

“Since we’re playing together, we’re always together,” junior Ana Heath said. “It has helped us really have a connection.”

Aviya’s love for volleyball, including the time, effort, and hard work she has put into getting to where she is today, keeps her motivated to constantly improve.

“I just have a lot of love for the game,” Aviya said. “I feel like I’m in too deep, and I’ve done so much.”