Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Ava Mazzaferro (Girls' Soccer)

For senior Ava Mazzaferro, soccer has been more than just a sport—it has been a way to escape, to compete, and to grow alongside teammates who feel more like family.

“I’ve been playing soccer since I was four years old,” Ava said. “My parents put me into many sports when I was young, but soccer always stuck with me.”

That passion has only deepened over the years. Now a standout player for the Leominster High School soccer team, Ava values the game not only for its competition but for the freedom it provides.

“What I love most about soccer is how it allows me to leave everything out on the field and not think about any real-world distractions or stress I may have going on in my life,” Ava explained. “When I play, nothing else matters except the game, the moment, and the team. It allows me to feel free.”

At LHS, the team culture has also been a major highlight. “I love the team culture at LHS,” Ava said. “Practices are always fun to be a part of. We can have fun joking around but also get better as a whole.”

This season, the lessons have gone beyond the scoreboard. “(My) coach Jensen (Perez) has taught me that the hardest working team will win the game,” Ava shared. “We have to work hard, be hungry for the win, and play our game to come out on top.”

“Ava Mazzferro has been a leader on and off the field with a great attitude and the drive to work hard,” Perez explained.  

That hard work has already paid off, as Ava is committed to continue playing soccer at the Division II level for Assumption University. There, the future Blue Devil alum plans to major in Business, though the specific focus is still undecided.

Beyond the pitch, Ava stays active at LHS, participating in the Best Buddies club, the National Honor Society, and cheering on other Blue Devil teams. Academically, her favorites have included Spanish 2 with Mrs. Piragis and AP Statistics with none other than her mom, Mrs. Mazzaferro.

Life outside of school is just as full—playing club soccer for the FC Stars ECNL Regional team, working at Paisanos Pizza and Spirits, and spending time with family and friends.

Whether it’s in the classroom, on the soccer field, or in the community, Ava embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Blue Devil: hardworking, team-focused, and always ready to take on the next challenge.