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First-Year Setter Finds Success

Tribune photo by JOHN CEBALLOS

Junior Ashley Leonard is in her first year as a member of Lennard High School's varsity volleyball team. She also plans to play center for the Longhorns' flag football squad in the spring.

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By JOHN CEBALLOS

jceballos@tampatrib.com

Published: October 22, 2008

RUSKIN - Ashley Leonard had played volleyball when she was in middle school, but wasn't able to join Lennard High School's team until her junior year.

"The main reason is that I didn't have a ride to take me home after school," said Leonard, a Balm resident. "Now I can drive myself, so that's not a problem."

Though the Longhorns' varsity squad got off to a 1-10 record this season, Leonard - a setter on the team - has been an important part in a program still looking to establish itself.

"She's brand new to volleyball and she stepped in and played what's the hardest position in the sport," said Morgan Miltner, volleyball coach. "She's been a big part in holding the team together this year."

Although it was difficult at first, Leonard eventually embraced the role.

"There's a lot of technique involved, and it took me a while to get used to it," she said. "I kept working at it because there's a lot of responsibility with that position and I didn't want to let my teammates down."

Leonard's other responsibilities at the school include being the president of the school's Future Farmers of America chapter.

She will also play center this spring for the school's flag football team and is a member of Lennard's Iron Club - a weightlifting organization - as well as the National Honor Society and the Math Honor Society.

Once she graduates, she hopes to attend a school in Florida - her preferences include the University of South Florida - and enter a field related to medicine.

Until then, she's happy to finish up her first season as a varsity volleyball player.

"It's been a lot of fun and I've learned a lot about being an athlete," Leonard said.

GET TO KNOW

WHO: Ashley Leonard

AGE: 16

SCHOOL: Lennard High School

GRADE: 11th

SPORTS: Volleyball and flag football

FUTURE PLANS: Wants to attend a Florida university and study pharmacy or another medical field.

Reporter John Ceballos can be reached at (813) 865-1555.

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