Conway, S.C. — In a deeply moving and historic evening at Atlantic Collegiate Academy, the Armada women's volleyball program paused to honor one of its brightest lights, officially retiring the No. 18 jersey of beloved former teammate
Ava Holland prior to Tuesday night's match against Darlington High School.
Holland became the first student-athlete in school history to receive the honor, ensuring her presence will remain a permanent fixture in the hearts and minds of the ACA community. Surrounded by her parents and family at center court, the pre-match tribute celebrated Holland's vibrant life, infectious spirit, and enduring impact through a poignant commemorative slideshow and musical dedication.
Holland passed away last year following a tragic car accident, but her selflessness continues to touch lives. A registered organ donor, her final gift gave hope and life to others. At ACA, her memory lives on through a dedicated memorial scholarship established in her name to support future generations of Armada students.
"I thought the night was perfect," head coach
Larry Church said. "Being able to include Ava's family really made it a special night. I was hoping to make it a happy moment and truly celebrate Ava. Thank you to everyone who came out to support and make it everything we hoped it would be."
Inspired by her memory and carrying her passion onto the floor, the Armada (15-6, 8-0 Region) turned in a commanding performance, sweeping Darlington 3-0 to remain unblemished in region play.
For the players on the court, every point scored served as a heartfelt tribute to a teammate who gave so much to the program.
"I think it was truly an honor, and I just know Ava will be so proud of us and that she's watching over us," said junior
Sophia Pimentel. "I want her parents to know that she is so loved, and Ava to know that she is so loved. It's such an honor to play for Ava tonight."
"Ava was such a great person on and off the court," added junior
Simone Frederick-Pearson. "She was a great friend and a great player. Everyone wants to be like Ava, so taking that with everything we love... just playing like her, being a great person like her inspires everyone to be better so we can play for Ava."
The evening served as a profound reminder of unity, healing, and love for the entire Armada family. Holland's retired No. 18 will hang prominently in the gym, a lasting testament to her courage, joy, and competitive spirit. As future generations of Armada athletes step onto the hardwood, her banner will stand as a beacon of what it truly means to play with heart, strength, and grace.
With her memory forever enshrined in school history, the Armada will continue their season with Ava in their hearts, returning home this Thursday to host Aynor High School in another region match.
About Atlantic Collegiate Academy: Atlantic Collegiate Academy (ACA), located in Conway, S.C., serves high school students in a safe, small and family-centered setting. Our students seek the opportunity and challenge of rigorous curriculum, high academic standards and elite athletics while also earning up to two years of college credit. ACA serves students in grades 9-12 using an honors curriculum in 9th and 10th grades with a dual enrollment curriculum in 11th and 12th grades.
Learn more about ACA by visiting our website at AtlanticCollegiate.Academy and by following us on social media on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (X).
