Ashlyn Pesek

The Ultimate Team Player

Shared victories are her sweetest reward. 

Like every other elite athlete, Ashlyn Pesek covets the feeling that comes with winning a close game or taking home a state championship. But that’s not why she gives her all across four different high school varsity sports. Whether she is running the track, swinging a bat, serving a volleyball, or setting a new personal best for the high jump, her passion comes from the joy of being a part of the team and the relationships she’s established through her athletic pursuits. “I love working hard with my best friends and accomplishing incredible things together,” she says. “Sometimes, when practices get tough or games seem like a chore, I remember my team and my obligation to do my very best for them.”

When an injury prevented Ashlyn from running cross country her senior year, she was heartbroken. “I have been running cross country since fifth grade and was devastated that I would not be able to finish out my last year the way I hoped.” Despite the personal disappointment, Ashlyn was determined to continue contributing to her team in some way. She spoke to her coach about joining the team as a manager, and the experience is affording Ashlyn the opportunity to stay engaged with her teammates and enjoy the sport in a whole new way.

Ashlyn puts her love of teamwork and willingness to support others into her academic and volunteer life as well. She is a member of her school’s competitive academic team and was selected to represent her community at the 2022 session of the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State. She serves as class secretary and a student ambassador. She also contributes many hours of her time to a variety of community organizations, initiatives, and events that benefit youth, seniors, families, veterans, and those in need locally and around the world. “Volunteering has been a huge part of my life ever since I started elementary school,” she says. “I love seeing the work I do directly affect the people I serve in a positive way.” Just as she is energized by her teammates on the court, track, and field, Ashlyn is equally strengthened by the people she serves as a volunteer. “Though kindness is only an action, sometimes it is all a person needs to gain the strength to keep pushing through. I love having the opportunity to give someone that gift.”