In her first year playing for UW after two All-MIAC performer at Carleton College, Ava Lewis served as a midfield linchpin off the bench, scoring against UCLA and making six starts in 16 games as well.  So far this year, Lewis has been a defensive mastermind in the midfield, starting 14 of 15 games so far and playing every minute in each of the last six games. In fact, Lewis has sat for just 67 minutes all season and for just 33 in games she has started.  A Seattle native, she has record five shots so far this year.
 
What does it feel like to play at Husky Soccer Stadium?
Lewis: The first time I stepped on Husky Soccer Stadium under the lights was a dream come true. Going to Husky games growing up, I never thought I would get to play on the field, and every time is as exciting as the first.
 
What is something the coaching staff has taught you off the field?
Lewis: The coaching staff has taught me what it means to truly buy in and commit to a lifestyle that's conducive to being a successful athlete. They are incredible role models of what it takes to become a successful female in the athletic world, and I'm proud to say I got to play during their legacy.
 
What is it like to play in the PAC-12 Conference?
Lewis: It's competitive, challenging, and rewarding. I love representing my school and my home state against some of the best competition in the country.
 
What is your favorite thing about living in Seattle?
Lewis: My favorite thing about living in Seattle is how close it is to the water and the mountains. There are so many things to do outside and they are all so easy to get to.
 
What are your favorite things to do in the summer in Seattle?
Lewis: My favorite things to do in the summer are go swimming and explore new areas of the Cascades.
 
What are some of your earliest memories of playing soccer?
Lewis: My earliest memory of playing soccer was dribbling a nerf ball between chair legs in the basement. I joined my first team when I was 4.
 
Who is your biggest inspiration(s) in why you play soccer?
Lewis: My biggest inspiration was my mom. Her unrelenting support and commitment to helping me succeed made all the difference.
 
What do you love most about playing soccer?
Lewis: I love the feeling after a game when you found your swing and your legs are so tired it hurts to walk back to the locker room. I also love how universal it is, and how you can connect with people all over the world with just a ball and some goals.
 
Who were your favorite players growing up?
Lewis: My favorite players were Mia Hamm and Brandi Chastain. I remember thinking it was so powerful when Brandi whipped her shirt off after her penalty, and Mia Hamm was definitely the soccer icon when I was growing up.
 
Can you talk about some of the experiences that have been opened up to you through the sport and how have they changed your life?
Lewis: Soccer has allowed me to travel all across the country in a meaningful way, with awesome groups of people. I have made lifelong friends through soccer and learned what it means to fully commit to something.