The Softball America Spotlight: 2025 Ava Calciano
As Softball America grows its coverage at all levels, we continue our recruiting spotlight series with Ava Calciano. Calciano is committed to UConn as a shortstop and her ability to hit for power will be a great addition to the Huskies’ lineup.
Name: Ava Calciano
Primary Position(s): Shortstop
Class Year: 2025
Hometown: Lewes, DE
Travel Ball Organization: Newtown Rock Gold Garvey 18U
What about UConn did you love the most?
My first phone call with UConn was with Coach Nikki and I remember telling my parents immediately after that I loved talking to her and UConn immediately shot to the top of my list. Going to a school with a family atmosphere is very important to me, and Coach Nikki explained that the players and coaches at UConn value that as well. Coach Valentino, Coach Nikki, and Coach Mac were all so genuine and worked hard to get to know me as a person and a player during the process! What I also really love is that UConn checks all the boxes that are most important to me in a program, like winning, mindset, amazing facilities and staff to help me develop, a strong academic reputation, championship athletic programs, and a family atmosphere in the program.
What is your favorite travel ball memory?
I love to travel, so going to places like California, Colorado, Arizona, Texas, and up and down the East Coast to play has given me amazing memories. My first tournament with Rock is also a memory I hold close to my heart because of how they made me feel and how they welcomed and trusted me as a key piece of a great group from day one.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from a coach?
That there are no shortcuts to getting better and the importance of turning weaknesses in your game into strengths! It takes work on the field, in the weight room, studying video, and more to keep improving! I’ve learned that for me, preparation and consistent reps are a huge key to my performance.
How did you get interested in softball?
My dad used to take me out to the backyard or local fields to swing the bat when I was very little. I really loved hitting and would try to hit bombs like Big Papi from the Red Sox. We watched and went to a lot of games because he is an MLB scout. I started to watch more softball and knew it was something I wanted to try.
What are your strengths as a player? What are you trying to improve on the most?
I would say my strengths are having a disciplined approach at the plate and being able to help a team win with my gap-to-gap approach, hitting for power, and by stealing bases. I am a reliable defender at shortstop but can play a lot of positions to help the team. I have been working hard on improving my strength and flexibility. I’m also working on bunting for hits and adding that part to my game.
What player(s) do you look up to the most?
I look up to the players at UConn the most. I love the way they play the game, and I’m so excited to have the opportunity to be on the field with some of them. I can’t say enough good things about how passionately and fiercely I see them play. When I’m watching them either on TV or in person, I can tell that those girls want to be there and love the game as much as I do.
What are your favorite hobbies outside of softball?
I play volleyball for my high school team, I like to go to the beach, shop, hang out with friends, and travel.
What excites you the most about playing college softball?
I’m most excited about being able to play with like-minded players who want to win. Softball is so much fun when everyone is competing and lifting each other up. Playing with girls at the next level who have the same love for the game and passion that I do is something that I’m definitely looking forward to.
