Avery Skinner shows love to Kentucky Volleyball after Olympic silver medal performance

Kentucky Volleyball was proud to provide Team USA with a star front-woman for the 2024 Paris Olympics with former collegiate outside hitter Avery Skinner. The 6-foot-1 Kentucky alum led her team to a silver medal after falling to Italy 3-0 in the championship. Despite moving on to the biggest stage in sports, Skinner still appreciates where she came from…

The University of Kentucky.

“I felt so supported and so loved throughout my whole time there,” Skinner said. “They’ve made me a better player, better human. I wouldn’t be where I’m at without my Kentucky family.”

Over the course of the Olympics, Skinner scored 72 points in six matches, with 64 kills contributing to that total. The 25-year-old added 170 attack attempts, finishing the tournament with a .376 clip. Skinner also accrued five blocks, three service aces, 39 digs, and 83 total service receptions.

It’s safe to say that Skinner’s Olympics were fairly successful.

“Leaving Paris bursting with gratitude for the opportunity to represent my country on the biggest stage, for all of my people at home and those who came across the world for weeks or even hours to support me, and for the countless memories made and lessons learned this summer,” Skinner said in an Instagram post on Aug. 14.

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A post shared by Avery Skinner (@averyskinnerr)

Skinner more than likely had friends and family come to support her in Paris, but former coach Craig Skinner also made an appearance. Skinner, the longtime Kentucky volleyball coach, mentored Avery for her four seasons in Lexington. Senior Athletic Trainer Katy Poole also showed up to support.

“Kentucky Volleyball has always been about supporting and celebrating others, so when Avery called and asked if we would be able to come, it was a no-brainer,” Poole said.

“I couldn’t be more proud of someone. She rose up to every challenge and realized obstacles are just part of the journey,” Craig added.

Skinner completed her Olympic run with a silver medal, probably her first of many accolades to come at this level. Despite graduating from Kentucky in 2021, and even moving on to Baylor for her graduate year, it’s clear that Skinner still has so much love for the Wildcats.