Batson racks more soccer credits

Avery Batson continues to accumulate solid experience on her soccer resume.

In February, Batson attended an invitational training session at the U.S. Soccer Training Center in Suwanee, Ga. After that initial session, she was invited and attended another camp at the National Training Center at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta on April 16.

Batson, 14, is an eighth-grader at Discovery Middle School and plays soccer with the Huntsville Futbol Club.

“Everyone at Discovery is so proud of Avery,” instructional coach Jacqueline Flowers said.

At six years old, Batson started playing with the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO). Later, she joined the Lady Freedom Club and Huntsville Futbol Club, along with guest plays for Birmingham United Soccer Association and Elite Clubs National League. She also pursues the Olympic Development Program.

Batson usually plays center midfield, left forward or back. “I try my best to play different positions,” she said.

“Avery works very hard at everything she does,” father Paul Batson said. Soccer practices sometimes take precedent with social activities with friends. “Avery was thrilled to be recognized by her teachers and fellow students. She came home smiling ear to ear and said several people congratulated her at school.”

Several years can pass from the first time that the U.S. Soccer scouting staff observes a player until a possible bid for a national team, Paul Batson said. “This is a huge step in the right direction to realize Avery’s dream.”

Avery’s parents Paul and Joung Batson have two other children: Sydney, a Bob Jones High School senior and Zachary, a Calhoun Community College student. Paul Batson works as a materials engineer. Joung Batson is a certified public accountant.

Off the field, Avery Batson has a 4.0 grade point average, has received science awards and belong to National Junior Honor Society and Students Against Destructive Decisions.