NBC New York spotlights Ava Papaleo ’26

Ava Papaleo '26 has another honor to add to an already remarkable softball career.

NBC New York has named the Ursuline standout its MVP of the Month, sharing a story that goes beyond the statistics and accolades to reveal the perseverance behind Papaleo's success.

The feature, reported by NBC 4 New York weekend sports anchor John Chandler, chronicles Papaleo's road back from injuries and surgery, and the determination it took to return to the game she loves. It also highlights the steadfast support of her parents throughout that journey, including the many hours Papaleo and her father spent working together in the yard at home as she continued to develop her game.

[Watch Ava Papaleo's NBC New York MVP of the Month feature and full interview.]

That perseverance ultimately helped Papaleo become one of the nation's top softball recruits. She finished her senior season at Ursuline batting .548 with eight home runs, 31 RBIs, and 19 stolen bases, while playing error-free defense in center field.

Earlier this summer, Papaleo was named the 2025-26 Gatorade New York Softball Player of the Year, an honor recognizing athletic excellence, academic achievement, and character. She also earned New York State Player of the Year and LoHud Player of the Year honors and was ranked the No. 4 recruit nationally in the Class of 2026 by Line Drive Media.

Yet Papaleo's story has never been defined solely by what she accomplished on the field.

A student at Ursuline with a 4.30 weighted GPA, she has volunteered with KIDFIT STRONG, coached youth softball, and supported fundraising efforts benefiting cancer research. When her Gatorade honor came with a $1,000 grant to direct to a youth sports organization, Papaleo chose the Yonkers Police Athletic League, giving back to young athletes in her hometown.

It is a commitment that reflects Serviam, "I will serve," a value Papaleo carried with her throughout her years at Ursuline and one that has remained part of her story even as her athletic profile has grown.

Now, after a journey marked by setbacks, comebacks, and the support of those closest to her, Papaleo is beginning her next chapter. She will continue her academic and athletic career at the University of Virginia.