Ursuline celebrates softball standout Papaleo '26

The Ursuline School celebrated softball standout Ava Papaleo '26 on Wednesday, August 12, honoring the recent graduate for an extraordinary senior season and high school career that culminated in her being named the 2025-26 Gatorade New York Softball Player of the Year.

The Gatorade Player of the Year program recognizes outstanding high school athletes for their achievements in athletics and academics, as well as their contributions to their communities. The award is presented annually to one state winner in each of 12 sports.

Papaleo earned the prestigious honor after batting .548 with eight home runs and 37 runs scored in her senior season, helping lead the Koalas to the Class AA, Section 1 Tournament semifinals. She added 13 doubles, 31 RBIs, and 19 stolen bases while compiling a .685 on-base percentage and 1.177 slugging percentage. She played error-free defense in center field.

Her accomplishments extended beyond the field. Papaleo maintained a 4.30 weighted GPA at Ursuline and has volunteered with KIDFIT STRONG, a fitness and wellness program. She has also served as a youth softball coach and participated in fundraising efforts supporting children's cancer and breast cancer research.

Athletic Director Dawn Cerrone described Papaleo as a "player's player" and a truly talented student-athlete. She noted that Papaleo is only the second Ursuline student-athlete to earn Gatorade Player of the Year honors, following Sonia Citron '21, a former Ursuline basketball standout who now plays in the WNBA.

Papaleo's commitment to others was also evident in how she chose to use her Gatorade recognition. Each state Player of the Year receives a $1,000 grant to donate to a youth sports organization of the athlete's choice. Papaleo directed hers to the Yonkers Police Athletic League. In late June, the City of Yonkers honored the hometown athlete for her achievements. Her decision to support the Yonkers PAL reflects the Ursuline spirit of Serviam, "I will serve," and her commitment to giving back to the community that helped shape her.

The Gatorade award was one of many honors Papaleo earned during a remarkable high school career. She was named the 2026 New York State Player of the Year by the New York State Sportswriters Association, earned All-America recognition from Line Drive Media, and was named the 2026 LoHud Player of the Year. Line Drive Media ranked her the No. 4 recruit nationally in the Class of 2026.

A three-time all-state selection and four-time All-Section and All-League honoree, Papaleo finished her Ursuline career with a .554 batting average and 26 home runs. She was a three-time league Player of the Year, three-time team MVP, and team captain.

Varsity Softball Head Coach John Pirone emphasized Papaleo's humility and work ethic, noting that she was always looking for ways to improve both on and off the field. He also praised her commitment to academics and said he felt blessed to have had the opportunity to coach her.

Her teammates echoed that sentiment. Casey Harsany '27 and Mikayla Manekas '27 described Papaleo as a role model who was always willing to work with younger players, sharing her experience and helping them improve their hitting and other aspects of their game.

President Colleen Melnyk opened the gathering with a prayer as the Ursuline community celebrated Papaleo's accomplishments and wished her well as she prepares to continue her academic and athletic journey at the University of Virginia. Papaleo then unveiled a Gatorade Player of the Year banner that will hang permanently in Ursuline's Tully Family Auditorium-Gymnasium, drawing applause from those gathered.

"Thank you, Ursuline, for the best experience of my life."
- Ava Papaleo '26
2025-26 Gatorade New York Softball Player of the Year

Papaleo also addressed the crowd, thanking the many people who supported her throughout her Ursuline career. Speaking directly to new students in attendance, she told them Ursuline is a wonderful place and that they have much to look forward to.

As her remarks drew to a close, Papaleo became emotional, reflecting on her years at the school.

"Thank you, Ursuline, for the best experience of my life."