Baldwin volleyball teammates taking talents to Pitt-Johnstown

By: Ray Fisher
Sunday, November 17, 2024 | 11:01 AM

Baldwin seniors Avery Barrett and Kaylee Smolko hardly could wait for Nov. 13 to finally arrive.

Both were scheduled to officially commit that day to Pitt-Johnstown where they will continue their athletic and academic careers.

They were the only two seniors on the Baldwin girls volleyball team in 2024.

“I could not have asked for a better group of seniors for my first season at Baldwin,” said coach Jason Jonas. “They are two of the hardest workers on and off the court, great teammates who would go above and beyond for any one of their teammates if they needed anything, and just overall incredible athletes.

“I can’t wait for them to start their college careers in their respective sports, and I’m eager to see what lies ahead on their journey. I wish them nothing but good luck and best wishes, and I just want them to know I’m so thankful that I got to be a part of their journey at the high school level. Let’s go UPJ athletics.”

Barrett and Smolko plan to jump into their college studies as freshman roommates.

“I am so proud of Kaylee,” Barrett said. “She is such a hard-working girl and puts 100% effort into everything she does. It’s so amazing to see her hard work pay off.

“It’s so cool we’re going to be spending another four years together at UPJ to play our sports. I couldn’t be happier for her.”

Barrett, a 5-foot-8 setter, and Smolko, a 5-10 middle hitter, were teammates in the girls volleyball program at Baldwin for four years. Smolko also is a distinguished softball player at first base or an outfield position.

Smolko will continue her softball career at UPJ; Barrett, a four-year starter at Baldwin, will play volleyball.

“We’re signing together. I’m so excited,” Smolko said. “My top two schools were West Liberty and UPJ. I was so excited whenever the (UPJ) coach offered me a spot to come play. I really like the coach and the campus.”

Smolko plans to major in pre-med to eventually become a pediatrician. She already has been accepted into Pitt-Johnstown’s pre-med program.

“I play volleyball because I enjoy it and I want everyone to remember that sports are meant to be fun,” Smolko said. “Don’t let errors or mistakes overtake your passion for the game.”

Barrett will study civil engineering at UPJ.

“I went for a visit in February and fell in love with the coaches and players and campus,” Barrett said. “It just felt like home. I really love the competitive level of play in the PSAC and am very excited to have an opportunity to contribute.”

Barrett has been playing volleyball since the fifth grade. She competed for St. Gabriel’s back then.

“My mom played (volleyball) at Baldwin in the ’90s and has stayed close with her teammates and the overall experience,” Barrett said, “so it really made me want to play. She was my coach at St. Gabe’s for four years.”

Jonas believes Barrett eventually will emerge as a team leader at UPJ.

“I couldn’t be happier for Avery to be able to compete at the college level,” Jonas said. “I’m excited to see how her game compares at the next level. I loved coaching in college, and I think she has the drive to continue to do great things in her career.

“Avery is a hard worker, dedicated to bettering her game and skill set, and I expect her to be a leader for her next team just like she was for us this year.”

Smolko has been extra active in her time at Baldwin. She has participated in Special Olympics as well as Best Buddies, is vice president of the National Honor Society and serves as a class officer. She and Barrett also are members of the children’s grief awareness club.

“I know Kaylee will also do great things at the college level,” Jonas said. “She had success with volleyball this year and it’s not even her main sport. She is a great teammate and just has a love for the game.

“I’m excited to watch her play (softball) her senior year this spring and then I’m very eager to see how quickly she is successful at the college level.”

Tags: Baldwin