COLUMBIA - Columbia High School’s Ava Matthews played a pivotal role in capturing the IHSA Class 2A Girls State Volleyball Championship on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, as Columbia defeated Bloomington Central Catholic in a three-set match, 19-25, 25-20, 25-17. The 5-foot-10 right-side hitter announced this past week that she will join the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks after graduating in 2026.
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Matthews, who spent four seasons under coach Kelly Landgraf at Columbia High School, earned letters each year of her high school career.
During her senior season, she received All-Tournament honors at both the MICDS Tournament and the O’Fallon Tournament.
She was also named to the 2025 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) All-American watchlist and was recognized as an AVCA Best and Brightest selection. Following the season, Matthews was named to the 2025 2A All-State First Team.
In addition to her individual achievements, Columbia High School’s volleyball team received the AVCA Team Academic Award. Matthews’ accolades also include a spot on the Cahokia All-Conference Mississippi Division First Team and a Mascoutah Invitational All-Tournament selection in 2024. She played club volleyball for STL 18 Royal and participated in basketball during her high school years.
Academically, Matthews is a member of the National Honor Society.
The daughter of TJ and Jamie Matthews, Ava has not yet decided on a major at Southeast Missouri State University.
