Avery Ardovino started ski jumping when she was 8 years old in a Friday after-school camp and liked it so much that she went full-time. Twice, Avery was voted "Most Improved" jumper. Her most exciting moment was when she went off the 120 meter jump for the first time.

After a good fall last winter, when Avery broke her nose, got a black eye and a concussion and couldn't jump for the rest of the season, she still enjoys ski jumping.

The other activities Avery is involved in are soccer, softball, alpine skiing, snowboarding and track and she has a few ribbons from Western-style horseback competitions. After all this, Avery still finds time to ride her motorcycle, water-ski and she's learning to sail! She has also acted in two plays and plays the string bass in the school orchestra.

Avery regards her brother, A.J., (age 13) to be a great ski jumper, athlete, student and friend. Her mom drives her and her brother to five jumping sessions per week, plus competitions. Both of her parents do a lot of volunteer work with the club and help with competitions. Avery's Aunt and Uncle from Denver also support her by coming to Park City to watch her jump and her grandparents bought her jumpsuit for Christmas!

Now 11 years old and in the 6th grade, Avery plans to start baby-sitting soon. Her future goals are ...

1. To get a tele-mark in on every jump!
2. To go 120 meters on the k-120 jump before I turn 13!
3. To beat the Italian National Team!
4. To beat Jessica Jerome in the Olympics!
5. To become the next Katie Couric!