February 4, 2025 Submitted By Notre Dame Academy
On January 28, Notre Dame Academy held a pre-game celebration in honor of Ava Orlando, class of 2025. Orlando is the first player in NDA’s athletic history to reach 2000 career points. She became the 40th girl in high school state history to score 2,000 points.
Ava Orlando has made a lasting impact on NDA’s basketball program. By her sophomore year, she scored 1,000 points. She is a three-time Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic. She is a four-time Patriot Ledger All-Scholastic and Catholic Conference All Star. She has been the Catholic Conference’s leading scorer since her freshman year. Orlando led the team to a MIAA D2 Elite 8 finish last year. Currently, the team has a 12-1 record, securing a place in upcoming post-season playoffs.
Athletic Director Kristen McGill Kelly, notes “Ava Orlando is a standout student-athlete, possessing exceptional playing abilities as well as outstanding leadership skills. She gives everything she has in each game and elevates every player on the floor.” Orlando is committed to play at Bentley University next year.
At the pre-game ceremony, Orlando was recognized in front of a packed crowd. NDA President Annemarie Lynch Kenneally and Principal Mary O’Brien Merrigan, PhD presented her with a plaque in honor of her impressive achievement.
President Kenneally remarked, “NDA believes in the importance of a well-rounded student, someone always eager to try new things. Ava has excelled in three sports at NDA, growing with each new challenge.” Orlando has been on varsity volleyball since freshman year, leading the team as captain junior and senior year. Orlando was a huge part of the lacrosse team’s success as state champions for the last three seasons and will serve as a team captain this spring.
Dr. Merrigan, NDA’s principal, adds, “As a student, Ava’s personal learning journey includes time dedicated to her life as an athlete and scholar.” She is a member of National Honor Society as well as the National Spanish Honor Society and National Arts Honor Society.