INA, Ill. (April 2, 2026) — Pinckneyville Community High School’s Ava Maxey has signed a National Junior College Letter of Intent to continue her athletic and academic career at Rend Lake College for the 2026-27 academic year.

A two-year starting catcher for Head Coach Alan Engelhardt’s Panthers, Maxey has been a steady force in the lineup throughout her high school career. She also brings valuable utility experience from her time in the infield and outfield as an underclassman and as a standout for the Fuzion travel team. Her performance with Fuzion earned her tournament MVP honors and helped lead the team to national competition.

Maxey’s decision to join RLC followed a successful tryout and a strong recommendation from her travel coaches. Her versatility across the diamond will allow her to make an immediate impact on the Lady Warriors' program under Head Coach Chad Todaro.

"I’m looking forward to making an impact at Rend Lake, meeting new teammates, and competing at a higher level of intensity," Maxey said.

While at RLC, Maxey plans to major in psychology before transferring to Southern Illinois University Carbondale to complete her degree.