Derby athlete Ayana Wright spoke with VYPE in a recent interview to discuss her life.
VYPE: What are your personal goals for the year?
My personal goal for the year is to do well in school while also having a fun time because it’s my senior year and I don’t want to end it with any regrets.
VYPE: What is the most fun you have had in the last year?
The most fun I have had in the last year was this summer when I went to my family reunion in Atlanta. It was a great time for me because I got to see some of my family that I hadn’t seen all year and I’m a really big family person so it made my summer feel complete.
VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade, and why?
My favorite teacher is the journalism teacher Mrs. Chadwick at Derby High School. She’s my favorite because she really pushes me in my writing and reassures me that I am good. She also helps me with problems outside of school just like if I’m feeling down or want to get something off of my chest.
VYPE: What is your favorite athletic memory?
My favorite athletic memory was just recently when my doubles partner and I qualified for state at regionals. That was such a great time for me because we had been working all summer on tennis and it really showed that day, also we were just having a lot of fun on the court because we weren’t sure if that was gonna be our last time playing together.
VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?
A teammate I feel that has left the biggest impression on me is Isabella Nikolova. I don’t only say this because she’s my doubles partner but she’s somebody that I see continuously grow in her tennis ability and she’s always there to pick me up if I’m not in a great mood.
VYPE: What is your favorite part of being on this team?
My favorite part about being on the derby tennis team is the coaches and players. The girls that I’ve been playing with the past couple of months are honestly some of the most kind-hearted and funny people I know. They are always there for one another and you can tell they just really care for the sport. Also, the coaches this year have really helped build this program. They give great criticism that doesn’t make you feel like you’re doing horrible, and they like to have fun with all of us which makes it 10 times more enjoyable to go to practice.
VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation. Where do you go, and who do you take with you?
If I were to go on summer vacation I would go on a European cruise because I’ve always wanted to visit Europe and I love the vibe of cruises. I would take my best friend with me because we always have a good time no matter where we go and know how to make the best out of any situation.
VYPE: If we gave you $500 and you had to spend it in the next 24 hours, what would you spend it on?
If I was given $500 and had to spend it in the next 24 hours I would spend it on the head boom Tennis racquet, a new wardrobe, and a new pair of shoes.
VYPE: Do you participate in any community service projects?
I am not currently in any community service projects but I am looking to join one soon.
VYPE: What Clubs or Campus groups are you involved with and why?
I am involved in the yearbook and marching band. I became a part of the yearbook because it was something new to do and I liked the teacher, but I found out that I like to write journalistic stories and take photos so I stuck with it and am currently in my third year of it. I am in the marching band because I love putting my all into it over the summer and getting good results back when we go to competitions. I also really like playing with the band at football games because I get to cheer on the team and hang out with my friends.
VYPE: Are you involved in academic excellence activities such as the National Honor Society, Student Council, or other academic clubs?
I am on the student council because I want to be more actively involved with my school and give back to my peers.
