A trend has followed Norwin girls basketball over the last few years. Outside of suffocating defense, the program has also produced many collegiate players who seem to favor one conference over the others: The Presidents’ Athletic Conference.

Norwin has seen former standout Alyssa Laukus do great things for the Chatham Cougars, and former Knights Kathryn Botti (Bethany) and Savannah Schneck (Grove City) will see their careers continue in the PAC.

Recently, another Knight made her pledge to continue her career in the PAC, as senior Ava Kobus committed to Allegheny College.

“At first, I had never heard of it, until Coach Kelly (Muffley) contacted me,” Kobus commented. “She was great; I immediately liked her.

“I went for a visit in July. What drew me to the college was how beautiful it was on campus, and being able to play basketball at a high level and to be at a high academic school, as well, was very important to me.”

Kobus was able to enjoy the celebration of her college decision, but quickly got back to focusing on the current season at hand, volleyball.

She’s found that playing the fall sport has helped her in her basketball training. Despite the contrast in approach, Kobus feels the transition from one season to the next is easy.

Being part of the Norwin volleyball team has also allowed her to compete in special events. The Knights played in the third-ever Pack the Park outdoor match, which honors the memory of former Kiski Area coach Ellen Toy, who was a friend of Norwin head coach Mary Ellen Ferragonio.

“When coach Ferragonio told us we were doing it, we were at first hesitant,” said the future Gators basketball player. “But, I’ve played in it the last three years and it’s a great opportunity for a great charity. And to be able to compete with Kiski, who is a great volleyball team in themselves, is an exciting opportunity.”

As the fall continues, the volleyball season will wind down and basketball season will quickly approach. Kobus has been working on developing her defensive skills, but has always been honing her shot.

Listed at 6-foot, Kobus knew early on that she did not want to be a post player. She understood that she had to make changes to her game.

“I decided I wanted to develop my shooting, and see where that took me,” the sharp shooter noted.

Her three-point shooting always stands out, but she credits Coach Brozeski for her improvement on defense. Kobus added that his approach to basketball changed her perspective on the game overall.

“I know that defense helps with our teamwork and working on our communication. I think we do that pretty well,” Kobus continued. “Defense has now become a more important part of my game than it may have been before.”

With that defensive mindset, the Knights can make a lot of noise this season. They return key players like Lauren Palangio, Kendall Berger, Bailey Snowberger, and Kobus.

Kobus and the Knights want to make a big impression this year in the WPIAL, and ultimately capture a championship. But, when the season is over and she graduates, Kobus is eager to start the next chapter in her life at Allegheny College.

“I won’t be as close to home, but meeting and being around new people I’m very excited for,” she added. “Getting to experience all of the new opportunities that will come with being in college – especially playing basketball – I’m really excited to see what that will bring for my life.”