As a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Division III, the Ohio Athletic Conference will be doing Q&A's to highlight student-athletes in the conference that embody the ideals of a Division III student-athlete. This month's Q&A features Ava Ryncarz, a sophomore women's basketball player at John Carroll University.

Name: Ava Ryncarz

Sport/Position: Women's Basketball, Guard/Forward

Institution: John Carroll University '26

Major: Adolescent and Young Adult Education, Mathematics

Hometown: Aurora, Ohio

Q: Why did you want to play your sport at a Division III University?

I chose to compete at the Division III level because I believe it offers the ideal balance between basketball and college life. While playing a Division III sport demands dedication, I believe it is important to put an equal emphasis on academics. I just wanted to be able to enjoy playing basketball but also have free time to focus on my studies and be able to enjoy college.

Q: What qualities separate Division III from other divisions?

I think Division lll is unique in the fact that no student-athlete receives any sort of athletic scholarship. Every Division lll athlete is playing their sport because they love the game and this truly shows the commitment and dedication we all have as Division III athletes.

Q: How has Division III set you up for success after college/sport?

Playing a Division III sport has set me up for success because it has provided me with so many opportunities on and off the court. This experience has allowed me to understand the importance of balancing my athletic passions with academic achievements. Balancing my demanding life as a student-athlete and the joys of the college experience has played a big role in developing my time-management skills.

Q: What is your favorite part of being a Division III student-athlete?

My favorite part of being a Division III student-athlete is having a strong student-athlete community where all teams know each other and support each other. I have been able to build great friendships and support other teams at John Carroll which is not something that all schools experience.

Q: What is your plan for after graduation?

My plan for after I graduate is to become a mathematics teacher at the middle school or high school level while also becoming a coach. I have intentions of staying and teaching in the Cleveland area and hope to make an impact on the local community.