Avery Muellner: Strength, Confidence, and Chasing Big Dreams

When Avery Muellner first stepped onto the softball field at six years old, she had one goal - to be just like her older sister. What started as backyard catch sessions quickly turned into a lifelong love for the game, and now, years later, Avery is preparing to take that passion to the next level as a committed pitcher to play Division 1 level softball for the University of St. Thomas.

“It felt amazing and exciting,” Avery said. “I’m very thankful that I was given this opportunity to play at the next level.”

Pressure and Perspective

As a pitcher, Avery thrives in the spotlight and in the pressure that comes with it.

“My favorite part is the pressure moments,” she said. “Getting a big out, strikeout, or win for my team is the best feeling ever. The toughest part is not always seeing results in your hard work, but always trusting the process.”

That mindset   embracing the grind, even when the results take time, is one of the biggest lessons she’s carried with her through her years at Gifford Fitness.

Growing Up Strong

Avery first started training at  Gifford Fitness when she was 14 years old, coming in through a few group classes with her club softball team. It didn’t take long for her to realize she wanted more.

“I was attending some group classes through club softball and decided that I wanted more,” she said. “So I signed up for a membership and ended up loving it!”

Since then, her strength, confidence, and composure have evolved right alongside her game.

“I’ve learned how to work hard and keep my composure,” Avery said. “Whether it’s pitching through a tough game or grinding through a hard workout, I feel like  Gifford Fitness has helped prepare me for those moments.”

Finding Her Place in The Lions Club

Training in The Lions Club has become a core part of Avery’s routine and her identity as an athlete.

“My favorite part is being surrounded by people who have similar goals that I do,” she said. “Everyone is there to work hard and have fun.”

An environment that is supportive, focused, and full of energy pushes Avery to give her best every time she walks in the door.

“Seeing everyone around me working toward their goals inspires me to do the same,” she said.

A Coach’s Impact

Among all the people who’ve shaped her journey, Coach Nick stands out the most.

“Nick has made the biggest impact on my journey,” Avery said. “He’s always there to push me to be the best version of myself, and he’s helped me rehab through injury so I can be the best athlete I can be.”

Lift Offs, Music, and Mindset

When asked about her favorite memories at  Gifford Fitness, Avery doesn’t hesitate.

“The Lift Offs are always a good time,” she said. “They’re such a fun way to max out on different skills  and the energy is unmatched.”

Her pre-game and pre-training routine is simple but effective: a good snack, her favorite music, and getting in the right headspace to perform.

“Usually it’s eating something and listening to music just getting ready to go.”

Life Beyond the Game

Off the field, Avery loves to keep things lighthearted.

“I enjoy hanging out with friends, usually eating good food, singing, dancing, and being goofy!” she says.

Her biggest supporters, though, are always close to home.

“My parents have given me everything I need to succeed,” Avery said. “They’re the best.”

Words of Wisdom

When it comes to advice for younger athletes, Avery has two messages, one for the softball players, and one for anyone just walking into Gifford Fitness for the first time.

“Playing softball, I would tell younger players to never give up and that no dream is out of reach,” she said. “Walking into Gifford Fitness, I would say don’t be afraid to fail and always work your hardest.”

Looking Ahead

As she prepares to step into college athletics, Avery’s goals go far beyond wins and stats.

“As an athlete, I hope to keep getting stronger and keep working on spinning my pitches,” she said. “As a person, I’m hoping to continue being a leader to those around me and to have a positive impact on other people’s lives.”

For Avery, strength isn’t just physical; it's about consistency, courage, and character.

“Being strong means showing up each day and giving all I have,” she said.

And if there’s one thing that people at Gifford Fitness might not know about her?

“I like to be silly and make people laugh,” she said, smiling.

No surprise there!

From a six-year-old with a glove that was too big for her hand to a D1-bound pitcher with focus and drive, Avery’s journey is a reminder that real strength isn’t built overnight  it’s built day by day, in every rep, every pitch, and every moment you choose to show up.