ORLANDO, Fla. \u2013 Avalynn wears the number 13 on her volleyball jersey, not because it\u2019s her favorite number, but because it was her brother\u2019s favorite. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s just like a way for me to carry a piece of him on the court,\u201d Avalynn said.<\/p>\n
Avalynn, 13, plays with Game Point Volleyball Club in Orlando. It\u2019s one of 625 local teams at the AAU Junior National Volleyball Championships, happening from now until July 10th at the Orange County Convention Center. <\/p>\n
Over 100,000 girls and boys are bringing their best volleyball to Orlando, and the economic impact is expected to be over $760 million. It\u2019s Avalynn\u2019s first time getting a taste of this competition.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s very fun,\u201d she said. \u201cIt\u2019s a new experience, and it\u2019s very cool.\u201d<\/p>\n
After the loss of her brother, Avalynn had a hard time getting back on the court. But she said now, she\u2019s getting better. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a little bit easier on me because I\u2019ve gotten used to it, but I\u2019m still a little bit sad because there\u2019s always an empty seat.\u201d<\/p>\n
The girls play volleyball through July 10, while the boys start on July 3. <\/p>\n