Ashley High senior makes the most of her first career game on Senior Night

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Ashley senior Nina Pinkley stole the show on Senior Night. The Ashley High School Specially Designed Academics (SDA) student played in her first varsity soccer game on Tuesday.

Nina, who has autism, has been a student manager for the girl’s soccer team the past two years. Last night she not only played for the team, but she was also given a starter’s role against arch rival Laney High. Click the icon above to see the inspirational moments from Ashley High. Laney edged Ashley 2-1.

Ashley Senior Night:
Erica Buchanan
Laura Kruszon
Morgan Marraccini
Jillian Yankey
Nina Pinkley (student manager)

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WILMINGTON, NC (ASHLEY RELEASE) — On May 5, 2015, Nina Pinkley, an Ashley High School Specially Designed Academics (SDA) student with autism, will play in her first official soccer game during Senior Night. The Ashley women’s soccer team will compete against Laney High School at the Ashley stadium beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Nina has been the women’s soccer manager at Ashley for the past two years and has developed friendships with team members, earning their acceptance and respect as their dedicated team manager. As a senior, Nina will be promoted to the TPYA (Transition Program for Young Adults) next year, where she will gain independence and job skills after she graduates from Ashley in June.

“Nina is such an athlete,” said Coach Claire Quick. “We will miss having her as our team manager, but we are glad to get to send her off in such an exciting way. Her positive attitude and encouragement will surely be missed.”

The Ashley Exceptional Children’s Buddy Club will be hosting a pre-game pizza party to celebrate Nina, her chance to participate in an official game and her time at Ashley.