Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Tonya and Charley Jones

Siblings: Tyler, Meagen, Haylee and Rianna Jones

Position or events: My main position has always been an outside hitter, but I have also always played all the way around.

Career highlight: I would say my career highlights would be getting my 1,000 digs this year as well as beating the Ace and Kill records at Algoma High School.

At what age did you start playing your main sport?
I started practicing when I was four years old, and my first time hitting the court was when I was eight.

Who introduced you to the sport?
My mom introduced me to volleyball.

Has this always been your favorite sport?
Yes, it is the only sport I have ever played.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?
It wasn’t ever really hard, volleyball is in the beginning of the school year so it’s the start of classes which are easy.

What is your favorite part about this sport?
My favorite part about volleyball is the teammates as well as the friendships I made along the way.

What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?
I have stuck with volleyball because it’s just been a sport I have always loved, my mom and sister also played so I always looked up to them

What would you say is your biggest asset on the field/track?
My biggest asset would be versatility. Effectively play multiple positions adapting to the team’s needs. I can adapt quickly to serving, passing and hitting knowing your way around the court.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
The most memorable memory for me was when I hit my 1,000 digs; all of the support I felt made me realize that I have officially met my goal.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?
Looking back I am truly thankful for all of the opportunities I have had and all of the people that have helped me along the way, going back to my freshman year compared to my senior year I have grown a lot within the sport. I truly couldn’t have done it without my mom.

Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big match/game/meet, outside of regular practices?
Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?
My mom is the person that helped me the most, she started practicing with me when I was four. She always believed in me and was always making me work hard so I was able to succeed. Ryan Alexander also helped me a lot this year with my hitting.

Any hobbies outside of sports?
Riding dirt bikes.

Favorite song?
“American Nights” by Zach Bryan.

Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade or water?
Water.

Future plans?
I plan on going to NWTC to become a project manager.