Jackwilliam Light '20 Recruiting Profile

Volleyball has not always been part of my life but from the first game I played in up until the present day, I quickly fell in love with the sport. I always strive to win no matter what it takes. I learned the game quickly while playing on indoor courts and at the beach.  During my growth process on the court I emerged as a natural leader.  I realized quickly that having a teammate on the court at all times that knows the general aspects of the game, the various coverage scenarios on the court for all positions and who can loudly communicate on the court is key to the team’s success.  Diving in head first and armed with this insight I became that person for my coaches and teammates.  

I am known for my quick reflexes, which allows me to dig difficult balls as the teams libero so my setter has a chance to set the perfect ball for an incredible kill by one of our hitters.  My scrambling on the court was rewarded at the end of my second year of high school volleyball with the Defensive Specialist award.  I have had to learn not only the physical aspects of the game but mental ones too.  I came to realize the importance of not getting down on myself due to its infectious nature for the team.  So another role I have taken on for my team is as the “positive motivator” helping my teammates to remain in a positive mindset throughout the game.  

Most recently my club team Coaches have asked me to take on the role of setter which has changed my focus on the court now and in the future.  I enjoy the challenge of the position as well as being the leader on the court helping the team execute the best plays possible.  This new role has not only enabled me to work on my front row net work but has now made me the ultimate utility player for the team.  I feel that this next 2 years of volleyball as a setter first and a backup libero will lend itself to new challenges on the court which I am ready for mentally and physically.

I have always pushed for academic excellence, which has carried over onto the court, so nothing but 110% both in academics and as a student athlete enters into my daily routine.  It is my belief that this drive that my parents have instilled in me since the beginning of life is one reason why I am interested in becoming an undercover DEA agent and/or FBI Profiler.  

Ultimately, I am interested in a program where I can contribute to a volleyball team as a utility player who can set, dig and call plays, while obtaining my degree.