Future Hawkeye Evans giving back to the sport she loves

<p>Photo Credit: <br /> www.yourprepsports.com</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Jaedynn Evans got an early start to volleyball, thanks to her mom and aunt being heavily involved in the sport.  She started playing with the Iowa Rockets when she was just 10 years old, and things took off from there.  With starting volleyball at such a young age, Jaedynn was able to learn just how important having a positive attitude is and how being a great teammate can help make your team better.  Being challenged by her parents at a young age to focus on this part of her game has given her opportunities to not only play at a high level, but give back to the sport she loves. </p> <p>“I have had many meaningful experiences in my volleyball life:  Playing in the state tournament, receiving many honors for my skill, being named to the all-tournament team at nationals, just to name a few.  But the most meaningful experience I've had is being able to pay my knowledge of the game forward to other athletes. I have had the honor to help coach my younger sister and her team through both club and with her school team. I've also had the privilege of working with our local Mid-Prairie high school girls. Even though I transferred high schools to Regina, these amazing girls and families that have supported me so much in my home town of Kalona and Mid-Prairie Journey Club team have opened their gym to allow me to work with these younger high school aged and youth kids.</p> <p>"These remarkable girls started off as my teammates, became my conference rivals, and now athletes I work with to help them achieve their goals! The incredible support I have felt from my home town has taught me all about good character and integrity and I am so proud to be able to carry these qualities as a Hawkeye and continue to pay it forward,”  shared Evans.  </p> <p>Evans, who plays this season for Eastern Iowa Extreme 18 Teal, was a member of the Regina Catholic High School team this fall, where she led the team with 479 digs, 390 kills, 54 aces, and 47 blocks.  She was a 1^st team All-Conference, All-District, and Honorable Mention All-State Player.  Jaedynn will continue her playing and academic career this fall for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes, where the coaching staff immediately won her over. </p> <p></p> <p>“I chose Iowa because I loved their coaching staff. I went to one camp prior to committing and they pushed me to be the best player I could be and that was one big thing on my list when looking at schools.  The girls on the team made it feel like home and in the locker room before the game there was a focus that I felt was missing at other places.  I also wanted to be where I could be most successful at the highest level possible and Iowa is arguably in the best conference at the highest level. </p> <p>"I am most looking forward to playing at a very high level and making new friends! I am also looking forward to the challenge of being pushed mentally and physically to be successful at the highest level possible.”</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>