In the Huddle with Jaelyn Keene

GET TO KNOW

JAELYN KEENE

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?

I'm from Jacksonville, Illinois. It's a small town, and that's one of the things I love most about it. When you go out, there's a good chance you'll run into someone you know. You stop and catch up, even if you were only planning to be out for a few minutes. It's nice to have those familiar faces around.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN VOLLEYBALL?

I started playing around with friends when I was about 10. At 12, I joined Jacksonville Network Volleyball Club, and that's when I started playing more competitively and putting a lot more time into volleyball.

I played basketball and soccer through high school, too. I loved having different sports in my life, but volleyball became the one I wanted to keep chasing.

WHAT'S A VOLLEYBALL MEMORY THAT HAS STAYED WITH YOU?

My junior year at Jacksonville High School, we made it to the state tournament. We played in a tough conference, so getting there felt like a big accomplishment for our team.

The tournament was at Illinois State University. I got to play on the Redbird court before I knew I'd be going there for college. Later, when that became my home court, I could look back and remember being there with my high school teammates. That's a pretty special connection to have with a place.

WHAT DID YOUR FAMILY AND COACHES TEACH YOU ABOUT BEING AN ATHLETE?

They always encouraged me to be confident. At the same time, they taught me to stay composed, stay humble and put in the work. That was just how I was raised, and it's helped me keep growing as a player.

I went on to play at Illinois State, then played beach volleyball at UAB while earning my master's degree. My first professional team was ATSC Kelag Wildcats in Austria. It took me a while to really see myself as a professional athlete, but those lessons from home helped me get there.

And a fun Illinois State detail: my brother played football there. Yes, I technically followed him – but I promise I made my own decision!

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY AWAY FROM THE COURT?

This summer, I've been home in Illinois, spending time with family and friends and recharging before the season. I went to Cancun, did some coaching with GMS and got to watch some of my nephews' sporting events. They're always supporting me, so I love being there for them, too.

I'm also a dog auntie.

The dogs know they can count on Auntie Jae for scratches and snuggles. And soccer is still part of my life in a small way. Sometimes, if we have extra time on the court before a match, I'll grab a ball and start juggling it. It gives me something to focus on and helps me get ready to play.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO?

I'll be inducted into the Illinois State Athletics Hall of Fame in October. I'm really excited to go back and celebrate that part of my life.

I'm also excited about what's ahead in Nebraska, too! I can't wait to meet my teammates. We have an amazing group of women, and I want to see what happens when we get together, put in the work and bring out the best in one another.