It didn’t take years — it only took one. The Jones College women’s volleyball team claimed the Region 23 crown in its very first season, setting the tone for what looks to be a bright future for the program.
Head coach John Dussouy said the championship run was a defining moment for a group that worked tirelessly to prove itself.
“It was a very special moment,” Dussouy said. “The girls worked very hard to get to that point. It’s something you talk about and prepare for throughout the course of the season, but to actually see it come together made it extremely special.”
The Bobcats capped their first campaign with a 28-8 overall record and a 7-3 mark in conference play, quickly establishing themselves as contenders. This fall, Jones has picked up right where it left off, jumping out to a 10-0 start and showing no signs of slowing down.
That success hasn’t come by accident. Last year’s championship laid the foundation for a winning culture, and Dussouy said it helped elevate the program in more ways than one.
“It helped a lot with recruiting and being able to bring in a lot of talented freshmen,” Dussouy said.
Jones has focused on bringing in players who buy into the team’s vision and culture. Dussouy said that mindset has been just as important as the talent on the roster.
“We want to continue to bring in groups of players that believe in what the team is building,” he said.
The growth of the program hasn’t just been measured in wins and losses. Players have had to adjust mentally to the jump from high school to college competition, something Dussouy believes Jones is uniquely positioned to assist with.
“That’s one of the things a two-year school like Jones really helps with: it gives these players a place to grow, both physically and mentally, and prepare for what’s ahead,” Dussouy said.
As the Bobcats look forward to the rest of the season, their sights are set on defending their title and proving that last year’s run was just the beginning.
Sophomore pin hitter Harmony Jackson said the Region 23 Tournament brought its share of pressure, but the challenge made the victory even sweeter.
“The experience was very nerve-wracking, but at the same time very exciting watching every team bring their best,” Jackson said.
Jackson said winning the tournament has only motivated the Bobcats heading into year two, with both sophomores and freshmen bringing fresh energy and perspective.
She said winning Region 23 helped her grow as a player by boosting her confidence on and off the court.
“I’ve become mentally stronger,” Jackson said. “Last year, you could see in my face that I was in my thoughts about every little thing I did.”
Jackson said she’s hoping to help extend the team’s winning streak, win another Region 23 title and earn a trip to nationals.
Currently, the team is 13-1 overall and 8-1 in conference. The next home game will be against Meridian Community College, Monday, Oct. 6 at 6 p.m. in the MACCC.
Jayla Jones
