PEDRO — J’lynn Risner did NOT start playing volleyball before she could walk.
But it was close.
Getting an early start playing volleyball has paid dividends for the Rock Hill Redwomen senior volleyball standout as she signed a letter-of-intent to play for the University of Pikeville Bears.
“I actually started playing volleyball in the second or third grade. I went to Piketon and they started early. That’s why the SVC is so stacked,” said Risner.
“I’ve been playing ever since I can remember. I played lots of club ball in the summer and I went to Orlando for the nationals. And I have had countless hours in the weight room.”
Risner had talks with Ohio Christian and Winston-Salem in North Carolina along with several other programs before settling on Pikeville.
“It just feels like home. It’s very, very pretty and Mary is a very good coach and I want to play for the best. She’s done a lot of recruiting and I think it’s going to be four very good years,” said Risner.
First-year Pikeville head coach Mary Haynes is very familiar with Risner. Haynes coached at Fairland prior to landing the job at UPike.
“Her intensity is just contagious. Her energy is positive and fierce. She brings a lot to the table. She’s willing to do whatever to make her team better. And I like that about her and she’s humble,” said Haynes.
“When you have strong athleticism and you’re smart, you don’t see many people who have that and humility. She’s just a fun player to watch and a fun player to be part of the game with, too.”
Volleyball isn’t the only sport where Risner has proven to be a standout. Risner is a four-year starter in basketball and has been a dominating rebounder. She said the two sports compliment each other.
“Basketball, there’s a lot of running and jumping and agility needed for rebounding,” said Risner, who had 500 rebounds during her first two seasons. “I feel like the timing to run up and jump to hit the ball really helps you with blocking and hitting.”
But when it comes to the two sports, Risner said volleyball is closer to her heart.
“I just appreciate the sport more. I just love it,” said Risner.
Having played volleyball for so many years, Risner knows that her success isn’t only about what she has done. She said there are a lot of people who have had an impact on her life and her volleyball career.
“My mom and dad. You couldn’t ask for better parents. All the time and money they put in for me and I appreciate it so much, plus my coaches,” said Risner.
“Kelli McMackin is in her first year (as the Rock Hill coach) but she is amazing, (Basketball) coach (Eric) Bailey taught me to do whatever I wanted to do and not let anyone decide for me.”
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