Hitting New Heights

by Claire Bressler

From the moment Katlyn Jeter stepped onto the court at William Penn University, she knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy.

A senior from Solon, Iowa, her first season in the women's volleyball program was spent as a varsity reserve player. There she faced the challenge of balancing her passion for the sport with limited opportunities for court time. However, Katlyn wasn't one to back down from a challenge.

As a prep at Solon High School, Katlyn chose not to focus on just one sport, instead participating in volleyball, softball, and track and field. Her volleyball coach, however, saw potential in that sport and convinced Katlyn as a junior to narrow her focus, leading to a decision to make the fall activity her primary sport. With only two seasons left of high school, she knew she would have to quickly gain the skills necessary to compete at the collegiate level.

She took that challenge head-on, finding opportunities for one-on-one coaching and skill-building training. Her dedication paid off when she earned a spot on a top club team, the Rockets, a move that positioned her to land a scholarship from William Penn.

Katlyn's club coach contacted Aleesha Rabedeaux, current Athletic Director and former Head Women's Volleyball Coach, to recommend Katlyn as a prospective recruit. Her success on the Rockets made her a shoo-in for the team, signing with the Statesmen within a week of speaking to Rabedeaux.

Then at William Penn, Katlyn found herself in unfamiliar territory—no longer the standout, but rather a varsity reserve player.

"Starting on the varsity reserve team was actually so beneficial," she said. "Naturally, I like to be in control, so the experience taught me to grow against adversity and be humble."

Her first year on the Statesmen team was filled with long hours of practice and a focus on building her game. She used every opportunity to sharpen her skills, knowing her dedication behind the scenes would eventually pay off. With her focus on growing within the sport, Katlyn found herself slipping academically, though. She knew she needed to shift her priorities but struggled to move school ahead of athletics.

It wasn't until her second year in Oskaloosa that Katlyn began to experience that shift. She found herself striking a balance between academics, athletics, and her hobbies. Outside of volleyball, Katlyn enjoys spending her downtime engaging in hobbies like shopping, eating out, traveling, and spending time outside.

"It's important to have that balance, especially during the season," she said. "It keeps me grounded."

Katlyn's family has been a big part of motivating and inspiring her to work harder.

"I love my family and boyfriend, Keegan, so much," Katlyn said.  "They are my motivation to be better."

Reflecting on her journey, Katlyn said, "My mom is my safe person. She always knows what to say and makes me feel good."

She also credits Lauren Eldridge, the new head coach of women's volleyball, for helping her grow as a player.

"My club coach and Coach Lauren have helped me grow more than they know," she said. "As a leader, I prioritize making sure everyone feels welcome, not judged, and playing their best. I want the game to be fun for everyone, and that makes the team more successful."

During practice, her relentless work ethic caught the attention of Coach Eldridge.

"Katlyn is a good example of trusting the process," Eldridge said. "She showed the commitment of not just doing the bare minimum. She got extra reps, did extra activities with recruits, stayed the summer, and dedicated time to the classroom."

Her chance finally came during her sophomore campaign when Eldridge pulled Katlyn up to varsity. She didn't disappoint. In her first vital varsity appearance, she delivered a standout performance, contributing nine kills at a .467 attack rate.

"I wasn't expecting to make varsity, but I was so excited," Katlyn recalled. "I found myself being the go-to person for an outside hitter, but I knew I had to work to keep my spot."

"Everybody starts somewhere and has a role on the team," said Eldridge. "If you're willing to put in the extra work, it will pay off in the end. Katlyn is a great leader, on the court and off, especially in the community."

In addition to her leadership on the court, Katlyn has been active in Oskaloosa, attending Central Church Bible Study and volunteering at Oskaloosa Club Volleyball and Oskaloosa Elementary School for High Five Fridays.

"Being part of the community is important to me," she said. "I want to give back to the next generation."

Her confidence grew as the 2022 season progressed, and by the end of the year, Katlyn had solidified herself as a regular on the top squad. It wasn't just her physical abilities that stood out—it was her mentality. Katlyn had developed a tenacity and mental toughness that became a hallmark of her game. Whether the team was up or down, she was the player who was always ready to go and have fun.

In her sophomore year, Katlyn played 21 matches, recording 75 kills at a .100 attack percentage, while also posting 17 blocks. In her junior year, Katlyn increased that tally to 121 kills with a .159 attack clip in 28 matches. She continued to improve defensively as well with 20 total blocks.

So far this fall, Katlyn has already played in 18 matches with 174 kills at a .234 attack rate, while producing 17 total blocks.

As the Statesmen look ahead to the rest of the Heart of America Athletic Conference season, Katlyn's leadership, both on and off the court, continues to inspire her teammates.  Katlyn is determined to continue winning while mentoring the younger players on the team, helping them develop their skills and grow as athletes.

"I want to keep pushing for success," Katlyn said. "I want everyone to have fun while doing better than last year. It's also important for me to help the next generation of players. I've been where they are and want to support them in their journey, just like my teammates did for me."

As she nears graduation, Katlyn is also thinking about her future career.

"I'm interested in selling real estate at my uncle's company before opening my own real estate businesses," she said.  "I would also love to own a fitness gym with my boyfriend, while also get into coaching."

With her eyes set on these goals, Katlyn Jeter's story is far from over. One thing is certain: she has already proven herself a true competitor and a vital part of William Penn's women's volleyball program.