The Volleyball Interview: Jordyn Gates (2020)

In the fourth edition of our series, The Volleyball Interview, we chat with Grand Rapids Christian’s Jordyn Gates, a 2020 setter that competes for MVA 16 National Black during club season. In her 2017 season with Grand Rapids Christian, Gates recorded 1,147 assists, 317 digs, 84 kills, 47 aces and 34.5 blocks while leading Eagles to the Class A quarterfinals. Committed to play her college volleyball at Arkansas, Gates is gearing up for a big 2018 fall season where the Eagles will make the move to Division 2, where they find themselves as a top contender for the state championship. Read on to find out how Gates views herself as a player, her favorite players to watch and her expectations for Grand Rapids Christian this season.

What do you consider your strengths as a player?

I would say my strengths as a player would mostly be my mental game and leadership. As a setter, it’s important to have a strong mental game and be able to keep calm on the court. It is important to remember that as a leader your team looks to you and the way you express your body language shows them how to react in certain situations. 

What do you consider your weaknesses?

A weakness is keeping positive body language in close games. I am a very competitive player. I don’t like losing so when we are losing it is hard to keep a positive expression on my face and a positive posture. It’s definitely something I’m working on. 

What has been your favorite opposing gym to play in?

I loved playing in the Jenison High School gym against Rockford in the regional finals. The place was packed and loud and it was just an awesome environment. 

Who is your favorite player to compete against?

Maddy Chinn (ND Prep/Michigan Elite) because she will be playing D1 and I will too so it is nice to see the kind of competition I’ll be up against. 

What is your favorite part of the recruiting process? Least favorite?

I committed (to Arkansas) fairly young so I didn’t have the same experience many athletes face. 

Who is your favorite volleyball player?

Samantha Seliger-Swenson (Minnesota). She is someone to look up to with how she had court confidence and the way she plays the game. 

How would you compare high school volleyball to club volleyball?

Two of my teammates in club are on my high school team. Both are fairly similar but in high school it’s fun to compete in front of my friends and classmates.

What’s your favorite piece of volleyball equipment?

My shoes because I get a new pair every season. 

Any game-day superstitions?

I do my hair the same for every game. 

Go-to game day food?

Something light like a Clif bar and banana. 

What goals have you set for yourself or your team for your junior season at Grand Rapids Christian?

To win our first state championship.

What was it about Arkansas that made you commit to play for them?

The coaches, the facilities, campus and being in the SEC has been my dream, And of course, football Saturdays.

What are your favorite hobbies outside of volleyball?

I like to spend time with my puppies, my friends and family. 

What is your favorite social media platform and why?

Instagram because I can look at pictures of people I have met and stay connected with them through that. 

What do you hope to do when your volleyball career is over?

Hopefully play professionally and then become a second grade teacher.