Jordyn Rood

BISMARCK -- The old adage the best offense is a good defense can be applied to the play of Bismarck High junior Jordyn Rood. Or is it, the best defense is a good offense?
Either way, the standout is doing her part on the volleyball court for the Demons. Rood has been steady in the middle, leading BHS in blocks as well as getting balls through for points on offense.
“Jordyn is a dynamic player who makes plays on any type of set or ball given to her,’’ said Demon coach Brianna Kline. “Not just by hitting hard, but by placing a ball smartly (on the other side).”
The all-WDA player has been on the varsity for the past three seasons, but has really hit her stride this season.
“I feel that my defense is more important because my back row is relying on me to close the block and be in the right spot,’’ Rood said. “When I do that, it’s easier for them to get the ball up. That leads to the back row being able to give my setter good passes which allows me to be involved in the offense. Although I think my defense is more important, there is no better feeling than getting the perfect set and smashing the ball down for a kill.”
And her stats certainly speak to that. Jordyn’s 10.5 kills per match is among the WDA leaders as is her 2.3 blocks per match. 
So what does it take to be effective at the net? “Even if you’re not the highest jumper or quickest player, having a high volleyball IQ can take you far,’’ she said. “Being able to read every players' ‘hints or giveaways’ is crucial. And knowing the opposing teams go-to players is vital.”
Communication with teammates is also essential in determining where to set up an attack at the net, or getting into proper position to defend. 
The multi-sport athlete who also plays basketball and competes in track and field, has been playing volleyball since grade school and said one of the things that drew her to the sport was its frenetic pace. “The energy during volleyball games can’t compare to any other sport and it’s so fun to play,’’ she said. “The relationships you grow with your teammates and coaches is the most rewarding part.”
While her stats speak to her on-court talent, Jordyn brings a lot more to her team. “Jordyn is a natural leader and athletes across our whole program look up to her, regardless of her age’’ Kline said. “We saw her step up into that role last season. She is so positive and can make anyone laugh, but also knows when to dig in and focus to make things happen. I think her positivity and competitiveness are what set her apart. She is mentally tough and doesn't let things get to her."
And having a player possess those leadership skills can propel a program into new heights. However, Rood will be the first to tell you there are others on her team that deserve credit for the successful season. “Every player on this team has an indescribable “want” to be the best and win every game,’’ Jordyn said. 
The team has set several goals, but one of the keys is being sure to execute every night. That entails coming into a match with a solid game plan and knowing what type of attack is going to be successful against a particular opponent. And, just as critical, being able to shake off a mistake or error and staying positive and looking toward the next point.
Perhaps one of things most impressive about this season is the BHS lineup is relatively young. There are just two seniors -- Madison Foster and Mya Williams.
“This group has really great chemistry,’’ Kline said. “We are so young and have really focused on that part of our game. They need to believe in each other, trust each other and lift each other up when things aren't going our way. They are all so competitive and still have high goals to reach this season. They have found a way to be mentally tough and even when one player isn't performing their best, the rest step up and they just don't give up. We have fought from behind so many times this season and that has really helped their confidence.”
And confidence is important heading into the postseason. The Demons have a great opportunity in front of them for a deep postseason run. And it’s a good bet leading the charge will be their middle hitter.

Photo by Loralyn Joyce, WDA event photographer