ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Kaleigh Jaco

The East County Observer and Bogey’s Restaurant and Sports Pub have teamed up to showcase the East County’s top athletes. Each recipient’s article will be featured on the restaurant’s wall.

Braden River High senior Kaleigh Jaco recorded eight kills, three digs and an assist while leading the Lady Pirates to a 3-0 victory over Strawberry Crest in a Class 4A-Region 3 quarterfinal match Nov. 2. Jaco is also Braden River’s floor captain and is the emotional leader of the team. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What do you enjoy the most about volleyball?
The friendships. Everyone has such a good energy on the court. This is such an emotional sport, so when you’re surrounded by good people, you play much better.

What’s it like playing with your sister, Brittany?
It’s so competitive. Her position gets the most sets, so there’s a lot of sibling rivalry. There’s a lot of competition.

What does it mean to you to be a captain?
It means the coaches and the players trust you to be there for them and guide the team.

What are your plans for next year?
I’m going to Cape Breton University in Canada to play volleyball.

Do you know what you’re going to study?
I want to either be a marine biologist with sharks or a forensic scientist.

Do you have any siblings?
I have two younger sisters, Brittany, who is a junior, and Madison, who is a freshman.

What’s your favorite subject?
TV production. You get to express yourself and be creative through video.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Thailand. I saw this thing on YouTube about a full moon party. There’s this certain island in Thailand where they celebrate every full moon. They have glow sticks and fireworks.