Volleyball Rounds Out 2024 Roster

HARRISONBURG, Va. – James Madison volleyball head coach Lauren Steinbrecher announced a pair of freshman signees in Sara Sykes and Jordan Smart on Thursday afternoon.

Sykes and Smart join freshmen Ayen Nhial and Sarah Schnell, and redshirt sophomore transfer Melisa Ilter (Indiana) as part of JMU's crop of newcomers who will join the program for the 2024 season.

Jordan Smart | Setter | 5-8 | Winston-Salem, N.C. | Ronald Wilson High School

Central Piedmont Conference Player of the Year
Holds school records in assists (3245), digs (941), and aces (206)
NCVBA Region 5 All Region (2022, 2023)
NCVBA First Team All-State (2022, 2023)

"It is not too often in the recruiting process that we come across a player that is as in love with the game, with competition and with finding ways to be her best as Jordy." Steinbrecher said. "She has a relentless work ethic and a drive to continually learn and improve. Growing up in the gym, she knows the game at a high level and she knows how to be a great teammate. All of those things will certainly prepare her for an exceptional collegiate career. I'm just glad it is with the Dukes at JMU! "

Sara Sykes | 5-2 | Libero/DS | Gilbert, S.C. | Lexington High School

South Carolina 4A/5A All-Star
5A All-Region
Three Year letter winner and team captain
Brother, Wells, plays collegiate baseball for The Citadel/Coastal Carolina

"I vividly remember the first time I saw Sara play," Steinbrecher said. "She was all over the court making defensive play after defensive play. I was very impressed. Since that time, I have really enjoyed getting to know her drive, her fun spirit and her team first mentality. Sara is a joy to be around and is certainly a great fit in our program! I can't wait to get her in a JMU uniform."