Elise Jordan, a four-year volleyball standout at Coral Shores, recently signed a letter of intent to continue her volleyball career at Westminster College, located in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania.
Jordan, who has been playing volleyball since sixth grade, was courted by a number of quality volleyball programs around the country. She said the decision was not easy, but added, “I am super excited for what the future holds for me at Westminster College.”
A two-time All-Monroe County volleyball selection, Jordan thanked her high school coach, Kathy Ets-Hokin for giving her the opportunity.
“I also want to personally thank my middle school coach Mrs. Zepada. She has taught me everything about volleyball and all the dynamics behind it. Thank you for introducing me to the game I love.”
Ets-Hokin, who has coached Jordan throughout her Hurricane career, shared her delight in Jordan’s decision.
“I think Elise has made a great choice. They (Westminster College coaches) are so excited to get her as a player. I wish her the best in her next chapter in life, playing at the next level. I am very proud of Elise and will miss her.”
Asked what kind of player and person Westminster has signed, Ets-Hokin said, “Elise is a wonderful student-athlete who has excelled in volleyball. She is an excellent blocker who is adaptable and can read the hitters. She was my captain and earned the respect of every player. The younger ones would always ask her for help and she was always willing to give it, whether they needed help learning the equipment set up or their footwork on their approach/block.” Ets-Hokin added that Jordan was a very valuable asset to the program, a great role model in the classroom and on the court who was always the first one to practice and the last to leave.
“This says a lot about an athlete; she is dedicated, loyal and patient. Whenever we would go up against a team who had a strong hitter, I would pull Elise aside and say ‘shut her down,’” Ets-Hokin said. “Elise never let me down, she lived for the block. Her enthusiasm was contagious on the court and she could get the entire team pumped up with her loud voice and gestures.”
Coral Shores athletic director Rich Russell added that, “Unfortunately, the current rules do not allow the Westminster staff to comment publicly on Elise. That said, they have conveyed to Coach Ets-Hokin that Elise was a major target for their program and they are thrilled with her signing.
“They know what we know: Elise Jordan is a superior student-athlete and a wonderful young lady,” he continued. “I have full confidence that Elise will excel at the next level and Westminster will benefit greatly from her role on their volleyball team.”
