A PASSION FOR THE GAME

Over the past few seasons, the South Charlotte area has produced a vast amount of college volleyball players. Jenny O’ Brien, a Junior at Charlotte Latin may prove to be the best one yet.  The 6’0” outside hitter for Head Coach Suzie Pignetti has assembled quite a resume the last three seasons.  In addition to capturing three NCISAA State Championships, Jenny has recorded 1,081 kills, 166 aces, 622 digs and 125 blocks.  Impressive number and she still has a year to go!

Jenny was named to All-CISAA conference for the third year in a row and made the All-NCISSA team for the second consecutive season.  Some of the top volleyball programs from across the country are recruiting Jenny; Kentucky, Cornell, Florida State, Delaware, Portland, Indiana, and College of Charleston just to name a few. As a freshman, Jenny spent time on the USA Girls National Team and trained at the Olympic Development Center in Colorado Springs as a setter.

All the success didn’t happen without a ton of hard work.  The 16 year old daughter of Jeremy and Carol O’Brien started playing at age 11 and trains nearly every day of the week.

“I can’t go more than a couple of days without touching a volleyball,” said Jenny. “I have such a passion for the game.”

With the high school season over, Jenny is now playing with the Carolina Junior Volleyball Club. The CJV has developed a reputation as one of the top volleyball clubs in the country and Jenny is a key member of the program.  As an 11 year old, Jenny began playing on the 13 year old team.

“The CJV has given me a great opportunity to play year round. It has allowed me to really fall in love with the sport.  Playing with some of the older girls has made me a better player. The coaching at CJV is incredible. Having Coach Pignetti and Coach Howard Barnhill has really allowed me to become a better player.”

Away from the volleyball court, Jenny is a solid student at Charlotte Latin, recording A’s and B’s on her report cards. Jenny would one day like to become a Nutritionist and help young girls with eating disorders.  She is also a big believer in supporting friends and being there in a time of need.  Jenny started a “Hug Club” at Latin. The club exists to share hugs with each other and provide support to classmates.

The next few months will be critical for Jenny. In addition to club play, she hopes to make a college decision this spring.

“I think about college everyday, it’s such an important decision.”

With a college decision behind her, the Senior year should prove to be incredible for Jenny O’Brien. Sure, she will leave her mark on the record books, but more importantly this dynamic teenager will leave a long-lasting positive impression on Charlotte Latin High School.