G.O.A.T. of the Week: Laney Jones

CANYON, Texas (KFDA) - Before Laney Jones became a senior leader for the Canyon Lady Eagles, head volleyball coach Sara Morath knew her as a little girl spending time in the gym.

Jones’ mother was an assistant in the program, giving Morath a front-row seat as Jones grew up and began playing in Canyon’s junior high programs.

“It’s been kind of nice to see Laney mature into who she is now as a senior,” Morath said.

Now, with Jones helping lead the Lady Eagles through the postseason and setting an example in the classroom, she is NewsChannel 10’s Scholar Athlete GOAT of the Week.

Finding her voice

Morath remembers a quieter Jones when she first joined the varsity team as a freshman. As a senior, Jones has grown into a more vocal presence.

“She’s always been a leader with what she does on the court for us,” Morath said. “Now it’s nice to see her actually be a little bit more vocal and direct traffic and be that kind of leader for us on and off the court.”

Jones and the Lady Eagles recently beat Lubbock Cooper Liberty in the regional semifinals to keep their postseason run alive.

For Morath, the team’s senior class has helped make this group special, with players finding ways to lead whether they’re on the court or waiting on the bench.

“It’s been kind of special to watch this group really come together,” Morath said. “They’re fun. They’re fun to be around.”

A student first

Jones sees her role as an example for her teammates extending to the classroom, especially as postseason travel takes the team away from school.

“I think it’s really a big thing just to be an example for the team, especially with grades and everything,” Jones said. “During playoffs, we’re going to be gone a lot, so it’s really a big thing to keep our grades up.”

Morath said managing school alongside the team’s schedule is impressive. She also sees Jones’ intelligence in the way she plays.

“On the court she has what we call the volleyball IQ that we need definitely on the court and things come to her very naturally,” Morath said. “But she also has put in a lot of work both on and off the court.”

Following a family path

Jones has committed to play volleyball at West Texas A&M, giving her the chance to continue her journey in the Canyon community.

Both of her older brothers, Kemper and Kelson, were star basketball players who also went to WT out of high school.

For Jones, that decision means staying close to family.

“Family is such a big thing for me,” Jones said. “I think it’s great that I get to stay home, and I’m excited to be able to see my family every day.”

Jones said carrying the family name is a responsibility she embraces.

“It’s just such a big thing for me, holding my name up high,” she said.

About GOAT of the Week

NewsChannel 10 selects one senior scholar-athlete each week during the school year. GOAT stands for Grades, Obstacles, Achievement and Talent.

To be eligible, a student must be a senior with a GPA of at least 3.5 or 87 and be involved in other extracurricular activities and/or organizations.

Nominations may also highlight major obstacles the athlete has overcome or a unique hobby.

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