Jenna ThedfordThis week we will be introduced to our other freshman back row libero /defensive specialist Jenna Thedford. Like Rodriguez, Thedford is an excellent prospect in the back row and comes to Aggieland after a stellar prep career at Pearland Dawson and Houston Skyline.
Thedford committed to Aggieland very late into the recruiting cycle. While most commits choose their schools the summer after their sophomore year, Thedford committed to the Aggies February 23rd of 2025 after her junior season. It's usually late to commit that far after the summer to a power 4 program, but Thedford is a quality piece and the Aggies knew headed into 2026 they'd need more assurance in the back row.
Thedford spent her high school years playing for Houston area powerhouse Dawson High School. The school's rise in the volleyball ranks was partly due to the back row presence of Thedford. A four year letter winner, she was Dawson's libero for 3 years, taking them further in the playoffs each year. She was a multi time distinct defensive player of the year. Her senior year she led Dawson out of the tough region 3 and all the way to the state championship, a first in the school's history. They'd eventually fall to future Aggie Sophee Peterson and the powerhouse of Byron Nelson, but the bright play and steady leadership of Thedford made history for Dawson.
What's a Jamie Morrison Aggie team without a Houston Skyline player. After the likes of Logan Lednicky, Ava Underwood, Morgan Perkins, and Maddie Waak departed, it was only fitting we brought in a recruit from Houston Skyline in Thedford. The Skyline to College Station pipeline continues. Thedford started club at a later date but worked her way into the always talented Skyline team. The class of 2026 team featured commits from Nebraskas, Wisconsin, Louisville, Florida, SMU, Baylor and other division one programs. Seeing all those commitments makes it no shock to see that they won open nationals last summer with Thedford at libero.
Although a softball player most of her life, she eventually made the decision to switch to volleyball full time and we'll be glad she did! She will provide stellar play in the back row. She's a great leader and most importantly a winner and she will bring that winning work ethic and characteristic to Aggieland. Like previously mentioned, the back row room features sophomore Addi Applegate and freshman Gabi Rodriguez.
It's unknown what formations and substitutions we will be running in regard to our "littles" but Thedford bolsters the young but talented room. There's an open battle for the libero jersey between all 3 ladies, but I know we'll be in good hands in back row defense. From club highlights, Thedford reminded me a lot of Underwood with her ability to serve out of system balls and place them near the net. She's used to setting high level players and now getting to work with A&M's high level pins should be a seamless transition. Thedford also has the potential to be great from the service line.
Thedford is one of 5 in our talented freshman class. She's enrolled early and has looked strong in the spring games. Thedford seems to be completely bought into this team and being an Aggie. This team is lucky to have her as is this university. And PS, keep an eye out for her little sister Bree who is a libero for Houston Skyline 14 Royal team!
https://instagr.am/p/DUttNTxkhqg
