A former Pella High School volleyball player was honored by the American Volleyball Coaches Association for her courage in the face of personal tragedy and several injuries that ultimately ended her playing career. Jenna Schulte is part of the Central Missouri Volleyball Team and was recognized with the Battles Won Award, recognizing volleyball players and coaches who are overcoming obstacles, both on and off the court.

Schulte has battled several injuries after graduating from Pella High School, putting together one season through pain in 2022. She played 91 sets in 15 starts to rank 16th in the national in blocks per set, earning All-Conference honors. However, Schulte had another serious injury to her leg prior to the 2023 campaign, which effectively ended her playing career.

In a profile on the AVCA website, Schulte also discusses the loss of her mother Carol in 2018 as Jenna was committing to Central Missouri.

““I was raised to believe that everything happens for a reason, and I truly believe that. I’ve met and connected with so many people along that also have struggles. Being able to share my story and gaining a better understanding of what other people are going through has been a big part of my healing.”

Read more about Schulte here. Jenna was a member of the 2016-18 state qualifying Pella Volleyball Teams, earning second team All-Conference honors as a senior.