Jenks High School junior Blaire Barber has made a habit of competing at the varsity level.
A member of the Lady Trojan volleyball team since her freshman year, Barber contributes as both an outside hitter and libero. Her versatility reflects the effort and commitment she brings to athletics, where she also competes in soccer for Jenks.
“An accomplishment I am most proud of is playing varsity soccer and varsity volleyball since my freshman year!” Barber said.

While Barber’s roles on the volleyball court require different skills, she values the relationships built through the sport just as much as the competition. Whether she is attacking at the net or helping anchor the back row, Barber sees volleyball as a team-centered game.
“Volleyball has taught me how important the support of your teammates is on and off the court,” Barber said. “Seeing how much my teammates have impacted me over my time at Jenks, makes me want to do the same for them every day.”

One former teammate who made a lasting difference in Barber’s development was Lola Ojo. As a freshman, Barber looked up to Ojo, a senior whose confidence and energy helped set a standard for the program.
“Her love for the game and drive to win is something I try to continue at Jenks,” Barber said. “My freshman year, she was a confident senior who helped pick everyone else up. She gave me so much confidence in what I have to offer on the court!”

Barber also draws inspiration from Jenks volleyball coach Stephanie Kane. Barber said Kane’s strength, honesty and belief in her players have made a powerful impression on everyone connected to the Lady Trojan program.
“At the beginning of this summer, her mom passed away after a hard battle against cancer,” Barber said. “She never failed to show up for us during practices and workouts. She always gives us honesty, and has so much belief in all of her players. She is such a big inspiration to everyone involved with Jenks Volleyball.”

Away from athletics, Barber said former history teacher Erik Olsen made an impact by creating a welcoming classroom environment.
“He makes all of his students feel so welcomed and had an awesome advisory!” Barber said.

Through both soccer and volleyball, Barber keeps her perspective rooted in faith. That mindset helps her respond to challenges and keep competition in its proper place.
“The best advice that I have ever gotten is to play solely for the Lord!” Barber said. “In sports, we get so caught up in our accomplishments and numbers, that we forget what we are truly playing for! After hard losses, or bad performances, I always remind myself that I play for an audience of one.”