The daughter of legendary Washington player Sean Taylor is joining UNC to play college volleyball.
Jackie Taylor is beginning her college career and honoring her late father in the process.
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No Washington player has worn No. 21 since Taylor’s death in 2007.
His number was unofficially retired within the organization, but was made official in 2021.
Now his daughter is pitching for her team at North Carolina.
Jackie wore number 1 and number 21 while at Gulliver Prep, his father’s alma mater in Miami, where he wore number 1.
Now, she’s wearing No. 21 for her college career and UNC coach Mike Shall is thrilled to have her.
“Jackie Taylor is a young woman that our team and our fans will love. She is a fantastic athlete who has worked hard in a short time in the sport,” he said.
“It was clear to our team how committed Jackie is to being the best – the best player and the best teammate she can be. Jackie’s work ethic and competitiveness are obvious when watching her train and play.
“Playing the center blocker position is difficult, and Jackie’s ability to learn quickly from her excellent coaches has been important to her development.
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“Your entire family has been an integral part of your success and we are thrilled to officially welcome them to the Carolina Family.”
Jackie was ranked as the #3 female volleyball player in the state of Florida coming out of high school.
She led Gulliver Prep to its first Florida state title her senior year.
NFL and UNC fans shared how much they loved seeing Jackie go to college and honoring his father in the process.
“Beautiful. Dad would be proud!” one fan said.
“Crying a lot,” said another fan.
“This is amazing,” said a third fan.
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“All of us Washington fans will be rooting for you!” a fourth fan said.
“Lots of love to Jackie. She’s going to be great. It’s in her blood,” said a fifth fan.
Sean Taylor spent four years in the NFL and showed himself to be an incredibly promising talent.
He made two Pro Bowls and one All Pro team during his time in the league.
Taylor tragically died while trying to protect his family from intruders during the 2007 NFL season.
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
