Jordan Woolery: A UCLA-Bound Softball Star with a Relentless Drive
Jordan Woolery is a highly touted softball recruit for the UCLA Bruins. But her athletic prowess and academic achievements extend far beyond the softball field. This article explores the journey of this exceptional young woman, highlighting her accomplishments, her dedication, and the values that make her a true role model.
A Multi-Sport Foundation
From a young age, Woolery participated in a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball. As she grew, she realized that softball was her main sport and the one she enjoyed the most. She believes that playing multiple sports growing up was the best way to increase her athleticism and help her improve in softball.
High School Success at Clayton Valley Charter
Woolery has been a standout athlete at Clayton Valley Charter High School (CVCHS), excelling in both basketball and softball. She earned a spot on the varsity softball team for four years and the varsity basketball team for the past two years.
Softball coach Dave Cooney speaks highly of Woolery, saying, “Jordan is not only a tremendous athlete, she is an amazing person. I look forward to our conversations, whether it be about softball or life in general. She shows up every day with a smile on her face ready to compete. Jordan has a relentless work ethic. Some days she continues to practice long after her teammates are gone."
Her accomplishments have garnered significant recognition. Woolery was named the No. 1 softball player in the nation by MaxPreps and nominated for Gatorade Player of the Year twice.
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Woolery says her favorite part about being an athlete and being able to represent Clayton Valley Charter is the relationships she has created with her coaches and Ugly Eagles teammates.
Club Softball and National Exposure
Woolery has also been a member of the Athletics Mercado club softball Gold team, based in Southern California, for the past couple of years. This experience has provided her with valuable exposure to high-level competition and further honed her skills.
Academic Excellence and Leadership
Woolery's commitment to excellence extends beyond the athletic arena. She currently maintains a 4.5 GPA and is an active member of her school community. She is an avid participant in the Senior Women club and an officer of the Black Student Union at CVCHS.
The Move to UCLA
Woolery will be attending UCLA as a highly touted softball recruit for the Bruins. Her addition to the team is expected to make a significant impact.
When the Bruins win, seniors utility Megan Grant and infielder Jordan Woolery often dominate. Woolery has notched six home runs, good for second on the team.
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"This was another different challenge for us,” coach Kelly Inouye-Perez said. The Bruins will face a mix of ranked and unranked squads throughout the four-day tournament. They will battle Auburn (9-2) on Thursday, Nevada (6-5) and No. 14 Duke (8-3) on Friday, Fresno State (3-4) and No. 22 South Carolina (7-2) on Saturday and No.
Inouye-Perez is just eight victories away from surpassing former head honcho and Bruin Hall of Famer Sue Enquist for the most head coaching wins at UCLA.
“I know I have a great defense behind me, just keeping that in the back of my mind,” said freshman pitcher Natalie Cable.
Sophomore outfielder Rylee Slimp is also a leading contributor at the leadoff position. “We have a great culture,” Inouye-Perez said. “We have great coaches and great players that are taking (it) all in, and they’re going to find their way.
Gratitude and Perspective
Woolery is quick to acknowledge the support system that has contributed to her success. She would like to thank her best friend since preschool and softball and basketball teammate Jackie Alday for always pushing her to be the athlete and person she is today. She also thanks her friend group and says that she is incredibly lucky to be surrounded by some of the best people who give her the support she needs to be successful.
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Woolery notes that the most important thing to remember as an athlete is to stay true to yourself and remember that your sport doesn’t define you as a person.
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