Picture this: a volleyball icon steps out of retirement, not just to play at the Olympics but to claim yet another medal for her glittering collection! That’s exactly the magic Jordan Larson brought to life. After leading Team USA to their long-awaited golden glory in Tokyo, she hung up her jersey—or so we thought. But destiny had other plans. Fast forward to the Paris Olympics, and there she was, donning the USA jersey once more, diving, spiking, and soaring her way to a silver medal. Her journey, though, didn’t begin on the global stage.

It started right in the heart of Husker Nation, where the scarlet and cream of the Nebraska volleyball team became her canvas for greatness. Back in 2005, Larson joined the elite University of Nebraska squad and wasted no time making history. Honors poured in like confetti—two-time Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, AVCA National Player of the Week, and the crown jewel of her collegiate chapter: leading the Huskers to a national title in 2006 while earning a spot on the AVCA All-America First Team. A stacked resume?

Oh, absolutely. And now, the tables have turned. This time, it’s not Jordan Larson bringing accolades to Nebraska—it’s Nebraska honoring their very own legend. Mike’l Severe, Executive Director of The Jet Award Foundation, lit up X on November 18 with the thrilling news that had Husker fans cheering. Nebraska’s pride, volleyball legend Jordan Larson, received a unique honor that transcended her sport. Severe revealed the creation of the Jordan Larson Award, a tribute to Nebraska’s most outstanding female athletes, celebrated across all sports.

Sharing his excitement, he posted on X, “I’m happy to announce the addition of the Jordan Larson Award to @TheJet_Award Gala. The award goes to the Most Outstanding Girl’s Athlete in Nebraska. Here is the news release from this morning with the list of the 14 candidates for the award. @JordanLarson10.” The official announcement from The Jet Award Foundation painted a vivid picture of the new award’s purpose.

Created to honor Nebraska’s best and brightest female athletes, it stands as a symbol of excellence inspired by Larson herself. Aptly named after the “Nebraska Hall of Famer and 4-time Olympic medalist,” the accolade will shine a light on young athletic talents who’ve dominated their sports throughout 2024. From volleyball courts to track lanes, these 14 nominees have showcased unparalleled skill, embodying the spirit of greatness Larson so beautifully represents. The inaugural Jordan Larson Award will be presented at the 14th annual Jet Award Gala on April 10, 2025, at Baxter Arena.

A handcrafted trophy by Joe Putjenter, creator of the Jet Award and Mr. Football trophies, will honor the Jordan Larson Award winner. Chosen by a panel of media and sports experts, this award celebrates Nebraska’s brightest athletes, ensuring Larson’s legacy inspires future stars. Fourteen nominees now compete for this prestigious honor. From basketball courts to wrestling mats, these young stars have showcased extraordinary talent and resilience.

Representing basketball’s brilliance are Neleigh Gessert from Millard West, Inia Jones from Omaha Central, and Britt Price from Elkhorn North. Their dribbles and dunks have left crowds roaring in admiration. For volleyball, the powerhouses include Anna Jelinek from Norris, Keri Leimbach from Lincoln Lutheran, Reagan Meyers from Superior, and Charlee Solomon from Papillion South, all leaping and spiking their way to greatness.

In softball, Alexis Jensen and Carlie Muhlbach, both hailing from Gretna, have made their mark with precision and grit. On the soccer field, Sonora DeFini from Gretna East and Charley Kort from Lincoln Southwest have dazzled with their swift moves and strategic play. Track and field finds its star in Karsyn Leeling from Sidney, whose speed and strength have turned heads. And finally, representing wrestling’s grit and glory is Regan Rosseter from Omaha Westside, whose determination knows no bounds. But what’s the Jet Award Foundation?

The Jet Award Foundation is sparking lasting change with its scholarship program, offering low-income students a pathway to trade programs at Metropolitan Community College. Beyond education, it’s about empowerment—arming students with skills for high-paying jobs to break generational poverty. Meanwhile, Jordan Larson, while celebrated by Nebraska, is also giving back in incredible ways!

Jordan Larson transitions to coaching!

You heard it right! Jordan Larson is once again shining bright, not just as a legend but as an inspiration for the next wave of volleyball stars. Last month, she teamed up with League One Volleyball (LOVB) to unveil an initiative bound to leave a lasting impact. In Gretna Landing, Omaha, a groundbreaking 66,000-square-foot training facility is taking shape—a haven for players of all levels, from budding talents to seasoned pros. It’s also set to become the home of LOVB Omaha Volleyball, a new pro team making its debut in January 2025.

And here’s the cherry on top—Jordan Larson herself is stepping in to lend her expertise! She’s leading training sessions at this state-of-the-art hub, joined by exceptional talents like Lexi Rodriguez. For Larson, this isn’t just about volleyball drills; it’s about giving back to the community that shaped her. As she passionately put it, “I am the living embodiment of LOVB’s commitment to creating pathways from youth to pro.” From her roots at Premier Nebraska to becoming a global volleyball icon, Larson is all in for paving the way for the next generation.

Reflecting on this full-circle moment, she shared, “To be able to help increase access to the sport of volleyball and train for LOVB Omaha Volleyball in the same facility as my club roots is an incredible full circle moment for me.” Her excitement is infectious as she gears up to inspire Nebraska’s young athletes, fueling their dreams with her unmatched passion and wisdom.