With the 2020 volleyball season and the rise of the Brent Crouch era on the horizon, we're getting to know the trio of incoming freshmen set to make their debut this fall. Our series begins with Jackie Barrett, who joins us on The Plains all the way from Highland, Calif., Jackie Barrett.
Q: Why did you choose to play volleyball at Auburn?
Barrett: I chose to play volleyball at Auburn because as soon as I stepped foot on campus, I fell in love. Also, the girls already on the team made feel right at home. After experiencing those two things, I committed because there was no school out there that could beat the Auburn Family.
Q: With a brand new staff, what are you excited about for the upcoming season?
Barrett: I'm excited for the change. I cannot wait to be playing out on the court with this coaching staff supporting us, encouraging us and most importantly, pushing us to be our best. I think they are going to bring a sense of energy to the team to push us to be one of the best in the SEC.
Q: What jersey number will you wear? Does that hold any special meaning to you?
Barrett: These next four years at Auburn, I will be wearing No. 10. I'll wear this number because my dad wore it. I want to dedicate these four years to him. The number represents how he always taught me how to push my self to be the best, whether it's on the court or off the court.
Q: How is your hometown different from Auburn?
Barrett: My hometown has some similarities and some differences in relation to Auburn. In Auburn, there is so much land and trees, but in Highland, Calif., everything is closer together. Auburn does have an amazing downtown area that is similar to the one in my hometown. One of the main differences between the two cities is the humidity and temperature. At home, the temperature around this time is around 105º F and hotter, whereas in Auburn, there is a lot more humidity.
Q: What is your favorite season?
Barrett: My favorite season is summer because it's a time where you get to hangout with your friends and family and go to the pool or go on vacation. It is a time to be around the people who you love the most.
Q: What has been the highlight of your volleyball career so far?
Barrett: The highlight of my volleyball career so far was when my team and I won a gold medal at the Junior Olympics. For me, at that moment, it felt like the world stopped. I could not hear a single thing my teammates were screaming. By winning that, it was a cherry on the top of my club experience. It showed me that the years of hard work I put in paid off.
Q: If you had a million dollars to donate to a charity of your choice, which charity would you donate it to?
Barrett: If I had a million dollars to donate to a charity, I would donate to the Camfed organization. They focus on the poverty and lack of opportunities in African countries, such as Zambia, by educating young girls and turning them into empowered women in their society. These girls can help change their society and maybe the whole world one day.
Q: What is your intended major and why did you choose it?
Barrett: My intended major is global studies. I chose this major because I want to work internationally once I graduate. I've always had a desire to help people. With this major, I can explore what happens in the world and learn what can I do to help. I know I am only one person, but here in America, we have a nice life. I want to share that with people who live in third-world countries. I want to help them grow and evolve in their own environments.
Q: How would your friends and family describe you in three words?
Barrett: They would describe me as independent because I am always able to be myself without worry. I usually make my own decisions in life. They would also describe me as hard working. I have always been consistent with my dedication to school and volleyball. Nothing can distract me from trying to be my best. Finally, they would describe me as friendly. I'm quick to smile no matter what. I always try to make others around me laugh, and I'll try make sure everyone feels included in a situation.
Q: If you could give a message to the Auburn family regarding the upcoming season what would it be?
Barrett: Keep an eye out for Auburn. We are here to win!