Ryan Jordan: A Veteran Leader

"Day by day we get better, until we can’t be beat and won’t be beat."

That is what Stonewall Jackson girls basketball player Ryan Jordan and her teammates recite before every game.

The girls have seen numerous changes to the team, which lost to Princess Anne in the state final last year.

Despite the coaching shuffle and the departure of four seniors, the girls have not missed a beat.

Jordan says the team is transitioning well with the new coaches and plans to keep on winning.

Being one of two seniors, Jordan said she knew she would have to step up this year into a leadership role.

She has learned valuable skills from watching the veterans before her. "In addition to that, I went to several basketball camps this summer to improve my game,” she said.

Jordan leads the team with over 16 points and 28 rebounds. Despite her excellent performance, she is more surprised by how her team is performing.

“Coming into the season there was a lot of pressure. Many people expect the team to perform to the same level as last year," Jordan said. "It’s very difficult, but as a young team we are responding very well."

Stonewall Jackson is 9-1 and remains favorites to retain the District title for the eighth consecutive year.

That is why Jordan continues to remain focused on team-oriented goals and surpassing the team’s shortcomings in last year's state tournament.

Jordan was in attendance the day the team fell by over 20 points to Princess Anne. The game only strengthened her resolve and desire to win the coveted state title her final year at Stonewall.

“Many individuals have goals of making all-District, Region, and State teams. As for me, playing my final high school season, I hope to lead my team to a championship," Jordan said.

Jordan believes the team’s success will be dependent on their desire.

“If we all have the same goal, then will enjoy the success we desire,” she said.

Jordan, who was recruited by Hampton, continues to lead by example. Each day, she understand the team's success will be dependent on their hard work.

“To get back to a state championship and win it all, it starts with our motto,” she said.

Every day, their performance will be contingent on their mental resolve. Jordan has played a pivotal role in keeping the young team successfully heading in the right direction.

Her leadership and never-ending desire for success has seen the Lady Raiders continue their successful tradition and that is why she is this week's Manassas Athlete of the Week.