Senior Jada Faulkner was recognized in two ways last week at signing day, as the volleyball standout signed to play at the next level and slipped on her gold and blue all-state jacket to cap off her career.

Faulkner signed with East Central University in Ada to continue her volleyball career with several other classmates last week, as the senior will represent Lincoln at the next level starting in the fall.

"I'm so excited to play at the next level," Faulkner said.

The senior finished her final season as a Bulldog by being named to the Oklahoma Coaches Association Large East All-State team.

Faulkner led Lincoln with 247 kills in her senior season, averaging over six per match. She was also tops on the team with 48 blocks in 37 matches played. She also had 30 digs on the year.

Faulkner was also named first-team all-conference by the Pinnacle Conference.

Faulkner has been working hard throughout her career for this moment, which finally came to fruition.

"The past four years, I have trained and pushed myself for this moment, and I'm glad it's all paying off," said the senior. 

The senior wasn't sure wanted to play in college until as late as this summer, right before her club season and standout senior season.

"I was undecided for a long time, but right before the start of my most recent club season, I realized I wanted to play in college," she said. 

One of the things that helped her realize that was a boost of confidence that she belonged.

"I've improved my confidence — that's all it takes," said Faulkner, "Skill is easy to learn, but if you don't have confidence and don't believe in yourself, then it's hard to play at your full potential."

Faulkner's head coach Deidra Rader praised Faulkner for her growth and ultimately, solidifying her place as one of the best in school history.

"I've watched the metamorphosis of a reserved and kind girl into a confident, poised young woman," said Rader. "Because of her performance and consistency, Jada continues a tradition we're incredibly proud of — Lincoln volleyball having an all-state player every single year we've been part of the OSSAA. That is a legacy and Jada is now apart of that forever."

Rader praised Faulkner for her effort in helping Lincoln to a big win as a senior and her leadership in big moments.

"She was selected to the Owasso All-Tournament Team after leading the charge in our five-set win over Booker T. Washington," said Rader. "She's the kind of player who shows up on every opponent's scouting report and she doesn't shy away from that. She embraces it."

That play, ultimately led to Faulkner's opportunity to play at the next level, where Rader expects her to have just as big of an impact.

"What makes me most proud isn't just where she's going—it's how she's grown and the impact she had on this program," said Rader. "The truth is, East Central is getting a great player, but they're getting an even better person. And long after the stats fade, that's what people will remember."

Photos by Lee Talley