Jenny Johnson Jordan’s Hall of Fame career embodies the best of our sport: loyalty, consistency, and professionalism.

The daughter of Rafer Johnson, an Olympic gold medalist in the decathlon, Johnson Jordan was perhaps destined to be a star athlete. She enjoyed a stellar indoor career at UCLA and was a member of the 1991 UCLA National Championship team and a two-time Volleyball Magazine All-American.

Johnson Jordan made her beach debut in 1996 with Katy Eldrige. That tournament is notable because it is the only tournament Johnson Jordan would play in with a partner was not named Annett Davis. Johnson Jordan played alongside Davis, a fellow Bruin, in over 150 events. The two formed the most solid partnership the sport has ever known, unusual in a sport known for acrimonious partner breakups.

It did not take long for Johnson Jordan and Davis to make their mark on tour. They got their first win in 1999 and finished second that same year in the FIVB World Championships.

Johnson was a model of consistency. She finished ranked in the top 10 in season points each year she competed on the AVP tour. She won a total of 12 times, including a 2002 Manhattan Open win earning a coveted plaque on the Manhattan Beach Pier. Playing during a period of significant change and upheaval on the professional circuit, Davis competed in virtually every tour, including the Pro 4s circuit, the FIVP, WPVA, BVA, AVP, and NVL. She was, in short, a professional’s professional.

Johnson Jordan’s proudest moment came when she represented the United States in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, finishing in a strong fifth place.

On the court, Johnson Jordan was a fiery competitor, relentless on defense, and a high riser out of the sand. She and her partner Davis were also models for female athletes, balancing young families while competing professionally and also serving as role models for female beach players of color.

Since retiring from playing, Johnson Jordan has remained heavily involved in the sport. She is the assistant coach on the National Champion Bruin beach volleyball program and a High Performance Coach for USA Volleyball, as well as coaching at her alma mater, Windward High School.

When she’s not coaching, Johnson Jordan spends time with her husband, former UCLA All-American wide receiver Kevin Jordan, and their two children, Jaylen and Kory.

By her play, her loyalty, and her example, Johnson Jordan is a true Hall of Famer.

 

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