Meet Jackie Taylor, College Volleyball Star Wearing Her Dad Sean’s Jersey Number to Honor Her Late Father

The daughter of legendary Washington player Sean Taylor is joining UNC to play college volleyball.

Jackie Taylor begins her college career in tribute to her late father.

No Washington player has worn number 21 since Taylor’s death in 2007.

His number was unofficially retired within the organization, but was made official in 2021.

Now his daughter is breaking the mold for his team at North Carolina.

Jackie wore both number 1 and number 21 while at her father’s alma mater, Gulliver Prep, in Miami, where he wore number 1.

Now she wears No. 21 for her college career and UNC head coach Mike Shall is thrilled to have her.

“Jackie Taylor is a young player that our team and fans will love. She is a fantastic athlete who has worked hard in a short time in this sport,” he said.

“It has become clear to our staff how committed Jackie is to being the best – the best player and teammate she can be. Jackie’s work ethic and competitiveness are evident when you watch her s train and play.

“Playing middle blocker is difficult, and Jackie’s ability to learn quickly from her exceptional coaches has been important to her development.

“Her entire family has been an integral part of her success, and we are thrilled to officially welcome them all to the Carolina family.”

Jackie was ranked as the third-ranked volleyball prospect in the state of Florida coming out of high school.

She led Gulliver Prep to its first Florida state title her senior year.

NFL and UNC fans shared how happy they were to see Jackie move on to college and honor his father in the process.

“Beautiful. Dad would be proud!” one fan said.

“I’m crying profusely,” another fan said.

“This is awesome,” said a third fan.

“All of us Washington fans will be supporting you!” said a fourth fan.

“I really like Jackie. She’ll be great. It’s in our genes,” said a fifth fan.

Sean Taylor spent four years in the NFL and proved to be an incredibly promising talent.

He made two Pro Bowls and an All Pro team during his time in the league.

Taylor tragically died while trying to protect his family from home intruders during the 2007 NFL season.