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Sean Taylor’s daughter, Jackie, is going viral for her heartwarming tribute to her late father. The UNC Volleyballer plans to wear his No. 21 while suiting up for the Tar Heels in her freshman season.
The elder Taylor was once one of the most feared safeties in the NFL. Known for big hits and incredible athleticism, he took no prisoners on the football field.
That included punters.
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His life tragically ended when he was shot during a home invasion. His daughter, Jackie Taylor, was just 18 months old.
Now, 17 years later, she’s honoring her father in Chapel Hill.
Jackie committed to play for UNC in May of 2023, and now, she’s set to join the 2024 roster. Her mother sees much of her father in the volleyballer’s game.
“Jackie is basically a carbon copy of her dad. From neck down, she has everything of his from body type, hands, feet and smile. The way she runs and the way she laughs — she has a lot of him.”
-Jackie García
She’ll now honor Sean Taylor at North Carolina.
Jackie Taylor will wear Sean Taylor’s No. 21…
But while she will be carrying on that incredible legacy, she also wants to do it as her own person.
Interestingly enough, Jackie believed herself to be on a dance route upon entering high school. That’s when her mother got her to make the jump to volleyball.
It’s a move that’s certainly paid off!
As a junior, the 6-1 middle blocker tallied 171 kills across 80 sets played. While it took some time to adjust to her new sport, her competitiveness allowed her to shine as she continued to learn. That’s another characteristic she attributes to her father.
She should be fun to watch as she takes the next step to Division I. The Tar Heels are coming off a 13-14 output in 2023 where they went 7-11 in conference play.
Jackie Taylor will do her best to make an immediate impact while rocking that iconic No. 21.