Jessica Ann Ronyak, a junior psychology major, is a 5’10” offensive hitter for UNA volleyball who finished last season with a total of 244 kills and 256 digs.

Ronyak, who is this season’s team captain for the Lions, already has 45 kills and 51 digs on the 2012 season.

She is the daughter of David and Stephanie Ronyak. She was born Sept. 23, 1990. Ronyak has two brothers, Jason and Jerrod. The family is from Burton, Ohio.

Ronyak said she enjoys hanging out with her team. She said this year’s team has great chemistry and that the players are much like a family.

“I’ve always loved volleyball because it’s a team sport,” Ronyak said. “Every point scored is a team effort.”

Ronyak also played offensive hitter throughout high school at Berkshire High School in Ohio. She was a four-time all-conference selection and was awarded Chagrin Valley Conference MVP her junior and senior years (07-08). Ronyak was also selected as a second team All-State her senior year.

Head coach Stephanie Radecki complimented Ronyak’s character.

“She’s an extremely tough kid; she always works really hard,” Radecki said. “She is an excellent leader — not just vocally but also by example. She is always encouraging the team, no matter what.”

Ronyak played her 2010 season at NCAA Division I Kent State. There, she had 24 kills, 11 assists, eight service aces, 78 digs and 18 total blocks.

The UNA volleyball team has struggled as a whole this season, posting a record of 1-6 as of Sept. 17. Ronyak said that even though the team is inexperienced right now, they are working out the kinks.

“We have some great hitters this year — Priscilla (Massengale) and Cara (Gregg) are really talented,” she said.

Ronyak also said she believes the Lions have a strong defense this year.

Radecki said her biggest goal for the girls right now is for them to improve. She said she feels this is a good area of strength for Ronyak.

“Jess was quickly known as a leader and captain,” Radecki said. “She’s the first kid I’ve ever named captain within two weeks. I expect a lot from my captains.”

Radecki said Ronyak is great with going between the team.

Ronyak said she feels confident in her serve as well as her ability to make quick sets. Last season, she was selected for the second-team All-Gulf South Conference.