"I thought, there's no way I'm going here."

That was senior defender Hayden Jennett's first reaction when she stepped onto Dordt's snow-covered campus during a brief January visit from her home in Arizona. Today, Jennett is a mainstay for the Defenders' women's soccer team, a leader on and off the field, and a student preparing for a career in graphic design.

Defender Discussions | Hayden Jennett Interview    

A native of Arizona, Jennett first heard about Dordt through her high school coach and athletic director, whose son had attended the university. After sending highlight film to then-head coach Alex Durbin, she and her dad road-tripped to visit several Midwest schools. Dordt was their first stop.

"It was a quick visit—I didn't even meet anyone on the team," Jennett said. "But after seeing the other schools, I realized Dordt offered something different: a strong Christian community, a chance to keep playing soccer, and a place where I could grow."

The transition from the desert to Iowa winters was only one of the challenges she faced as a freshman. Competing against older, stronger players in the GPAC required resilience. "I was a lot smaller than most of the people I was defending," she said. "I had to learn to be physical—sometimes that meant a well-timed slide tackle—and I worked hard in the weight room to get stronger."

Jennett's development wasn't limited to her play on the field. Over the years she's formed deep friendships, including fellow senior Abby Worthy, who plays alongside her on defense.

"Abby's a great leader and friend," Jennett said. "We've built a lot of trust playing next to each other. You really get to know someone over four years."

Now in her final season, Jennett embraces the responsibility of guiding younger teammates. "Coach Payton (Chitwood) has encouraged us as seniors to lead small groups and connect with freshmen," she said. "I try to be someone they can come to—not just about soccer, but about life."

That mindset extends to her own approach to practices and games. "One way I can support my team is by taking my role seriously," she added. "Giving my all helps everyone."

Jennett entered her senior year amid transition. After Durbin stepped down, new head coach Payton Chitwood  took the reins. While a coaching change wasn't what she envisioned for her last season, Jennett has been impressed by how Chitwood has valued the senior class.

"He's done a really good job of focusing on us, even though we're only here a few more months," she said. "He sees the talent we have and wants us to succeed now, not just build for the future."

The team's challenging non-conference schedule has prepared them well for GPAC play. "We faced some really talented teams, and even though the results don't always show it, we've competed well," Jennett said. "That gives us confidence heading into conference."

Off the field, Jennett is pursuing a degree in graphic design with a minor in business entrepreneurship. She enjoys the blend of creativity and problem-solving her studies require.

"I love working digitally—Photoshop, Adobe tools, motion graphics—but my classes have also included drawing, ceramics, and photography," she said. "I like seeing how design applies everywhere, even in everyday signs or pamphlets."

Looking ahead, she hopes to join a marketing team where she can focus on design for a single organization. "I like the idea of being part of a team rather than freelancing," she explained.

Reflecting on her journey, Jennett encourages high school students to take bold steps when choosing a college. "Go out of your comfort zone," she said. "A lot of people stay close to home, but that can feel like high school all over again. Wherever you go, get involved—attend events, meet people, embrace the experience."

That mindset has defined her time at Dordt. "Being so far from home forced me to jump in and really become part of campus life," she said. "That's what's made these four years so special."

As she prepares for the GPAC opener against Midland, Jennett is grateful for the relationships, growth, and opportunities her Dordt experience has provided.

"I'm glad I came, and I'm glad I stayed," she said. "This team has so much potential—I'm excited to see what we can accomplish."