This story is part of the 2024 AVCA-USMC Battles Won Award series. This award recognizes volleyball players and coaches who are overcoming obstacles, both on and off the court.

Jacob Fogle, Volleyball Player, Nixa High School

Nixa Boys Volleyball Coach Annie Zimmerman shares Jacob’s story:

“On October 6, 2023, Jacob Fogle was in a car accident caused by a seizure. By the grace of God, Jacob did not sustain any serious injuries, but a post-accident routine scan revealed a spot on his brain that doctors were concerned about. Additional testing confirmed a tumor the size of a golf ball was growing inside his brain.

“How odd to be thankful for a seizure and car accident, but how else would his tumor have been discovered? The tumor has since been removed, but Jacob continues to struggle with side effects from surgery and treatment.

“Jacob has endured multiple surgeries, procedures and treatments throughout this unexpected journey. Through it all he maintained a positive attitude which, in my opinion, has been sparked by his motivation to get back on the volleyball court. He has worked extremely hard to regain the strength necessary to participate not only in our 2024 spring high school boys volleyball season, but his club season as well. While Jacob’s medical journey is far from over, I believe the game of volleyball has given him a reason to endure and overcome.

“Jacob developed a deep passion for the game of volleyball several years ago and it has been an important part of his life ever since. Before the accident, Jacob played volleyball for a local club team, 417 Volleyball Club (the only club in our area with a boys division), and served as a manager for our Nixa High School Girls Volleyball team. This school year happened to be the first year the Missouri State High School Activities Association approved Boys Volleyball to be added as an official interscholastic sport. He was so excited to play the game he loves while representing Nixa High School and the Nixa community.

“Even though his ability to play was in jeopardy, he never stopped encouraging others to get involved and be part of the first-ever Nixa Boys Volleyball Team. Fortunately, he was able to play in our historic first season. His strength, perseverance and love for the game are undeniable. I’m so happy he is a Nixa Eagle!”

Check out stories of other 2024 Battles Won Award honorees