Leah Jones, the daughter of PPA star Allyce Jones, is a familiar face on the tour, often seen supporting her mother’s games.
Outstanding Work Ethic
Known for her outstanding work ethic on the court, Allyce combines elements of diving, strong defense, and well-placed dinks. Her background in volleyball stands her in good stead, and she has a reputation for tenacity and grit, never knowing when she is beaten.
Quite the example for Leah
Andrew Gillman, writing for the PPA Tour, caught up with Allyce on National Daughters Day.
A Shared Boba Drink
She and 10-year-old Leah were engaged in a game of pickleball before capping off the day with a shared Boba drink.
It was a perfect way to spend the day for Allyce, a prominent figure on the PPA Tour and one of many mothers who serve as admirable role models for their daughters through consistent dedication to practice, games, and tournaments.
Jones reflected on her own upbringing: “My mom and dad were an inspiration to me to work hard at whatever I was doing, and I want to do the same. I want my daughter and two boys to go all out for their dreams with a work ethic just like their mom.”
Their homeschooling dynamic has played a pivotal role in strengthening the bond between Allyce and Leah. In addition, Allyce coaches Leah in volleyball, basketball, softball, and of course pickleball.
A Passionate And Versatile Athlete
Allyce’s passion for sports has deep roots, with a high school record that boasts softball championships, tennis accolades, and a volleyball state championship, along with recognition as the Utah Volleyball MVP.
Transitioning to her collegiate years at Utah Valley University, Jones continued to excel in volleyball, setting defensive records and earning a string of awards, including Conference Defensive Player of the Year, UVU Female Athlete of the Year, and UVU Crowd Pleaser of the Year.
Impressive Results
Her subsequent tenure as a teacher and volleyball coach at Pleasant Grove High School, Utah, yielded impressive results, including four state titles and four state runner-up finishes in the highest division over nine seasons.
She also received recognition as the NFHS Coach of the Year for the West Region.
During this period, the couple also welcomed three children. The years spanning from 2017 to 2020 saw Allyce at the helm of her own Volleyball Club, overseeing the development of 250 athletes.
Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Allyce sought a new pursuit, leading her to the discovery of pickleball in the summer of that year. This marked a significant turning point in her athletic journey.
Swift Progress
Jones’ foray into pickleball had begun in the confines of her high school gym and soon developed into a dedicated daily routine.
With her athletic background and unwavering work ethic, she made swift progress and won local tournaments, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the sport.
In 2022, Jones transitioned into the professional sphere, becoming a touring pro on the PPA Tour. Her fiery competitiveness, infectious enthusiasm, and remarkable agility on the court have earned her a devoted following.
Allyce and her athlete husband, Ryan, are parents to three children.
Profile Summary
– Residence: Pleasant Grove, UT
– Professional Debut: 2021
– Age: 35
– Height: 5′ 2″
– Dominant Hand: Right
– Paddle: JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 14 Swift
– Career Highlights:
– Bronze Medal, PPA Tour Women’s Doubles North Carolina Open
– Three PPA Tour Bronze Medal Matches
