The Young Women’s Leadership Academy proudly celebrates senior Hayden Perret, who has committed to continue her academic journey and play volleyball at Loyola University New Orleans.
A native of New Orleans, Hayden has dedicated over 12 years to volleyball, competing with several traveling teams and earning opportunities to play at the national level. She joined YWLA in the 8th grade after transferring from a charter school, and quickly became a standout athlete. By her freshman year, Hayden was competing on the varsity team, where she credits her older teammates — her “sisters” — for teaching her the importance of leadership, a quality she carried forward as an upperclassman.
Hayden’s journey was not without challenges. During her junior year, she suffered an ACL tear that sidelined her from club volleyball and her senior season at YWLA. Despite this setback, Hayden remained determined to pursue her dream of competing at the collegiate level. Through perseverance and outreach to coaches, she earned the opportunity to play at her top-choice school, Loyola University New Orleans.
Hayden expresses gratitude to her family and coaches for their unwavering support. She emphasizes the importance of representation, striving to positively reflect her family, school, club organizations, and herself. Her advice to others facing obstacles: “Have peace that you will end up where you are meant to be.”
YWLA is proud of Hayden’s resilience, leadership, and dedication, and we look forward to seeing her excel both on the court and in the classroom at Loyola.