Ida Baker junior Chelsey Cline said one of the best parts about playing volleyball is the energy level in the gym during a tough match. Not just the intensity created by her teammates, but by the fan support.

“I like when the crowd gets into the game and they’re there with you,” she said.

That was the case last Tuesday in the Bulldogs’ five-game thriller against North Fort Myers.

This time, Cline, who tends to be overshadowed in her role as libero (a defensive specialist), was front and center.

The Daily Breeze Athlete of the Week served six straight points, including two aces, helping the Bulldogs take control in the decisive fifth game.

Two days later, in a victory over rival Mariner, Cline played another strong defensive game, recording 13 digs.

“She’s a real go-getter,” Baker coach Jessicah Bullock said.

A 5-foot-5 junior, Cline is in her third season with the Bulldogs. She began playing volleyball in sixth grade at Fort Myers Christian School.

Cline said she is taking after her mother, Candy, who used to play the game. Both Candy and Chelsey’s father, Randy, now are among the Bulldogs’ rabid cheering section.

While the Bulldogs are a program on the rise with several talented hitters, Cline continues to be a pivotal player in the back row.

The position requires a player like Cline to wear a contrasting jersey color with teammates. She specializes in defensive skills, often diving and throwing her body around to keep the ball alive.

Cline said staying focused is one of the keys to learning the position.

“It’s difficult but anybody can learn it,” she said, “just as long as you stay low and keep your mind in the game at all times. You get a little overwhelmed because it’s your fault if the ball hits the floor, but you learn to shake it off and get the next one.”



Honorable mentions:



Emily Yi, senior, North Fort Myers golf: Yi shot a round of 40 to finish co-medalist in the Red Knights’ victories over Riverdale and Mariner last week. She again was medalist in North’s win over Cypress Lake, firing a 36.



Regina Sin, sophomore, Cape Coral golf: Sin took medalist honors with a 40 last week as the Seahawks placed second in a tri-match against Fort Myers and Estero. She carded 43 in a victory over Lehigh.