Chandler excelling on and off the court

Published 6:24 am Monday, October 15, 2007

By By BRIAN HAINES, Sports Writer
CHOCOWINITY — Versatility plays a key role in Chelsi Chandler’s game, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that the Southside volleyball star is a well-rounded person.
While excelling on the volleyball court, Chandler also dominates in the classroom and gives 100 percent in both fields.
Chandler has set her goals high. The Southside senior has hopes of becoming an academic all-American as well as eventually earning a degree in business administration and law. And just like when she is on the volleyball court, when her mind is set to something, nothing can stop her.
Aside from being a talented player and exceptional student, Southside coach Elizabeth Pruden said leadership is one of Chandler’s biggest assets.
The cerebral Chandler has been playing volleyball since the seventh grade and can play all the positions on the court. The senior attributed her all-around game to her coach.
Chandler is blessed with quick feet and solid instincts. Because Chandler is so versatile, Pruden said she can leave her in for the duration of the game.
Though she can play every spot on the floor, Chandler said she prefers being the outside hitter.
Chandler acknowledged that hitting is her strength, and credited her setters for their ability to make accurate passes.
While Chandler described her setters as excellent, the same comment could be said about Chandler by her teachers. So far the Southside senior has had an outstanding year in the classroom.
Chandler has narrowed down her list of colleges she is considering once she graduates, and said that playing volleyball after high school is a possibility.
While the Southside spiker is passionate about volleyball, Chandler also has a love for law.