Published: 12:00 AM, Tue Sep 11, 2012
Emily Spicer follows in dad's footsteps at Terry Sanford
By Earl Vaughan Jr.
Scholastic sports editor
Emily Spicer is often reminded of her dad Bobby's athletic exploits at Terry Sanford High School when people learn the Bulldog volleyball player is his daughter.
"They tell me he was a great athlete at every sport he played,'' Spicer said. Her father starred in baseball, softball and football for the Bulldogs in the 1970s.
But Spicer is making her own name for Terry Sanford these days in volleyball. Bulldog coach Kelly Parker doesn't hesitate to call Spicer a phenomenal player.
"She has the heart and desire to perform,'' Parker said. "I can rely on her to do anything, and she'll do her absolute best on the court.
"She's knowledgeable on the court. She's our go-to player.''
Spicer took up volleyball in the seventh grade. She said it was a last-minute decision and she ended up falling in love with the game.
"I love any kind of team game,'' she said. "I love how it doesn't rely on one person."
Spicer thinks this year's Bulldog team is an example of that kind of play. "I think this year's team has meshed,'' she said. "We've worked hard to be the best team we can and have put in a lot of time and effort doing the best we can.''
She said the key for the team to continue having success is defense.
"We have to finish the ball,'' she said. "If we do that, we're unbeatable. If we play smart like the athletes we are, we can make it far.''
Spicer said she's undecided on her plans beyond high school. She's thinking about college volleyball, but not sure she'll play. "I'll consider it,'' she said.
When she does leave, Parker said it will be a big loss for her.
"That's the only thing I'm worried about - losing her next year,'' Parker said.
Scholastic sports editor Earl Vaughan Jr. can be reached at vaughane@fayobserver.com or 486-3519.