Fresno State Athletics
Leader of the Pack
12/20/1999 12:00:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
Dec. 20, 1999
FRESNO, Calif. - Senior outside hitter Anamie Buckelew knows what it means to be a leader. It obvious she has grasped the role from her performances on the court. Now in her fourth year, the 6-foot-1 Art major has operated from both the outside hitter positions and at middle blocker throughout her career. This season she is listed among the team leaders in digs and kills while earning two all-tournament selections at the Silver Legacy/Ray Wersching Invitational and the USF/Golden Gate Classic.
Buckelew knows the importance of setting the example for the younger players. On a team that contains five freshmen and three sophomores, it?s essential for a senior to take command. Buckelew has made a concerted effort towards making her presence felt every time she steps onto the floor.
"I think that just having a senior on the court for the younger women to look up to is key," Buckelew said. "They need an example and that familiar voice to follow."
"Anamie has really showed that she can be a leader," head coach Lindy Vivas said. "She has that special attribute that makes everyone else better. She has all the right tools, making her a model of how a volleyball player should perform."
Throughout her career at Fresno State, Buckelew has been a perfect example of what a leader should be.
"Anamie has always been ready to play anywhere for us," said Vivas. "Every match we can expect her to do the job."
Buckelew believes that some of her success as a leader on and off the court has come from her maturing process.
"I?ve grown up a whole lot since coming here," Buckelew said. "I think that maturity is what I?ve gained the most out of my experience at Fresno State."
She also credits the coaches with helping her shape certain features."I came in with good, basic skills," Buckelew said. "And over the past four years my defense has gotten a lot better. Just this past year working with Ruth [Lawanson], my hitting has gotten amazingly better."
Buckelew has enjoyed her entire experience at Fresno State, especially this year. The impression left by former seniors has had a lasting effect upon her. Now she hopes to leave her stamp of leadership with the new Bulldog volleyball players.
So whether the Bulldogs are winning or losing, whether their home or away, they?ll look to follow in the footsteps of Anamie Buckelew.
