CLERMONT, Fla. (AP) — Grace Spencer, an incoming 8th grader at East Ridge Middle School, recently earned recognition as an all-state 7th-grade libero in Florida. The honor allowed her to compete among the top middle school volleyball players in the state.

The prestigious event featured 40 young athletes: 10 sixth graders, 10 seventh graders, and 20 eighth graders, who gathered for a three-day showcase. The first two days focused on practice sessions, team bonding, and seminars led by college coaches who also served as guest speakers. The event culminated in a celebration all-state game on the third day, where Spencer and her peers displayed their skills.

“It was an honor to play with incredible athletes who share the same passion, love, and dedication for the game,” Spencer said. “Everyone had such great sportsmanship and pride to be there.” says Grace.

When asked for her advice to young athletes, Spencer emphasized the importance of character and work ethic. “Character, sportsmanship, positivity, and leadership are just as important as your skills. Make sure you practice those on and off the court. Also, practice when no one is watching. Not every practice is fun, but every practice is worth it.”

(Grace Sepncer represented Lake County with pride at the Florida Volleyball All-State Game. She’s an exciting up and coming future star of high school volleyball in our area.)

Spencer has been playing volleyball for six years and has developed a particular affinity for the libero position. “I like playing libero because I enjoy serve-receive. It’s fun and challenging,” she said. “You have to be fearless with that ball coming in like a rocket sometimes.” In football term the libero position is like an offensive lineman. They don’t always get the glory and people usually only notice when they go offsides or get a flag. The libero position is similar. They are such an imortant position. Much like protecting the quarterback, the libero is the first line of defense. They may not get all the glory of kill shots but they do the grunt work and teams need players like that.

Spencer’s love for volleyball goes beyond the court. “I love the passion of the game and how it bonds people together. You can always pull a positive experience or lesson from each game. There is always something new to learn and challenge yourself with,” she explained.

Off the court, Spencer enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and going to the beach. Her dedication to volleyball and her well-rounded approach to life make her a standout both on and off the court.

We look forward to Grace’s last year at the middle school level. She will be a name at the high school level that we will be talking about for many years to come.