Oct. 13, 2009
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Written by Adrienne Cunningham, Media Relations Student Assistant
Four years ago, Meredith Moorhead made a name for herself with the Gamecocks, starting in nine games to help her finish fourth on the 2006 team in kills. A committed team player, Moorhead has continued to succeed both on the court in the classroom. Now in her senior year, Moorhead has persevered through two injury-riddled years to come out as a leader on and off the court.
Moorhead is a Charlotte, N.C., native and Providence High School alum. Prior to playing at South Carolina, Moorhead accumulated a number of honors including 2005 PrepVolleyball.com All-American selection, North Carolina state 4A Championship team member for three years and 2005 Charlotte Observer Player of the Year. To add to her list of accolades, Moorhead was a regular on Providence High School’s A/B Honor Roll all four years of school.
Heading into her final season, Moorhead has remained an essential name on South Carolina’s roster. In the 2008 season, Moorhead battled leg injuries, enduring two surgeries that kept her on crutches for most of the offseason. Both injuries occurred from loose bone chips that appeared over time. “The impact that volleyball has landing over and over again after blocking and attacking caused my bones to wear and tear,” says Moorhead.
Moorhead’s first surgery took place in her ankle to remove a floating chip that showed. The second surgery, in her knee, came after her knee cap cracked in half. Doctor’s told Moorhead that the way her kneecaps were placed in her body caused them to rotate inward. Because of the impact from volleyball, the crack was bound to happen.
Instead of deeming her injuries a setback, Moorhead used her recovery time to take a different view of the game. She watched her teammates and caught things she would not have normally picked up while playing. Moorhead visually studied the game and pointed out areas of improvement. When the time came, Moorhead was ready to put what she learned on the sidelines into practice.
As an added perk to the team unity, Moorhead has had the opportunity to play alongside Sarah Cline, South Carolina’s libero, for almost six years. The two have conquered the court since their club days, playing together on Carolina Juniors 18 Slam. Together Moorhead and Cline helped their club win the 2006 USA Volleyball Junior Olympics 18-Under Tournament. The two playing together has been advantageous to the squad. “It’s funny because when we play next to each other I just automatically know which ball she’s going to get and she knows what balls I’m going to get,” says Moorhead. “We’re just really used to playing together.”
In her fourth year, Moorhead has stayed true to her title as a student-athlete. Despite her demanding practice and travel schedule, Moorhead has been recognized for her achievements in the classroom by earning a spot on the Southeastern Conference Academic Honor Roll for three consecutive seasons. Moorhead notes, “I have always been motivated in my school work and studies. I always make time to study and get stuff done.”
Meredith Moorhead has been an impact player and vital asset to the Gamecock volleyball program. She has fought through injuries and made a triumphant return on the court. With the Gamecocks seemingly off to a promising season, Moorhead continues to be a leader and role model to her younger teammates and hopes to leave her mark at South Carolina.
