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Kristin Nash: Chelsi Matthews serving as inspirational leader
By Kristin Nash
ROME – Diving for every loose ball, hustling to be the first one down the court on every possession, defending opponents bigger in the post area -- those are just a few attributes that best describe Shorter University junior forward Chelsi Matthews.
The Glencoe, Ala., native plays a crucial role in the success of the Lady Hawks (14-4, 7-2 Southern States Athletic Conference), laying it all out every time she steps in between the lines at the Winthrop-King Center.
“Chelsi is a selfless, servant-hearted, fun and positive person,” said Shorter assistant coach Joanna Reitz. “She’s just an encourager among her teammates and has a very coachable attitude. Not only is Chelsi a great player to coach, but the girls love her because she is so hard-working and relentless on the court.”
When asked about her teammate, senior guard Damisha Moore agreed.
“[Chelsi] hustles and brings enthusiasm with her hustle plays and determination,” said Moore. “Everyone wants Chelsi on their team in practice and in the games. You just know she is going to work hard and always bring it. Her actions are contagious and she is a huge part of our success this season.”
Not only does Matthews inspire her teammates on the court with her competitiveness, positive energy, and heart, but she is also an inspiration off the court.
Matthews serves as the team’s spiritual leader by leading the team in prayer before and after every game. She also invites her teammates to Fellowship of Christian Athletes every Sunday as she has been a part of Shorter’s FCA since first arriving on campus her freshman year.
This year, Matthews serves as one of the Co-Presidents for FCA on Shorter’s campus and is truly an inspiration for all student-athletes at Shorter.
The Lady Hawks will continue to look to Matthews to keep the team going as the season continues.
