Freshman starring for Lady Indian volleyball

Don't tell Christin Baker that freshman can't come in and make a difference. She'll beg to differ.

The Edmond, Okla., native is now a starter on the Arkansas State volleyball team. However, Baker knew gaining a place in the starting lineup was something that would not be handed to her.

"I think you are always coming into prove something and especially being a freshman and getting to start, you kinda have to earn your spot," said Baker.

And earn her spot, she has. ASU head coach Craig Cummings referred to Christin as "a big surprise" and certainly an asset to his young team.

Baker's play early on has certainly not disappointed her head coach. In the UCA Invitational tournament this past weekend, Baker recorded 36 kills in three games. For the season, she now has 83 kills.

Despite Baker's numbers, the Lady Indians have still stumbled out of the gate to a 3-6 start. "It's always frustrating to lose but we just come into practice working hard and expecting more wins," said Baker.

The rest of the team shares Baker's resilient spirit. The Tribe has fought hard against good teams and continues to improve and play as a team. One example of this tough mentality was the season's second match against Ole Miss when the Lady Indians dropped their first two games, before eventually losing in five.

Speaking of teams and working together, Baker compared the difference of playing in high school and college volleyball games.

"It's a lot more intense," said Baker. "Ball control is better. Everyone is a lot more dedicated in college."

That dedicated spirit sometimes requires a balance between volleyball and college life.

"We got to experience a little more college life in the summer, but it's still volleyball," a laughing Baker said.

While Baker enjoys Jonesboro, it's been a big adjustment. She had to acclimate to new surroundings, a completely new team and a brand new head coach. Christin moved from the red dirt of Edmond, which is about 10 minutes from Oklahoma City, to the rice fields of Jonesboro.

"It's always good to be home. This is just different. It's a lot smaller," said Baker. "It is an adjustment. I like it here too. But home is always home."