Cami Van Dyke, off to kick butt and take names. (Julie Wheat photo)
She was made for the spotlight.
From a young age, Cami Van Dyke has often played above her age group, showcasing the same skill and inner drive that big sis Sydney brings to all her sports.
Given the chance to breakout this year as an 8th grader, Cami took advantage, finishing second in scoring for the Coupeville High School JV girls’ basketball team, before putting together a stellar year as the starting shortstop for the Wolf varsity softball team.
Starting from day #1, the second of Grant and Colleen’s four children was a force to reckon with on the diamond, spraying hits to all fields while gunning down runners from deep in the hole with laser-like throws.
Cami was a Second Team All-League pick and the CHS Rookie of the Year, helping fuel a run in which the Wolves finished 19-4, won league and district titles, and played three games at the 2B state tourney.
She whacked the ball at a .483 clip in her debut performance, piling up 28 hits, 26 runs, 11 walks, 14 stolen bases, and 23 RBI while forming an impenetrable defensive wall on the left side of the infield with Sydney, who plays third base for the Wolves.
All before officially reaching high school as a student, which will happen this fall, when Cami begins her freshman year.
Van Dyke, who was also a strong middle school volleyball player, stalking the floor in pursuit of balls while providing leadership to her squad, wants to keep the good times rolling across the next four years.
“My goals for my high school sports career are to improve my skill level, become a stronger teammate, work hard in practices and games, while also continuing to grow as an athlete while helping my team succeed,” she said.
Van Dyke uses her Jedi mind skills to freeze the basketball in midair. (Teagan Calkins photo)
While still young, Van Dyke has a pretty clear-eyed view of her best traits and areas she’d like to improve.
“My strengths are being athletic, having strong hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, and working well with a team,” she said.
“Playing sports has helped me become a well-rounded athlete who can adapt to different challenges and use a variety of skills.
“Areas I can improve on include increasing my speed and strength, building confidence, and becoming more consistent in my performance.”
Away from sports Van Dyke likes “spending time with my friends, listening to music, and staying active,” while hailing PE and science as her favorite classes, with the latter being because she “enjoys learning how things work.”
While she’s deeply committed to whichever sport is in season, softball is her favorite, she admits.
“It’s mainly because of the positive environment around me and because I have been playing it my whole life,” Van Dyke said. “Also I couldn’t imagine my life without it.
“What I enjoy most about being an athlete is the opportunity to compete against other teams, stay active, and continue improving my skills.
“I also enjoy being part of a team and spending time with people who share the same passion and love for sports as I do.”
As she continues to grow as an athlete and student, Van Dyke will continue to look towards her mentors for guidance.
“My family and coaches have had a big impact on me by always supporting and encouraging me to work harder every day and never give up when times get hard,” she said.
“They have taught me the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and having a positive attitude.
“Their guidance and belief in me have helped shape me into the person and athlete I am today.”
Van Dyke and Emma Cushman kicked off their varsity softball run with a trip to state. (Grant Van Dyke photo)
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