A quick tilt of the head to the right and Clovis East High opponents knew trouble was in store.

That was Cody Wender’s tell-tale giveaway that a monster spike was on the way. The Timberwolves’ 6-foot-2 senior pounded 575 kills this year to rank No. 2 in the state.

But it was Wender’s court toughness and premier all-around game that made him the overwhelming choice as The Bee’s Boys Volleyball Player of the Year.

“No question. The Valley’s best player by far,” Bullard coach Roy Verduzco said.

The senior outside hitter, named Tri-River Athletic Conference MVP, led Clovis East to its first Central Section Division I championship and a berth in the Southern California Regional.

“Cody was one of the most explosive offensive players around,” Clovis East coach Daren Torbet said. “He’s not the tallest, but he really gets off the ground.”

Wender, a two-time Bee All-Star selection, was a threat for Clovis East at whatever position he manned. He also led a seasoned team with 285 digs, 56 aces and 42 blocks.

In the section championship against rival Bullard, Wender had 21 kills, 12 digs and two aces in a three-set sweep on the Timberwolves’ court.

“When I got here two years ago, I knew winning the section was Cody’s ultimate goal,” Torbet said. “He realized early that he didn’t have to do it by himself.

“The last three years, he’s pretty much been the team and our emotional leader. He’s had guys around him, really good players, but he learned he didn’t have to shoulder all the offense. That took a lot of pressure off him and he became a powerful force for us.”

About Cody Wender

Vitals: Clovis East, senior, outside hitter

He's qualified because: Led Timberwolves to first Central Section championship. Tri-River Athletic Conference MVP and two-time Bee All-Star ranked No. 2 in state with 575 kills, plus 285 digs, 56 aces and 42 blocks.

He said it: “One of the most competitive kids I’ve ever met. No matter what he’s doing. He’ll compete until the last ball drops.” — Clovis East coach Daren Torbet

The reporter can be reached at jdavis@fresnobee.com or (559) 441-6401.