Unique Talent: Matthew Proskey of Oak Park-River Forest

Oak Park-River Forest senior setter Matthew Proskey stands out in the volleyball world. His unique style led his coaches and teammates to consider a new nickname for him. Coach Justin Cousin’s playful remark about Proskey’s aggressive play inspired senior middle blocker Wesley Kochendorfer. ‘I think he’s one of the most aggressive setters in the state,’ Kochendorfer said. This realization gave birth to the nickname ‘set-tacker.’

Proskey’s play during the state championship match in Bolingbrook earned him a second-place medal from the Illinois High School Association’s Stacey Lambert on June 6, 2026. Although ‘set-tacker’ isn’t a recognized volleyball term, the nickname reflects his influence on the Huskies’ journey to their first state championship match since 1998. Proskey’s performance in the final included 39 assists, though Oak Park-River Forest lost 25-19, 22-25, 25-20 to Glenbard West.

A McKendree recruit, Proskey led the eight-team field with 89 assists in the tournament. This impressive statistic includes defeating two-time defending state champion Marist in the semifinals. Junior outside hitter Jimmie Chrusfield III also shone, achieving 43 kills.

‘This season has been great,’ Proskey reflected. ‘It’s been full of fun and learning, especially our trip to Arizona. We gained crucial insights about our capabilities and goals.’

Proskey’s numbers for the Huskies (33-5-1) reveal his impact. With 794 assists this season and nearly 1,400 in his high school career, he provides consistent support. ‘So much of my success is because of our setter,’ Kochendorfer highlighted, noting their long-standing partnership. Proskey, alongside Kochendorfer and senior libero Gus Leman, serves as a team captain.

Chrusfield emphasized Proskey’s versatility. ‘He can do everything,’ Chrusfield praised, recalling moments when Proskey took on different roles, including outside hitter, to lead the team to victory. His dynamic play keeps opponents guessing, not knowing if he will set or hit the ball.

Coach Cousin, who has led OPRF since 2021, acknowledges Proskey’s vital contribution. ‘He touches every ball and makes plays every time,’ Cousin said, giving credit for the team’s success to Proskey’s leadership on the court.

In their season, Glenbard West was the only Illinois team to defeat Oak Park-River Forest. Their sole win out of four against Glenbard West occurred on April 14, coinciding with a notable baseball moment for Proskey’s older brother, Calvin. Playing for UC Santa Barbara, Calvin excelled against top-ranked UCLA and USC, boasting a 2.87 ERA.

‘Our parents support us both in all our sports endeavors,’ Matthew noted. Despite challenges, his brother Calvin recovered from an injury to end his junior season strong in baseball.

The Proskey brothers shared a background in both baseball and volleyball during childhood, eventually pursuing separate sports interests. ‘I enjoy volleyball because I’m always involved,’ Matthew stated, contrasting this with his experience in baseball where he often felt disengaged.

Jeff Vorva is a freelance reporter covering this story.