Alyson Cahill Shines in Mother McAuley’s ASICS Challenge Victory

At a young age, Alyson Cahill became a constant presence in Mother McAuley’s gym. Her mother, Erica, served as the junior varsity coach for the Mighty Macs. Practices and matches became a familiar setting for Alyson and her sister, Grace. ‘Before I even started playing, I fell in love with the atmosphere of the sport,’ Alyson recalled fondly. She admired the supportive crowd and aspired to be a player on the court.

Now a junior middle hitter, Alyson plays a significant role for the Mighty Macs. She contributed to their recent victory in the 24-team ASICS Challenge held in Chicago. Alyson, a Troy University recruit, delivered five kills and five blocks, securing a win against Assumption of Kentucky with a 25-23, 25-17 finish in the finals.

Alongside Alyson, UConn recruit Keira McQuillan, who made the all-tournament team, added 10 kills for McAuley, lifting them to their seventh championship win, their first since 2023. With Coastal Carolina commit Peyton Heatherly providing 22 assists and Youngstown State-bound libero Ava Calle adding 15 digs, the Mighty Macs showcased a strong team performance. They previously defeated Assumption 25-23, 25-21 in a nonconference game, despite an earlier 26-24, 25-20 loss on September 12 in Kentucky.

“This says that we’re getting better,” McQuillan said. “Beating them twice in three days is amazing, and it shows how hard we’ve been working.”

Ranked third in the nation by the American Volleyball Coaches Association/USA Today, Assumption faced McAuley, who held the 15th rank. Alyson worked persistently to strengthen her middle position for McAuley. ‘Outside of volleyball, she’s one of my best friends,’ McQuillan said of Alyson. ‘She’s among the best middles in the state at our age, and it shows.’

Mother McAuley coach Jen DeJarld sees significant potential in Alyson. ‘We’re pushing Alyson to be a higher-level blocker,’ DeJarld stated. ‘We expect her to score more points, and our setters trust our middles. Success comes when we deliver the ball to them.’

The championship wasn’t the only highlight. The semifinal match was intense for Southland girls volleyball fans. Mother McAuley triumphed over archrival Marist 25-20, 23-25, 25-23. Alyson tallied six blocks, making significant contributions with decisive plays alongside McQuillan.

In the upcoming GCAC Red match, McAuley and Marist, two national volleyball powerhouses, will compete again. Reflecting on Saturday’s games, Alyson remarked, ‘It was super exciting against Marist, one of our biggest competitors. Each game matters, but this one had extra energy and excitement because we know these players well.’

Last season, Alyson and her sister Grace played together on the varsity team. Grace currently plays as a freshman setter at NCAA Division II Spring Hill in Alabama. Alyson is planning to join Troy University in two years.

‘They watched my club matches throughout the season,’ Alyson shared. ‘I enjoy working with the coaches because they are genuine and supportive. I attended their summer camp and sensed a positive vibe. It’s the best choice for me.’

Reported by Jeff Vorva for the Daily Southtown.