Lincoln-Way East Volleyball Team Experiences Early Season Success

Lincoln-Way East’s volleyball team has been performing exceptionally well this season, largely thanks to the stellar efforts of senior middle hitter Leila Taylor. Standing at 5-foot-11, Taylor has demonstrated outstanding skills as a result of her intense offseason training with the Chicago-based Lights Out Volleyball organization.

“I’ve been training hard, lifting, and conditioning,” Taylor mentioned. “I’ve always focused on these areas but intensified them this year. Competing against higher-level talent at Lights Out has been beneficial this season.” Her improved performance is noticeable with Lincoln-Way East securing third place in the recent 32-team Mizuno Crimson Classic tournament. The team remains strong this season despite the absence of Eastern Michigan recruit Klarke Mosby, who is recovering from knee surgery.

Coach Sean Burns lauded Taylor’s growth and contributions. “She can efficiently terminate balls and block in the middle,” said Burns. “This opens up opportunities for our outside hitters, which has been advantageous.” Junior outside hitter Kolby Ross, committed to Illinois, added, “Taylor brings a lot of energy and determination. Even when tired, she performs well and boosts team morale.”

Taylor grew up in Chicago and attended the Horizon Science schools. After her family relocated to the south suburbs, her passion for volleyball gained momentum as she joined Lincoln-Way East. “Volleyball became my focus,” she explained. In her past teams, she and her sister Liyah would often be the standout players. “We would pass and set to each other, essentially doing everything.” Unfortunately, the hope of playing varsity with Liyah was dashed due to Liyah’s season-ending injury.

Alongside Lincoln-Way East’s success, Sandburg coach David Vales achieved significant career milestones during the Mizuno Crimson Classic. Vales’ 900th overall win came with a 25-21, 25-21 victory over Hinsdale Central, while his 500th win coaching girls occurred with a 25-15, 19-25, 15-9 triumph against Wheaton Warrenville South. “It’s special to reach No. 500 against a coach like Bill Schreier,” Vales expressed, acknowledging Schreier’s accomplishment of over 1,000 wins.

Marist High School, the two-time defending Class 4A state champion, also showcased new talents during the tournament. Junior middle hitter Sommer Shaw, senior middle Kate Steinmetz, and senior defensive specialist Ariella Link stepped up early in the season. “Integrating new players is challenging, but the offense is synchronizing well,” stated Marist coach Jordan Vidovic.