Lockport Stars Shine in Volleyball Success

Hutsyn Timosciek gained recognition two years ago with her remarkable performance, achieving 11 kills in a critical match that led Lockport to the state finals for the first time in 25 years. Last season, she further solidified her reputation by accumulating 356 kills, playing a key role in leading the Porters back to the state finals despite the absence of key player Kyla Mitchell due to injury. Lockport finished third in the state in Class 4A both seasons.

As she enters her senior year, Timosciek aims higher. She expressed, “We definitely want more — that’s the goal every year. Sadly, we’ve been falling a little short. But we’re so used to going to state now. I feel like we’ve had a taste of it and we want more of it.”

In a recent match, Timosciek helped secure victory for the Porters with 11 kills in a 25-18, 25-22 win against Sandburg in the SouthWest Suburban Conference. Kyla Mitchell, who is heading to Virginia, added 10 kills, especially shining in a close second game. Natalie Bochantin, committed to Milwaukee, contributed 12 assists, and Emma Consigny provided six digs.

Sandburg’s Bella Maras led her team with five kills, while Ellery Dyra added three blocks. Lockport is thrilled to have both Timosciek and Mitchell healthy and on the court. Last year, Mitchell had to watch from the sidelines due to her leg injury. Now, she has moved to an outside position and values Timosciek’s contributions. Mitchell said, “She’s a major part of our team. She’s someone we can count on to put the ball away. She has huge power behind her arm and, yeah, she’s definitely a big piece to this team.”

Timosciek’s growth continues to impress Lockport coach Nick Mraz. Reflecting on her impact, Mraz recalled the significant supersectional match against Downers Grove South. Timosciek’s performance was instrumental in the victory, leading the team to state. Her leadership and confidence have carried forward, evidenced by her commanding presence on the court, demanding the ball and consistently delivering strong performances.

This year, should the Porters reach the state finals at CEFCU Arena in Normal once again, many players will benefit from the familiarity of the experience. Timosciek mentioned, “Sophomore year, we didn’t know where to go right away. Junior year, we knew where to go and what to wear. We didn’t know there were pictures during practice, and junior year, we were able to get ready and look nice. We felt more comfortable last year.”

The Timosciek family has a strong connection to success at state tournaments. Her mother, Sherrie, nee Donnells, played a pivotal role in Sandburg’s girls soccer team’s historic qualification for the state in 1991. Her brothers, Hayden and Hyatt, were part of the Lockport football team that won the Class 8A state championship in 2021. Hutsyn has continued the family’s sporting achievements by earning two third-place state medals.

Despite her mother’s Sandburg roots, there is minimal rivalry within the Timosciek household. Hutsyn shared, “I have a lot of friends on Sandburg, so I trash-talked with them before the game. But with my mom — we’ve been here so long, I don’t think she cares about Sandburg anymore. She wants me to win.”

This spirited rivalry only adds to the energy and determination that Timosciek brings to the court, driving her quest for an even higher achievement this season.