From a young age, Alyson Cahill found herself immersed in the world of volleyball at Mother McAuley’s gym. Her mother, Erica, served as a junior varsity coach for the Mighty Macs. During this time, Alyson and her sister Grace made the gym their second home. “Before I started playing, I loved the sport’s atmosphere,” Alyson shared about her fond childhood memories. “The fan section was always vibrant, and I aspired to be a part of it.”
Now a junior middle hitter, Alyson Cahill has become a pivotal player. She was instrumental on Saturday when the Mighty Macs clinched the championship in the 24-team ASICS Challenge in Chicago. As a Troy recruit, Cahill delivered with five kills and five blocks, leading McAuley to a victory over Assumption of Kentucky with scores of 25-23, 25-17 in the finals.
Keira McQuillan, a UConn recruit who made the all-tournament team, supported with 10 kills for McAuley (24-3). This win marked the seventh title in their history and the first since 2023. Coastal Carolina’s Peyton Heatherly added 22 assists, while Ava Calle, heading to Youngstown State, contributed 15 digs. The team also defeated Assumption 25-23, 25-21 in a nonconference match earlier that week.
Assumption, entering the tournament as the nation’s third-ranked team, lost twice to McAuley within days. “This reflects our progress,” McQuillan remarked. “Winning against them twice shows our dedication.” Assumption had previously beaten McAuley 26-24, 25-20 in Kentucky.
Cahill’s efforts to excel as a middle player are evident. “Outside volleyball, we’re close friends,” McQuillan stated about Cahill. “She ranks among the best in the state for our age group.” Coach Jen DeJarld echoed this, stating, “We encourage Alyson to elevate her blocking skills and score more points. Trusting our middles can lead to great plays.”
The championship was not the only highlight. In a thrilling semifinal, the Mighty Macs toppled archrival Marist 25-20, 23-25, 25-23. Alyson Cahill and Chyla Jukes celebrated a pivotal point in the ASICS Challenge championship match on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Marist, the two-time Class 4A state champion, put up a strong fight. Cahill’s six blocks were crucial, and in the third game, she tied up with McQuillan for a key block and eventual lead. McQuillan sealed the match with a kill and an ace, amassing 14 kills, with Jayce Prohaska adding 11. Marist’s Maggie Kurpeikis and Taylor Berg made notable contributions with 13 and 12 kills, respectively.
The teams will meet again Tuesday night at McAuley for a GCAC Red match. Reflecting on the semifinal’s tension, Cahill remarked, “Beating Marist is exhilarating. Every game matters, but this one was special because of our familiarity with Marist’s players.”
Alyson’s volleyball journey has been intertwined with her sister Grace, who played varsity with her last season. Grace is now a freshman setter at Spring Hill College, Alabama. Alyson will join Troy in two years. “I chose Troy for the genuine coaching team and positive environment,” Alyson noted.
Jeff Vorva is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.