Senior outside hitter Kailey Skurka is close to achieving a remarkable milestone. As she nears the end of her four-year varsity volleyball career at Lake Central, Skurka needs 51 more kills to reach a career total of 1,000. With seven regular-season matches and at least one postseason match remaining, the 5-foot-11 athlete is within reach of this significant achievement.
Skurka, who has committed to Seton Hill University, expressed anticipation about reaching her goal. She stated, “It’s something I’ve been working toward since freshman year because I always knew I could do it, especially with four years on varsity. I feel like it would mean a lot to see all the hard work pay off.”
This season, Skurka led the team with 195 kills, 115 digs, and 219 serve receptions before the Indians competed against Duneland Athletic Conference leader Chesterton, boasting an 11-6 overall record and a 7-1 conference record. Skurka has been integral to the team’s balanced offense, which includes several skilled hitters.
Coach Naveed Nizam highlighted the significance of Skurka’s impending achievement for her legacy at Lake Central. He revealed plans to establish a “1,000 club,” honoring players with 1,000 assists, kills, and digs, and create a commemorative plaque featuring those names.
“It’s a huge thing for her legacy here at Lake Central,” Nizam remarked. “But I also think she’ll be remembered as a leader and a very likable player who dominated the court.”
Skurka’s influence extends beyond her impressive statistics. Fellow senior outside hitter Arielle Carter-Reed, with 91 kills, 109 digs, 215 serve receptions, and a team-high 23 aces, finds motivation in Skurka’s success. Having played together since the age of 12, Carter-Reed is inspired to improve her performance.
“It elevates my game because I want to play as good or even better than Kailey, so it pushes me to try and work more,” Carter-Reed shared. “If she gets a kill, I want to get a kill. If she gets a good dig, I want a good dig. If she gets a good pass, I want an even better pass.”
Lake Central’s team, led by Skurka, aims to conquer new challenges. Aside from personal achievements, Skurka expressed aspirations for the team’s success. She eagerly anticipates tying for first place in their conference and possibly winning sectionals for the first time.
Skurka’s competitive spirit will continue as she transitions to college. “I’m looking forward to meeting new people and competing at a higher level. I like to compete, I like the quickness of the game, and winning like everyone does. But I’m also really excited to push myself harder and meet a bunch of new friends.”
Noah Poser contributed to this report as a freelance journalist.