Leila Taylor, a senior middle hitter for Lincoln-Way East, has demonstrated remarkable performance in the early part of the volleyball season. Her outstanding play has roots in her rigorous offseason training with the Chicago-based Lights Out Volleyball organization. At 5-foot-11, Taylor invested considerable effort in lifting and conditioning and has seen significant returns. She emphasized the benefits of competing against higher-level talent, which has contributed to her improvement this year.
The Lincoln-Way East team, as defending champions of the SouthWest Suburban Conference, showcased their strength with a third-place finish at the Mizuno Crimson Classic, a challenging 32-team event. Despite the absence of Eastern Michigan recruit Klarke Mosby due to knee surgery, the Griffins have maintained an impressive record of 5-2. Taylor’s enhanced skills in the middle are expected to bolster the team’s performance greatly. Coach Sean Burns acknowledged Taylor’s growth since starting last year as a junior, praising her ability to terminate plays and effectively block, thus providing opportunities for her teammates on the outsides.
Junior outside hitter Kolby Ross, committed to Illinois, has also noticed Taylor’s significant contribution. She highlighted Taylor’s energetic presence and ability to motivate the team even when she’s not at her best. Taylor’s engaging personality and performance make a positive impact on her teammates.
Originally from Chicago and having spent part of her education in the Horizon Science school system, Taylor moved to the south suburbs before attending Lincoln-Way East. She developed a strong interest in volleyball during her formative years, realizing her passion for the sport. Taylor’s early experiences involved playing on less competitive grade school teams with her sister, Liyah, but they made the most of those opportunities together.
Although Taylor anticipated playing varsity volleyball with her sister Liyah this fall, that plan changed due to Liyah’s season-ending injury. Despite this setback, Taylor continues to push forward with her team.
Milestones for Coach Vales
Sandburg coach David Vales achieved significant milestones in his coaching career recently. He reached his 900th overall win for both boys and girls volleyball following a 25-21, 25-21 victory over Hinsdale Central during the Mizuno Crimson Classic. He continued to make history by securing his 500th win as a girls coach with a win against Wheaton Warrenville South. Vales expressed appreciation for reaching this achievement against Bill Schreier, a coach with over 1,000 wins across boys and girls teams at Wheaton Warrenville South.
Vales shared that he has frequently competed against Schreier over the years, making the victory particularly meaningful. The notable win came after his teams played against each other twice during the atypical 2021 season.
Marist’s Newcomers Step Up
Marist, reigning state champions and titleholders in Class 4A, face the challenge of balancing experienced talent with new additions to their lineup due to graduation. Junior middle hitter Sommer Shaw, senior middle Kate Steinmetz, and senior defensive specialist Ariella Link have stepped up, adjusting to significant playing time in the early season. Coach Jordan Vidovic noted that these new players are adapting well despite the difficulties, leading to successful offensive plays and greater assertiveness.
Reporter Jeff Vorva contributes freelance reports for the Daily Southtown.