In seventh grade, Grant Urban participated in soccer, baseball, and basketball. Fast forward to his senior year at Lincoln-Way East, he emerged as a college football recruit and a pivotal volleyball player. ‘I had no idea where my career would go,’ Urban admitted, reflecting on his unexpected path. He once aspired to be a professional soccer player. Now, he’s set to kick for the Wisconsin-Whitewater football team. But first, he’s focused on leading Lincoln-Way East in a strong postseason run.

Urban, a senior outside hitter, played a crucial role in Lincoln-Way East’s 25-17, 25-21 victory over Lincoln-Way West in the Kankakee Regional championship match. He tallied nine kills. Junior outside hitter Carter Geiger contributed six kills and nine digs for the team, which celebrated its third consecutive regional title, marking the 18th overall. Henry Yacobozzi added five kills, Rylan Kim recorded 23 assists, and Marty Dwyer accumulated 14 digs.

On the opposing side, Colin Baikie led Lincoln-Way West with 10 kills. David Neylon followed with five kills, Aiden Kettelson added 18 assists, and Mason Thompson collected 14 digs.

Urban has been impressive on the varsity team for three years, showcasing his athletic prowess. ‘It’s a lot easier to excel at any sport if you’re as athletic as he is,’ noted Lincoln-Way East coach Kris Fiore, praising Urban’s versatile abilities. ‘He could be a great basketball player. He’s just an athletic kid.’

Carter Geiger and Marty Dwyer proudly displayed the championship plaque after defeating Lincoln-Way West. Urban, not participating in club volleyball during the offseason, attended various kicking camps. ‘It took him a little while to get going because he didn’t play in the winter,’ Fiore explained. ‘But we knew it was a matter of getting reps and being comfortable again.’

Geiger, who will attend George Mason, acknowledged Urban’s strong motivational skills. ‘He gets all the guys going and everyone loves him,’ Geiger said. ‘You can hear them cheer his name.’

Lincoln-Way East, riding a 13-match winning streak, faces Lincoln-Way Central (30-6) in the O’Fallon Sectional semifinals. The match takes place at Lincoln-Way East. The teams divided two games during the regular season. This regional victory was meaningful for the Griffins. They were 8-7 at one point, losing senior outside hitter Joey Abbeduto to shoulder surgery and facing other injuries. ‘The season didn’t start out the best, but we got back and had a big run,’ Geiger said. ‘Everyone has a lot of energy, even the bench.’

Urban also made an off-field impact in the fall by scoring for Lincoln-Way East’s football team and supporting a cause. He joined the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer, raising money for each field goal and extra point. Urban donated around $1,000. ‘I thought it would be nice to do,’ Urban said. ‘I wanted to make an impact off the field and spread the word.’