Matthew Proskey: Versatile Setter Leads Oak Park-River Forest to Success

Matthew Proskey, a senior setter from Oak Park-River Forest, earned a distinctive nickname from his coaches and teammates due to his exceptional volleyball skills. Coach Justin Cousin casually remarked on Proskey’s aggressive playing style, which led senior middle blocker Wesley Kochendorfer to come up with the moniker ‘set-tacker.’

No official term like ‘set-tacker’ exists in volleyball, but it fittingly describes the 6-foot-3 player who was crucial to the Huskies’ journey to their first state championship match since 1998. During the state final against Glenbard West in Bolingbrook, Proskey made 39 assists even though his team lost 25-19, 22-25, 25-20.

Proskey, committed to McKendree, topped the eight-team field with 89 assists in three matches, which included defeating two-time defending state champions Marist in the semifinals. His teammate, junior outside hitter Jimmie Chrusfield III, led in kills with 43.

The season was memorable for Proskey. He expressed enjoyment and noted the team’s growth after a trip to Arizona. The Huskies ended with a 33-5-1 record, enhanced by Proskey’s 794 assists this season and nearly 1,400 throughout his career.

Wesley Kochendorfer, who has played alongside Proskey since middle school, praised the connection they developed over the years. Proskey’s ability extends beyond typical setters; he performs offensively when needed. Chrusfield recounted an instance when Proskey played as an outside hitter and clinched a win for the team.

Coach Cousin, overseeing the team since 2021, acknowledged Proskey’s vital role in their recent achievements. No matter the pass quality, Proskey consistently improved the play for his hitters. Glenbard West was the sole Illinois team to defeat Oak Park-River Forest this season, underscoring the fierce competition.

The Proskey family is no stranger to sports success. Matthew’s older brother, Calvin, is a promising baseball player at UC Santa Barbara. Despite setbacks, Calvin managed impressive performances, including scoreless innings against top teams.

Matthew and Calvin shared a background in both baseball and volleyball during their younger years before choosing their respective paths. Matthew’s switch to volleyball during his high school years brought him greater satisfaction, as he enjoys the constant involvement in play.

This detailed look into Matthew Proskey’s journey highlights his multitasking talents and vital contributions to Oak Park-River Forest’s volleyball team.