Marist’s Volleyball Triumph

Twice a week, Marist’s Sommer Shaw and her mother Sharon Wilson enjoy running together. Their pit bull, Joe, joins them for a mile or two. During these runs at Commissioners Park in Alsip, Shaw often pulls ahead, gaining extra training. “It’s to get my stamina up for when we play long matches,” Shaw explained.

Shaw, a junior middle hitter, played a pivotal role in Marist’s recent victory over St. Laurence, tallying five kills and three block assists in a 25-13, 25-11 win. Michigan commit Maggie Kurpeikis led Marist (7-0, 1-0) with 13 kills and six digs. Western Michigan-bound Taylor Berg added six kills and five digs, while Maeve Gill contributed four kills. Haven Enselman provided 26 assists and six digs, with Ariella Link recording 14 digs and four assists.

Marist has won all 14 of their matches by an average of 12.6 points. No opponent has scored more than 18 points against them, maintaining their status as two-time defending Class 4A state champions. “I’m really glad that we got off to a good start,” Shaw mentioned. “We’re coming on strong and fierce and we want to win every single match.”

Abby Ambrose led St. Laurence (4-4, 0-1) with four kills and two block assists, and Clancey Bowen added three kills and two block assists. This meeting between the two programs attracted a loud, sizable crowd to Marist’s gym.

The 6-foot Shaw stands out in Marist’s talented lineup. Her teammate Kurpeikis praised her, saying, “She’s a silent killer. She’s quick and can move side to side really well. She jumps really high and can get on top of the ball.” Marist coach Jordan Vidovic also highlighted her jumping ability, describing Shaw as “one of our highest touchers.” Shaw is adapting to the speed of play, which is expected to elevate her performance.

With the merger of the GCAC and the East Suburban Catholic Conference, the league now comprises 21 teams in three divisions. The GCAC Red division features strong teams like Marist, Mother McAuley, Benet, and Loyola. Over the past 14 years, 13 Class 4A state titles have been claimed by teams from this conference.

Upcoming tournaments in Las Vegas and Fort Wayne, Indiana, along with the Asics event hosted by McAuley, will challenge Marist further. Shaw revealed, “We’re really looking forward to playing the best teams.”

Shaw began playing volleyball in eighth grade through club activities. Three years later, she’s a starter on Marist’s formidable team. “Some friends told me I should play volleyball,” Shaw stated. After attending training camps with her peers, coaches noticed her talent and encouraged participation in tournaments. She eventually joined 1st Alliance, solidifying her place in the sport.

She has thrived in volleyball and cherishes the environment. “I love the environment of volleyball,” Shaw said. “I love all of my friends and how they uplift me. It makes me want to keep going.”

Jeff Vorva is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.