Lincoln-Way East Boys Volleyball Wins First State Title

The Lincoln-Way East High School boys’ volleyball team has scored another first for the Griffins, grabbing its first state championship.

“This year has been a tremendous year for the volleyball program. Included in 41 total wins was that they were the Marist Redwing Invite, WWS Tiger Invite, LW East Invite, SWSC, Regional, Sectional and the State Champs!” said Mark Vander Kooi, Athletic Director for L-W East.

“Congratulations to these student-athletes, their coaches, their families and Lincoln-Way East High School on this tremendous accomplishment,” noted Vander Kooi as he welcomed over 100 supporters to the gym for a trophy presentation the day after the boys’ won the 2014 IHSA boys’ volleyball state championship.

Coach Kris Fiore attributed the team’s success to hard work, determination, and a mental toughness from the start of the season.

“Nothing fazes this team. This is the most mentally tough group I have ever coached,” said Fiore.

East’s state championship was won against opponent Warren High School with scores of 22-25, 26-24, 25-19 in the final at Hoffman Estates High School Saturday.

The Griffins (41-1) are only the fourth team since 1994 to lose the first set of a state final and come back to win.

They were honored with a community parade on Sunday, followed by a trophy presentation to Lincoln-Way High School District 210 Superintendent R. Scott Tingley at Lincoln-Way East before the many friends, families, school board members, faculty and staff.

Students returned home to fanfare, as their school bus passed by cheering and adoring fans in Frankfort and Mokena. 

"This championship could not have been attained without your effort, attitude, spirit, and most importantly teamwork. You are an inspiration to our student body," said Principal Dr. Sharon Michalak during the trophy presentation. 

Members of the Lincoln-Way East boys’ volleyball team include: Josh Phalen, Aaron Vermeire, L.J. Horneij, Mike Mitchell, Robbie Hoffman, Brad Kusay, Evan Heathcock, Mike Rossetto, Nick Lilley, Nate Van Dellen, Cameron harper, Brett Fuessel, Ryan Vorderer, Eric Hess, Austin Royer, Carson Slager, and Aaron Redweik. 

Coaches include Kris Fiore, varsity coach; Jesse Alvarez, assistant coach; James Garcia and Andy Wingate, sophomore coaches; and Justin Tomaska, freshman coach.

“We want to thank the seniors for your contribution to L-W East the last four years. You have a record of 76-5 over the last two years, winning 94% of your games!!Your legacy as Griffin Athletes and State Champions will be showcased in a trophy case here in the hallways at East,” the Athletic Director told the players.

“You have had an incredible run of success on the volleyball court but you have also been highly successful in all aspects of your life, including academically. You have maintained a GPA of 3.36 during your season and that is also a great accomplishment,” noted Vander Kooi.

“We wish each of you the best in the next chapter of your life. Congratulations and thanks once again to all who contributed," Vander Kooi said.