Two years ago, Mya Donnelly was a varsity freshman for Lincoln-Way Central and learned much from her senior teammates. Now, as a 5-foot-11 junior outside hitter, she leads the younger players like freshman Erin Sammon and sophomores Leah Freiberg, Madison Rademacher, Tessa Garcia, and Zoey Terrell.
“I had leaders when I started, and now I get to lead the underclassmen,” Donnelly said. “I remember being scared as a freshman.” Overcoming those early fears, Donnelly now poses a significant challenge for her opponents.
In a recent nonconference win against Chicago Christian, Donnelly recorded 11 kills, with eight in a crucial second game turnaround. Lincoln-Way Central secured the 14-25, 25-14, 25-20 victory. Ella Thompson added seven kills, and Terrell contributed four aces. Garci… ela Bendoraitis registered 11 and 10 assists, respectively. For Chicago Christian, Quinn Grevengoed led with 12 kills, followed by Ella Agema with nine and Grace Gordon with six aces.
After losing the first game by 11 points, Donnelly sparked her team with three kills to gain an 8-5 lead. “Something clicked, and I knew I needed to be a leader,” Donnelly explained. “Hitting down the line is my strength, and I adapt when they change their block.”
Bendoraitis also served six consecutive points with three aces to conclude the second game, while Thompson led the final game with four kills. Terrell delivered three aces, two kills, and a block.
Lincoln-Way Central’s Mya Donnelly (20) serves against Chicago Christian in New Lenox
Reflecting on the first game struggles, Donnelly said, “We struggled with our serve-receive. But we improved in the next games.” Losing many seniors added uncertainty, but the team started strong.
Donnelly’s outstanding performance in the second game played a significant role in the comeback. “Mya was crucial in the second set,” Bendoraitis commented. “Her swing is the team’s best, and she reads the ball well.”
Lincoln-Way Central’s Mya Donnelly (20) converses with the coach during the match
Coach Amy Bernhard noted initial nerves but credited Bendoraitis and Garcia for improving their sets. “Mya excels when her sets are right,” Bernhard noted. “I view her as a leader despite her junior status.”
Lincoln-Way Central’s Mya Donnelly (20) shares a laugh with Madison Rademacher (8)
Donnelly started volleyball in second grade after not enjoying cheerleading. “My mom introduced me to volleyball, and I love it,” she shared. The team aspect is significant for her. “Being close with teammates on and off the court is motivating,” Donnelly said. “We share a team culture and showcase our skills.”
(Jeff Vorva is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.)