Senior outside hitter Kailey Skurka is approaching a significant milestone as she closes out her four-year varsity volleyball career at Lake Central. With just seven regular-season matches and at least one postseason match remaining, Skurka, who stands at 5-foot-11, is only 51 kills away from reaching 1,000 in her career.
Skurka expressed her determination, noting, “I’ve been working toward this since freshman year because I always knew I could achieve it, especially with four years on varsity. Seeing all the hard work pay off would mean a lot.”
This season, as a Seton Hill commit, Skurka led her team with 195 kills, 115 digs, and 219 serve receptions before Lake Central, with a record of 11-6 overall and 7-1 in the conference, faced Duneland Athletic Conference leader Chesterton.
Her contributions have been pivotal in a balanced offense, according to coach Naveed Nizam. He emphasized, “It’s huge for her legacy here at Lake Central. We’re starting a ‘1,000 club’ initiative for players with 1,000 assists, kills, or digs, aiming to recognize them with a plaque.”
“She’ll be remembered as a leader and a likable player who dominated the court. Other players can aspire to be like Kailey Skurka one day,” Nizam stated.
Skurka also inspires teammates like fellow senior outside hitter Arielle Carter-Reed, who has contributed 91 kills, 109 digs, 215 serve receptions, and a team-high of 23 aces. Carter-Reed has been motivated by Skurka’s achievements, striving to excel in her own game. “Her success elevates my game. If she gets a kill or a good dig, I aim for the same or better. Listening to her feedback helps me perform better, as I want to make her proud,” Carter-Reed shared.
Even with Skurka’s leadership, the team faces challenges ahead. She remains optimistic: “We aim to tie for first in the DAC and aim for our first sectional win. I believe we have the team to win; it’s about which team shows up to compete.”
As Skurka prepares to transition to college, she anticipates new experiences. “Meeting new people, competing at a higher level excites me. I love the quickness of the game and the competitive aspect. I’m eager to push myself and start a new chapter,” she expressed.
Noah Poser is a freelance reporter.