St. Charles East’s Kaylee McInnis Shines as Athlete of the Week

UPDATE: St. Charles East senior Kaylee McInnis has been named the Kane County Chronicle’s Athlete of the Week following her standout performance in two crucial volleyball victories against Glenbard North and West Chicago. In just a week, McInnis recorded a staggering 26 kills, 19 digs, and 5 aces, showcasing her vital role in the Saints’ recent success.

Across these matchups, McInnis’s leadership and skill propelled her team to a three-game winning streak, marking a significant turnaround for the young squad. “We’re forming like a family on the court, not just off the court,” McInnis stated, reflecting on the team’s evolving dynamics under new coach Lynette Summins.

In the pivotal match against Glenbard North, McInnis emphasized the importance of this DuKane Conference win, noting, “It boosted our confidence. We were very down, especially because we’re a younger team.” This victory has energized the team, providing the motivation needed to continue competing at a high level.

Her performance against West Chicago was particularly impressive, as she achieved a career-best 16 kills in the match. “That first set I knew I wasn’t doing my best, but I was ready to win the game in the second set,” she explained. McInnis attributes her success to her teammates, stating, “I couldn’t have been that successful without my team.”

As one of only three seniors on the team, McInnis has taken on a mentorship role, helping younger players adapt to the new coaching style and fostering a supportive team environment. “Building our bond outside of volleyball first, and then incorporating that into practices and games has been crucial,” she said.

With the season progressing, McInnis is focused on maintaining momentum and improving as a unit. She also shared her pre-game ritual, which includes grabbing a Dr. Pepper Cream Soda and performing deep breathing exercises before serving—a testament to her commitment to preparation and focus.

Reflecting on her volleyball journey, McInnis recalled her favorite memory: a thrilling match during her sophomore year when her team faced Benet, going to three intense sets.

As the season continues, all eyes will be on Kaylee McInnis and St. Charles East as they aim to build on their recent success. The community is rallying behind the team, eager to see how they will perform in upcoming matches.

Stay tuned for more updates on this rising star and her team’s journey as they strive for excellence in the DuKane Conference.