Game Day
Palos Hills: Moraine Valley Volleyball Starts New Season
Moraine Valley Community College volleyball team, led by coach Jaelyn Donald, begins its new season with a refreshed roster and home opener on August 26.
By Country Herald Staff · 2026-08-31T08:19:00.519Z
Palos Hills, IL – The Moraine Valley Community College volleyball program is heading into the upcoming season with a revamped roster and renewed competitive energy. Head coach Jaelyn Donald is entering her second year leading the Cyclones, and she has focused her recent recruitment efforts on building a cohesive team that relies on a talented group of freshmen and transfers. According to official team information https://www.morainevalley.edu/2026/08/24/new team new energy same spirit for moraine valley volleyball/ , the squad is largely new this year, with only two returning players to help mentor the incoming athletes as they prepare for the rigors of the collegiate schedule.
Returning student athletes Erin Quigley and Rhian Crittenden will serve as the core experience for the squad. Quigley, who hails from Lincoln Way West, is set to take on versatile roles as both a right side hitter and a setter, marking a departure from her positions during the previous season. Crittenden, a standout from Crete Monee, returns to the court as a middle blocker and outside hitter. Coach Donald expressed her satisfaction with the current roster construction, noting that the team demonstrates strong athleticism and a unified approach to their gameplay as they integrate into the system.
The roster also features several newcomers expected to contribute immediately to the team's offense and defense. Beatrice Vinksnaite and Lily Fish have been highlighted as potential powerhouse swingers capable of providing the Cyclones with a significant offensive advantage. Defensively, the team will rely on the consistency of liberos Mylee Gramenz and Marissa Krause. Donald believes the diverse range of talent will allow the team to compete effectively throughout the upcoming tournament schedule.
The Cyclones are scheduled to kick off their season with the Rockford Opening Weekend Tournament before returning for their home opener. Local fans can see the team in action on Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 6 p.m., when they face off against McHenry County College at home. In addition to the regular season schedule, the program has scheduled a home tri match for September that will allow the team to face new competition and gain broader experience. Donald stated that she is particularly interested in exposing the players to a variety of playing styles to improve their overall development. For further updates regarding the season, fans are encouraged to visit the official athletics website.
This article was produced by our editorial team with assistance from automated tools. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Look for the Submit a Story Button Below!