Lockport Volleyball Defeats Lincoln-Way East to Claim Sectional Title
The Porters secured the Class 4A championship with a two-set victory and now prepare for a Monday match against Joliet West.
By Ethan Cooper ·
Lockport volleyball defeated Lincoln-Way East 25-19 and 25-21 on Thursday night to win the Class 4A Lockport Sectional championship. The victory positions the Porters one win away from returning to the IHSA State Tournament in Normal, where they finished third in both 2024 and 2025.
Lockport controlled the first set after an 8-8 tie, extending a lead to 22-15 before closing the set. Lincoln-Way East attempted a rally following a timeout, but the Griffins could not overcome the deficit.
The second set featured tighter scoring. Lincoln-Way East tied the game at 8-8 and took a 14-11 lead. Lockport responded to lead 15-14, and the teams traded points until the score reached 20-20.
Timosciek recorded a key kill to give Lockport a 22-20 lead. Kolby Ross scored twice for the Griffins to keep them within striking distance, but Lockport held on to complete the sweep. Timosciek led the Porters with nine kills. Brooklyn Chesna and Emma Consigny each recorded five digs, and Kyla Mitchell added two blocks.
Coach Nick Mraz attributed the team's composure to their recent playoff history. He stated that he avoided calling a timeout during a stretch when Lockport trailed 20-18 because he trusted his players to manage the pressure. “I think 100%,” Mraz said regarding the benefit of that experience. “These girls came out maybe pressing a bit but they settled in quickly and you have to lean on that.”
Timosciek acknowledged feeling nervous during the second set but noted that winning the first set allowed her to play more freely. “The nerves just turned into empowerment,” she said. “I knew we just needed to get it done.”
Lincoln-Way East coach Sean Burns said his team struggled with consistency at the service line and in serve receive. He noted that passing difficulties made the Griffins' offense predictable. Burns also highlighted the leadership of his senior class, which includes Liyah Taylor, Chloe Prainito, Alana Nauden, Klarke Mosby, and Morgan Sazama. Lockport will face Joliet West at 7 p.m. Monday in the Class 4A Rich Township Supersectional.
