Lincoln-Way Central’s Mya Donnelly: From Learner to Leader

Two years ago, Mya Donnelly began her journey as a freshman on Lincoln-Way Central’s varsity volleyball team. She learned much from the seasoned players. Now a 5-foot-11 junior and outside hitter, she is passing her knowledge to younger teammates. Freshman Erin Sammon and sophomores Leah Freiberg, Madison Rademacher, Tessa Garcia, and Zoey Terrell look to Donnelly for guidance.

“I had leaders when I started, and now I lead the underclassmen,” Donnelly shared. “I remember feeling scared on varsity, so I understand their perspective.”

Donnelly showed her growth during Tuesday’s match against Class 2A powerhouse Chicago Christian in New Lenox. She achieved 11 kills, eight coming in the second game, leading to a 14-25, 25-14, 25-20 victory. Ella Thompson added seven kills for Lincoln-Way Central, while Terrell contributed four aces. Garcia delivered 11 assists, and Isabella Bendoraitis offered 10 assists.

For Chicago Christian, Quinn Grevengoed led with 12 kills. Ella Agema followed with nine, while Grace Gordon chipped in with six aces.

Donnelly began enhancing her performance after an initial 11-point setback. Her three kills in a pivotal four-point run helped her team seize an 8-5 lead. “I sensed this was my moment to lead with confidence,” she said. “Hitting down the line is my strength.”

Bendoraitis added energy with six consecutive service points, including three aces, closing out the second game. Thompson led the final game with four kills and Terrell provided three aces, two kills, and a block.

Reflecting on the first game, Donnelly noted, “We struggled with our serve-receive. But post that, we connected well as a team and our bench was supportive. Losing seniors had us uncertain, but this opener was promising.”

“Mya excelled in the second set, being crucial for our victories in the following games,” Bendoraitis remarked. “Her swing and ability to read the game are impressive.”

Lincoln-Way Central coach Amy Bernhard acknowledged the team’s initial nerves but praised the sets from Bendoraitis and Garcia. “When Mya gets into her groove, she’s impactful,” Bernhard stated. “She seems like a senior leader though she’s still a junior.”

Donnelly’s volleyball story began in second grade, transitioning from a brief stint in cheerleading, which she disliked. “I love volleyball and its team spirit,” she said. “The camaraderie on and off the court benefits us mentally.”