Timosciek’s Determination Drives Lockport Volleyball Forward
Hutsyn Timosciek gained recognition two years ago when she achieved 11 kills in a supersectional match, helping Lockport reach the state finals for the first time in 25 years. Last season, Timosciek tallied 356 kills, leading the Porters back to state finals after Kyla Mitchell’s injury. Both years, Lockport finished third in Class 4A. As a senior, Timosciek aims for even more success this season.
“We definitely want more—every year that’s the goal,” she emphasized. “Sadly, we’ve been falling a little short, but we’re accustomed to reaching the state level now. We’ve had a taste, and we want more.”
Timosciek further demonstrated her capabilities on Thursday night, executing 11 kills to secure a 25-18, 25-22 win over Sandburg in the SouthWest Suburban Conference. Mitchell, who is committed to Virginia, added 10 kills for Lockport, contributing nine in a crucial second game. Natalie Bochantin, a Milwaukee recruit, delivered 12 assists, while Emma Consigny added six digs for the Porters.
Sandburg (7-12, 0-3) saw Bella Maras lead with five kills, with Ellery Dyra contributing three blocks. With both Timosciek and Mitchell now playing simultaneously, the Porters are strengthening their lineup. Last year, Mitchell observed from the sidelines due to a leg injury but has since transitioned from middle to outside hitter.
“She’s a major part of our team,” Mitchell remarked about Timosciek. “She’s someone we can count on to put the ball away. She has huge power behind her arm, and yeah, she’s definitely a big piece of this team.”
Lockport coach Nick Mraz observed Timosciek’s growth, stating, “During her sophomore year, she was part of the team, but her standout match was the supersectional.” He referenced a pivotal 23-25, 25-9, 25-22 victory over Downers Grove South as crucial to reaching state that year. “We knew she would need to fill a lot of gaps her junior year, and she led in kills. Her confidence has carried into this year. She wants the ball.”
The seasoned team now aims for a third state finals appearance at CEFCU Arena in Normal. Timosciek noted, “Sophomore year, we didn’t know where to go right away. Junior year, we prepared better. We knew there would be pictures during practice and got ready accordingly. We felt more comfortable last year.”
Timosciek appears familiar on the state stage, continuing her family’s athletic tradition. Her mother, Sherrie Donnells, led Sandburg girls’ soccer to their first state appearance in 1991. Her brothers, Hayden and Hyatt, helped Lockport clinch the Class 8A state football championship in 2021. Timosciek followed with two third-place medals in volleyball.
Despite her family ties to Sandburg, Timosciek maintains competitive friendships with the team and less connection when facing the Eagles. “I have friends on Sandburg, so I trash-talked with them before the game,” she shared. “But with my mom—we’ve been here so long, I don’t think she cares about Sandburg anymore. She wants me to win.”
Jeff Vorva is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.