Matthew Proskey: The Versatile Setter Leading Oak Park-River Forest
Oak Park-River Forest High School senior Matthew Proskey has made a name for himself as a unique volleyball player. Known for his aggressive style, Coach Justin Cousin and his teammates even coined a new nickname for him during a practice. Senior middle blocker Wesley Kochendorfer said, “Our coach was joking around because Proskey is pretty aggressive. I think he’s one of the most aggressive setters in the state. So Cuz is like, ‘He doesn’t know what he is. He’s confused. He’s like a set-something.’’’ Kochendorfer then thought of the nickname ‘set-tacker.’
Despite the playful nicknaming, Proskey’s skills were instrumental in taking Oak Park-River Forest to their first state championship match since 1998. In the state final, he recorded 39 assists, and although the team lost 25-19, 22-25, 25-20 to Glenbard West, Proskey stood out with 89 assists in three matches, leading the eight-team field. His significant contributions included a win over the two-time defending state champion Marist in the semifinals.
Proskey, who plans to attend McKendree University, delivered impressive numbers throughout the season. He amassed 794 assists, contributing to almost 1,400 in his career. His teamwork with hitters like Wesley Kochendorfer, whom he’s known since middle school, was evident in their strong connection. Kochendorfer noted, “So much of my success is attributed to our setter.”
Furthermore, Proskey’s leadership as team captain, alongside Kochendorfer and senior libero Gus Leman, highlighted his versatility. Junior outside hitter Jimmie Chrusfield III praised Proskey’s ability to generate offense, stating, “He can do everything. I remember my freshman year when he played outside hitter and carried our team to victory.”
Proskey’s impact on the team didn’t go unnoticed by Coach Cousin, who has led OPRF since 2021. He said, “Proskey has been absolutely instrumental in everything we do. Whether it’s a good pass or a bad pass, he makes it better for his hitters every time.”
This season, Glenbard West was the only Illinois team to defeat Oak Park-River Forest. However, the Huskies managed a win against them on April 14, coincidentally the same day Matthew’s older brother, Calvin Proskey, pitched a scoreless game for UC Santa Barbara against then-No. 1 UCLA.
Calvin Proskey, like his brother, faced challenges but finished his junior baseball season with a 2.87 ERA in eight appearances. Both brothers were multi-sport athletes in their early years, but Calvin focused on baseball while Matthew chose volleyball.
Matthew explained his preference, saying, “Every day I’m in the gym, I know I’m going to touch the ball. When I played baseball, I was just standing around doing nothing. I really enjoy volleyball.”
With Matthew’s talent and dedication, Oak Park-River Forest has built a formidable volleyball program, showing promise for future seasons.