Sommer Shaw’s Rise in Marist Volleyball

A few times a week, Sommer Shaw and her mother, Sharon Wilson, enjoy runs together at Marist, with their pit bull, Joe. Shaw often pulls ahead, using these runs to boost her stamina for volleyball. ‘It’s to get my stamina up for when we play long matches,’ she noted.

Shaw, a junior middle hitter, recently showcased her skills with five kills and three block assists, leading Marist to a 25-13, 25-11 victory over St. Laurence in the GCAC Red match held in Chicago.

Michigan commit Maggie Kurpeikis contributed 13 kills and six digs. Western Michigan recruit Taylor Berg added six kills and five digs, while Maeve Gill secured four kills. Haven Enselman recorded 26 assists and six digs, and Ariella Link tallied 14 digs and four assists.

Marist has maintained an impressive record, winning all 14 games by an average margin of 12.6 points. No opponent has scored above 18 points against the reigning Class 4A state champions. ‘I’m really glad that we got off to a good start,’ Shaw expressed. ‘We’re coming on strong and we want to win every match.’

In an intense match-up, Abby Ambrose led St. Laurence with four kills and two block assists. Clancey Bowen added three kills and two block assists. This electrifying first encounter between the two teams drew a large crowd to Marist’s venue.

The 6-foot Shaw is a recent addition to Marist’s seasoned lineup and is quickly adapting. Kurpeikis praised her teammate: ‘She’s a silent killer. She’s quick, moves well, and jumps high.’ Coach Jordan Vidovic agreed, stating, ‘She’s starting to come into her own.’

The recent merger of the GCAC and East Suburban Catholic Conference results in 21 teams split into divisions, with Marist competing against schools like Mother McAuley and Benet. Marist’s schedule includes top national teams in tournaments across Las Vegas and Fort Wayne, Indiana, which will challenge Shaw’s endurance.

Maggie Kurpeikis and Ariella Link demonstrated teamwork by colliding while going after the ball against St. Laurence during a recent match.

Shaw came to volleyball relatively late, picking it up in eighth grade through a club. A friend piqued her interest, leading her to training camps, eventually joining 1st Alliance. ‘Some of the coaches started to recognize me,’ Shaw recalled. Her commitment to the sport remains strong. ‘I love the environment of volleyball and my friends who uplift me,’ she said.

Freelance reporter Jeff Vorva covered the event for the Daily Southtown.