Will Kalish: A Rising Star at Neuqua Valley

Will Kalish, a junior receiver at Neuqua Valley, has drawn inspiration from former record-setting player Mike Dudek. Though Kalish never met Dudek or watched him play live, the highlights on YouTube have been influential. Dudek, who graduated in 2014 and played for Illinois, remains a significant idol for Kalish.

“He’s one of my biggest idols,” Kalish said. “He actually went here, so I compare myself to him as much as possible, just kind of see where I need to be if I want to be a player like him.”

Entering his second varsity season, Kalish seeks to achieve greatness. Despite limited opportunities last year due to a senior-heavy team, he had a standout game against Homewood-Flossmoor, scoring two touchdowns.

“That was all I had, but it was still a good year, really good for development,” he said.

The 6-foot, 160-pound receiver aims for a breakout season at Neuqua Valley. Kalish made a strong start for the Wildcats with seven receptions for 167 yards and three touchdowns in a season-opening loss to Oswego. He continued his momentum with seven catches for 102 yards and a score against Minooka.

Senior quarterback Drake Mennecke praised Kalish.

“For sure it’s a breakout year,” Mennecke stated. “He’s already proven that within the first two weeks. His route running is really good, and he’s able to shake off defenders and make catches that make me look good.”

The Mennecke-to-Kalish connection thrives, reflecting their offseason efforts.

“With the receiver stuff, it really starts in January, morning lifts, going to the field with Drake as much as we can,” Kalish explained. “It all starts in the offseason, but the season is when it really starts.”

Kalish anticipated his success against Oswego.

“I’d been working all summer, so I was kind of ready for it,” he said. “Nobody knew who I was.”

Neuqua Valley’s Kalish, right, runs a route against Hersey’s Drew Sather during a game in Naperville. Following impressive performances, Hersey focused on stopping Kalish, holding him to two catches for 9 yards.

“Going into this game, we both definitely knew that Hersey was going to be on him a little bit more just from his past two games and him balling out,” Mennecke observed.

Despite frustration from the Hersey game, Kalish acknowledges the challenges of defensive adjustments.

“It’s definitely annoying having a little target on my back, but it’s also a privilege,” he said. “DB coaches come up to me after almost every game, like, ‘Oh, yeah, we were scared to death about you.'”

Coach Bill Ellinghaus recognizes Kalish’s impact.

“Will is really, really good,” Ellinghaus said. “He catches everything. You throw it near him, and he’s catching the football.”

Senior Joshua Repmann, playing receiver and tight end, praises Kalish’s commitment.

“This kid, he works hard every day. He’s always here early, working with Drake, getting passes in,” Repmann noted.

Kalish also engages actively in basketball and track, showing resilience despite challenges.

“I just want to keep going,” he said. “After this game, I’m really disappointed. I really wanted more for myself.”>

For Kalish, the road ahead is promising as he continues to influence the game.