McAuley Volleyball Program Ranked #1 In State Over Past 50 Years

CHICAGO – Mother McAuley High School’s volleyball program has been recognized as #1 in the state in celebration of the 50th edition of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Girls Volleyball State Series. Selected by a prestigious committee of current and former volleyball coaches, administrators, and media members, this announcement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of McAuley’s athletes, coaches and supporters over the years, the school said in a news release.

Since its inception, Mother McAuley has been a dominant force in Illinois high school volleyball, consistently competing at the highest level and capturing multiple state titles. The school’s rich history of success includes two National Championships, 17 state championships along with many regional, sectional and super sectional titles. In total, the Macs have had 29 state appearances. Additionally the program has had multiple conference and State players of the year setting a standard for excellence that has inspired generations of volleyball players.

“We are extremely proud of this recognition, and it’s a tribute to the outstanding athletes, coaches, and families who have built and supported the tradition that is Mother McAuley volleyball,” said Jen DeJarld, head coach of the Mother McAuley volleyball team. “This ranking reflects the incredible legacy of our program and our continued commitment to excellence on and off the court.”

Laura Gill, athletic director at McAuley said she was excited to see our program continue thrive and achieve new heights in the next chapter of McAuley's storied history.

“Growing up in the Chicagoland area, the name McAuley has always been synonymous with volleyball. Being new, I have found myself deeply immersed in this program, which has a remarkable ability to draw you in,” Gill said. “This ranking reflects the hard work and dedication of our coaches and players, along with the unwavering support of our community."

IHSA assistant executive director Stacey Lambert said McAuley is a name that is renowned not only in the Illinois high school volleyball community, but all throughout the country.”

“The first half century of high school girls volleyball in Illinois has been filled with incredible players, coaches, matches and teams,” Lambert said. “But you can’t write the history of iHSA girls volleyball in IHSA girls volleyball without the Mighty Macs.

To commemorate the milestone of the 50th edition of the State Series, the IHSA compiled a comprehensive list of the Top 50 Volleyball Programs from the past five decades (1974–2024), honoring schools that have demonstrated excellence and a longstanding tradition of success.