Familiar faces ready to lead a talented Moraine Valley volleyball team

Some familiar faces are returning to the Moraine Valley Community College volleyball program this fall to mold the next group of Cyclones into a threat on the court.

Taking the helm as incoming head coach is former Cyclones volleyball player Jaelyn Donald. She competed at the college in fall 2021 and 2022, helping the latter team earn an Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference and NJCAA Region 4 championship before competing at the national tournament. She earned conference and region honors before continuing her education and volleyball career at Indiana University Northwest, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree. She is excited to return to Moraine Valley and engage with the sport from a different perspective.

“It’s interesting seeing things from a different point of view. It’s allowing me to be more assertive and will help me grow and communicate as well as get out of my comfort zone,” Donald explained. “I want to grow as a coach, and I’m excited to learn.”

Accompanying this newness is plenty of expertise from Gloria Coughlin, who will join Donald on the sidelines as assistant coach. She is a retired head coach and Cyclones Athletics Hall of Fame inductee who led the Moraine Valley volleyball program from 1989 until 2013, collecting multiple conference and region championships along with trips to nationals. Her depth of knowledge and experience will be a guiding force for Donald, who is happy to have it.

“I love Gloria. She’s my backbone when I’m stuck instructing a player, and she’s very helpful,” Donald noted. “We each have our own style, but I’m so lucky to have her and to learn from her.”

Donald inherited a program that was one win shy of earning a 10th conference championship and made it to the region finals last season. With only a handful of returners, she is looking to a few recruits to help lead a successful team.

Tegan Colyer (Chicago Christian), expected to be the libero, is very communicative and can move quickly around the court. Erin Quigley (Lincoln-Way West) is a middle hitter but plays well in the back row, making her a versatile presence. Sophomore Cameron Szyszka (Sandburg) is back in the lineup this fall and will be a leader. She also has been termed a “hype woman” for her teammates.

Everyone is adjusting to new players and coaches in the preseason, but Donald is patient and optimistic about a successful season. She also is eager for the players to have a memorable and engaging experience like her own.

“I want us to win our conference, and I’d like to make it to playoffs and regionals. That’s our goal. I also want the players to leave Moraine Valley having had a positive experience,” Donald stated. “I want to see them grow as players and as people. I’m excited to help them succeed in volleyball and move on to four-year colleges and universities.”

Although she still is strategizing which player will excel in each position, Donald wants her players to test their skills and become comfortable anywhere on the court. Both Donald and the team look forward to the progress they intend to make this fall.

“They want to learn and grow, and so do I,” Donald said. “I’m looking forward to the competition and creating a good bond with the team. The latter will make them want to win more.”

The Cyclones open their season at home against Wright College on Thursday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m. For updates on Cyclones Athletics, visit mvcyclones.com.