Mary Kate Fahey 

VOLLEYBALL | (TENNIS) | BASKETBALL | TRACK

MK will go down as one of Hersey’s most “Involved” student athletes.  In a year where kids could opt out of just about everything, MK decided to opt in.  On her quest to become a 12 season athlete, she topped that and added in an extra sport to be a 13 season athlete her senior year.   In tennis, Mary Kate was the epitome of grace, character, and integrity all while sprinting from sideline to sideline to keep the tennis ball in play. She baffled so many of her opponents who did not know of her true talent.   She was our hidden gem on Hersey Girls Tennis 2020 . MKs contributions to basketball went well beyond the court. Her commitment to her team and her school led her to earning recognition as one of the top players in Illinois. Her leadership combined with her skills made her the idea point guard.  Mary Kate is an outstanding  athlete. She is a solid setter with great hands. Her hard work and leadership were a big part of our success this year.

Ryan Gudaitis

FOOTBALL | BASKETBALL | BASEBALL

Ryan is the definition of a competitor.  Never an excuse or a complaint, always looking for ways to get better and raise the game of those around him.  He is a 12 season athlete because he wants to "be in the game."  He is tough, loyal, intelligent, and works hard no matter what the task is that is in front of him.

Ryan has been a tremendous asset to our program in multiple ways. His level headedness and honestly, coupled with his athletic talent, make him a valuable addition to any team. Ryan is not only consistent in games, but his practice effort is always at the top of every team he is on. We are proud of Ryan for continuing his efforts in all sports across a four year period, achieving remarkable success in each. 

Ryan's competitiveness and leadership has meant the most to our baseball program.  In the midst of all the uncertainty, Ryan has constantly set an exceptional example for the rest of the student-athletes in our program.  Ryan's character and work-ethic have filtered to the rest of his teammates.  Ryan has already excelled on the field, despite the grueling nature of playing two sports at once.  "Big G" epitomizes the kind of student-athletes we hope to cultivate.  We look forward to Ryan helping us complete a successful baseball season. 

Maggie Kaepplinger 

VOLLEYBALL (X-COUNTRY) | BASKETBALL | LACROSSE

Maggie came out for water polo sophomore year never having played before, but her basketball knowledge and skills helped her learn the concept of the game quickly.  She understood passing lanes, picks, shot blocking, etc.  She has been a good teammate to have around this year and helps with stats during the games. Maggie was an athlete who always showed a willingness to “‘roll with the changes.' Her excellent perspective made her a valuable voice which added to the success of the team.   Maggie loves being around sports and competing at her highest level possible.  Every team she has played on was lucky to have such a committed, positive team member. 

Avery Larson  

SOCCER | BASKETBALL | TENNIS

Avery "Ace" Larsen is above all a GREAT teammate.  She will, without hesitation, play any position on the field that will help her team succeed. She has developed into a tremendous player and leader. She loves to compete but her ability to balance academics and sports in every season makes her special. She is an absolute pleasure to coach!  Avery is such a well-rounded and impactful athlete. She is so skilled that she could probably be a 20 point scorer on most teams in the area, but she had the strength and willingness to do the less noticeable things to help her team.  Avery played with an understated style that fooled many of her opponents. Her work ethic and sportsmanship complemented her doubles partner that contributed to her winning ways. GRIT was part of her plan and competed with grace and composure. She will be irreplaceable!

Annie Lindgren 

SWIM | BASKETBALL | WATER POLO

Annie is one of only 2 Hersey students (boys or girls) to be named to the all state team for water polo.  She was named 4th team all state as a freshman and 2nd team all state as a sophomore, which is incredible considering we didn’t play at state either of these years.  When she made second team all state, we weren’t even in the sectional finals.  However,  everyone in Illinois water polo knows her name.  She is a captain and leader for this years’ team and surely will continue with all state honors!  Annie was part of 4 straight MSL East titles in Swimming. Her ability to connect and guide younger athletes was impressive. Winning was her business and business was good!  Annie was a truly supportive teammate to everyone! Her skills, athleticism, humor, and genuine nature helped us focus on what we needed to be successful.

Mary McGrath 

VOLLEYBALL | BASKETBALL | TRACK

 Mary often had the role of our behind-the-scenes contributor both on and off the court. Despite being the best defensive  player in Illinois, Mary was the kid that did whatever we needed without needing recognition for her efforts.She put in many hours in the off season to become the amazing player that she was this season.  Her commitment to the game is what stood out this year as well as her selflessness with her teammates.   In volleyball, Mary  helped our team out with her huge block and solid swings . Her ability to excel at multiple sports shows her drive to succeed and her natural athleticism.  There was rarely a day that you did not see Mary competing in multiple sports here at Hersey.  She will go down as one of the best athletes in girls athletics here at JHHS. 

Max Ott

FOOTBALL, WRESTLING, TRACK

Max definitely makes the most of his talents by being selfless and hard working.  NEVER misses a thing.  NEVER complains.  ALWAYS works hard.  Complete team player.  Has grown a lot in terms of confidence and belief in himself.  He just really loves being around sports and enjoys pushing himself.  

Max is a fighter.  No matter what obstacles are thrown at him, he finds a way to overcome and succeed.  He is an example of the great lessons individuals can learn from sports when they dedicate themselves and always push through difficulty. 

Drew Zagorski

GOLF | BASKETBALL | VOLLEYBALL

Simply stated, Drew Zagorski is a coach's dream, he was always early to practice and stayed late with an attitude that was always open to suggestions on improvement. He had a team first mentality and his character was simply something to behold and admire. 

Drew Zagorski has been a tremendously valuable asset to our program who has matured, both as a person and as a basketball player, within every year he has participated in Hersey Basketball. He was our team's most improved player this season and was a steady, mature voice of leadership for our senior class. 

Drew Zagorski has been a wonderful team leader and dominant player for Boys Volleyball  Drew is a great role model for our program not only on the court but in our community. Drew helps the younger guys understand what it takes to be a better player. The volleyball program will miss his skill and positive leadership next year.

Alyssa Lendino

Swimming | Bowling | Track

I will always remember Alyssa as the girl whose smile was infectious. She was quiet, yet competitive, aggressive yet humble. She was an awesome teammate and would do whatever was needed to make the team successful.  She is a true champion!  Before her passing, Alyssa was primed to be the best bowler of the bunch.  I was fortunate to coach her for two seasons where I learned that beneath the quiet external visage, roared a raging competitor.  She forever taught me not to discount the quiet kid.  She listened. She trained. She committed to the team concepts.  And, best of all, she competed!  The Hersey Girls Track and Field Program honors and remembers our extraordinary teammate, athlete, and person. We miss you and will always remember….your humility, your kindness, and your loyalty to friends and family.  We remember how you made everyone feel welcome through your kindness yet competitive spirit.  You had a quiet voice but a big soul.  You were willing to lead or anchor our relays and you hammered the final stretch of the 200 m dash.   We miss your spirited smile but will forever remember and respect what you meant to our team! 

Austin Korba

Football | Wrestling | Track & Field 

Having Austin on your team just gives you confidence.  You know, with 100% certainty, that he is going to do everything he can to prepare. He thrives on competition and enjoys the battle. His intensity on the field, on the mat or in the ring is infectious. His teammates draw from his energy and leadership. He is a true competitor.

Jaine Boyan

Volleyball | Bowling | Track

Janine adds competitive fire and relentless standards to a team. She loves the challenge that comes with individual and team competitions and will find ways to build confidence when adversity hits. Janine can dominate a sport or provide a spark as a role player when her teammates need help. A truly versatile athlete and asset to any athletic team.

Madeline Ritter

Golf | Bowling | Softball

Maddie is a boost to Hersey teams since day one of her freshman year. Her work ethic, toughness, and awesome sense of humor that truly defined her as a Hersey athlete. Her teammates loved playing with her.   Her coaches loved that her talent was accompanied by an ability to lead and bring the most out of her teammates. Maddie’s improvement in all three sports sets her apart from the typical athlete.

Matt Kim

Cross Country | Swimming | Water Polo 

Matthew was a consistent competitor and his teammates loved having him around at practice. He did whatever the team needed to be successful and was always good for busting out a big race/game at the end of the season.

Morgan Breden

Volleyball | Bowling | Softball

Morgan is a  great all around athlete and was always willing to do whatever the team needed.  Shehas displayed confidence since freshman year.  She is smart. She is powerful. She is aggressive. She makes savvy adjustments and her confidence makes everyone around her better.  Morgan is the selfless athlete every coach wants on their team. She is the player that fights through pain and soreness. Morgan is the person who her teammates look to for guidance. She is dependable and reliable but it is her kindness, and her leadership that has strengthened her legacy as one of the best of the best.

Spencer Burkhalter

Cross Country | Swimming | Water Polo 

Spencer's attitude towards academics and athletics are the same - be the best. Spencer was a student of the game, he always competed, and, most importantly, he led with a purpose and passion. Spencer is a true champion.

Sydney Pape

Volleyball | Bowling | Soccer

Sydney loves to compete. She has an incredible drive to play and train at her absolute highest level. She simply doesn’t quit regardless of what adversity she may be faced with and has played her best when fighting through injury.   She is ready to contribute, give her all, and is a great team player.   She loves to compete. She loves to train. She loves her team. She loves to win.

Taylor Hall 

Tennis | Bowling | Track 

Taylor Hall brings a smile to practice and worked hard and smart to keep her busy life balanced. Taylor has a positive influence socially, academically, and athletically to Hersey High School  She showed young athletes what it means to better yourself and to better your school.   Taylor is incredibly loyal and committed, and will always finish what she starts.