UPDATE: Tori Vlcek, a sophomore sensation and the lone underclassman on the Oswego East volleyball team, made an explosive impact in her varsity debut, leading the Wolves to a commanding 25-15, 25-23 victory over Waubonsie Valley on August 27, 2025. Just moments into the match, Vlcek secured all four of her kills in the first game, establishing a dominant eight-point lead that set the tone for the entire match.
The Wolves, under the guidance of coach Dina Beamon, showcased their potential with a mix of veteran talent and fresh energy. Beamon, who had been tracking Vlcek’s progress since last season, knew she would be a crucial addition to the team. “I watch these kids all the time,” Beamon stated. “I was looking, and I was like, ‘OK, I think that could be a little piece that we’re missing to make us better.’”
Vlcek’s performance not only validated Beamon’s decision but also highlighted her readiness to rise to the challenge. “Last season, I got called up toward the end to varsity, and this year, I was just really hoping that I would start,” Vlcek shared. “That was my goal. I’m really excited to go up to varsity this year. It’s a great group of girls, so I’m ready to keep working with them.”
The match was a showcase of teamwork, with Vlcek’s four kills complemented by Alison Coy and Gia Sylvestre, who also each contributed four kills. Mia Stanley was instrumental with a remarkable eight aces, further solidifying the Wolves’ commanding performance.
Despite the Warriors’ attempts to rally, including a strong showing from Addilyn Candrian, who led Waubonsie with four kills, they could not close the gap. The Wolves maintained control, and Beamon expressed satisfaction with her team’s execution. “I told them to just go get it, and they did,” she remarked after the match.
The synergy between Vlcek and her teammates has been a focal point of the team’s early success. Stanley noted Vlcek’s impressive ability to adapt, stating, “She’s a lot younger than us, but she also has experience. She’s played on high-level volleyball teams, so she brings a lot of great ideas.”
Vlcek’s transition to varsity has not only been about her skills but also the support she receives from her older teammates. “Mia understands me completely,” Vlcek said. “Our minds just always sync up. She’s always there to calm me down if I ever get nervous.”
With the season just beginning, eyes are on Oswego East as they look to build on this momentum. Coach Beamon’s confidence in her players is evident, as she acknowledges Vlcek’s potential to be a game-changer. “I was anxious to see how she would do with the pressure. She’s shown in practice that she’s not intimidated. She’s hungry,” Beamon declared.
As the Wolves celebrate their opening win, the volleyball community will be watching closely to see how Tori Vlcek continues to develop in her pivotal role. This victory marks just the beginning for a team that is eager to make a statement this season.
Stay tuned for further updates on Oswego East’s journey as they aim for more victories in the upcoming matches!
