Kahok boys volleyball wraps up season

by Mark Jurgena

COLLINSVILLE — Just days after falling to Gateway Metro Conference champ Belleville Althoff in three sets, the Collinsville boys volleyball team enacted their revenge in the opening game of the Belleville West Regional.

The Kahoks took a two-set win over the Crusaders 27-25, 25-23.

“The Kahoks were very focused and excited to play Althoff again,” said Collinsville coach Mike Nichols. “It was a team effort, every player had one of their best games of the season. It was fun to watch and excited to try and keep it going against Belleville West.”

Kade Simmons and JuPaul Hudson led the Kahoks in kills with Kolin Waligorski led CHS in assists.

Nichols complimented Robbie Freeman, Lucas Zagorski and Mile Tonellato for their service-receive efforts.

Jordan Taylor played the second set leading CHS in blocks.

Althoff finished their season at 21-12 overall.

West loss

The Kahoks fell in the semifinals to the host school 25-16, 25-17.

West moved to 24-11 overall after the win while the Kahoks finished 13-23 overall.

IHSA postseason

Belleville East beat the Maroons 25-21, 25-13 to win the regional championship.

East beat O’Fallon on May 25 in the semifinals of the Collinsville Regional by a 25-22, 26-24 count. It was the third win for the SWC champs this season over their rivals.

The Lancers faced New Lenox (Lincoln-Way West) on Tuesday night at Fletcher Gym for the right to go to the state tournament this weekend in Hoffman Estates. Results were unavailable at press time.