Hadley Engler, originally from Oswego, ventured to Benet Academy as a freshman. After a year of daily commutes to Lisle, she opted to transfer back home. Many who have experienced such commutes can understand her decision. Engler expressed her desire to return, noting, “I’d say I just wanted to get back home. It had a lot to do with the commute.” She feels welcomed in her new environment.
Engler, a sophomore middle hitter, made her volleyball debut for Oswego’s Panthers in their season opener against Waubonsie Valley. Despite concentrating on basketball during the off-season and adjusting to a new school, Engler performed like a veteran in the 25-19, 25-19 nonconference win. Every time she was set in the middle, she delivered a kill, bolstering the Panthers’ offensive lineup alongside Dayton-bound Hannah Herrick and junior Sarah Gilio. Both Herrick and Gilio contributed seven kills each. Ava Edozien led Waubonsie Valley with five kills, supported by Anna Axelsen and Belle Black, who each had three.
Engler’s volleyball practice over the summer involved playing sand volleyball twice a week. She also sought gym sessions whenever possible. Oswego’s coach, Gary Mosley, commented on Engler’s readiness, saying, “I thought I would have to shake a lot of rust off. No, she was ready to go from day one. It’s amazing. She doesn’t play club.” Her seamless integration into the team was notable as she joined practices since tryouts and set a strong tone from the beginning.
“It felt really nice,” Engler reflected on her debut game. “My teammates have been so good to me. I have a great connection with my setter, Elaina Massie.”
Even though Engler only plays the front row, she made an immediate impact. Her first kill expanded Oswego’s lead to 12-6 in the opening game. Despite Waubonsie Valley later tying the score at 17-17 in the second game, Oswego emerged victorious with contributions from Gilio.
Waubonsie coach Noel Soto remarked on the game, “They fought all the way. They never gave up. Our problem was we didn’t execute when we needed to execute.”
Mosley emphasized Engler’s fitting presence, stating, “The energy is so cool. She fits right in. I’m glad she’s so outgoing because that’s the whole squad.” He praised her athleticism, describing how her physical abilities stand out.
“The athleticism is the first thing you see,” Mosley explained. “When she came in, the first thing I saw on the first day was her bounce. Pin to pin, she’s amazing.”
Engler looks ahead with optimism about the team’s potential, “I definitely think we’ll be really good. I know we will. I’m really excited for us.”
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