During her freshman year, Katy Zumerchik of Stagg encountered challenges as she made an immediate impact on the varsity team. She transitioned from a middle hitter to an outside hitter, which required adjustment time. A growth spurt affected her knees, leading to Osgood-Schlatter syndrome.
I got down on myself and wasn’t able to play to my full potential. But I worked through it,
expressed Zumerchik. Now, feeling great, she demonstrated her progress by performing energetically on the court.
As a junior outside hitter standing 5-foot-10, Zumerchik delivered 13 kills and two aces during a dominant 25-12, 25-15 victory over Tinley Park in a nonconference match. Nicole Maka contributed four kills, adjusting to the middle position due to Amelia Kadamus’ ankle injury. Coach Erin Moran hopes for Kadamus’ swift recovery, as the team prepares for the Chicago Christian Invitational.
For Tinley Park, Sarah Aggen managed five kills while Grace Samborski achieved two aces. Zumerchik, however, reflects on her diverse past. In middle school at Palos South, she engaged in various activities from sports to drama, eventually focusing on volleyball. Her passion for the sport translated into 23 kills in early-season wins against Oak Lawn and Tinley Park.
Whenever the ball goes to her, I know we’re going to get the point,
said Maka, illustrating Zumerchik’s reliability on the court.
Zumerchik’s talents also shone during grade school, where she earned MVP honors in seventh and eighth grades. The transition to an outside hitter was a significant shift from her prior role as a middle hitter. Zumerchik recognized the importance of patience and mastering different shot techniques.
Last season, Zumerchik played a vital role in leading Stagg to its first winning season since 2017, ending with a 17-16 record. Her commitment remains strong as she anticipates further success this fall.
I’m excited — I think we have a lot of potential,
Zumerchik stated, emphasizing teamwork as a key to achieving their goals.
Erin Moran, serving her first year as Stagg’s coach, previously played for the Chargers. Although her college playing days were cut short by a back injury, she transitioned into coaching, gaining experience as an assistant boys coach at Sandburg.
Moran noted,
This team has excellent chemistry. They get along and have a lot of fun together, and that chemistry is only going to soar.
With two years of varsity experience, Zumerchik looks forward to further accomplishments with the Chargers this season. Her focus is on not only personal success but also team cohesion, aspiring to foster an environment where everyone contributes and excels.
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