Neuqua Valley junior receiver Will Kalish sees former player Mike Dudek as a major inspiration. Though Kalish has never met Dudek, he has watched his highlights on YouTube. Dudek set school records in receptions, yards, and touchdowns before graduating in 2014 and playing for the University of Illinois.
“He’s one of my biggest idols,” Kalish remarked. “I compare myself to him to see where I need to be.”
Kalish embraces this challenge as he enters his second varsity season. Despite limited opportunities last year on a senior-heavy team, he had a standout game against Homewood-Flossmoor, scoring two touchdowns.
The 6-foot, 160-pound Kalish aims for a breakout season and started strong. In the season opener against Oswego, he caught seven passes for 167 yards and three touchdowns. He followed with seven catches for 102 yards and a touchdown in a win over Minooka.
Neuqua Valley senior quarterback Drake Mennecke praised Kalish’s progress.
“For sure it’s a breakout year,” Mennecke said. “His route running is really good, and he makes catches that make me look good.”
The chemistry between Mennecke and Kalish is intentional.
“With the receiver stuff, it starts in January,” Kalish noted. “Morning lifts, field time with Drake; it all starts in the offseason but the season is when it really begins.”
Kalish prepared hard during the summer, not knowing the exact outcomes but ready for challenges.
“I’d been working all summer, so I was kind of ready for it,” he said.
Hersey focused on Kalish, limiting him to two catches in a recent game, but the attention on him is both a challenge and a privilege.
“It’s annoying to have a target on my back, but it’s a privilege. DB coaches always comment on fearing me,” Kalish shared.
Neuqua Valley coach Bill Ellinghaus admires Kalish’s skill.
“Will is really good. Teams notice him. He’s a great threat on offense,” Ellinghaus said.
Senior Joshua Repmann respects Kalish’s dedication.
“This kid works hard every day. He’s a great locker room guy, always hyping people up,” Repmann said.
Kalish is determined not to let setbacks affect him.
“I want to keep moving forward. I’m disappointed but keep striving for more,” he stated.
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