For Stefanie Cahill, coaching and teaching have always naturally aligned. From working with both students and athletes, she is a strong mentor and now has the opportunity to bring those qualities to the court as head coach of the girls varsity volleyball team. 

How long have you been playing volleyball?

I have played volleyball since middle school. I started playing for the first time in 6th grade, and I hadn’t even really heard of the sport. I ended up really liking it so I played club volleyball starting in Seventh grade. I also played two years of Volleyball at CLC as a setter. 

How long have you been coaching?

This will be my seventh year coaching! I have coached both girls and boys volleyball at Lake Forest over the past three years. Prior to that, I coached JV girls and boys volleyball at Lake Zurich. 

What led you to this position at Lake Forest High School?

Last year, the former Girls Varsity Head Coach Pranke, announced that she was having twins and would not be returning to the program. After finishing the season as the Girls Sophomore coach, I decided that I would maybe be interested in taking the next step up.  After many conversations with both friends and family, I finally applied. Eventually I had an interview with Mr. Burkhalter and now, here I am!

What is your team’s biggest focus this season?

This season, I would say our biggest focus is having a shift in mentality. We are super lucky this year to have a very competitive and talented program, and with that comes the factor of being able to mentally step up. I believe that shifting our mindsets to believing in ourselves, regardless of wins or losses, will help us play strong and have a good season. 

Would you say that you have a coaching philosophy, and if so, what is it?

There are a few things that I believe in. Something that I say a lot, and my girls know this, is that pressure is a privilege. When faced with pressure on the court, it comes down to how you react and respond. I really do believe that when faced with pressure and adversity, it shows our players that playing under pressure is a positive opportunity that not everybody gets. Another thing I like to tell our players is that you should always leave it better than you found it. Whether that be the equipment we use and the physical state of the court, or even your teammate and encouraging them to be better everyday. 

Any advice for people interested in joining volleyball?

For those looking to join volleyball, I would say do it if you love it and if your heart is there. Your high school career goes by quicker than you think, so don’t let the pressure or opinions of others get in the way of what you choose to do. And for the people who decide to follow through with playing, commit to it! There is so much to love about this sport and I hope people can play because they love it. 

What is your favorite team tradition?

Well, it is my first year being a part of the Girls Varsity Team, so I haven’t fully experienced all of the “traditions.” I really enjoyed the annual Sun Run this year! I thought it was super nice to be able to enjoy a peaceful morning at the beach while watching the sunrise. I personally felt that this allowed our team to connect on a deeper level, and think that it was a good kickstart to the season on the right foot. 

What is your favorite volleyball memory, either as a player or coach?

It’s hard for me to pick just one, because I truly just love this game so much. Something that I was proud of was being in the top 10 setters for the NJCAA during college. I really enjoyed getting to play for CLC and it meant a lot because I never had imagined myself being able to play at a collegiate level. Of course, I have so many great memories of getting to travel and hangout with my teammates during my club years!