The West Chicago boys’ volleyball team hosted a teacher appreciation night during its home match against the Glenbard South Raiders on May 5. Teachers selected by student-athletes participated in pregame warmups, were recognized before the match, and attended the game alongside the players who nominated them.

The event, which took place during Teacher Appreciation Week, aimed to recognize teachers who made a positive impact on students both inside and outside the classroom. Participating staff members arrived before the varsity match to learn portions of the team’s pregame routine and ball-control drills while spending time with the athletes.

“One of my coaches, Sarah Smalley, brought up the idea,” said Regina Pauli, head boys’ volleyball coach. “We thought it would be a good way to show appreciation to teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, as these boys are always managing how to be a student athlete.”

Many teachers wore matching volleyball shirts provided by the program and were announced alongside the student-athletes who selected them before the match began. Organizers said the event helped bring positive energy into the gym ahead of the conference matchup.

“It was a lot of fun and something new that the boys’ volleyball team did,” said senior Sean Blickham. “We showed the teachers how to do our pregame routine and ball control.”

The varsity match lasted three sets, with Glenbard South taking the opening set before West Chicago responded with a second-set victory to force a decisive third set. The Raiders ultimately secured the final set and the match.

“Although the game didn’t go the way we wanted to, it was a close conference game where we went to three sets and ended up losing,” said Ryan Slattery, player. “Yet, the energy was high and it’s definitely a game we can use as a stepping stool for future games.”

Teachers who participated said the event gave them an opportunity to connect with students in a different setting outside the classroom.

“I appreciate the chance to be recognized by students as having had an impact on them,” said Aaron Hayes, teacher participant. “And having it happen at a place where they are the specialist is always fun.”