Mundelein’s Paige Prochnow Shines in Volleyball and Academics

Mundelein’s senior volleyball player, Paige Prochnow, has become a standout figure for the Mustangs, combining exceptional athletic talent with a positive team spirit. Standing at 5-foot-9, this outside hitter has made significant contributions to her team, both on and off the court. Prochnow leads her squad with 203 kills, 186 digs, and 51 aces this season, embodying a blend of skill, dedication, and leadership.

Her commitment to fostering a supportive environment is evident in her approach to the game. “My main thing is always staying positive and cheering people on,” Prochnow shared. She recognizes that maintaining team morale is crucial, particularly in a sport where self-doubt can undermine performance. “One of the biggest team downfalls in volleyball is letting your teammates get down on themselves,” she added, emphasizing her role in uplifting those around her.

Prochnow’s passion for the game was tested earlier this season during a match against New Trier in September 2024. After losing the first set, the Mustangs rallied back, and when her teammate scored a critical point, Prochnow jumped to celebrate. Unfortunately, she landed awkwardly, resulting in an ankle injury that sidelined her for several weeks. Her coach, Jeff Blezien, noted, “She was always asking, ‘How can I get better? What can I do to make my teammates better?’”

During her recovery, Prochnow learned valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability. “It was really hard because I love volleyball and love to be on the court,” she reflected. “But it taught me a really good lesson that you can still be a very important part of that energy from the bench.” Embracing her new role, she focused on encouraging her teammates during practices and matches.

As the Mustangs prepare for the Class 4A McHenry Regional semifinals, Prochnow’s presence on the court is undeniable. With the team boasting a record of 18-17, her vocal support and enthusiastic energy are integral to their dynamic. “I’m a very loud player on the bench and on the court,” Prochnow said, contrasting her on-court persona with her quieter nature off the court.

Teammate Mellany Rodriguez praised Prochnow’s consistent encouragement, stating, “She’s the type of teammate that will lift you up no matter what.” This supportive attitude extends beyond volleyball, as Prochnow applies the same principles to her academic life. Recently, she achieved a perfect score on the ACT and is now focused on applying to colleges, aiming for a career in the medical field.

Prochnow’s understanding of the game’s challenges extends to her broader life philosophy. “I just know that volleyball is a game of mistakes,” she explained. Rather than dwelling on errors, she emphasizes the importance of moving forward. This mindset has been shaped by her parents, who provide guidance during tough times, reinforcing her resilience.

Her aggressive approach to the game has paid off, highlighted by a remarkable performance on September 30, 2024, where she recorded 11 aces in a single match, setting a new program record. “I was really excited,” Prochnow said, acknowledging the collective effort of her teammates in achieving that milestone.

As the Mustangs head into the playoffs, Prochnow’s dual commitment to volleyball and academics exemplifies the essence of a true student-athlete. Coach Blezien describes her as “one of the brightest students we have on our team,” underscoring her dedication to both her sport and her future aspirations. With her unwavering spirit and impressive track record, Paige Prochnow is undoubtedly a player to watch as she continues to make her mark both on and off the court.