'Adding Boys Volleyball Gives Our 6th, 7th and 8th graders An Exciting Platform': Principal Declares

(The following edited press release is from Nick Jakusz
Community Relations Coordinator.)

MINOOKA, IL —Minooka 201 announced the addition of boys volleyball to the athletic offerings at Minooka Junior High School and Minooka Intermediate School. Officially approved by the Board of Education on Monday, October 19, the boys volleyball program will feature two teams of 6th-8th graders, bringing the total athletic offerings to 15.

The inaugural season of Minooka 201 boys volleyball will begin in February 2027. The creation of the program is a direct result of rising student interest and reflects the district’s ongoing dedication to providing well-rounded extracurricular activities that foster growth, leadership and belonging.

"We are thrilled to expand our athletic opportunities and give our students a new avenue to get involved and represent MJHS," said MJHS Principal Jason Finkelstein. "Interscholastic athletics plays an important role in student development and our school culture. Adding boys volleyball gives our 6th, 7th and 8th graders an exciting platform to build skills and confidence and display school pride."

“Boys Volleyball is a sport that is important to me and my family and I’m excited to see it begin here at MIS and the junior high,” says MIS Principal Jeana Pekol. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our 6th graders to get involved early in a growing sport. We can already feel the enthusiasm and excitement in the halls.”

"Adding a new sport to our athletic program is always exciting," said MJHS Athletics Director Zach Vienne. "Launching boys volleyball right now makes great sense because we can leverage our existing girls volleyball equipment and gym space, keeping initial startup costs to a minimum."

Although the Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA) does not currently host a state championship for boys volleyball, established programs at many neighboring school districts ensure Minooka 201 teams will play a full schedule of local opponents.

Information regarding tryout dates, coaching staff appointments, and schedules will be communicated to MIS/MJHS families in the months leading up to the season.

To learn more about Minooka 201 and its extracurricular programs, visit min201.org.