Marist’s Michael Forbes and RedHawks’ Journey to State Semifinals

Before entering high school, Michael Forbes of Marist explored various sports. Reflecting on his early years, he highlighted his diverse athletic experiences. “I played everything,” Forbes said. “Basketball, swimming, running, and a bit of football.” Volleyball, however, was a sport he only tried during his freshman year.

His introduction to volleyball came when other sports lost their appeal. “A couple of buddies, Billy Bochenczak and Drew Fielder, encouraged me to join. I thought, ‘Why not?’ Now, I love it,” Forbes shared. On Friday afternoon, his passion was evident as he contributed to Marist’s 25-22, 25-19 victory over Lane Tech in the state quarterfinals at Bolingbrook. With six kills, Forbes helped the team reach the semifinals for the third consecutive time.

Ball State recruit Briggs Corona led defending champion Marist with 10 kills. Freshman right-side hitter Max DeHoyos added five kills, while Fielder excelled with 20 assists. For Lane Tech, Mohamed Abdelradi and Carver Forsman recorded eight and six kills, respectively. Marist will now face Oak Park-River Forest, boasting a 32-5-1 record, in the semifinals at 11 a.m. on Saturday.

Forbes feels a particular passion for volleyball. “Volleyball is addicting,” he noted. “The pace is exhilarating. It’s six players on each team with no contact. A unique experience.” Coach Jordan Vidovic is striving to secure his fifth consecutive state championship in both boys’ and girls’ volleyball.

The RedHawks, with their youthful roster, have surprised many by reaching this stage. “We lost 10 seniors,” Fiedler said, “but we knew our potential.” Forbes’s stats entering the quarterfinals included 305 kills, 87 blocks, 151 digs, and 25 aces. He was named to the Illinois Volleyball Coaches Association first team all-state in his third year playing the sport.

Despite being considered underdogs, Forbes and his teammates are driven. “People doubt us, but we focus on our work,” Forbes explained. The RedHawks aim to prove their critics wrong with determination and teamwork.