Vernon Hills’ Kiersten Cieslinski had an obvious source of motivation when she was younger.
Cieslinski’s older sister, Alexa, had 232 kills for a 30-win team during her senior season at Vernon Hills in 2022.
“Getting to watch her play really piqued my interest in the sport,” Cieslinski said.
Cieslinski’s father, Michael, and older brother, Nathan, also played sports.
“I was definitely raised in a household of athletes,” Cieslinski said. “My dad played basketball in college, and seeing my siblings play sports in high school showed me if I want to play in college and at the highest level, I have to be motivated.
“All three of them encouraged me to be my best to make me go as far as I can go.”
A third-year varsity player, and a versatile one as well, the 6-foot Cieslinski is already one of the all-time greats for the Cougars. The Marshall recruit is the first player in the program to commit to a Division I team in more than 20 years, according to Vernon Hills coach Max Spiglanin.
Cieslinski had 215 kills, 26 blocks, 124 digs and 46 aces as a sophomore last season, when she was an all-conference pick in the Central Suburban North for the second time. She had 157 kills, 16 blocks, 44 digs and 26 aces as a freshman.
“I knew about Kiersten because of her older sister but didn’t know her well and wasn’t sure how she would fit playing with upperclassmen,” Spiglanin said. “She came in and played really well and was a three-rotation player.
“Her numbers increased last season, and she got to the ball a lot more and was more comfortable playing six rotations. She did really well and had an outstanding season.”
Cieslinski’s ability to play outside hitter or middle blocker makes her even more valuable to the Cougars (23-14, 7-3), who return three starters this season.
“She gives the team flexibility, stepping into whatever role is needed,” Vernon Hills senior libero/defensive specialist Olivia Bush said. “On the court, she’s known for her consistent hitting, reliable blocking and ability to stay calm under pressure. She also brings a team-first attitude that helps lift the energy during tough matches.”
Vernon Hills senior outside hitter Annabelle Smith also highlighted Cieslinski’s team-oriented mindset.
“She always pushes everyone to be better, from practices to games,” Smith said. “She has dedication not only to the sport but also to the team and is always striving to be better with her strong work ethic.”
Cieslinski expects to be even better this season.
“I think the game has slowed down for me,” she said. “I can visualize and see the court better and can read hitters better. I’ve physically gotten stronger from being in the gym. I can jump higher and hit harder.
“I’m also more comfortable because I don’t have to worry about college or about the perfect ACT or SAT scores. It was a big weight off my shoulders committing. I always wanted to play in college. I’m happy where I’m going and can now just kind of have more fun and relax.”
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Bobby Narang is a freelance reporter.