Forbes Fuels Marist’s Volleyball Journey

Before high school, Marist’s Michael Forbes explored many sports. He participated in basketball, swimming, running, and a bit of football. Yet, volleyball wasn’t on his list until his freshman year when he ran out of other options. Forbes, alongside teammates Billy Bochenczak and Drew Fielder, decided to give volleyball a try. Now, he is passionate about the game.

Forbes showcased his skills in the state quarterfinals at Bolingbrook. The junior middle hitter contributed six kills, helping the RedHawks secure their third consecutive semifinals appearance with a 25-22, 25-19 victory over Lane Tech. Ball State recruit Briggs Corona led Marist (30-7) with 10 kills. Freshman Max DeHoyos added five kills, and Fiedler recorded 20 assists. For Lane Tech (27-14), Mohamed Abdelradi earned eight kills, while Carver Forsman added six. Marist advanced to face Oak Park-River Forest (32-5-1) in the semifinals.

Forbes shared why he chose volleyball over other sports. “Volleyball is addicting,” he explained. “I love the pace. It’s six players per team, noncontact, and unique.”

Marist’s team composition diverges from previous years. During Forbes’s initial volleyball year, he never anticipated participating in state finals. Despite initial challenges, the RedHawks found cohesion. Forbes admitted, “The first practice was rocky. New players didn’t know each other. We needed to connect.”

Coach Jordan Vidovic aims for a fifth consecutive state championship for Marist’s boys and girls volleyball teams. Although Oak Park-River Forest and Glenbard West are favorites, Vidovic is satisfied with Marist’s Final Four presence, despite doubts from outsiders.

“The last two teams’ legacies inspire us,” Vidovic noted. “Players embraced our history and learned to collaborate. That spirit persists.”

Despite losing 10 seniors, Fiedler expressed confidence in the team’s potential. “We knew our capabilities,” he stated.

Forbes boasts impressive stats: 305 kills, 87 blocks, 151 digs, and 25 aces. Recognized on the Illinois Volleyball Coaches Association first team all-state, he excelled early in his career. Corona made the second team, and Fiedler made the third.

“Being listed is awesome,” Forbes remarked. “It’s great motivation pre-state.” Marist’s opponents face a daunting future. With returning underclassmen, Marist remains poised for success. Yet, they focus on the present. “People doubt us,” Forbes stated. “We work hard and prove ourselves.”