Pawlik named district coach of the year

First-year Elgin volleyball coach Hope Pawlik was named The District 23-5A Coach of the Year after leading the Lady Cats to a 7-27 overall record and a 2-10 mark in district play during the 2025 season.

The showing marked a step forward for Elgin, which went winless in district competition last year. In her debut season, Pawlik established the foundation for a full program rebuild, bringing new energy and direction to Elgin volleyball.

In addition to Pawlik’s honor, six Elgin players earned spots on the all-district team.

Meta Elliot was named to the first team, while Makayla Cooper earned second-team recognition.

Four Lady Cats received honorable mention: Bella Navejas, Emma Lugala, Miranda Herring and Kiley Kyser.

Elgin hopes to carry this momentum into the offseason as Pawlik and her players continue the program’s rebuild heading into the 2026 campaign.