All high school sports banquets are memorable for the kids. But Lockport junior Natalie Bochantin had reason to feel extra special at this season’s volleyball celebration.
The 5-foot-7 setter received the team’s Porter Pride award, which is voted on by players in each sport.
“It made me feel just really appreciated,” Bochantin said. “This season my focus was on my positivity and giving my teammates help. I’m glad they noticed and were able to reciprocate in so many ways — not just on the court, but off the court as well.”
Bochantin helped keep those positive vibes going Thursday night for Lockport in a 21-25, 25-20, 25-21 victory over the host Tigers in the Class 4A Joliet West Sectional championship match.
Bridget Ferriter led the way with 19 kills for the Porters (32-7). Hutsyn Timosciek added 11 kills, while Olivia Priest contributed seven kills and Malley Green tallied 12 assists.
Lexi Grevengoed landed 11 kills for Joliet West (35-4) but it wasn’t enough to stop the Porters, who play Oak Park-River Forest (26-7) at 7 p.m. Monday in the Hinsdale Central Supersectional.
Lockport’s Natalie Bochantin (10) sets the ball against the host Tigers during the Class 4A Joliet West Sectional final on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. (Steve Johnston / Daily Southtown)
Ferriter, a senior outside hitter, was the ultimate warrior for Lockport. She celebrated her 18th birthday with one of the best efforts of her career, producing 11 kills In the decisive third game.
“It was really exciting,” Ferriter said. “It was kind of like do or die. After we lost the first game, we had to step it up. I think we really did.”
Bochantin stepped up in a few different ways for Lockport.
She had team highs against Joliet West with 29 assists and nine digs. She also added an ace among her nine service points.
Lockport’s Hutsyn Timosciek (14) goes up for the kill against the host Tigers during the Class 4A Joliet West Sectional final on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. (Steve Johnston / Daily Southtown)
“Yeah, it was a great match,” Bochantin said. “After losing to them earlier in the season and starting off the way we did (Thursday night), it was pretty cool to come back with such high energy.”
For the season, Bochantin has been stellar at setter with 699 assists, 216 digs and a team-high 63 aces. But Lockport coach Nick Mraz confirmed it wasn’t stats alone that earned her the Porter Pride award.
“Porter Pride means you pretty much do everything the right way,” Mraz said. “In the classroom, on the court, leadership, character traits, all of the above. For us, she’s the energy.”
It’s not often a junior receives the award, but Ferriter was more than happy to give her a vote.
Lockport’s Malia Cole (15) blocks the shot by Joliet West’s Emma Salerno (1) during the Class 4A Joliet West Sectional final on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. (Steve Johnston / Daily Southtown)
“It’s so much fun to play with Natalie,” Ferriter said. “She’s so exciting and has such a good attitude. I think that’s what makes her so good as a player.
“She’ll never get mad at you, even when you mess up. She puts full trust in me. I think she’s the first junior who has gotten it in my four years here, and I think it’s super well deserved.”
Bochantin shares the setting duties with Green in Lockport’s 6-2 offense, although Bochantin started out the season running a 5-1 until Green returned from an injury.
“It was a lot of responsibility, but my teammates made it easier,” Bochantin said. “They counted on me and we communicated well.
Lockport’s Natalie Bochantin (10) and her teammates celebrate in the second game against the host Tigers during the Class 4A Joliet West Sectional final on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025. (Steve Johnston / Daily Southtown)
“But I’m glad Malley is back. We’re great friends and we keep each other competing.”
No one can keep up with Bochantin, however, when it comes to crazy shirts. She likes them and makes sure her teammates can join in the fun.
“Ha-ha, yeah,” Bochantin said with a laugh. “I do have a goofy side. I think all of us have our inner child, even though we’re still children.
“It’s important to keep the positive vibes up during practice, so once in a while, we do funny shirt day. It gets everyone talking.”
Tony Baranek is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
