Lincoln-Way Central's volleyball program hadn't won a conference title since 1991 but it clinched at least a share of its league title on Wednesday.
The Knights beat rival Lincoln-Way East 25-21, 27-25 in New Lenox to capture a share of the SouthWest Suburban Conference Red Division title.
If it picks up a victory over Homewood-Flossmoor on Thursday, Lincoln-Way Central (25-8, 8-1) will claim the outright league championship.
"I got a little emotional before the match because this is more than just a sport to these guys, it's a passion for them," Knights coach Joann Holverson said.
"You like to see people who care that deeply and work that hard be rewarded with something as wonderful as a conference championship."
The Griffins (16-16, 5-4) didn't make it easy for their rivals, especially in the second game where they battled back to take a lead in the late going.
Blocking and a balanced hitting attack proved to be the difference for the winners, who got four kills and four blocks each from Dan Tanjic and Andy Wingate.
Corey Bingham (three blocks, three aces) and James Cummins also had four kills each while Connor Wexter added 11 assists and Brian Thorp contributed eight assists.
For Lincoln-Way East, Dan Hunt handed out 14 assists, Mike Bolhuis (12 digs) and Joe Wilhelmsen added four kills each and Ryan Walenga had nine digs.
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