Oswego East Student-Athlete of the Week-Vince DiCosola

While the cancellation of last season’s spring sports brought about a great deal of hardship, for senior volleyball player Vince DiCosola, it had some positive unintended consequences. Feeling the pain of losing a year helped Vince and his teammates realize how grateful they are for the opportunities they have left. Vince’s leadership and play have helped the Wolves set their eyes on a regional championship, which is why he is this week’s Oswego East student-athlete of the week.

Vince did not begin playing volleyball until high school. The spring of his freshman year left him without a competitive sport after football and basketball, and he was encouraged by his parents to try out volleyball. “When he showed interest in volleyball, we encouraged him to go out for the team,” says Deana DiCosola. She adds, “He quickly found a passion for the sport, and found great friendships that translated off the court as well.”

Volleyball was something Vince found a passion in and decided to dedicate his time
year-round to the sport. Not only did Vince dedicate himself to improving as a setter, but he also refined the qualities necessary to become a leader. “He was named as a captain at both the JV and varsity levels, which helped him hone in on his leadership skills,” says Deana. She goes on to say, “That growth also translated into more confidence in every area of his life. Aside from the setbacks of Covid, he truly has had an overall wonderful experience at Oswego East.”

Being the setter means Vince is responsible for making the calls and setting up plays, a role he relishes, even if it means taking the blame for situations that are not always his fault. “Sometimes it is tough having to take ownership of a lot of team mistakes, but I enjoy it because it pushes me to be a better person on and off the court,” says Vince.

Assistant coach Matt Guerrieri understands what makes Vince so special as a player and leader for the Wolves, saying, “Vince is a great setter but is also a great teammate.” He goes on to add, “Vince excels because of his work ethic and shown tremendous growth the past 4 years both in the school and club season. Each day Vince works to hold himself and his teammates accountable and is a role model to others both in his play and work ethic. Vince has especially stepped up when it comes to holding the team to our core values and has been a great mentor to the underclassmen on varsity.”

Vince will continue playing volleyball in college, joining the men’s team at Illinois Wesleyan in the fall. He chose Wesleyan because “I really like the community and the environment,” says Vince. He adds, “It really felt like home, a great social life, and I can play the sport I love.” Matt sees Vince having success there, saying, “Vince steps up during pressure situations and holds himself to high standards.”

Vince plans on majoring in Finance, a passion he gets from his father, Paul. “Our kids have grown up going to their dad’s office and always asked questions on what his role was in finance and asset management,” says Deana. She goes on to say, “Paul coached Vince in youth football and basketball, which I believe helped to foster a great relationship between them. Vince looks up to his dad, so it doesn’t surprise me that he mentioned him as an influence in his decisions.”

Erik Korczak, a science teacher at Oswego East, believes Vince has what it takes to be successful in business, saying, “Vince has a great personality and really gets along with others. He likes to joke around but also knows when to be serious. Vince really works well with others and you can tell that he is a valued group member.”

Although the season has been slightly abbreviated, Vince and his teammates are grateful to have any opportunity for a season and are hoping to be the first team in school history to win a regional championship. With graduation only a week away, Vince looks back on his time at East and advises future Wolves by saying, “put yourself out there because these four years go by really fast.” We wish Vince and his teammates the best of luck on their quest to bring home a regional championship in a few short weeks.