Lafferty resigns as Illini West volleyball coach after seven seasons at helm

By Matt Schuckman, Sports Editor | April 4, 2024
Dakota Lafferty, left, led the Illini West volleyball team to 174 victories and two regional championships during her seven seasons at the head coach. | Matt Schuckman photo

CARTHAGE, Ill. — Dakota Lafferty’s investment in her players, her program and her sport is nearly impossible to match. Finding someone who can is the challenge the Illini West administration faces. Illini West athletic director Grant Surprenant confirmed Lafferty submitted her resignation Tuesday night and the players were informed of the decision Wednesday afternoon. Lafferty…

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Chargers showcase ability to attack from every direction in beating Irish for regional crown

By Matt Schuckman, Sports Editor | October 27, 2023
The Illini West volleyball team won its first regional championship since 2017, beating Peoria Notre Dame 25-17, 25-14 Thursday night in Canton, Ill. | Photo courtesy Illini West athletics

CANTON, Ill. — Dakota Lafferty found herself being a spectator as much as a coach Thursday night. Sparked by a booming Josie Bryan kill down the line for the first point of the match, the Illini West volleyball team used its energy and enthusiasm to overwhelm Peoria Notre Dame in a 25-17, 25-14 victory in…

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