The volleyball coaches in Morton have clear expectations for this year’s tryouts and teams.

Mustangs play in the West Suburban Conference.

In the 2024–2025 season, the Mustangs finished with a solid overall record of around 18–13, showing that the team is competitive, even if not dominating. They were around the middle of the conference standings and had a respectable state ranking (~IL-84).

The boys’ volleyball team has regularly reached sectional or state qualifier (SQ/R) rounds.
For example, seasons like 1994–95 (23–9–1), 2004–05, and several mid-2000s years are noted as reaching qualifier or regional postseason rounds.

The Mustangs have not won an IHSA state championship in boys volleyball (as of current records). (IHSA)

The program has existed for multiple decades, with a long stretch under Coach Tony Hornilla that included many competitive seasons—something that builds culture and tradition over time.

“Everybody (in this seasosn) is our competition,” said Coach Hornilla, varsity coach.

The coach is very clear about everyone being a threat, but some just see it as one team.

“Downers Grove South is the biggest competition, but there are also the Mustangs,” said freshmen coach Mr. Depke.

Besides the competition, there are also expectations for what the coaches want in team tryouts.

“If they know their footwork and arm swing,” said freshmen coach Mr. Depke.

Coach Hornilla agrees with Depke.

“I want them to know what they are doing (Like there footwork and arm swing too),” said Varsity Coach Hornilla.

Of course, there is a limit to how many can join.

“It depends. We will probably (draft anywhere from) 12 to 15 (players),” said Varsity Coach Hornilla.

Along with that, there are also players who are expected to come back.

“Most who have played in junior ( will probably make the team again this year),” said freshmen coach Mr. Depke.

Or they are expecting those who are willing to try again.

“People who had tried out last year (will maybe try out again),” said Varsity Coach Hornilla.

And of course, there are those players who are considered the best from last year.

“It was a team effort/Diego,” said Varsity Coach Hornilla.

But some would like to know where some past Morton players could be now.

“There is a Cicero Elite Volleyball where coaches are old Morton players and players who are kids … they also pay some of the kids,” said freshmen coach Mr. Depke.