Friday Night Lights Comes to Mother McAuley Volleyball

Outdoor Crosstown Classic against Loyola Academy creates a unique experience for students, families and fans

This fall, Mother McAuley's championship volleyball tradition is heading outdoors.

On Friday, September 18 at 7:00 p.m., Mother McAuley will host Loyola Academy in Friday Night Lights: The Crosstown Classic, a special outdoor varsity volleyball match on the school's state-of-the-art turf field. Set beneath the lights and surrounded by students, families, alumnae and neighbors, the event will transform the McAuley campus into a celebration of competition, school spirit and community.

The one-night-only matchup offers a unique opportunity to experience high-level volleyball in an outdoor setting while bringing together two respected programs for a memorable crosstown contest.

The event shines a spotlight on one of the most accomplished programs in Illinois high school athletics. In 2024, Mother McAuley was recognized by the Illinois High School Association as the No. 1 girls volleyball program in Illinois over the past 50 years. The program's legacy includes two National Championships, 17 IHSA State Championships and 29 State Final appearances.

The program's success has been shaped by generations of dedicated coaches and student-athletes, including Head Coach and McAuley alumna Jen Rees DeJarld '87, who celebrated her 30th year coaching at McAuley last season. Her three decades of service reflect the deep tradition and continuity that have helped make McAuley volleyball one of the premier programs in Illinois.

While Friday Night Lights celebrates that tradition of excellence, it also represents the next chapter in the program's story—creating new experiences for today's student-athletes and the community that has supported generations of Mighty Mac volleyball players.

Beyond the competition, the event reflects McAuley's commitment to creating meaningful opportunities that connect people through athletics, education and shared experiences.

"Mother McAuley serves as a hub where education, community and culture come together to enrich the lives of those we serve," said Carey Harrington, President of Mother McAuley High School. "Rooted in the Mercy tradition of hospitality and service, we believe in creating opportunities that bring people together, inspire creativity and strengthen community. This is an exciting example of that mission in action, creating a memorable experience for our students while welcoming families, alumnae, neighbors and friends to celebrate the spirit of our community."

Event Details

• Friday Night Lights: The Crosstown Classic
• Matchup: Mother McAuley vs. Loyola Academy
• Date: Friday, September 18, 2026
• Time: 7:00 p.m.
• Location: Mother McAuley Turf Field
• Address: 3737 W. 99th Street, Chicago, IL