Your news: Two Maine West seniors sign National Letters of Intent

Maine West High School swimmer Ailish O'Connell and baseball player Paul Solka recently signed National Letters of Intent.

With the signing, O'Connell committed to swim for Illinois State University, at Normal, next year, while Solka will play baseball for Bradley University in Peoria.

O'Connell specializes in the freestyle sprints. In November, she placed 11th in the 50-yard freestyle at the IHSA girls state meet, which marked her second advancement to state competition. In this year's sectionals, she placed second in the 50-yard freestyle and fifth in the 100-yard freestyle. Her personal best in the 50-yard event broke a West school record that had stood for 23 years.

The daughter of Tom and Terri O'Connell, Ailish has earned three varsity letters in soccer in addition to swimming on the varsity team for all four years.

Maine West Principal Dr. Audrey Haugan said, “It's been great to see Ailish grow and mature as an outstanding athlete at Maine West. She's worked hard for her many successes, and we wish her continued success at Illinois State.”

West Varsity Swimming Coach Ryan Claus added “Ailish has been great for us. She is a real leader in the pool. Her presence on our team is going to be greatly missed next you. Illinois State picked up a real gem here!

With his senior season still ahead of him, Solka already has earned three varsity letters on the Warrior baseball team. The son of David and Linda Solka, he has twice earned All-Conference recognition in the Central Suburban League and twice has received All-Area honors. Solka, an infielder, batted .364 as a freshman, .419 as a sophomore and .400 as a junior.

Dr. Haugan said that “Paul has done a terrific job in our baseball program and has emerged as a leader on the field at Maine West. We wish him all the best at Bradley University.

Joining the students at signing day were their parents, Dr. Haugan, athletic director Chris Addante, Claus and varsity baseball coach Joe Pederson.

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