Good morning, Joliet.

Joliet West High School was named among U.S. News & World Report's Best High Schools for 2026-27 after its ranking was released on Aug.

18. It ranked 219th in the state and 5,586th nationally, marking an improvement from last year.

Illinois high school football Week 1 scores were released, detailing match results for teams across the state including a notable 28-13 loss for Joliet Catholic.

The report covers scores from both public and private schools and sets the stage for the season ahead.

Lincoln-Way East rallied in the fourth quarter to edge Brother Rice 22-21 in a Friday night football game in Frankfort — a close win that showcased the team’s resilience.

On Thursday, Lincoln-Way East's boys clinched a nonconference win at Green Garden with key rounds of 37 from Tyler Rodrique and Hudson Fidell, while Plainfield East's girls secured victory at Naperbrook with Taylor Miller's impressive 34 during a competitive high school golf roundup.

Week 1 of IHSA football in the greater Will and Grundy area saw Joliet Central win 23-20 over Thornridge at Dolton and Lincoln-Way West outpace Belleville East in Belleville.

Teams now prepare for Week 2 contests at local venues (including Midlothian and Plainfield) as the season unfolds.

Local high school girls volleyball teams will kick off the season Monday with returning stars and new players ready to make an impact.

Coaches are focusing on team chemistry and improved defense as they aim for winning records and top finishes in their conferences.

Joliet Catholic Academy hosted Fenwick High School in a varsity football game on Friday, Aug.

21 at Busey Bank Field at Joliet Memorial Stadium; fans cheered as the contest stirred community excitement (captured by photographer Laurie Fanelli).

Bishop McNamara prepares for the 2026 season under coach Greg Youngblood—building on last year's unbeaten regular season and conference title.

The team will face rivals including Herscher and defending champion Wilmington this fall, ready to compete with renewed energy.

Jacobs won 20-7 in their season opener on Friday, Aug.

21 at Cary as junior Aiden Brunner scored three touchdowns and rushed for 130 yards. Coach Brian Zimmerman praised the team's performance as they now prepare to host Hampshire next week.

IC Catholic Prep running back Jakobe Baldwin rushed for 202 yards + two touchdowns to lead his team to a 35 to 21 win over Nazareth at Lewis Stadium Friday night.

His strong performance followed an intensive offseason and has drawn interest from colleges like Nebraska and Iowa.

Providence held off a fourth-quarter surge to beat St. Rita 28-21 on Friday; Broden Mackert and Brayden McKay each scored two touchdowns while Jaxson Hutton recorded two sacks to help secure the win.