8/30/25
Senior setter Maggie Carcillo stands at the heart of Paul VI High School’s volleyball dynasty, embodying the perfect blend of athletic excellence and leadership that has propelled the Eagles to an outstanding 22-3 season and deep into the state playoffs in 2024. As the team’s primary setter and opposite hitter, Carcillo has become the conductor of an orchestra that plays championship-level volleyball.
The Heart of Excellence
Paul VI’s remarkable 2024 season tells the story of sustained excellence, with the Eagles posting a dominant 22-3 record while going undefeated at 7-0 in Olympic Patriot Conference play. Under the guidance of tenth-year head coach Dan Chung, the program has maintained its championship culture, and Carcillo has emerged as the central figure in that pursuit.
Her statistical production in 2024 showcases her versatility and impact. With 144 kills, 251 assists, 100 digs, 19 blocks, and 67 aces across 64 sets played, Carcillo demonstrates the rare ability to contribute across every facet of the game. Her 251 assists lead the team, highlighting her primary role as the Eagles’ offensive catalyst, while her 144 kills prove she can transition seamlessly from playmaker to finisher.
“The Paul VI volleyball team is something really special,” Carcillo reflected. “We are a program and a family that is extremely talented and hardworking. We practice extremely hard, lift each other up, and are completely focused on our goal of winning states.”
Rising Above Adversity
Carcillo’s journey to becoming Paul VI’s floor general was shaped by significant adversity that tested her resilience and commitment to the sport. During her club volleyball season with Jersey Juniors, she faced a career-defining moment when injury forced her to step away from competition for the first time.
“One moment in my volleyball career that was extremely challenging occurred this past spring. During my club volleyball season, while playing for Jersey Juniors, I was injured to the point where my doctors said that resting was the only way to recover,” Carcillo shared. “This was the first time in my career that I could not play. It was extremely hard for me but with the love and support of my teammates, coaches, and parents, I was able to focus on recovering and rebuilding physically and mentally.”
That experience transformed her approach to the game and strengthened her resolve entering her senior campaign. “Going into my final season at Paul VI, my mindset is to embrace every moment and to make the best of every experience,” she explained. “I cannot wait for my senior season playing with my best friends and the best players in New Jersey.”
Championship Culture and Team Unity
Paul VI’s success stems from a culture of excellence that permeates every aspect of the program. The Eagles opened their season with convincing victories over Cherokee (2-0), Seneca (2-0), Cherry Hill West (2-0), and Washington Township (2-0), establishing early momentum that carried them through challenging matches against top-tier competition.
The team’s depth and talent became evident throughout their rigorous schedule, which included victories over quality opponents like Moorestown (2-1), Southern (3-2), Notre Dame (3-2), and successful road tests against out-of-state competition including Avenues, NY (3-0), West Chester Rustin, PA (3-0), and Ursuline Academy, DE (3-1).
Carcillo emphasized the collective nature of the team’s success when asked about standout players for 2025. “This is a really hard question to answer as we are all talented, disciplined, and work extremely well as a cohesive unit,” she noted. “My fellow seniors and I have been taking every opportunity to lead our team to victory by establishing a tone of hard work in both practices and matches.”
Versatility Across All Positions
The depth of Paul VI’s roster is reflected in the balanced contributions across all positions. Carcillo praised each position group’s development and impact. “Our pins and setters have been connecting really well this season and they have been working especially hard on their swings. Our middles have been lights out blocking and hitting, giving us another strong option offensively. Our DS’s and Liberos have been fantastic at commanding the back row and getting every ball up.”
The team’s statistical leaders demonstrate this balanced approach. Returning players Megan Evans contributes 173 kills and 50 aces from the outside hitter position in 2024, while Junior libero Brynn Casmay anchored the defense with 175 digs. Carcillo’s ability to contribute both as a setter and attacker makes her uniquely valuable. Her 67 aces rank among the team’s best, while her blocking and hitting provide Coach Chung with tactical flexibility that few programs can match.
Focused on the Ultimate Prize
The Eagles’ singular focus remains unchanged from years past: capturing a state championship. “Our team goal and main focus is to win States,” Carcillo stated emphatically. “Every practice, every play and every touch goes toward improving and being polished so that we can win States, as we are hungry and driven to win it.”
This championship mentality extends to how the team approaches each opponent. When asked about their toughest competition, Carcillo provided insight into the team’s mindset: “Who is our toughest competition? That’s easy; every team we play, because each game is one step closer to achieving our goal.”
Coaching Excellence and Consistency
Coach Dan Chung’s impact on the program cannot be overstated. Chung has established a culture of excellence that transcends individual seasons. “Our coach, Dan Chung, has the same mindset and expectations every season, which is to win States. This is our ultimate goal. Although we fell short last year, we are more prepared and focused.”
The consistency of Chung’s approach has created an environment where players like Carcillo can flourish while understanding their role in the program’s larger mission. “This team is 100% driven and focused on our goal entering this season,” she emphasized.
Club Development and College Commitment
Carcillo’s development has been enhanced by her experience with Jersey Juniors, where she competes at the highest levels of club volleyball. “My club experience at Jersey Juniors has been one that I thoroughly enjoy and I look forward to playing my last year with their U18 National Team,” she shared.
This high-level competition has prepared her for the next chapter of her volleyball career. “Both my coaches and teammates have supported and helped me accomplish my childhood dream of playing for a Division I program. I am committed to play for St. John’s University in the Big East Conference.”
Her commitment to St. John’s represents the culmination of years of dedication and the support system that has surrounded her throughout her journey. “I could not have done this without the support of my teammates, coaches and parents,” she acknowledged.
Personal Goals and Leadership
“Heading into my senior season at Paul VI, I hope I am able to lead my teammates and be a captain that my teammates can lean on and be proud of,” she explained. While team success remains paramount, Carcillo has identified a personal milestone that would cap her high school career. “I will personally work toward reaching 1,000 career assists as that has been a dream of mine since I started playing, but my main goal is to be the best teammate and captain I can be while bringing home a State championship.”
With 907 career assists through her junior season, this goal is well within reach and would serve as a fitting individual achievement alongside team success. Maggie’s career 431 kills, 354 digs, 212 aces, and 58 blocks in three high school seasons is remarkeable. Maggie played her freshman year at Cardinal O’Hara in Springfield, PA.
Playoff Excellence and Championship Pursuit
Paul VI’s postseason run has demonstrated the team’s championship caliber. The Eagles dominated their opening playoff matches, defeating Red Bank Catholic (2-0) and St. John Vianney (2-0) before falling to Notre Dame (2-0) in the South Jersey Non-Public A Tournament final. This deep playoff run, culminating in a championship game appearance, validates the team’s season-long preparation and championship aspirations.
Throughout these high-pressure matches, Carcillo continued to perform at an elite level, showcasing the mental toughness and leadership that define championship players. Her ability to elevate her game in crucial moments exemplifies the qualities that make her an exceptional floor general.
Building a Lasting Legacy
As Carcillo prepares for her final high school season and eventual transition to collegiate volleyball, her impact on the Paul VI program extends beyond statistics and victories. Her leadership, resilience in the face of adversity, and unwavering commitment to team success have established her as a role model for future Eagles.
The combination of individual excellence and team achievement that defines Carcillo’s career represents the best of high school athletics. Her journey from injury recovery to championship contention demonstrates the character and determination that successful programs are built upon.
With her sights set on both personal milestones and team championships, Maggie Carcillo embodies everything that makes Paul VI volleyball a model program. Her story is one of resilience, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines champions both on and off the court.
“As you can see, this program is filled with amazing players that are growing and improving every day,” Carcillo concluded. “I am so lucky to play with all of them!”
That sentiment captures the essence of what makes Paul VI special and why Maggie Carcillo’s leadership will be remembered long after her playing days are complete. The Eagles’ championship dreams rest in capable hands, guided by a player who understands that individual success and team achievement are inseparably linked in the pursuit of volleyball excellence.
