Report: Anil Mattathikunnel

Chicago: Shaun Arackaparambil, who has been selected to the U.S. Under-17 National Volleyball Team, was honored by the Chicago St. Mary’s Knanaya Catholic Parish with great pride and joy. Shaun, a resident of Mount Prospect, is the son of Sanish and Aneeta Arackaparambil and belongs to the Arackaparambil family of Neezhoor.

After the Sunday Holy Mass on November 30, parish vicar Fr. Siju Mudakkodil extended congratulations to Shaun and his family on behalf of the parish community. The young athlete was presented with a token of appreciation, and the congregation warmly acknowledged his achievement.

Shaun represented the United States at the NORCECA Boys U-17 Continental Volleyball Championship, held in Managua, Nicaragua, from November 18 to 23, delivering an impressive performance.

A Journey of Hard Work and Achievement

Shaun’s volleyball journey began in 2022 through a boys and girls camp organized by KCS Chicago. Playing for the River Trails Middle School team, he helped keep the team undefeated for two consecutive years and played a crucial role in securing the school’s first-ever conference championships in both 7th and 8th grades.

In 2023, Shaun joined Mod Volleyball Club, Northbrook, one of Chicago’s leading volleyball clubs. Earning a place on their elite team, he achieved several milestones, including securing third place at the 2025 AAU National Club Volleyball Championship held in Orlando, Florida — a major highlight of his club career.

Excellence in High School Athletics

Now a first-year student at John Hersey High School in Arlington Heights, Shaun continues his strong performance and has already been selected for the varsity team — an impressive accomplishment for a freshman.

The Chicago St. Mary’s Parish and the Knanaya community proudly celebrate the rising success of this young athlete.