Penn State has made a remarkable return to prominence in women’s college volleyball, clinching the 2024 NCAA Division I national championship with a victory over Louisville. In a thrilling match held at the KFC Yum! Arena in Louisville, Kentucky, the Nittany Lions triumphed in four sets with scores of 25-23, 32-34, 25-20, and 25-17. The decisive point came from Camryn Hannah, whose kill secured victory for Penn State.
This championship signifies a historic achievement, as it marks the first time a woman has led a Division I volleyball team to an NCAA title, with Penn State coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley at the helm. Following the victory, Schumacher-Cawley expressed her gratitude to those who paved the way for her and voiced hopes that more women will aspire to coach in the future.
With this win, the Nittany Lions have claimed their eighth national championship, the second most in NCAA volleyball history, and their first in over ten years. Additionally, the championship match set an NCAA Division I volleyball attendance record, drawing 21,860 fans.
Despite a tough second set where they had ten set-point chances but ultimately lost 34-32 due to powerful plays by Louisville’s Payton Peterson, Penn State rallied in the subsequent sets, showcasing their resilience. The team hit an impressive .277 overall, superior to Louisville’s .196.
Jess Mruzik stood out during the match, contributing significantly with 29 kills, 14 digs, and five blocks, while also earning the title of NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player.
The victory holds special significance for Schumacher-Cawley, who has been courageously battling Stage 2 breast cancer since her diagnosis in September. This championship win adds an emotional layer to an already impressive coaching career.
Penn State’s path to the championship included a remarkable turnaround against Nebraska in the semifinals, where they came back from two sets down. Overall, the team concluded their season on a high note with a 12-game winning streak and a record of 35-2.
This victory for Penn State is not just a win on the court, but a beacon of hope and inspiration, showcasing the power of resilience in competition and in life. The future looks bright for both the Nittany Lions and women’s sports as a whole.