Penn State has reclaimed its position as a powerhouse in women’s college volleyball by securing the 2024 NCAA Division I national championship with a four-set victory over Louisville. The match, held at the KFC Yum! Arena in Louisville, Kentucky, concluded with set scores of 25-23, 32-34, 25-20, and 25-17, marking a triumphant return to the top for the Nittany Lions. The decisive moment came when standout player Camryn Hannah delivered a crucial kill, solidifying the championship win.
This victory is historic as it marks the first time a female head coach has led a team to an NCAA Division I volleyball championship. Coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley expressed gratitude for those who paved the way for her achievement and hopes her success will inspire future generations of women in coaching.
This championship marks the eighth for the Nittany Lions, making them the second-most successful team in NCAA volleyball history, and it is their first title in over ten years. Remarkably, the championship match also set a new NCAA Division I volleyball attendance record, with 21,860 fans in attendance.
In an exciting first set, despite slightly lower hitting percentages, Penn State triumphed 25-23, thanks in part to Jess Mruzik, who delivered a service ace. The second set was fiercely contested, with Louisville narrowly claiming it 34-32 after Penn State had multiple opportunities to seal the win. However, the Nittany Lions regained their dominance in sets three and four, winning decisively.
Mruzik was the standout player of the match, recording 29 kills, 14 digs, and five blocks, which earned her the title of NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player.
Coach Schumacher-Cawley’s journey has been particularly remarkable, as she has been battling Stage 2 breast cancer, a diagnosis she publicly shared in October. Her resilience and leadership have not only inspired her team but also provided a poignant narrative to this championship win.
Throughout the tournament, Penn State demonstrated remarkable skill and determination, culminating in a phenomenal season where they finished with a 12-game winning streak and an overall record of 35-2.
This victory not only celebrates the Nittany Lions’ athletic achievement but also highlights the strength and perseverance of their coach. It serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for athletes and coaches facing their own challenges. As they look to the future, Penn State has laid a strong foundation for continued success in women’s volleyball.