Penn State Women’s Volleyball Looking Towards Successful 2026 Campaign After Bumpy 2025
As the Penn State Women's Volleyball team prepares for the 2026 season, the echoes of a challenging 2025 campaign linger. Head coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley, along with standout players Kennedy Martin and Caroline Jurevicius, recently participated in Big Ten Volleyball Media Day, reflecting on last season's ups and downs. After clinching their eighth National Championship in 2024, the Nittany Lions faced unexpected hurdles, including the departure of star setter Izzy Stark. Despite finishing with a 19-13 record and an early exit from the NCAA tournament, the team demonstrated resilience and growth. Looking ahead, the return of 6-foot-6 right-side hitter Kennedy Martin brings renewed hope. With an impressive tally of 634 kills last season, Martin is a key player to watch, aiming to surpass the 2,000 career kill mark. Jurevicius, a redshirt junior outside hitter, also plays a crucial role, not only in her on-court performance but in fostering team chemistry and supporting newcomers. The Nittany Lions are bolstering their roster with three transfers and four freshmen, including Alexis Stucky, a seasoned setter reuniting with Martin. Coach Schumacher-Cawley emphasizes a focus on improvement and teamwork, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. The Nittany Lions will kick off their regular season with a home match against UConn on August 29.
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