State College, Pennsylvania — One of the most recognized figures in collegiate volleyball is about to receive a significant honor. Coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley, head coach of Penn State Women’s Volleyball, will be recognized by ESPN at the 2025 ESPY Awards for her tremendous achievements to the sport and unshakable dedication to student-athlete development, excellence, and empowerment.
The prize comes at a pivotal time for women’s athletics, and Schumacher-Cawley’s narrative is one of tenacity, legacy, and indigenous effect. Katie, a former Penn State national champion, is now being honored not only for carrying on the program’s rich history, but also for redefining leadership, culture, and perseverance in modern collegiate athletics.
State College, Pa — One of collegiate volleyball’s most recognized figures is about to receive a significant honor. Coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley, head coach of Penn State Women’s Volleyball, will be honored by ESPN at the 2025 ESPY Awards for her tremendous achievements to the sport and unshakable dedication to student-athlete growth, excellence, and empowerment.
The distinction comes at a pivotal time for women’s athletics, and Schumacher-Cawley’s narrative is one of determination, legacy, and indigenous effect. Katie, a former Penn State national champion, is now being honored not only for carrying on the program’s proud legacy, but also for redefining what leadership, culture, and perseverance look like in modern university athletics.
Her ESPY award is part of ESPN’s special homage to game-changing coaches in women’s sports, which honors those who have not only succeeded on the court but also had a long-term impact on their communities and athletes. Katie Schumacher-Cawley’s impact extends far beyond the win-loss column.
“She’s been more than a coach to us—she’s been a life guide,” stated one of Penn State’s senior captains. “She makes you a better volleyball player, yes, but more than that, she makes you a better person.”
One of the most notable aspects of her coaching career has been her advocacy for mental health support, inclusivity, and leadership development among her players. Schumacher-Cawley has often underlined the significance of developing strong women who are prepared for life after sports—a mindset that resonates strongly in today’s collegiate world.
Schumacher-Cawley’s connections to Penn State are strong. She was a member of the 1999 National Championship team as a student-athlete, and her rise from player to assistant and, eventually, head coach signifies a full circle for the Nittany Lions. Her story exemplifies loyalty, progress, and the unshakable tie between coach and university.
The ESPYS celebration, which will telecast nationwide next month, will feature Schumacher-Cawley and other sports icons. As the lights shine on Hollywood’s biggest night in athletics, they will also shine on a Happy Valley coach who has kept true to her roots while inspiring a new generation.
Congratulations, Coach Katie. The Penn State community—and the entire volleyball world—is filled with pride.