An “incredible and wild ride” is how Katie Schumacher-Cawley described PSU’s 2024 volleyball season, as she thanked everyone involved. However, the coach’s statement may be an understatement, considering the challenges she alone had to overcome. However, as always, the humble volleyball coach put everyone’s contributions above her own.

“From the bottom of my heart, I am unbelievably grateful for my family, friends, PSU sisters, PSU alumni, the booster club, former players, complete strangers, and, of course, Nittany Nation.” wrote the 44-year-old. However, there was a good reason why the first female coach to win a national championship was so eager to thank everyone.

How everyone’s support got Katie Schumacher-Cawley through the challenges

While the former Penn State player-turned-coach created history this year, her season started on a grim note. In September, Schumacher-Cawley announced that after several complications, the doctors diagnosed her with Stage 2 breast cancer. And while such news may have been enough for many to take a step back from the sport, the Nittany Lions coach refuses to back out.

Katie Schumacher-Cawley would leave her team at the beginning of the season. “I feel normal here at Rec Hall and I just want to keep going,” she told ESPN. However, it was the support from everyone at PSU and even the fans that kept her going. “Your unwavering love and support have meant the world to me – not just throughout this season but every step of the way,” wrote the coach.

“Knowing I have all of you in my corner has been a constant source of strength and inspiration.” Added the 44-year-old. However, of all the people she thanked, the coach was most thankful for her team. “To say I’m proud of this team would be an understatement. They didn’t just show up, they rose to every occasion with true grit, resilience, and a commitment to grow,” said Schumacher-Cawley.

The Nittany Lions coach explained how watching her players adapt to the challenges, support her, and overcome the hurdles throughout the season has been “nothing short of inspiring” for her. However, the players were equally (if not more) inspired by Katie Schumacher-Cawley’s resilience, grit, and drive to win.

The Nittany Lions wanted nothing more than to make their coach proud

Hearing their coach had cancer at the beginning of the season was just as devastating for the Penn State players as it was for Schumacher-Cawley. However, seeing their coach battle the odd inspired the whole roster. Despite undergoing cancer treatment, the 1999 NCAA champion didn’t miss coaching sessions and brought an unmatched energy to practice.

That’s because Katie Schumacher-Cawley instilled the ‘Bigger than us’ philosophy in her pupils throughout the season. “The way that Coach is able to come in and be the same every single day no matter what’s going on puts so much into perspective for us,” Penn State’s star hitter Jess Mruzik told ESPN ahead of the finals. She had more to say when the Lions won.

“This was more than just for us. I mean, we work every single day in the gym, obviously for ourselves but for her too,” said Mruzik in the post-match interview. So while watching her players embrace the challenge felt inspiring for Coach Schumacher-Cawley, the players felt the same in her presence.

While her treatment isn’t over, the coach concluded her tribute on a hopeful note. “I look forward to everything the future holds for us… Here’s to more memories, milestones, and moments of magic together,” the record-setter added. So, what did you think about the coach’s inspiring journey? Tell us your views in the comments.