Katie Schumacher-Cawley

Katie Schumacher-Cawley has made significant strides in the realm of women's volleyball. As the head coach of the Penn State women's volleyball team since January 10, 2022, she has demonstrated commendable leadership. Within just two years of her tenure, she successfully led the team to an NCAA championship and a Big Ten Conference title. Her coaching record boasts a notable overall score of 209–165 (.559), further showcasing her proficiency in the field.

Schumacher-Cawley's accomplishments extend beyond coaching victories. She made history as the first female Division I women's volleyball coach to win an NCAA championship. Her distinct achievements did not go unnoticed as she was honoured with the Big Ten Coach of the Year award in 2024. Adding to her accolades, she received the prestigious Jimmy V Award in 2025, for her perserverance in coaching the Penn State women's volleyball team to the NCAA Championship while battling breast cancer.

Off the court, Schumacher-Cawley has been recognised for her personal resilience. After successfully completing chemotherapy for breast cancer, she made a public announcement about her journey, offering encouragement and hope to others. She also had the honour of throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a Chicago White Sox game on June 8, 2025. Prior to her coaching career, she was inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame in 2008 and the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference Hall of Fame in 2003, signifying her longstanding influence in the sports world.