If you’re a volleyball fan or a Penn State follower, you’re probably buzzing to see who’s on the 2025 Penn State women’s volleyball roster. In this post, I’ll walk you through the full roster, spotlight key players, and share what makes this group exciting for the season ahead.
From new faces to seasoned veterans, this roster is loaded with talent, depth, and heart. So let’s dive in and meet the women behind the jerseys!
The Big Picture: Team & Coaching Overview
A Powerful Program Legacy
The Penn State women’s volleyball program has a storied history. They’ve claimed multiple national championships and continue to be a powerhouse in NCAA volleyball. Their reputation as a top-tier program attracts elite recruits, and this year’s roster aims to carry the legacy forward.
Coaching Leadership
At the helm is Katie Schumacher-Cawley, now in her fourth year as head coach. She leads a coaching staff including Brian Toron, Megan Hodge Easy, and Michael Henchy. Under their guidance, the team will balance experience and youth, aiming for big things this season.
2025 Penn State Women’s Volleyball Roster: Full Breakdown
Below is a full breakdown of the roster, organized by position groups. All names, positions, and class years are based on the published 2025 roster.
Libero / Defensive Specialists
- Ava Falduto – Sophomore
- Gillian Grimes – Senior
- Kate Lally – Junior
- Lexi Gin – Freshman
- Ava Jurevicius – Freshman
- Jocelyn Nathan – Junior
These defensive specialists and liberos are essential for passing accuracy, digs, and providing stability behind the net. Players like Gillian Grimes bring experience, while the freshmen add fresh energy.
Setters
- Addie Lyon – Redshirt Senior
- Izzy Starck – Sophomore
The setter role is one of the most pivotal on the court. With Addie Lyon’s experience and Izzy Starck’s youthful promise, Penn State has a solid one-two punch in play-making.
Middle Blockers
- Jordan Hopp – Senior
- Gabrielle Nichols – Freshman
- Catherine Burke – Junior
- Maggie Mendelson – Senior
Blockers are crucial in controlling the net and disrupting the opponent’s attacks. Hopp and Mendelson provide leadership and strength, while Nichols and Burke add future depth.
Outside Hitters
- Karis Willow – Junior
- Emmi Sellman – Sophomore
- Marin Collins – Freshman
- Alexis Ewing – Freshman
Outside hitters often carry offensive weight, combining power, precision, and consistency. Willow brings experience, while Sellman and the new freshmen inject fresh attacking options.
Opposite Hitters
- Caroline Jurevicius – Redshirt Sophomore
- Kennedy Martin – Junior
Opposite hitters tend to be versatile attackers who can hit from both front and back rows. Martin is a high-profile transfer who adds punch, while Viciousness gives balance and reliability.
Key Players & Storylines to Watch
Returning Standouts
- Gillian Grimes brings senior leadership in the back row and solid defense.
- Jordan Hopp anchors the middle with experience and net presence.
- Maggie Mendelson steps into a bigger role following the departure of some upperclassmen.
New Impact & Rising Talent
- Kennedy Martin joins via transfer and is expected to make an immediate impact in the opposite hitter role.
- Freshmen like Gabrielle Nichols, Marin Collins, and Alexis Ewing enter with high expectations and plenty of promise.
Depth & Versatility
Beyond the starters, this roster offers depth. Defensive specialists like Lexi Gin and Ava Jurevicius can handle crucial rotations. The setter duo of Lyon and Starck ensures continuity. The mix of veterans and newcomers across positions gives coach Schumacher-Cawley flexibility in matchups.
What Makes This Roster Exciting
Experience + Youth Blend
Penn State has struck a balance this season , experienced seniors to guide the team and freshmen who can energize the lineup. That mix often breeds the kind of chemistry needed for deep postseason runs.
Strength in Depth
Injuries and fatigue can change a season’s complexion. Having capable backups in every position is a big advantage for any program, and Penn State seems equipped to ride that wave.
Championship Ambitions
As the reigning national champions (2024), this roster isn’t just trying to compete , it’s aiming to win again. The expectations are high, and this group seems built to handle the pressure.
Challenges & What to Keep an Eye On
- Transition for New Players: Freshmen and transfers will need to adjust to Penn State’s system and high-stakes pressure.
- Consistency Across Lineups: With rotation options, consistency in performance will be key.
- Health & Durability: The grind of a Big Ten and national schedule means staying healthy is essential.
If the coaching staff manages rotations well and keeps players fresh, this roster has everything it needs to thrive.
Internal Links / Related Pages You Might Like
(You’ll want to link these within your site for SEO and user engagement.)
- Penn State Women’s Volleyball History
- Big Ten Women’s Volleyball Teams
- NCAA Women’s Volleyball Championship Records
Conclusion & Call to Action
The 2025 Penn State women’s volleyball roster is a compelling mix of experience, talent, and depth. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a newcomer to collegiate volleyball, or just curious about the team, this roster promises thrills, upsets, and championship potential.
Stick around this season as the Nittany Lions defend their title , you won’t want to miss how this team evolves. Want match previews, player profiles, or deep dives later in the season? Let me know , I’d love to help you stay in the loop.
Now, go ahead and bookmark this post or share it with fellow Penn State volleyball fans. Let’s rally behind this team together!
FAQs
1. How many players are on the 2025 Penn State women’s volleyball roster?
The 2025 roster includes over 20 players spanning libero, setters, middle blockers, outside hitters, and opposite hitters. The depth ensures that every rotation and position is covered.
2. Who is the head coach for the 2025 Penn State women’s volleyball team?
Katie Schumacher-Cawley leads the team as head coach in her fourth year, supported by assistants Brian Toron, Megan Hodge Easy, and Michael Henchy.
3. Which new players are likely to make an impact in 2025?
Transfers like Kennedy Martin are expected to contribute immediately, especially at opposite hitter. Freshmen such as Gabrielle Nichols, Marin Collins, and Alexis Ewing also have high upside and are ones to watch.
