Schumacher Cawley, Babcock, and Starck. The Rising Stars of VolleyballMag 2024
Outstanding Achievements in NCAA Volleyball
2024 has marked exceptional progress in NCAA volleyball, with outstanding figures dominating rankings and earning prestigious accolades. Notably, Katie Schumacher-Cawley of Penn State was honoured as National Coach of the Year. This article delves into the remarkable accomplishments of individuals and teams this season and explores the factors behind their success.
Katie Schumacher-Cawley: National Coach of the Year
In her third year as head coach of Penn State, Katie Schumacher-Cawley led her team to its first NCAA title since 2014. This victory not only secured a major milestone but also heralded a new era for women’s volleyball at the university. Significantly, Schumacher-Cawley became the first female head coach to win the NCAA Division I championship, an historic feat in sports.
Throughout the season, Schumacher-Cawley faced breast cancer treatments yet missed no games. Her resilience and dedication inspired not only her athletes but the entire volleyball community. “I wanted to set an example for my players,” she shared. “Volleyball is more than a sport; it’s a way of life.”
Olivia Babcock: National Player of the Year
Pittsburgh’s right-side hitter, Olivia Babcock, delivered an explosive season, earning her the National Player of the Year title from VolleyballMag. She recorded astonishing statistics: 538 kills (4.72 per set), 71 service aces, and 128 blocks. Standing 6’4”, Babcock exemplifies excellence and serves as a role model for aspiring athletes.
Babcock played a pivotal role in leading the Panthers to the top rankings, becoming an essential factor in their success. “Every match is an opportunity to learn and grow,” she stated. “I am incredibly proud to be part of this team.” Her relentless dedication and hard work were crucial to the team’s achievements.
Izzy Starck: Freshman of the Year
Penn State’s Izzy Starck earned near-unanimous recognition as Freshman of the Year. In her debut season, she averaged 10.98 assists per set and ranked second on her team in digs with 342. Starck also notched 99 blocks, showcasing her all-around skills on the court. More than a standout rookie, Starck proved instrumental in Penn State’s NCAA triumph. “I’m thrilled to play alongside such talented teammates,” she said. “Every day here is an opportunity to learn and improve.” Her commitment and determination contributed significantly to her team’s impressive results.
All-America Teams: Shining Talents Recognized
The four All-America teams of VolleyballMag 2024 highlight the vast talent within NCAA Division I volleyball. Each team consists of 14 players, ensuring representation of at least one setter and one libero to reflect the sport’s diversity and dynamism. In addition to Babcock and Starck, other honorees include Lexi Rodriguez (Nebraska), Jess Mruzik (Penn State), Kendra Wait (Creighton), Kennedy Martin (Florida), and Sarah Franklin (Wisconsin). These players have made invaluable contributions to their respective teams and deserve accolades.
AVCA Committees: Recognizing Excellence
The AVCA committees convened to select three official teams and an honourable mention roster before the NCAA national semifinals. This underscores their dedication to acknowledging the efforts of athletes and coaches throughout the season. By waiting until the season concludes, the process reflects fairness and transparency. The media voting panel based its decisions on players’ performance, commitment, and impact on their teams. This approach motivates athletes to persist and strive for even greater success in the future.
The Promising Future of NCAA Volleyball
The 2024 season has been an inspiring and successful chapter in NCAA volleyball history. With talents like Katie Schumacher-Cawley, Olivia Babcock, and Izzy Starck, the future looks incredibly bright for the sport. Their achievements signify not only personal milestones but also the growth and advancement of women’s volleyball in the U.S.
Encouraging Young Talent
The recognition of these outstanding players and coaches inspires younger generations to pursue their sports dreams. With unwavering efforts and community support, NCAA volleyball will continue to thrive and shine on the global stage.
