Katie Schumacher-Cawley Champions Penn State Women’s Volleyball Amid Breast Cancer Battle

Headline: Courage and Grit: Penn State’s Katie Schumacher-Cawley’s Inspirational Journey Through Breast Cancer and Coaching

A Season of Strength: Coaching Amidst Adversity

In July 2025 at the Big Ten Media Days, all eyes were on Katie Schumacher-Cawley, head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions women’s volleyball team, and reigning NCAA champions. Taking her place alongside key players Gillian Grimes and Izzy Starck, Katie, who made history as the first female head coach to secure a Division I NCAA women’s volleyball title, gracefully directed the spotlight onto her team. With a humble nod to a new hairstyle, she acknowledged the changes she’s undergone as a coach, but revealed nothing of her personal battles.

Throughout 2024, while Penn State battled on the court for national titles, Katie faced her own battle off the court—treatment for stage II breast cancer. As she led her team to victory, often clad in a black cap to cover hair loss, her resilience resonated far beyond the volleyball court. Support poured in, with messages from women inspired by her bravery and openness. For Katie, choosing not to wear a wig was profound. “So many people reached out,” she shared, “you don’t realize how hard losing your hair is until it happens. I just rocked the caps, and I think that really helped others.”

Early Detection: A Crucial Turning Point

Katie’s journey with cancer began quietly in September 2024. After discovering a concerning lump under her arm, she took immediate action, despite a routine mammogram months earlier showing nothing. With a family history of cancer, early detection became her priority. Her diagnosis went public a month later, and she commenced chemotherapy during the volleyball season without missing a stride. “I never wanted to miss,” she reflects. Being with her team was her sanctuary amidst the storm.

With three young daughters at home, Katie faced emotional challenges. Breaking the news to her children with reassurance of normalcy was a priority. Her approach with the team was equally thoughtful. “I wanted them to know it was business as usual,” she explains. Their supportive reaction strengthened her resolve, with ongoing shared encouragement between practices and treatments.

Resilience From Roots: A Chicago Upbringing

Katie’s resilience is deeply rooted in her South Side Chicago upbringing, where sports were her lifeblood and competitive spirit her driving force. Raised by dedicated parents focused on education, she excelled at Mother McAuley High School, earning state and national titles. Her journey continued at Penn State, where she gained All-American status and contributed to multiple championships before graduating in 2002.

Building a coaching career from the ground up, Katie’s return to Penn State marked a significant step. Each role, from volunteering at the University of Illinois to head coach positions, prepared her for leading the Nittany Lions. As the 2025 season unfolds, Katie bravely manages ongoing chemotherapy with surgery on the horizon. Yet, her focus on the team’s success and her personal growth remains steadfast.

A Coach’s Legacy: Beyond the Game

Katie’s goals extend far beyond winning games. Connecting players with the right mentors to pave their future paths is her main aim. When pressed about her hoped-for impact, she emphasizes love and teamwork as core values. Her inspiring journey through challenges showcases resilience and a positive outlook, lessons she imparts to her players.

Now, as Katie reflects on a tumultuous yet insightful year, she continues to lead with strength and optimism—embodying the true spirit of a champion.