Katie Schumacher-Cawley recognized with the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the 2025 ESPY Awards ceremony
In the world of sports, stories of resilience, perseverance, and triumph often captivate audiences. One such story belongs to Katie Schumacher-Cawley, the head coach of Penn State women's volleyball, who faced a formidable challenge in 2024-2025: a battle against breast cancer.
Diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in September 2024, Schumacher-Cawley made a remarkable decision. Instead of stepping away from her team, she chose to continue coaching throughout her treatment. This act of determination became a symbol of strength, as she never missed a practice or match, leading her team to the NCAA women's volleyball national championship in December 2024, the program's eighth title.
Schumacher-Cawley's treatment included six rounds of chemotherapy, which she completed by February 2025. Throughout her journey, she found solace and motivation in her players and staff, saying their presence helped her "feel most normal."
In recognition of her courage and perseverance, Schumacher-Cawley was honoured with the prestigious Jimmy V Award for Perseverance at the 2025 ESPY Awards held in Los Angeles. During her emotional acceptance speech, she reflected on the challenges of the past year, the changes cancer brought to her life, and her undefeated spirit.
> "*Cancer changed my life, but it didn't take it. It didn't take my belief. It didn't take my spirit, and it didn't take my team.*"
She also thanked her family, calling them her "rock" and "strength." Schumacher-Cawley dedicated her award to cancer survivors, those still fighting, and those who have lost the battle, including her father.
Schumacher-Cawley's speech emphasized the importance of hope for those currently undergoing cancer treatment. She acknowledged the influence of the women who came before her in setting the stage for the current success of the Penn State women's volleyball team.
The award Schumacher-Cawley received is named after former North Carolina State University men's basketball coach Jim Valvano, who delivered an iconic speech at the 1993 ESPYs. Schumacher-Cawley thanked Valvano and acknowledged the legacy of his speech, ending her own with a message similar to his: "Keep showing up, keep believing, and please never ever give up."
Upon receiving the Jimmy V Award, Schumacher-Cawley expressed her gratitude, saying she was "humbled and truly grateful." She also highlighted the bond and significance of the jersey she and her players wear, telling them that they inspired her to "keep fighting."
Schumacher-Cawley's cancer journey is a powerful narrative of fighting adversity head-on while maintaining her role as a leader and coach, culminating in national success and heartfelt recognition on one of sports' biggest stages. As she continues her journey in remission, Schumacher-Cawley serves as an inspiration to athletes, coaches, and cancer survivors alike.
"Katie Schumacher-Cawley's fight against breast cancer during her coaching tenure for Penn State women's volleyball demonstrates the connection between health and wellness, medical-conditions like cancer, and sports. Her commitment to her team and the national championship victory served as a testament to her resilience in the face of adversity. Following her victory and emotional acceptance speech at the ESPY Awards, Schumacher-Cawley spoke about the importance of hope and perseverance, inspiring not only athletes and coaches but also cancer survivors."
