🤔it’s true! Coach Katie Schumacher‑Cawley of Penn State was honored with the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance at the 2025 ESPY Awards, recognizing her courageous journey through a breast cancer diagnosis while leading her team to an NCAA national title 🌟 .
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🏐 What Makes It Historic?
First Female D‑I Women’s Volleyball Coach to Win a National Title
In December 2024, Katie did what no female coach in Division I history had done—she led Penn State to its eighth NCAA volleyball championship. Meanwhile, she was undergoing Stage 2 breast cancer treatment, battling chemotherapy while continuing to coach and mentor her team .
Cancer Diagnosis & Triumph
Katie publicly announced her diagnosis in September 2024 and completed chemotherapy in February 2025 . Despite the immense challenge, she never missed a single match or practice, becoming a pillar of resilience for her players and community .
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🎤 Her Powerful ESPYS Moment
Standing Ovation at Dolby Theatre
As Katie accepted the Jimmy V Award before an emotional crowd, she spoke passionately:
> “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.”
Inspirational Advocate
She emphasized hope and perseverance, urging others facing similar battles: **”Keep showing up. Keep believing. And please, never ever give up…”**
Spoke on Behalf of Others
She also honored fellow cancer fighters, saying the award was “bigger than me… about every person sitting in a chemo chair right now,” paying tribute to doctors, caregivers, and her support system .
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🎗️ What Is the Jimmy V Award?
Presented since 2007, this award celebrates “a deserving member of the sporting world who has overcome great obstacles through perseverance and determination,” in honor of the late Jim Valvano, a coach who inspired many during his own battle with cancer
Championing Female Coaches: Katie’s win is a landmark for female leadership in college sports.
Spreading Awareness: Her story showcases the power of resilience and brings visibility to cancer challenges within athletics.
Inspiring Audiences: From Penn State to national viewers, her unwavering spirit at the ESPYs resonated deeply and uplifted
