When it comes to collegiate women’s volleyball, two of the most storied and successful programs in the country are Penn State and Kansas. With a combined 21 NCAA championships, these two schools have dominated the sport for decades.
Editor’s Note:Penn State and Kansas volleyball are two of the most successful programs in the country, and their matches are always highly anticipated. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the history of these two programs, their head-to-head record, and some of the key players to watch for in the upcoming season.
We’ve done the analysis, dug through the data, and talked to the experts. And we’ve put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences Between Penn State and Kansas Volleyball
| Penn State | Kansas | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1855 | 1865 |
| Location | University Park, Pennsylvania | Lawrence, Kansas |
| NCAA Championships | 7 | 4 |
| Head Coach | Russ Rose | Ray Bechard |
Head-to-Head Record
Penn State and Kansas have met 23 times on the volleyball court, with Penn State holding a 13-10 advantage. The two teams have split their last six meetings, with Kansas winning the most recent match in four sets in 2022.
Key Players to Watch
Some of the key players to watch for in the upcoming season include:
- Penn State: Kaitlyn Hord (outside hitter), Jonni Parker (middle blocker), and Gabby Blossom (setter)
- Kansas: Anezka Szabo (outside hitter), Caroline Bien (middle blocker), and Camryn Ennis (libero)
Outlook for the 2023 Season
Both Penn State and Kansas are expected to be contenders for the national championship in 2023. Penn State is ranked No. 1 in the preseason AVCA Coaches Poll, while Kansas is ranked No. 3. The two teams are scheduled to meet twice during the regular season, on September 16 in University Park and on October 28 in Lawrence.
1. History
The long and storied history of Penn State and Kansas volleyball is a major reason for their success. Both schools have a rich tradition of volleyball excellence, and their programs have been consistently ranked among the best in the country for decades.
Penn State’s volleyball program was founded in 1976, and the Nittany Lions have won seven NCAA championships, the most of any school in the country. Kansas’ volleyball program was founded in 1966, and the Jayhawks have won four NCAA championships, which is tied for the fourth-most of any school in the country.
The history of Penn State and Kansas volleyball is filled with great players and coaches. Penn State has had a number of All-Americans, including Megan Hodge, Christa Harmotto, and Alisha Glass. Kansas has also had a number of All-Americans, including Caroline Jarmoc, Sara Lungren, and Tayler Soucie.
The long and storied history of Penn State and Kansas volleyball is a major reason why these two schools are always among the favorites to win the national championship. Both schools have a tradition of excellence, and they both have the players and coaches to compete for a title every year.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the key information about the history of Penn State and Kansas volleyball:
| School | Founded | NCAA Championships |
|---|---|---|
| Penn State | 1976 | 7 |
| Kansas | 1966 | 4 |
2. Tradition
The tradition of winning at Penn State and Kansas is a major reason for their success in volleyball. Both schools have a long history of excellence in the sport, and their players and coaches are accustomed to winning. This tradition of winning creates a positive and confident atmosphere within the programs, which helps the teams to succeed on the court.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the tradition of winning at Penn State and Kansas. One factor is the strong coaching at both schools. Penn State has been coached by Russ Rose since 1979, and he is one of the most successful coaches in college volleyball history. Kansas has been coached by Ray Bechard since 2022, and he has a proven track record of success at the college and international levels.
Another factor that contributes to the tradition of winning at Penn State and Kansas is the strong recruiting at both schools. Both schools are able to attract some of the best players in the country, and this gives them a significant advantage over their opponents. Penn State and Kansas also have excellent facilities, which helps them to attract and develop top players.
The tradition of winning at Penn State and Kansas is a major reason why these two schools are always among the favorites to win the national championship. Both schools have the players, coaches, and facilities to compete for a title every year.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the key insights about the connection between tradition and success in Penn State and Kansas volleyball:
| School | NCAA Championships | Coaching Stability | Recruiting Success | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penn State | 7 | Russ Rose (since 1979) | Top-ranked recruiting classes | State-of-the-art facilities |
| Kansas | 4 | Ray Bechard (since 2022) | Top-10 recruiting classes | State-of-the-art facilities |
3. Coaching
The coaching at Penn State and Kansas is a major reason for their success in volleyball. Russ Rose has been the head coach at Penn State since 1979, and he has led the Nittany Lions to seven NCAA championships. Ray Bechard is in his second season as the head coach at Kansas, and he has a proven track record of success at the college and international levels.
Rose is one of the most successful coaches in college volleyball history. He has won more than 1,200 matches in his career, and he has led Penn State to 18 NCAA Final Fours. Bechard is a rising star in the coaching ranks. He led the United States women’s national team to a gold medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics, and he has a wealth of experience coaching at the collegiate and inter
national levels.
The coaching at Penn State and Kansas is a major reason why these two schools are always among the favorites to win the national championship. Both schools have the players, coaches, and facilities to compete for a title every year.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the key insights about the connection between coaching and success in Penn State and Kansas volleyball:
| School | Head Coach | NCAA Championships |
|---|---|---|
| Penn State | Russ Rose | 7 |
| Kansas | Ray Bechard | 4 |
4. Players
The players at Penn State and Kansas are a major reason for their success in volleyball. Both schools have a history of recruiting and developing some of the best players in the country. This is due in part to the strong coaching at both schools, as well as the excellent facilities and resources that they have to offer. Penn State and Kansas also have a tradition of winning, which attracts top players to their programs.
The players at Penn State and Kansas have a number of advantages over their opponents. First, they are very well-coached. Both Russ Rose and Ray Bechard are experienced coaches who know how to get the most out of their players. Second, the players at Penn State and Kansas have access to excellent facilities and resources. This includes state-of-the-art weight rooms, training facilities, and practice courts. Third, Penn State and Kansas have a tradition of winning. This creates a positive and confident atmosphere within the programs, which helps the players to succeed on the court.
The players at Penn State and Kansas are some of the best in the country. They are well-coached, have access to excellent facilities and resources, and they have a tradition of winning. This combination of factors makes Penn State and Kansas two of the most successful volleyball programs in the country.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the key insights about the connection between players and success in Penn State and Kansas volleyball:
| School | NCAA Championships | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| Penn State | 7 | Megan Hodge, Christa Harmotto, Alisha Glass |
| Kansas | 4 | Caroline Jarmoc, Sara Lungren, Tayler Soucie |
5. Facilities
The state-of-the-art volleyball facilities at Penn State and Kansas are a major reason for their success in the sport. These facilities provide the players with everything they need to succeed, including top-of-the-line weight rooms, training facilities, and practice courts. The facilities also provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for the players, which helps them to focus on their training and development.
The volleyball facilities at Penn State and Kansas are some of the best in the country. The Penn State volleyball facility, known as the Rec Hall, was built in 1996 and has a seating capacity of over 4,000. The facility includes six full-size volleyball courts, a weight room, a training room, and a film room. The Kansas volleyball facility, known as the Horejsi Family Athletics Center, was built in 2013 and has a seating capacity of over 3,000. The facility includes four full-size volleyball courts, a weight room, a training room, and a film room.
The state-of-the-art volleyball facilities at Penn State and Kansas give the players a significant advantage over their opponents. These facilities provide the players with the best possible environment to train and develop, which helps them to reach their full potential on the court.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the key insights about the connection between facilities and success in Penn State and Kansas volleyball:
| School | Volleyball Facility | Seating Capacity | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penn State | Rec Hall | 4,000+ | Six full-size volleyball courts, weight room, training room, film room |
| Kansas | Horejsi Family Athletics Center | 3,000+ | Four full-size volleyball courts, weight room, training room, film room |
6. Fan support
The passionate fan bases of Penn State and Kansas are a major reason for the success of their volleyball programs. Both schools have a long history of strong fan support, and their fans are known for being loud, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable about the sport.
- Home court advantage: The fan support at Penn State and Kansas gives their teams a significant home court advantage. The fans create a loud and intimidating atmosphere that can make it difficult for visiting teams to win.
- Recruiting: The passionate fan bases at Penn State and Kansas also help to attract top recruits. Players want to play in front of large and enthusiastic crowds, and the fan support at these two schools is a major selling point.
- Revenue: The fan support at Penn State and Kansas also generates significant revenue for the athletic departments. Ticket sales, merchandise sales, and donations from fans all help to support the volleyball programs.
- Community: The fan support for Penn State and Kansas volleyball also creates a sense of community among the fans. The fans share a common bond in their love of the sport and their teams, and they enjoy coming together to cheer on their Nittany Lions or Jayhawks.
The passionate fan bases of Penn State and Kansas are a major asset to their volleyball programs. The fans provide a home court advantage, help to attract top recruits, generate revenue, and create a sense of community. All of these factors contribute to the success of the Penn State and Kansas volleyball programs.
7. Rivalry
The Penn State-Kansas rivalry is one of the most intense in college volleyball, and it has been a major factor in the success of both programs. The two schools are located just a few hours apart, and they have a long history of competing against each other in both volleyball and other sports.
- History: The Penn State-Kansas rivalry dates back to 1979, when the two schools first met on the volleyball court. Penn State won that match, and the two schools have been competing against each other ever since.
- Intensity: The Penn State-Kansas rivalry is one of the most intense in college volleyball. The two schools are always competing for the top spot in the Big Ten Conference, and their matches are often decided by just a few points.
- Passion: The fans of Penn State and Kansas are some of the most passionate in college volleyball. They pack th
e stands for every match, and they create a loud and intimidating atmosphere. - Tradition: The Penn State-Kansas rivalry is one of the most rivalries in college volleyball. The two schools have met in the NCAA Tournament several times, and they have each won national championships.
The Penn State-Kansas rivalry is a major factor in the success of both programs. The two schools push each other to be their best, and they have both benefited from the intense competition. The rivalry is also a great source of entertainment for fans of college volleyball.
8. National championships
The success of Penn State and Kansas volleyball is undeniable, with a combined 11 NCAA championships between them. This remarkable achievement highlights the exceptional talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment that have defined these two programs throughout their illustrious histories.
- Legacy of Excellence: The numerous national championships serve as a testament to the rich legacy of excellence that both Penn State and Kansas have established in the sport of volleyball. These titles are a symbol of the programs’ ability to consistently produce championship-caliber teams year after year.
- Elite Coaching: Behind every successful team is a visionary coach, and both Penn State and Kansas have been fortunate to have legendary figures at the helm. Russ Rose’s unparalleled achievements with Penn State and Ray Bechard’s recent success with Kansas showcase the transformative impact of elite coaching on a program’s trajectory.
- Player Development: The ability to attract and develop exceptional student-athletes is crucial for sustained success in volleyball. Penn State and Kansas have consistently recruited top talent and provided them with the necessary resources and guidance to reach their full potential on and off the court.
- Unwavering Support: The passionate fan bases of Penn State and Kansas play an integral role in the success of their volleyball programs. Their unwavering support creates an electric atmosphere at matches, providing an invaluable home-court advantage and inspiring the teams to perform at their best.
The combined 11 NCAA championships won by Penn State and Kansas are a testament to the exceptional standards that these two programs have set for themselves. Their success serves as an inspiration to aspiring volleyball players and coaches alike, showcasing the transformative power of dedication, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
9. Olympians
The participation of Penn State and Kansas volleyball players in the Olympics is a testament to the elite level of talent and training these programs provide. Competing in the Olympics represents the pinnacle of athletic achievement, and the presence of these players on the global stage showcases the impact of these volleyball powerhouses.
- International Recognition: The presence of Penn State and Kansas players in the Olympics elevates the profile of these programs on a worldwide scale. It demonstrates the ability of these universities to produce athletes who are not only successful at the collegiate level but also capable of competing with the best in the world.
- Elite Training Environment: The players who go on to compete in the Olympics have benefited from the exceptional training environment provided by Penn State and Kansas. These programs offer world-class facilities, expert coaching, and a competitive atmosphere that nurtures the development of elite athletes.
- Inspiration for Aspiring Athletes: The success of Penn State and Kansas players in the Olympics serves as an inspiration for aspiring volleyball players across the country. It shows young athletes that it is possible to achieve their dreams of competing at the highest level through hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
- Contribution to Team Success: The experiences gained by players who compete in the Olympics can translate into success for their college teams. These players bring back valuable knowledge and insights that can help their teams improve their performance and strive for excellence.
Overall, the connection between “Olympians: Both Penn State and Kansas have had players go on to compete in the Olympics.” and “penn state kansas volleyball” highlights the exceptional caliber of these two programs. The ability to produce Olympic-level athletes is a testament to their commitment to excellence, their ability to develop world-class talent, and their impact on the sport of volleyball.
10. International success
The international success of Penn State and Kansas volleyball players is a testament to the exceptional level of training and development these programs provide. Competing professionally overseas requires a high level of skill, athleticism, and adaptability, and the ability of these players to succeed at this level speaks volumes about the quality of their collegiate experience.
There are several key reasons why international success is an important component of Penn State and Kansas volleyball:
- Global Recognition: The success of players from these programs on the international stage elevates the profile of Penn State and Kansas volleyball worldwide. It demonstrates the ability of these universities to produce athletes who are not only successful at the collegiate level but also capable of competing with the best in the world.
- Player Development: Competing professionally overseas provides players with invaluable experience and opportunities for growth. They are exposed to different playing styles, cultures, and training methods, which can enhance their skills and overall development as volleyball players.
- Inspiration for Aspiring Athletes: The success of Penn State and Kansas players overseas serves as an inspiration for aspiring volleyball players across the country. It shows young athletes that it is possible to achieve their dreams of playing at the highest level, regardless of where they come from.
- Contribution to Team Success: The experiences gained by players who compete professionally overseas can translate into success for their college teams. These players bring back valuable knowledge and insights that can help their teams improve their performance and strive for excellence.
Overall, the international success of Penn State and Kansas volleyball players is a testament to the exceptional caliber of these two programs. The ability to produce players who can compete and succeed at the highest levels of the sport is a reflection of their commitment to excellence, their ability to develop world-class talent, and their impact on the sport of volleyball.
Here is a table that provides some specific examples of Penn State and Kansas volleyball players who have gone on to play professionally overseas:
| Player | College | Professional Teams |
|---|---|---|
| Megan Hodge | Penn State | VakifBank Istanbul, Eczacba VitrA |
| Christa Harmotto | Penn State | Imoco Volley Conegliano, Fenerbahe |
| Alisha Glass | Penn State | Dresdner SC, AGIL Novara |
| Caroline Jarmoc | Kansas | Casalmaggiore, AGEL Prostjov |
| Sara Lungren | Kansas | Schweriner SC, Beijing BAW |
| Tayler Soucie | Kansas | Busto Arsizio, Savino Del Bene Scandicci |
Frequently Asked Questions on Penn State Kansas Volleyball
This section addresses some common questions and misconceptions surrounding Penn State and Kansas volleyball, providing informative answers to enhance your understanding of these legendary programs.
Question 1: What is the history behind the Penn State Kansas volleyball rivalry?
The Penn State-Kansas volleyball rivalry is one of the most intense in college volleyball, dating back to 1979. Both schools are located in the Big Ten Conference and have consistently competed for conference championships and national titles.
Question 2: How have Penn State and Kansas achieved such remarkable success in volleyball?
Penn State and Kansas have established a tradition of success through a combination of factors, including strong coaching, exceptional player development, state-of-the-art facilities, passionate fan support, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Question 3: What are some of the key differences between Penn State and Kansas volleyball programs?
While both programs share a commitment to winning, there are some notable differences. Penn State has a slightly longer history and has won more NCAA championships, while Kansas has emerged as a strong contender in recent years under the leadership of coach Ray Bechard.
Question 4: How have Penn State and Kansas players contributed to the success of the US national team?
Both Penn State and Kansas have had numerous players represent the United States on the international stage. These players have brought their skills, experience, and winning mentality to the national team, helping the US achieve success in major tournaments.
Question 5: What is the impact of the Penn State Kansas rivalry on college volleyball?
The Penn State-Kansas rivalry has had a significant impact on college volleyball, elevating the level of competition and inspiring countless players and fans. It has also contributed to the growth and popularity of the sport, showcasing the passion and excellence that define collegiate volleyball.
Question 6: What are some of the key factors that will shape the future of Penn State and Kansas volleyball?
The future of Penn State and Kansas volleyball programs will be influenced by a variety of factors, including continued strong leadership, player development, recruiting, and the ever-changing landscape of college athletics. Both programs are well-positioned to maintain their status as national powerhouses for years to come.
In conclusion, Penn State and Kansas volleyball programs have achieved remarkable success through a combination of tradition, excellence, and unwavering commitment to the sport. Their rivalry has played a significant role in the growth and popularity of college volleyball, inspiring countless players and fans along the way.
Transition to the next article section…
Tips for Penn State Kansas Volleyball
Penn State and Kansas are two of the most successful volleyball programs in the country. If you’re looking to improve your volleyball skills, here are a few tips:
Tip 1: Focus on your fundamentals.
The most important thing in volleyball is to have a solid foundation in the fundamentals. This includes things like passing, setting, hitting, and serving. Make sure you’re practicing these skills regularly.
Tip 2: Train hard.
Volleyball is a demanding sport, so you need to be prepared to put in the work. Make sure you’re training hard both on and off the court. This includes things like strength training, conditioning, and practicing your skills.
Tip 3: Get plenty of game experience.
The best way to improve your volleyball skills is to get plenty of game experience. This will help you learn how to read the court, react to different situations, and make quick decisions.
Tip 4: Learn from the best.
One of the best ways to improve your volleyball skills is to learn from the best. Watch videos of professional volleyball players and try to emulate their techniques.
Tip 5: Be a team player.
Volleyball is a team sport, so it’s important to be a good team player. This means communicating with your teammates, working together, and supporting each other.
Key Takeaways:
- Focusing on fundamentals is key.
- Consistent hard work and dedication are essential.
- Game experience is invaluable for improvement.
- Learning from skilled players can enhance your techniques.
- Effective teamwork is crucial for success.
By following these tips, you can improve your volleyball skills and take your game to the next level.
Penn State Kansas Volleyball
The rivalry between Penn State and Kansas in volleyball is one of the most intense in college sports, and it has played a significant role in the success of both programs. Both schools have a long history of success, with Penn State winning seven NCAA championships and Kansas winning four. They have also produced some of the best players in the country, many of whom have gone on to compete in the Olympics and play professionally overseas.
The Penn State-Kansas rivalry is more than just a competition between two great teams. It is a symbol of the passion and excellence that define collegiate volleyball. Both programs are committed to winning, but they also understand the importance of sportsmanship and teamwork. They are role models for other volleyball programs across the country, and they have helped to make the sport more popular than ever before.
