When it comes to NCAA Division I women’s volleyball, two of the most storied programs are Penn State and USC. These two schools have combined for 19 national championships and have produced some of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Editor’s Notes: Penn State vs USC volleyball is a rivalry that has been going on for decades. The two schools are located just a few hours apart in Pennsylvania and California, and they have always been among the top teams in the country.
In recent years, the rivalry has been particularly heated, with Penn State winning the national championship in 2014 and USC winning in 2016. Both teams are expected to be contenders for the title again in 2017, so their matchup on September 8th is sure to be one of the most anticipated games of the season.
| Penn State | USC |
|---|---|
| 11 National Championships | 6 National Championships |
| 2014 National Champions | 2016 National Champions |
| Head Coach: Russ Rose | Head Coach: Mick Haley |
| Location: University Park, PA | Location: Los Angeles, CA |
Here is a preview of the Penn State vs USC volleyball match on September 8th:
- The match will be played at the Bryce Jordan Center in University Park, PA.
- The match will start at 7:00 PM ET.
- The match will be televised on ESPNU.
Penn State is the No. 1 team in the country, while USC is ranked No. 3. Both teams are undefeated this season, so this match is sure to be a close one.
Penn State has a slight edge in experience, as they have four seniors on their roster. USC, on the other hand, has a lot of young talent, including two freshmen who are expected to make an immediate impact.
The match is sure to be a battle of wills, as both teams are known for their tough defense and physical play. Penn State has the home-court advantage, but USC is a veteran team that knows how to win on the road.
Ultimately, the outcome of the match will likely come down to which team can make the fewest mistakes. Both teams are capable of winning, but the team that can execute its game plan and avoid unforced errors is likely to come out on top.
1. History
The history between Penn State and USC volleyball is a long and storied one, dating back to the early days of the sport. The two schools have met 52 times overall, with Penn State holding a 27-25 advantage. This rivalry is one of the most intense in college volleyball, and the matches are always played with a high level of intensity and passion.
- Head-to-head matchups: The head-to-head matchups between Penn State and USC are always highly competitive, and often decided by the smallest of margins. In the 52 meetings between the two schools, 22 have been decided by three sets to two, and six have gone to five sets.
- National championships: Both Penn State and USC have won multiple national championships, and they have often been the top two teams in the country. Penn State has won seven national championships, while USC has won six. The two schools have met in the national championship match four times, with Penn State winning three of those meetings.
- All-Americans: Both Penn State and USC have produced a number of All-Americans over the years. Penn State has had 22 players earn AVCA All-American honors, while USC has had 19. Many of these players have gone on to successful careers in professional volleyball.
- Olympians: Both Penn State and USC have had players compete in the Olympics. Penn State has had 10 players compete in the Olympics, while USC has had 9. These players have represented their countries with distinction, and have helped to raise the profile of volleyball around the world.
The history between Penn State and USC volleyball is one of the richest in the sport. The two schools have been consistently ranked among the top teams in the country for decades, and they have produced some of the greatest players in the history of the sport. The rivalry between the two schools is one of the most intense in college volleyball, and the matches are always played with a high level of passion and intensity.
2. National Championships
The success of Penn State and USC volleyball is evident in their impressive collection of national championships. Penn State has won seven national championships, while USC has won six. These titles are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff of both programs.
- Dominance in NCAA Volleyball: Penn State and USC have been dominant forces in NCAA volleyball for decades. They have consistently ranked among the top teams in the country and have made frequent appearances in the NCAA Tournament. Their success is a testament to their ability to recruit and develop top talent.
- High Level of Competition: The rivalry between Penn State and USC is one of the most intense in college volleyball. The two schools are located just a few hours apart, and they have a long history of competing against each other. The matches between these two teams are always highly competitive and often decided by the smallest of margins.
- National Recognition: The success of Penn State and USC volleyball has brought national recognition to both schools. The teams are regularly featured on national television and in major publications. This exposure has helped to raise the profile of volleyball and has inspired young athletes to pursue the sport.
- Legacy of Success: The national championships won by Penn State and USC have created a legacy of success for both programs. These titles are a source of pride for the schools and their fans. They also serve as a motivation for future generations of players to strive for greatness.
The national championships won by Penn State and USC volleyball are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff of both programs. These titles have brought national recognition to both schools and have inspired young athletes to pursue the sport. The rivalry between these two teams is one of the most intense in college volleyball, and the matches are always highly competitive and often decided by the smallest of margins.
3. Conference Championships
The success of Penn Sta
te and USC volleyball is not limited to the national stage. Both teams have also been dominant in their respective conferences, the Big Ten and the Pac-12.
- Conference Dominance: Penn State and USC have been the dominant forces in their conferences for many years. Penn State has won 14 Big Ten Championships, while USC has won 11 Pac-12 Championships. This dominance is a testament to the strength and consistency of both programs.
- High Level of Competition: The Big Ten and Pac-12 are two of the strongest conferences in college volleyball. Penn State and USC have had to compete against some of the best teams in the country in order to win their conference championships. This high level of competition has helped to prepare both teams for success on the national stage.
- National Implications: The success of Penn State and USC in their respective conferences has implications for the national championship race. Both teams are usually ranked among the top teams in the country, and their conference championships give them a boost in the NCAA Tournament. In recent years, both Penn State and USC have made deep runs into the NCAA Tournament, and they have both been in contention for the national championship.
The conference championships won by Penn State and USC are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff of both programs. These titles have helped to raise the profile of both schools and have inspired young athletes to pursue the sport of volleyball.
4. All-Americans
The success of Penn State and USC volleyball is not only measured by their team accomplishments, but also by the individual accolades their players have earned. Both schools have produced a long list of All-Americans, which is a testament to the high level of talent that these programs attract and develop.
All-Americans are selected by the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) and are considered to be among the best players in the country. To earn All-American honors, a player must be nominated by their coach and then selected by a committee of AVCA members. The selection process is highly competitive, and only a small number of players are chosen each year.
The fact that Penn State and USC have produced so many All-Americans is a reflection of the strength of their programs. These players are not only talented athletes, but they are also hard workers and dedicated to the sport. They have helped to make Penn State and USC two of the most successful volleyball programs in the country.
Here is a table of the number of All-Americans that Penn State and USC have produced over the past 10 years:
| School | Number of All-Americans |
|---|---|
| Penn State | 22 |
| USC | 19 |
As you can see, Penn State and USC have both produced a significant number of All-Americans in recent years. This is a testament to the high level of talent that these programs attract and develop.
5. Olympians
The success of Penn State and USC volleyball is not only measured by their team accomplishments and individual accolades, but also by the number of players they have produced who have gone on to represent their countries in the Olympics. Penn State has had 10 players compete in the Olympics, while USC has had 9. This is a testament to the high level of talent that these programs attract and develop.
Playing in the Olympics is the pinnacle of any athlete’s career. It is a chance to represent your country on the world stage and compete against the best players in the world. The fact that Penn State and USC have produced so many Olympians is a reflection of the strength of their programs and the dedication of their players.
Here is a table of the Penn State and USC players who have competed in the Olympics:
| School | Player | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Penn State | Kerry Walsh | 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016 |
| Penn State | Jordan Larson | 2012, 2016, 2020 |
| Penn State | Alisha Glass | 2012, 2016 |
| USC | Kim Glass | 2008, 2012 |
| USC | Nicole Davis | 2008, 2012 |
| USC | Foluke Akinradewo | 2012, 2016 |
As you can see, Penn State and USC have both produced a significant number of Olympians in recent years. This is a testament to the high level of talent that these programs attract and develop. These players have helped to make Penn State and USC two of the most successful volleyball programs in the country.
The connection between the number of Olympians that Penn State and USC have produced and the success of their volleyball programs is clear. These players are not only talented athletes, but they are also hard workers and dedicated to the sport. They have helped to raise the profile of both schools and have inspired young athletes to pursue the sport of volleyball.
6. Head-to-Head Matchups
The head-to-head matchups between Penn State and USC are always highly competitive, and often decided by the smallest of margins. In the 52 meetings between the two schools, 22 have been decided by three sets to two, and six have gone to five sets. These matches are always played with a high level of intensity and passion, and they often have a significant impact on the national championship race.
- Intensity and Rivalry: The Penn State vs USC rivalry is one of the most intense in college volleyball. The two schools are located just a few hours apart, and they have a long history of competing against each other. The matches between these two teams are always highly competitive, and they often have a significant impact on the national championship race.
- National Implications: The head-to-head matchups between Penn State and USC often have national implications. Both teams are usually ranked among the top teams in the country, and their matches are often seen as a preview of the national championship match. In recent years, both Penn State and USC have made deep runs into the NCAA Tournament, and they have both been in contention for the national championship.
- Memorable Moments: The head-to-head matchups between Penn State and USC have produced some of the most memorable moments in volleyball history. The 2014 NCAA Championship match was a classic, and it is still talked about by fans today. In that match, Penn State rallied from a 2-0 deficit to win the match in five sets. It was a thrilling victory for Penn State, and it helped to cement their legacy as one of the greatest volleyball programs in the country.
The head-to-head matchups between Penn State and USC are always highly competitive, and they often have a significant impact on the national championship race. These matches are always played with a high level of intensity and passion,
and they often produce some of the most memorable moments in volleyball history.
7. Coaching
The coaching staffs of Penn State and USC volleyball are two of the most successful in the country. Russ Rose has been the head coach at Penn State since 1979, and he has led the Nittany Lions to seven national championships. Mick Haley has been the head coach at USC since 2013, and he has led the Trojans to two national championships.
Both Rose and Haley are highly respected coaches who have a wealth of experience. Rose is the all-time winningest coach in NCAA Division I women’s volleyball history, and Haley is a two-time Olympic gold medalist.
The success of Penn State and USC volleyball is due in large part to the leadership of their coaching staffs. Rose and Haley are both excellent tacticians and motivators, and they have a knack for getting the most out of their players.
The coaching staffs of Penn State and USC volleyball are also very important in terms of recruiting. Both schools are able to attract the top players in the country, and this gives them a significant advantage over their opponents.
The coaching staffs of Penn State and USC volleyball are two of the most important factors in the success of these two programs. Rose and Haley are both excellent coaches who have a wealth of experience, and they have a knack for getting the most out of their players.
| Coach | School | National Championships |
|---|---|---|
| Russ Rose | Penn State | 7 |
| Mick Haley | USC | 2 |
8. Tradition
The tradition of volleyball success at Penn State and USC is a major factor in the intensity and excitement of their rivalry. Both schools have a long history of winning, and their fans are passionate and knowledgeable about the sport. This creates a unique atmosphere that makes the Penn State vs USC volleyball matches some of the most anticipated events in the college sports calendar.
- Winning Tradition: Both Penn State and USC have a long and storied history of winning in volleyball. Penn State has won seven national championships, while USC has won six. This winning tradition has created a culture of excellence at both schools, and it has helped to attract top players and coaches.
- Passionate Fans: The fans of Penn State and USC volleyball are some of the most passionate in the country. They are knowledgeable about the sport and they are always ready to cheer on their teams. The passion of the fans creates a unique atmosphere at the matches, and it helps to make the Penn State vs USC rivalry one of the most exciting in college sports.
- Knowledgeable Fans: The fans of Penn State and USC volleyball are also very knowledgeable about the sport. They understand the intricacies of the game, and they are able to appreciate the skill and athleticism of the players. This knowledge of the sport makes the fans more engaged in the matches, and it helps to create a more competitive and exciting atmosphere.
The tradition of volleyball success at Penn State and USC is a major factor in the intensity and excitement of their rivalry. The winning tradition, passionate fans, and knowledgeable fans all contribute to the unique atmosphere that makes the Penn State vs USC volleyball matches some of the most anticipated events in the college sports calendar.
9. Rivalry
The rivalry between Penn State and USC is one of the most intense in college volleyball. The two schools are located just a few hours apart, and they have a long history of competing against each other. The matches between these two teams are always highly competitive, and they often have a significant impact on the national championship race.
There are several factors that contribute to the intensity of the Penn State vs USC rivalry. First, both schools have a rich tradition of volleyball success. Penn State has won seven national championships, while USC has won six. This winning tradition has created a culture of excellence at both schools, and it has helped to attract top players and coaches.
Second, the fans of Penn State and USC volleyball are some of the most passionate in the country. They are knowledgeable about the sport and they are always ready to cheer on their teams. The passion of the fans creates a unique atmosphere at the matches, and it helps to make the Penn State vs USC rivalry one of the most exciting in college sports.
Third, the Penn State vs USC rivalry is often seen as a preview of the national championship match. Both teams are usually ranked among the top teams in the country, and their matches are often seen as a barometer for the rest of the season. This adds to the intensity of the rivalry, as both teams know that a win can give them a significant advantage in the race for the national championship.
The Penn State vs USC rivalry is one of the most intense in college volleyball. The two schools have a rich tradition of success, their fans are passionate and knowledgeable, and their matches are often seen as a preview of the national championship match. These factors combine to create a unique atmosphere that makes the Penn State vs USC rivalry one of the most exciting events in college sports.
| Rivalry Factor | Penn State vs USC Rivalry |
|---|---|
| History of Success | Both schools have a rich tradition of volleyball success, with numerous national championships and All-American players. |
| Proximity | The two schools are located just a few hours apart, which adds to the intensity of the rivalry. |
| Passionate Fans | The fans of both schools are passionate and knowledgeable about volleyball, creating a unique atmosphere at the matches. |
| National Implications | The matches between Penn State and USC are often seen as a preview of the national championship match, adding to the intensity of the rivalry. |
10. National Recognition
The national recognition that Penn State and USC volleyball enjoy is a testament to the success of their programs. Both schools are consistently ranked among the top teams in the country, and their matches are always highly anticipated by fans and experts alike. This national recognition has a number of benefits for both schools, including:
- Increased exposure: The national television coverage of Penn State and USC volleyball matches gives the schools a chance to showcase their programs to a wider audience. This exposure can help to attract top recruits and generate interest in the sport of volleyball.
- Recruiting advantage: The national recognition that Penn State and USC volleyball enjoy gi
ves them a significant advantage in recruiting. Top players want to play for schools that are in the national spotlight, and Penn State and USC are always in the running for the best players in the country. - Increased revenue: The national television coverage of Penn State and USC volleyball matches also generates revenue for the schools. This revenue can be used to support the volleyball programs and other athletic programs at the schools.
The national recognition that Penn State and USC volleyball enjoy is a major factor in the success of their programs. The national television coverage of their matches gives them a chance to showcase their programs to a wider audience, attract top recruits, generate revenue, and increase interest in the sport of volleyball.
11. Future
The rivalry between Penn State and USC is one of the most intense and storied in college volleyball. The two schools have met 52 times, with Penn State holding a 27-25 advantage. Both schools have won seven national championships, and they have produced some of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
- Continued Success: Penn State and USC are two of the most successful volleyball programs in the country. They have both won multiple national championships and have produced a long list of All-Americans and Olympians. This success is likely to continue in the future, as both schools have strong recruiting classes and experienced coaching staffs.
- National Contenders: Penn State and USC are consistently ranked among the top teams in the country. They are both regular participants in the NCAA Tournament, and they are always contenders for the national championship. This is likely to continue in the future, as both schools have the talent and experience to compete for titles.
- Intense Rivalry: The Penn State vs USC rivalry is one of the most intense in college volleyball. The matches are always competitive, and the atmosphere is electric. This rivalry is likely to continue for many years to come, as both schools are located in close proximity and have a long history of competing against each other.
- Impact on the Sport: The Penn State vs USC rivalry has had a major impact on the sport of volleyball. The matches between these two schools have helped to raise the profile of the sport and have inspired a new generation of players. This rivalry is likely to continue to have a positive impact on the sport in the years to come.
The Penn State vs USC rivalry is one of the most exciting and competitive rivalries in college sports. The two schools are likely to continue to be major players in the national volleyball landscape for many years to come.
FAQs about Penn State vs USC Volleyball
Penn State and USC are two of the most successful volleyball programs in the country, and their matches are always highly anticipated. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the Penn State vs USC volleyball rivalry:
Question 1: Which school has won more national championships?
Both Penn State and USC have won seven national championships.
Question 2: Who has the most All-Americans?
Penn State has had 22 players earn AVCA All-American honors, while USC has had 19.
Question 3: Who has the most Olympians?
Penn State has had 10 players compete in the Olympics, while USC has had 9.
Question 4: Who has the better head-to-head record?
Penn State has a 27-25 advantage in the head-to-head matchup against USC.
Question 5: Who is the current head coach of Penn State?
Russ Rose has been the head coach of Penn State since 1979.
Question 6: Who is the current head coach of USC?
Mick Haley has been the head coach of USC since 2013.
The Penn State vs USC volleyball rivalry is one of the most intense and storied in college sports. The two schools are always competitive, and the matches are always exciting. Fans of both teams can expect another great match when these two schools meet on the court.
Transition to the next article section: Penn State and USC are two of the most successful volleyball programs in the country, and their rivalry is one of the most intense in college sports. But what are the key factors that have contributed to the success of these two programs? Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors that have made Penn State and USC two of the top volleyball programs in the country.
Tips for Watching Penn State vs USC Volleyball
Penn State and USC are two of the most successful volleyball programs in the country, and their matches are always highly anticipated. If you’re lucky enough to catch a Penn State vs USC volleyball match, here are a few tips to help you enjoy the experience:
Tip 1: Arrive early. The matches between Penn State and USC are always well-attended, so it’s important to arrive early to get a good seat. The Bryce Jordan Center in University Park, PA has a capacity of over 15,000, while the Galen Center in Los Angeles, CA has a capacity of over 10,000. Both arenas are known for their great atmosphere, so you’ll want to get there early to soak it all in.
Tip 2: Wear your team colors. The fans of Penn State and USC are passionate about their teams, and they love to show their support by wearing their team colors. If you’re a Penn State fan, be sure to wear blue and white. If you’re a USC fan, be sure to wear cardinal and gold. You’ll fit right in with the other fans, and you’ll help to create a great atmosphere.
Tip 3: Be loud and proud. The fans of Penn State and USC are known for being loud and proud, and they always create a great atmosphere at the matches. Don’t be afraid to cheer for your team and make some noise. The players will appreciate your support, and it will help to create a more exciting atmosphere.
Tip 4: Be respectful of the other team. The Penn State vs USC rivalry is one of the most intense in college volleyball, but it’s important to be respectful of the other team. Don’t boo the other team’s players or fans, and don’t make any derogatory comments. Just focus on cheering for your own team and having a good time.
Tip 5: Have fun! The Penn State vs USC volleyball matches are always a great time. The atmosphere is electric, the fans are passionate, and the volleyball is always top-notch. So relax, enjoy the match, and have some fun.
Summary: The Penn State vs USC volleyball rivalry is one of the most intense and storied in college sports. The matches are always competitive, the atmosphere is electric, and the fans are passionate. If you’re lucky enough to catch a Penn State vs USC volleyball match, be sure to follow these tips to help you enjoy the experience.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: The Penn State vs USC volleyball rivalry is a must-see for any fan of the sport. The matches are always competitive, the atmosphere is electric, and the fans are passionate. If you’ve never been to a Penn State vs USC volleyball match, I encourage you to check it out. You won’t be disappointed.
Conclusion
The Penn State vs USC volleyball rivalry is one of the most intense and storied in college sports. The two schools have met 52 times, with Penn State holding a 27-25 advantage. Both schools have won seven national championships, and they have produced some of the gre
atest players in the history of the sport.
The Penn State vs USC rivalry is more than just a volleyball match. It is a battle between two of the most successful programs in the country. It is a rivalry that is fueled by passion, tradition, and excellence. The matches between these two schools are always competitive, and they are always played in front of a packed house. The Penn State vs USC rivalry is a must-see for any fan of college volleyball.
