University Park, PA – October 28, 2025
The Penn State Shenango Lions concluded a historic (pre-national tournament) season Tuesday night inside Rec Hall, battling fiercely in the PSUAC Championship match before falling to Penn State York 3–1 (25-22, 9-25, 19-25, 13-25). Despite the loss, the Lions' remarkable postseason run has earned them a spot in the 2025 USCAA Division II National Tournament as the #5 seed, marking the program's first-ever Nationals appearance.

The match opened with Shenango stunning York in the first set, 25-22, thanks to explosive play from Savana Shipman, Izzy Mauro, and Sydney Ward, who combined for 30 kills on the night. Setter Jadeyn Zepeda orchestrated the offense with precision, tallying 32 assists, while Gabby Villanueva Santos and Jillian Palumbo anchored the defense with a combined 28 digs. York rebounded with a strong second-set response and carried the momentum through the remainder of the match to secure the title, but Shenango refused to back down, displaying the grit and composure that defined their season.

For the Lions, Shipman led all hitters with 15 kills, 17 digs, and an ace, while Mauro added nine kills, and Ward provided six kills and four block assists. Shenango's balanced effort and resilience solidified their place among the conference's best, capping an incredible 14-9 overall campaign and a perfect 10-0 PSUAC regular season record.

The Lions' historic run has now propelled them to the 2025 USCAA Division II National Tournament, hosted at Penn State Fayette from November 6–8. As the #5 seed, Shenango joins an elite six-team field featuring UC Clermont, Kent State Tuscarawas, Penn State York, Wright State Lake, and Southern Maine CC.

During Pool Play, Shenango will compete in Pool A alongside #1 UC Clermont and #4 Wright State–Lake. Their national tournament schedule is as follows:

• Thursday, November 6 – 5:00 PM vs. UC Clermont (ARC Court)

• Friday, November 7 – 12:00 PM vs. Wright State–Lake (Main Court)

Should the Lions advance from pool play, they'll compete in the National Semifinals on Friday, November 7, with a chance to play for the USCAA National Championship the following day.

Penn State Shenango's 2025 campaign has been one for the record books—a season defined by unity, perseverance, and first-time achievements. Now, as they prepare to represent their campus on the national stage, the Lions will look to carry their momentum into Fayette and continue proving that this young program belongs among the very best in small college volleyball.

Link to USCAA National's Volleyball Championship Bracket: https://uscaachampionships.com/2025-26_Championships/Volleyball/2025_D2_Volleyball_Schedule_-_Google_Sheets.pdf