Team Tampa Bay's Take with Joey Johnston - Meet Our NIL Brand Ambassadors
Growing the Game with Taylor Trammell and Mac Podraza
By Joey Johnston
Penn State University setter Mac Podraza has a staggering reputation in college volleyball.
She’s a three-time All-American. She’s the reigning Big Ten Conference Setter of the Year. And she just became one of two unanimous selections for the preseason All-Big Ten team — not surprising for someone who already has three consecutive first-team all-conference honors.
But when she lines up for the Nittany Lions in the Road 2 Tampa Bay Volleyball Invitational, the premier season-opening event contested Aug. 25-26 at downtown Tampa’s Amalie Arena and USF’s Yuengling Center, it’s a new start for Podraza.
She transferred away from conference foe Ohio State, where she played four seasons and graduated with a bachelor’s degree, then opted to join Penn State.
“It was definitely a challenging decision,’’ Podraza said. “When you transfer in the conference, that decision could be perceived as risky. But I left Ohio State amicably and wish them nothing but the best. I feel comfortable in my new home. I’m confident this will work well.’’
It has worked before at Penn State. Nittany Lions senior middle blocker Taylor Trammell thrived last season after her transfer from Purdue.
“Playing at Penn State is a dream for a lot of girls and it was a dream for me as well,’’ Trammell said. “I told Mac to get in her new space, her new opportunity and make the most out of it. And I know she will.’’
Podraza and Trammell are serving as the Tampa Bay Sports Commission’s Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) Brand Ambassadors, where they will promote the TBSC, its social impact initiatives and its commitment to growing the game of volleyball.
Nittany Lions coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley said she can’t imagine two finer representatives than Podraza and Trammell, who are carrying on Penn State’s recent tradition of successful transfer players. In addition to Podraza, the Nittany Lions have four other transfers — seniors Jess Mruzik (Michigan) and Camryn Hannah (Clemson), plus graduate students Ally Van Eekeren (High Point) and Line Perugini (Coastal Carolina).
“We’ve been very fortunate in getting some great (transfer) players who have joined us at Penn State,’’ Schumacher-Cawley said. “I’m proud of our returners because they are really welcoming. I think we have great chemistry. For Mac and Taylor, I don’t think their adjustment is that tough. They are just spectacular players and competitors.’’
Trammell said she expects the influx of new players to greatly advance Penn State’s chances this season.
“You might think when I play against Purdue or Mac plays against Ohio State that it’s awkward, but those are redemption games,’’ Trammell said. “Those are the best games. It’s all love, but we both want to leave our mark.
“I think we’ll settle in really well. I had an injury (that cost her half of the 2022 season), but I’ve put in my work and I know it’s going to be great. I’m definitely looking forward to the impact that Mac will bring because she is just an exceptional player.’’
Podraza said she gained confidence after summer workouts with her new teammates, but she’s eagerly anticipating the event in Tampa, where the field also includes the Florida Gators, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and home-standing USF Bulls.
The college volleyball season will also end in Tampa when the NCAA Final Four lands at Amalie Arena in December.
“I’ve spent time getting the lay of the land, exploring my new city, getting to know everyone … but now it’s time for the real thing,’’ Podraza said. “This team has all the pieces now. Now I’m jumping in, figuring out how to best run this offense and how we can all rise together. It’s a really cool opportunity for me. I’m excited to take off running in Tampa.’’
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