Meet the Coach: Noel Kaufman, Head Women's Volleyball Coach & Assistant Men's Volleyball Coach

For Noel Kaufman, returning to Penn State Schuylkill is more than a coaching opportunity—it's a homecoming.

As the new Head Coach of the Women's Volleyball program and Assistant Coach for Men's Volleyball, Kaufman brings a winning pedigree, a passion for student-athlete development, and a deep connection to the campus she once called home as a student-athlete.

An alumna of Penn State Schuylkill, Kaufman spent the past six years coaching volleyball, most recently serving as the head coach at Penn State Hazleton. During her time there, she helped elevate the program to new heights, earning PSUAC Coach of the Year honors in 2024 while leading the team to its first PSUAC Championship, an Eastern Conference Championship, and the program's first-ever appearance at the USCAA National Championships, where the team earned a silver medal.

Despite her success, Kaufman says the opportunity to return to Schuylkill was one she couldn't pass up.

"I accepted the head coaching position at my alma mater because it was an opportunity to give back to a program that played a major role in my personal and athletic development," she said. "I am excited to help mentor student-athletes and rebuild a fantastic program."

That sense of purpose is evident in the goals she has already set for the program.

"My goal is to put Penn State Schuylkill back on the map, bring home a championship, and compete for the USCAA National Title," Kaufman said.

Building a championship-caliber team starts long before the first serve. When evaluating recruits, Kaufman looks beyond athletic ability.

"I look for athletes who are coachable, competitive, and team-oriented," she explained. "Skill level is important, but work ethic, leadership, communication, and the willingness to accept feedback are just as important. The best recruits are committed to continuous growth both on and off the court."

Academics remain a priority as well, as Kaufman values student-athletes who can balance their responsibilities in the classroom while competing at a high level.

Her connection to Penn State Schuylkill volleyball extends back to her own playing days. One of her favorite memories as a student-athlete was helping the Nittany Lions win the Eastern Conference Championship and earning a trip to the Final Four at University Park.

As a coach, however, one moment stands above the rest.

"Winning the PSUAC Championship for the first time in Penn State Hazleton program history and defeating the two-time defending champions from Penn State Mont Alto is a memory I'll never forget," she said.

Kaufman's philosophy is rooted in resilience, a lesson she hopes every athlete carries with them throughout their careers.

"Learn how to respond to adversity," she advised. "Volleyball is a game of momentum and mistakes, so your ability to reset mentally and stay confident is key."

As she begins this next chapter, Kaufman is also grateful for the support she has received from the Penn State Schuylkill community.

"A lot of the athletic department staff, trainer, and fellow coaches are familiar faces to me," she said. "The willingness to help whenever a text, email, or call is made does not go unnoticed. The atmosphere is filled with support, communication, professionalism, and dedication to students on and off the court."

She also recognizes the growth of the athletic department since her time as a student-athlete, from media day experiences to end-of-year celebrations and game-day support.

"As an alumnus of the athletic program, I can see how much has improved in just a few short years, and I am beyond blessed to be a part of a campus with such growth."

And if there's one thing players may be surprised to learn about their new coach, it's that her competitive spirit extends beyond the volleyball court.

Kaufman proudly admits she's a die-hard Washington Redskins fan.

As Penn State Schuylkill Volleyball enters a new era, Kaufman is bringing championship experience, a commitment to excellence, and a personal investment in the program's success. For a coach returning to where her journey began, the future looks bright.