Name: Shannon Rudge
Class: 2025
Sports: Volleyball and Softball
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned through athletics?: Through athletics I learned how to be a team player and how to work with others.
What are your Pre-game rituals?: I warm up with Georgia Pogue every game.
What do you love about volleyball?: I love how fast the game is and how exciting it is to play the game. There is never a dull moment on the court and I just love the atmosphere that the sport creates.
Who is a player (at any level) you look up to, and why?: I would say Harper Murray who is an outside hitter for Nebraska. I look up to her because she is a very talented volleyball player and I enjoy watching her play. I learn a lot from her since we both play the same position.
What advice would you give a freshman about Penn Athletics?: Some advice I would give a freshmen about Penn Athletics is that this program is a family. We support all the sports teams and you represent something bigger than yourself. Wearing a Penn jersey is a honor and a privilege, so don’t take it for granted. Penn Athletics has high standards and so us athletes should always represent Penn in positive way.
What traits do you love in a team leader?: I look for someone that is not only a good team player, but someone who can listen to their teammates. I also look for someone who push others people to get better and holds people accountable.
What is your favorite pre-game meal?: Chick-Fil-A, because my team and I meet each-other there before before almost every home game and we eat and talk.
How does it feel to have a sister on the court with you?: I love having my sister on the court with me. She not only is my sister, but she also is my teammate. She is always pushing me to get better and that’s one of the things I love about her. She a very vocal leader and I know that I can always trust her on the court.
How does it feel to be a two-sport athlete?: Being a two sport athlete for the last three years has been amazing. I love being apart the softball and volleyball programs here at Penn. These two programs have definitely shaped me into a better person and athlete. I am so grateful for the coaches, teammates, and memories that these two sports have given me.
What do you think sets volleyball apart from other sports?: Volleyball is a very fast sport compared to other sports. There is never a slow moment in the game. It is also a very team sport and there is never a one single person that wins the game because everyone has to contribute to win.
