No. 4 Penn State women's volleyball setter Izzy Starck was ruled out for the home opener against No. 5 Kentucky due to illness, but in the midst of the first set, her post on social media announced that her absence will be season-long.
"After much reflection, I have made the difficult decision to step away from volleyball for this season in order to prioritize my mental health. This has not been an easy choice, but it is one that I believe is necessary for my overall well-being. Over the past several months, I've been facing challenges that have taken a toll on me mentally and emotionally. I recognize that I need to take a step back and focus on getting the help and care I need at this time. This is not goodbye forever, it's simply a pause to focus on healing and growth. I appreciate your understanding, respect, and continued support as I take this important step forward. I would greatly appreciate if everyone respects me and my family's privacy. Thank you."
Starck was a key part of the Nittany Lion offense in 2024's national championship run. She's one of the top setters in the country, finishing 2024 with 1,483 assists and earning the title as the season's Big Ten and AVCA National Freshman of the Year. In the 25-point scoring era since 2008, the young setter recorded the highest number of assists in Penn State history. The six-foot-one-inch setter was also a second-team All-American, first-team Big Ten selection, and Big Ten All-Freshman Team selection. She started all 37 matches, playing all 135 sets, and adding 342 digs to her true freshman resume.
Izzy Starck announces her step back from volleyball in 2025, Addie Lyon picks up starting role at setter for Penn State
Now, transfer Addie Lyon must step up and fill Starck's shoes. The graduate student is just five-foot-nine-inches, meaning Penn State's front line is easier to exploit. In 2024, Lyon played 95 sets over 27 matches, starting seven. She had 445 assists, 99 digs, and 14 aces. For the Nittany Lions, Lyon has All-American hitter Kennedy Martin playing all six around the court, outside heavy-hitter Caroline Jurevicius, and explosive outside attacker Emmi Sellman to target.