Hazleton, Pa. - Sophia Del Vacchio of Gainesville, Virginia will make the move to Penn State Hazleton to compete with the Nittany Lion Volleyball team. Del Vacchio was elevated to her varsity volleyball team as a freshman and continued to play at the varsity level for three more seasons as a setter and outside hitter. After being named to the All-County team as a junior setter, Sophia transitioned to the outside hitter position during her senior year at Gainesville High School and did so well with the change, Del Vacchio routinely led the team in kills during contests, resulting in her second All-County award and a playoff appearance for her team.

"Coach Fallabel and I are very excited to bring in an additional setter this season in Sophia, "stated Head Coach Noel Kaufman. "Having two athletes on the court who can run plays and provide leadership has been a goal of ours since we took over the squad in 2021. Sophia has a leader's mentality, great hands and can serve on a dime so we're looking forward to seeing her in action."

Del Vacchio's experience should pay dividends as she begins her collegiate career. In addition to her high school accolades, Sophia spent seven years on the travel circuit in northern Virginia, serving as captain of her club team for five years at different age levels.

Off the court, Sophia is just as enthusiastic to begin her academic career. Del Vacchio plans to major in Criminal Justice while attending Penn State and hopes to become the absolute best version of herself on and off the court. Eventually, Sophia wants to utilize her degree to obtain a job in public service, working for the government.