Russ Rose Then (2003): “Emily is one of our tri-captains and has worked hard every day she has been at Penn State.  She is going to be a good teacher and if she ever wanted to coach, she would be good at that as well because she has the ability to balance her time.  She comes to practice and works hard, she is a terrific student, and she socializes at a good level.  She is a great person to have on the team because her best skill is leadership.  She leads by example in everything she does, and I respect her for that.”

Russ Rose Now (2025):

Before Penn State: A four-year starter as a defensive specialist at Ambridge Area High School; also lettered for three years in softball and basketball; led team to undefeated seasons and the sectional championship in 1996, 1997 and 1999; a first-team all-section choice during her sophomore, junior and senior seasons; was a straight “A” Scholar Athlete in grades 9-12; holds Ambridge Area High School-record for career digs (795); set school-record for single season serve receive average during senior season at 2.48; played for Penn Juniors Volleyball Club; led Penn Juniors to an 11th place finish at the National Junior Olympic Tourney in New Orleans in 1999.

Four seniors say goodbye after playing final regular season match,” The Daily Collegian, Nov. 24, 2003