Tyrone senior Makenna Bauer has committed to Penn State Altoona to continue her academic and athletic career.

Bauer plans to be an outside hitter for PSUA, just as she was at Tyrone.

Over her four-year varsity career, Bauer has put up impressive numbers with 40 blocks, 372 digs, 612 kills, and 118 aces.

Bauer was named to the 2020 Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association Class AA All-State team and was one of three Tyrone Lady Eagle volleyball players named to the District 6 2A all-star teams. Bauer was named to the first team, and seniors Mattie Cherry and Courtney Williams made the second team.

Bauer wanted a college that was close to home and that she was familiar with. The obvious choice for her was Penn State Altoona.

“My brother swims for PSUA, so I am very familiar with the beautiful campus. The small class sizes contributed to my decision as well,” said Bauer.

Bauer plans to major in biology and chemistry at Penn State.

According to Tyrone Head Coach Mike Kraft, Bauer has had a big impact on the Tyrone volleyball program on and off the court.

“Makenna will be remembered for the type of teammate she was and the character she displayed on and off the floor. Makenna is a great player, but a person she is better,” said Kraft.

She will also be missed by her former teammates and fellow seniors.

“Makenna and I both started playing volleyball in fifth grade and we’ve been best friends ever since. We wouldn’t be where we are today without each other, and she will always be one of the favorite people to play with,” said senior Mattie Cherry. “I am so proud of her and can’t wait to see her compete in college.”

Coach Kraft had a lot to say about Makenna and her dedication to the Tyrone volleyball program.

“Makenna was a leader by action. When the moment had pressure, Makenna was our outlet for the last two seasons. Most importantly, Makenna and the other seniors served as some of the best role models for younger players,” said Kraft. “I think that’s the lasting impact Makenna will have on this program. Being a great player and leading the team in a stat category is awesome, but doesn’t get you remembered… I’m excited to see her continue her career at PSU Altoona.”