Ava Falduto’s Memorable Match at Wrigley Field

Ava Falduto, a former volleyball player from IC Catholic, has been a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan. Her connection to the Cubs runs deep, starting with childhood memories of wearing a Cubs cheerleading outfit.

Falduto’s first memories at Wrigley Field go back to the 2016 Cubs’ World Series season. However, she only stepped on the field recently with her Penn State teammates during the Big Ten/SEC Volleyball Challenge. It marked the first volleyball match at the legendary venue.

The milestone event saw another match between Nebraska and Missouri halted due to court condensation. Falduto reflected, “My family and I always went to Cubs games. When I learned we would play at Wrigley, it was incredible. My whole family experienced it together.” She played as a junior libero with 11 digs and six assists for Penn State, who lost to Kentucky in four sets.

The game, watched by 43,067 fans, marked the second-largest crowd at Wrigley and for any volleyball match. “Living a dream I never anticipated, the entire experience was amazing,” Falduto shared, despite the loss.

Falduto’s excitement began the previous season, when Coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley informed her but asked to keep it secret. “Finding out was huge,” Falduto recalled. “Keeping it was hard.” Her parents managed the high ticket demand, coordinating support from family and friends in Illinois.

Falduto and teammate Haley Burgdorf were the first Nittany Lions to step on the field, witnessing its construction. “Seeing it in person was surreal,” Falduto said. The team adapted to outdoor conditions during a Saturday practice, managing wind challenges.

The Penn State team wore pinstripe uniforms, a nod to the Cubs. Former teammate Gillian Grimes, now with Houston in the LOVB, admired Falduto’s performance, saying, “Watching her was awesome.” Falduto cherished the match as a highlight in her career.

Penn State’s victorious follow-up against DePaul and an upcoming match against Stanford at Philadelphia’s Palestra highlight an exciting season. Falduto emphasized the team’s determination, “We’re ready to win.” Teammate Burgdorf praised Falduto’s positive influence, noting her supportive presence on the court.

Falduto, studying finance, has a history of success, leading IC Catholic in state championships and winning a national title with Penn State. Yet, playing at Wrigley remains unmatched in her career. “It’s indescribable,” she concluded.