Sports

Keeper of the Flame

When Brad “Spider” Caldwell retired in July, it marked the formal end of his more than four decades as part of the Penn State football program. That run started when Caldwell ’86 H&HD joined the team as a student manager for the 1983 season, and it continued through a 31-year career, most of it spent as head equipment manager. Beginning in 2015, he worked as the events and facilities coordinator at Beaver Stadium, where his office served as an unofficial shrine to his favorite teams, moments, and people. Before he stepped away, he invited us in to share some of those memories.
Ryan Jones '95 Com

Top of the Class

Led by the school’s two biggest stars, Penn State was well represented in both professional hockey drafts.
Jeff Rice '03 Com

He Walks the Line

Assistant referee Corey Parker represented the U.S.—and Penn State—in one of the biggest matches at the 2026 World Cup.
Ryan Jones '95 Com

Standard of Care

Wayne Sebastianelli was a world-class researcher and orthopedic surgeon, and also a steadying presence for student-athletes and other patients.
Jeff Rice '03 Com

Ends of an Era

Mark Pavlik and Randy Jepson closed out three-decade careers leading championship programs.
Jeff Rice '03 Com

Lasting Impact

A Penn State family turned a devastating loss into a sustained effort to educate football families on the dangers of concussions.
Jeff Rice '03 Com

Season to Celebrate

From record crowds to a first Frozen Four appearance, the women’s hockey team enjoyed a campaign of milestones.
Jeff Rice '03 Com

Still on Top

The Nittany Lion wrestlers took home their fifth consecutive NCAA team championship and four more individual crowns.
Jeff Rice '03 Com

Terry Smith Has More to Write

As a Nittany Lion letterman and longtime assistant coach, Terry Smith was the obvious choice to step up in a difficult moment last fall. Now, with an essential role on Matt Campbell’s new staff, his value to Penn State football is clearer than ever.
Ryan Jones '95 Com