The Penn State athletic program is getting some "Primetime" national exposure this winter thanks to College Sports Television (CSTV).

"Penn State Primetime," a new 30-minute show dedicated entirely to Penn State athletics, debuted last Sunday at 9:30 p.m. on CSTV.

It is one of only three "Primetime" programs in the country, joining Stanford and Ohio State.

"We think it speaks volumes about the job our student athletes and coaches have done here for the athletic program," athletic director Tim Curley said.

The show will highlight the Penn State athletics experience, including interviews with Penn State student athletes, features on Penn State athletic teams, and recaps from Penn State athletic events.

Sunday's program included features on the Penn State women's soccer team, and Penn State women's volleyball captain Kaleena Walters.

"Anything that features Penn State and its athletes is a good thing," Walters said.

Curley said the television program should increase interest in Penn State athletics, not only with current students, but with prospective student athletes as well. Because "Penn State Primetime" will be broadcast around the country, it may serve as a recruitment tool.

"We think it is a very positive thing," Curley said. "It gives great visibility to our athletic program."

"Primetime Penn State" is also expected to get the word out on some of the lesser-known athletic programs at Penn State. Penn State is obviously known for its football, but it also boasts Big Ten champions in sports like women's volleyball and women's soccer. "Penn State Primetime" will feature all Penn State sports, which is expected to generate awareness and support from students.

"I think it is great," Penn State women's soccer coach Paula Wilkins said.

"It shows how successful we've been and hopefully will get some more students out to support the team."

The next new episode of "Penn State Primetime" will air on Sunday, Jan. 2 at 10 p.m. Just in case you missed the first episode, it will be replayed throughout the month of December. The next showing will be this Sunday at 4 p.m.

Penn State and CSTV reached an agreement this summer to deliver exposure to Penn State athletics.

CSTV carried women's soccer in the fall, and will carry several Penn State wrestling matches and Lady Lions basketball games this winter. CSTV will also carry "Penn State Hoops," a program featuring news and highlights from the Penn State basketball season.