Meet Gina! Gina, a former college athlete, avid runner, and dedicated mom, grew up in Jersey City but now lives in Monmouth County, New Jersey. Her journey in sports began at St. Dominic Academy, where she thrived as a three-sport athlete in cross country, indoor track, and track and field. In her freshman year, Gina clinched first place in a cross country race against over 50 competitors, igniting her passion for running. Despite her rigorous athletic schedule, Gina also excelled academically, earning membership in the National Honors Society and assuming leadership roles as team captain.
Transitioning to college, Gina was determined not to let go of her love for running. At Catholic University, she pursued a degree in Psychology while continuing her athletic endeavors in cross country and track & field. Gina ran the 1600m and 800m races in track. Even amidst her studies, Gina found time to engage in intramural basketball, showcasing her versatility on the court.
While Gina’s career path led her away from the athletic arena, her passion for sports remains unwavering. As a client executive for Medidata, she sells software to medical device and diagnostic companies, helping them run clinical trials and bring products and therapies to market. Beyond her professional pursuits, Gina keeps her athletic flame burning brightly. She participates regularly in 5k races, has conquered 12 half marathons, and proudly completed both the NYC Marathon and the Rock and Roll Marathon in DC.
Gina’s commitment to fitness extends beyond personal achievement; she shares her love for running and exercise with her 16-month-old daughter, pushing her in the stroller during races and serving as a positive role model for a healthy lifestyle. Running has remained a constant source of strength and fulfillment for Gina, shaping her into the resilient, determined individual she is today. Read about Gina and how sports positively shaped her life!
Q: What sports did you play growing up?
Everything- I started with dance at 3, tball and soccer a few years later, and then baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, flag football, and I ran track.
Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?
I always was- and still am- the kind of person who thrives on being busy. So I loved playing all different sports. But I was nervous about having to pick one sport in high school- track- and then competing at a collegiate level.
Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?
Kara Goucher in my later years- she’s an amazing runner who works hard and also a mom! Earlier years- Derek Jeter and Mark Brunell (the first Jaguars quaterback)
Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?
All the bonds created with teammates. In college and high school we traveled up and down the East coast- it was so much fun getting closer with my teammates and sharing those trips with them. We went to Brown University, Penn Relays, even Disney. I even got to run at the Penn Relays.
Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?
It’s given me so many qualities that have spilled over into other aspects of my life and helped me be successful- drive, discipline, even competitiveness. It’s also helped me remain healthy and fit, especially while pregnant.
My high school track coach was a really big influence on me – he always taught us to show up every day and put in the work. I’m still in contact with him today.
Q: What advice would you give to young girls who are just starting off in sports?
Don’t be afraid to be the only girl- I was on several teams. And make sure you have fun and enjoy it.
Coach Rachel 