Meet Catherine!  Catherine (Cat) is from Oceanport, New Jersey.  She’s not just a business owner in the fitness world; sports have been her lifelong passion and continue to shape her present journey.

        Growing up, Cat was deeply involved in sports at RBR. From lacrosse, indoor track, swimming, to tennis, she embraced the thrill of competition. Among these, lacrosse held a special place in her heart, where she excelled.  She played on the T3 Shore Lacrosse travel team as a strong midfielder, and  was selected to be on the Adidas All American Team, NJ South Women’s Divisional National Team, and First Team All Shore Conference.  Her leadership on the lacrosse field was evident, earning her the nomination for RBC’s MVP in her senior year.

        When going to college, she knew she wanted to continue her lacrosse career.  Her talent didn’t go unnoticed in college recruitment circles, with top DI & DIII schools vying for her attention such as Northwestern, Ohio State, UCONN, Brown,TCNJ, and Gettysburg.  Eventually, she chose the University of Vermont, later transferring to Rowan University to remain close to home while continuing her lacrosse career. Cat earned a degree in Liberal Arts with a focus on Sports & Exercise Psychology. 

        Post-college, Cat’s passion for fitness only grew. From lifeguarding and competing in lifeguard competitions on Ocean Grove’s beaches to becoming a certified Personal Trainer, USAW certified, and Crossfit Level 1 certified, she never stopped pushing her limits. Whether it’s HIIT training, Crossfit, marathon running, or skiing, Cat embraces every challenge.  Cat also ran 3 marathons in the last year and had Boston Marathon qualifying times for 2 of them! 

         During the pandemic’s uncertainties in 2020, Cat took a leap of faith, quitting her job to pursue her dreams.  She started her own business, The Body Lab by CJFIT, where she serves as Gym Owner and Head Coach, guiding clients to live healthier, happier, and stronger lives. Her dedication and success didn’t go unnoticed, earning her a nomination for “Entrepreneur that was Powerhouse of the Year” at the ‘Driven Women’s Gala” in 2021!

         The Body Lab by CJFIT is excited for ventures ahead. Cat is truly an inspiration to all and she shares her love for sports and fitness with everyone she meets. Let’s read about Cat! (will attach this link when it says The Body Lab)  

Q: What sports did you play growing up?

      I played lacrosse, soccer, swimming, winter track, and tennis.

Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?

        Yes, of course trying new sports can be intimidating but that’s how you grow and find your passion!

Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?

        Mia Hamm and Lindsey Vonn were my favorite athletes that I looked up to when I was younger because I loved their strong work ethic and dedication they had to their sport. It was inspiring.

Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?

        My favorite memory was when RBC became Shore Conference Champs in my senior year. We worked so hard that season as a team and it was so awesome as a captain to see all the hard work pay off.

Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?

        Playing sports has made me more disciplined and goal oriented. It is the main reason why I have such a strong work ethic. I’m so grateful to have played so many sports growing up.

Q: What advice would you give to young girls who are just starting off in sports?

      First, play because you LOVE the sport! Playing sports shouldn’t feel like a job. Enjoy it and soak in every second of it. Second, your hard work off the field is just as important as your hard work on the field. It’s what you’re doing when no one is looking that matters! Lastly, never give up and chase your dreams!

           Meet Jade! Jade, from Middletown, New Jersey, has been a lifelong athlete. Field hockey and athletics has played a significant role in her life. 

        During her time at Middletown North High School, Jade not only played field hockey but also ran track. She excelled in both sports, earning varsity letters in field hockey and track for three consecutive years. In her field hockey career, she played on the Quik Stix Elite travel team, where she competed all over the United States. Jade played a crucial role in leading her field hockey team to win their Division three years in a row, even securing a State Championship in 2006! Additionally, she showcased her talent as a Javelin thrower on the track team. In both sports, she held leadership roles, including captain of the field hockey team.

        Jade’s passion for field hockey continued into college. She attended Stockton University to study Biology and Education. Throughout her four years there, she was a dedicated member of the field hockey team, earning recognition as a Scholar Athlete and serving as captain during her senior year.

        After college, Jade wasn’t ready to leave behind her passion for fitness and sports. Alongside her role as a biology teacher at Colts Neck High School (Go Cougars!), she took on the position of head varsity field hockey coach. Despite never having played the sport, Jade also assumed the role of JV girls lacrosse coach and strives to be a good role model for them as she also learns the sport. She’s also had roles coaching middle school track! Additionally, she remains an avid athlete at Fitness By the Sea in Avon, NJ, continuing to embrace and cultivate her competitive spirit. Through sports, Jade’s life has been positively impacted, fostering leadership, discipline, and a lifelong love for athletics. Read more about Jade! 

Q: What sports did you play growing up?

        Growing up I played softball and basketball. It was in middle school that I was introduced to field hockey. High school I was introduced to track and field.

Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?

        I had never played field hockey before but my gym teacher asked me to try out! I’m so glad she did because it changed my life!

Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?

        I always looked up to David Wright. I know that has nothing to do with field hockey and it is a male baseball player.. but David Wright always carried himself with grace and had this fierceness yet fairness about him. Something I try to do with the players I coach today.

Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?

        My most favorite memory I can think of is something recent. We played Ocean Township in field hockey this year and they beat us EVERY. SINGLE. YEAR. This year, my first year as varsity head coach, we finally beat them. It wasn’t for a division title or shore conference title.. it was for US. I’ll never forget the feeling I had at the end of that game seeing the faces of my players light up realizing that we finally beat this team.

Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?

        Sports have brought me my closest friends. It has taught me discipline and hard work. It has challenged me physically and mentally, showing me that I can overcome more than I realize and that I am capable of more than I realize. It has allowed me to see the country – traveling for field hockey in high school and college.

Q: What advice would you give to young girls who are just starting off in sports?

      My advice would be to remember how lucky you are to step out on that field, court or pitch. Not everyone has the same physical abilities or opportunities that you do. So even when you’re dreading practice or the timed run or whatever it is.. be thankful that your body CAN do these things.

        Meet Makenzie! From Jackson, New Jersey, Makenzie is a dedicated lacrosse coach who has been deeply influenced by sports throughout her life.

        Since the 3rd grade, Makenzie has been immersed in the world of sports, starting with lacrosse. While she also enjoyed field hockey from 6th grade onwards, it was lacrosse that truly captured her heart. From her early years through college, lacrosse remained her steadfast passion. Makenzie’s competitive journey kicked off in 6th grade with T3 Elite, a travel lacrosse team, where she honed her skills. In high school, she excelled as a three-sport athlete, participating in field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse. Her leadership qualities shone brightly as she earned captain roles in field hockey and lacrosse, and accolades like the Marine Corps Most Distinguished Athlete award for lacrosse her senior year.

        Transitioning to Fairleigh Dickinson University, Makenzie continued to thrive on the lacrosse field, playing a pivotal role in the team’s offense. Her commitment and sportsmanship were recognized with a spot on the All MAC Sportsmanship Team during her senior year. Even after college, Makenzie’s love for lacrosse endured as she embarked on a coaching journey.  Makenzie coaches for All Lax Select and Good Sports lacrosse, recently became the head varsity coach at Ocean Township High School. Her coaching skills were acknowledged with the Coach Of The Year title in her rookie season at Ocean.

        Outside of coaching, Makenzie is pursuing her passion for education, working as a paraprofessional while undergoing the alternate route program to become a teacher in New Jersey. Amidst her busy schedule, she finds motivation in her personal fitness journey through her Peloton rides and workouts. Recently celebrating her 1200th ride milestone, Makenzie finds joy in the competitiveness and accountability that Peloton offers, earning badges and conquering monthly challenges.

        Makenzie’s story is a testament to the profound impact sports can have on one’s life. Not only does she share her love for sports to the teams she coaches, but she also inspires others through her dedication and perseverance, both on and off the field. Get inspired by Makenzie’s journey and read more below!

Q: What sports did you play growing up?

        I did cheer, dance and lacrosse when I was in elementary school. In 4th grade dance practice and lacrosse practice were on the same days at the same time and I had to choose one so I picked lacrosse and the rest is history! I started playing field hockey when I started middle school! Basketball I played my senior year of high school for fun.

Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?

      No!

Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?

         Growing up I always looked up my older cousins Tyler and Austin who played sports. They taught me how to play lacrosse before I was old enough to join a rec program! They would always challenge me to be better and they took the time to teach me how to play. I always thought was really cool since I was the little cousin and they would let me play with them.

Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?

          My favorite sports memory is when I scored my 100th goal in high school. It was the last game of the season and we were playing our town rival. Entering the game I was 5 goals away from 100. Everyone on my team was working extremely hard to do anything they could to give me the opportunity to accomplish this goal of mine. There was under 10 minutes left in the game and I still needed 2 goals I ended up getting a yellow card so I had to go out of the game for a few minutes I was panicked on the sideline. I went back in the game and ended up getting one quick goal and eventually before time expired I scored the last goal I needed. everyone ran onto the field with posters and balloons. It was truly the best feeling ever and I wouldn’t have been able to do without the support of my coaches and teammates. It was truly a team effort and something I will cherish forever.

Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?

          Playing sports has truly made me a better person. In everything I do in my life I use the we not me mentality. It’s about everyone not just yourself. I have learned to work with others, become a leader and the importance of communication. These are all things I try and instill in the athletes I coach now. Without sports I don’t know where I would be, my entire life revolves around them. As a coach I have the privilege to help coach the next generation of athletes and I don’t take that responsibility lightly. Its so important to help teach these kids that when they work hard and together as a team anything is possible.

Q: What advice would you give to young girls who are just starting off in sports?

        Don’t give up, and trust the process. All good things take time. The most valuable thing is to believe in yourself.

         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.

         Meet Allison! Allison is a dedicated soccer player and active athlete from Manalapan, New Jersey. Soccer has had a profound influence on her life, guiding her towards a lifestyle filled with activity and drive.

        Since childhood, Allison has been passionate about soccer, a love that persisted throughout her high school years where she excelled as a four-year player in both soccer and lacrosse. Her time at Manalapan High School included leading the soccer team to victory in the A North Championship in 2009 and 2011. In 2012, she was honored with the Offensive Player of the Year award and selected for the Coaches’ Division All-Monmouth County team. Allison’s contributions were instrumental to her team’s success.  Following high school, Allison pursued higher education at the University of Albany, majoring in communications while continuing to play a pivotal role on the Women’s Soccer Team.

        Even beyond her collegiate years, sports and fitness remain central to Allison’s life. She maintains an active lifestyle, engaging in various activities at Fitness By The Sea such as CrossFit-style workouts, HIIT, weightlifting, and running. Her future ambitions include completing both a half marathon and eventually a full marathon.

        Aside from her athletic pursuits, Allison finds joy in spending time with her beloved bulldog, Pork Chop, and spending her summers at the beach. Fitness has not only shaped her personal life but has also positively impacted her career as a meeting and events planner, instilling in her a sense of discipline, determination, and hard work. Read about Allison and how sports had a positive impact on her life! 

Q: What sports did you play growing up?

    Almost everything! Soccer, softball, basketball, and lacrosse… and believe it or not, dance for a few years.

Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?

      Not from what I remember as a child. I did start lacrosse very late (in high-school)! I was hesitant to even bother trying, since I would need to learn from square 1. I ended up getting the hang of the movements and loving the sport. but I would thank the group of girls I was part of a team with, to help me stick through it. They made practice a time I look forward to going to, every day after school.

Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?

      My sister. My sister was a powerhouse on the soccer field. Being a few years older, I always looked up to her, and asked her advice when it came to soccer. Unfortunately, her soccer career came to an end her freshman year of college with an ACL tear. That was the moment I decided that I wanted to continue my career through college to make her proud.

Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?

      My favorite memory would probably be our last conference collegiate soccer game. It was a moment I will always remember, because I was part of UAlbany Women’s soccer history. The score was 0-1, us down against Hartford in the America East finals. With 10 minutes left, I was able to capitalize on a free kick, and tie up the game. Then a few minutes later, my best friend, on the team was able to score the winning goal. This was the first time UAlbany Women’s soccer won their conference title. It was bittersweet, as the last four years were challenging due to many staff changes, teammates leaving, and injuries. It was a proud and memorable moment for everyone, and such a great high note to end my soccer career.

Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?

      It has shaped everything about me as a person. It has taught me to always work hard in everything I do. That I am capable of accomplished anything I set my mind to. It has taught me patience, because sometimes you may not get to see results right away. But to buy into the mantra to “keep working hard and good things will come.”

        I am so grateful to have had sports in my life. It has opened up so many opportunities to learn and grow as a person. It has given me life long friends, with unforgettable memories. I tell everyone, who are thinking about trying a new sport, or an opportunity sports present to you, TAKE IT. You will never know how much of a positive impact it will have on your life, unless you try it.

Q: What advice would you give to young girls who are just starting off in sports?

    HAVE FUN! Do not be too hard on yourself. If you’re struggling with something, keep practicing. Nothing is more satisfying than looking back on how far you came with perfecting a skill. This should make you instantly proud of yourself!

        Meet Kristen! Kristen is not just a Physical Education teacher and lifeguard; she’s a lifelong athlete with an inspiring journey intertwined with sports. Throughout her life, sports have played a significant role, leaving a positive impact that she passionately shares with others. Kristen advocates for athlete mental health, highlighting the profound benefits sports can bring and how to overcome challenges.

        During her time at Ocean Township High School, Kristen excelled as a multi-sport athlete, participating in soccer, basketball, swimming, and track. Her standout performances in soccer State Tournaments and crucial contributions to the track 4×100 team showcased her athletic abilities. Continuing her soccer journey at Springfield College while pursuing a degree in Physical Education and Health, Kristen’s commitment to the sport endured even after college. She played for the Peninsula Aztecs in the Garden State Soccer League for ten years, keeping soccer an integral part of her life.

        Although she didn’t pursue competitive swimming in college, Kristen found a new avenue in life-saving competitions. Joining the Monmouth County and US teams, she achieved remarkable success, competing in four national championships with Monmouth County. Kristen became a world champion in beach flags and the 90m sprint for her age group at the World Championships.

        On top of all of that, Kristen earned her Masters in Sports and Exercise Psychology.  Kristen works one on one with athletes, ranging from competitive athletes to regular exercisers.  Because of her background as an athlete she is very relatable to the athletes she works with, allowing them to be more receptive to talking about what they are going through in their sport. 

        Kristen’s dedication to helping fellow athletes also shines through her coaching roles. Currently she is coaching middle school track, but she has also coached varsity soccer and swim, earning recognition as the GMC Swim Coach Of The Year in 2016. Kristen was also a CrossFit coach and personal trainer. Currently, she shares her knowledge as a high school health and PE teacher in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, and ensures beach safety as a lifeguard at Sea Girt beach. Kristen’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle continues at System Athletics in Manasquan, NJ, maintaining her fitness routine five or more times a week. Athletics has had a positive impact on Kristen’s life and it shows!  Read about Kristen’s reflections on athletics!

Q: What sports did you play growing up?

   Everything! Tennis, soccer, basketball, softball, skiing/snowboarding, ocean sports, swimming, track.

Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?

      I loved playing all sports so narrowing it down to three in high school was hard. I was equally good at tennis as I was in soccer and had to pick because of them being in the same season. I was less confident in tennis and ended up playing soccer, then continuing in college. I was nervous at first because everyone had been on the same travel team growing up. My mom never allowed me to play travel because she didn’t want me to burn out. I didn’t think i was as good as them because I had only played rec. It made me work harder and it turned out I was the only one in my grade to play in college.

Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?

      Mia Hamm, University of Tennessee women’s basketball, Andre Agassi, Tino Martinez, Tony Meola. They were all athletes I watched growing up and just seemed to love everything about their sport and help grow the game. I would try to play how they played and copied their moves/skills.

Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?

      My favorite memory was definitely scoring the winning goal against Middletown South my senior year to move on in states. We were in double overtime, I had bronchitis, and we had never gone that far in states before. I read the goal kick and essentially scored on an open goal. We took the ball and everyone on my team signed it. I still have it in my house. My second was being the anchor on the 4×100 sprint team at lifeguard nationals in 2015. When we won, we won the whole tournament and it was the first time in about 20 years that Los Angeles did not win.

Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?

      It shaped my life because of my love of sports, I now teach it. I also had a lot of success but also a lot of failures and mental breakdowns after games. This led me to get a masters degree in exercise and sport psychology. I help younger athletes cope with the mental side of sports to help them become the athlete they want to be and it’s really rewarding when they improve on and off the field.

Q: What advice would you give to young girls who are just starting off in sports?

    Play everything and don’t give up. Play with the boys and show them that you belong. Always smile and have fun – it’s a game and the happier you are playing, the better you will be and it will be contagious.  Work hard – be the hardest worker on and off the field but have fun.

        Meet Ashley! Originally from LaFayette, New York, she now calls Durango, Colorado, her home. Ashley has a deep love for lacrosse and growing the game.

        During her time at LaFayette High School, Ashley was an active participant in soccer and lacrosse. She carried her passion for lacrosse to the University of New Haven, where she not only pursued a Psychology degree but also left her mark on the lacrosse field. Ashley played in 59 games, she scored 32 points throughout her career. Twice she was recognized on the Northeast 10 Commissioner’s Honor Roll.

        After her time at UNH, Ashley headed to Ohio to earn her graduate degree in educational leadership at Heidelberg University. While there, she continued her passion for lacrosse and coached for three years, one year as a graduate assistant during the program’s inaugural season, and then two years as the head coach of the Division III program.  She holds the most wins at the helm of a Head Coach record at Heidelberg.

        Now, Ashley is heading into her fifth year as the head coach of the Division II program at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado.  Ashley has helped the team make significant strides. Under her guidance, the team reached the conference tournament for the past two years, producing 11 All-Conference players, including the Goalie of the Year in 2022. Many of her players even earned spots on the All-Academic Teams, and one joined the Italian National Team. Ashley is eagerly anticipating the upcoming season, ready to make more waves!

        Aside from coaching, Ashley stays active by working part-time at a local fitness center in the summer. Lacrosse remains a constant source of passion and learning for her. Read all about Ashley and how sports and lacrosse has had a positive impact on her!  

Q: What sports did you play growing up?

      I played soccer and lacrosse!

Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?

          I was always hesitant about being good enough in the sports I played. I always wanted to do my best and I worried about not being good enough.

Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?

          I looked up to Kayla Treanor when I was playing lacrosse. She was such a competitive and creative player. Her excitement and passion for lacrosse always shows when she plays.

Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?

          My favorite memory associated with sports is beating Adelphi my senior year of college. We broke Adelphi’s 36 game winning streak. We beat them by 5 goals and I scored twice in that game. It was such a fun and intense game and it even started with a lightning delay 5 minutes into the game. We were unfortunately down by 4 or 5 goals already when the delay was called and when we came back out to play again we were in fire and the excitement was surreal.

Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?

          Playing sports has shaped me to be a confident and accountable women. I have grown to be confident in what I do and strong for myself and those around me. Playing sports has taught me that I can never stop growing as an individual and there is always potential in everything I do. Playing sports has helped me grow many lifetime friendships.

Q: What advice would you give to young girls who are just starting off in sports?

        For young girls starting sports I’d say be excited about starting something new. New experiences help you grow as a person. It is ok to be nervous and a little hesitant but know that it is just going to make you stronger. Sports will shape who you are through your your life and show you just how amazing you can be when you put your mind to it!

        Meet Eliza! She wears many hats – a devoted mom, a compassionate guidance counselor, and an inspiring high school swim coach. Sports have always played a role in her life, but now, as a mom and swim coach, they carry even more significance.

        Eliza was a multi-sport athlete in her youth, participating in soccer, basketball, softball, and swimming. During her freshman year at Manasquan High School, she juggled soccer, lacrosse, and swimming. However, by sophomore year, Eliza decided to focus on swimming, competing in the 50 free and the 100 free as a varsity team member. Although she didn’t continue swimming in college at La Salle University, the sport remained a vital part of her life.

        Currently serving as a school counselor at Wall Intermediate School and coaching the varsity swim team, Eliza’s dual roles allow her to view her athletes through both counseling and coaching lenses. She not only supports their physical health but also addresses their social and emotional well-being, drawing on her counseling background to help them navigate challenges.

        Eliza, driven by a desire to set a positive example for her daughter, remains active and involved in fitness. She’s a dedicated member of Fitness By The Sea in Avon, participating in CrossFit-style classes and numerous 5k races. Notably, Eliza recently completed her first Marathon in Philadelphia in 2023 and is now training for the Disney Princess Half Marathon. Her daughter has been cheering her on since she was a baby and Eliza leads by example, emphasizing that fitness is enjoyable and something she does for herself. Her daughter is so inspired that she even asks to go running with her! Read more about Eliza and how sports, especially swimming, has shaped her life.

Q: What sports did you play growing up?

      When I was in elementary school I played soccer, basketball, softball.  In high school, I did soccer, swimming, and lacrosse my freshman year, but starting sophomore year I focused on swimming.

Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?

        When I first joined the swim team, it was a brand new sport at Manasquan. I only knew a few people at the time, and never swam competitively before. I had such a great experience though because of the coaching staff and the positive environment they created for all swimmers, with all different skill levels.

Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?

        There weren’t many female athletes that I knew of honestly!  Swimming wasn’t highlighted too much until Michael Phelps and I enjoyed watching him swim.

Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?

        During the swim season, I can vividly remember the team bonding with my teammates as we rode the busses to the our meets playing our favorite songs at the moment. Coach Murin was a coach who always knew the potential we had, even though we might not have always seen it. My junior and senior years, when competing at Championship meets, I always felt supported with all of my swims, whether it was my best or worst.

               Eliza and Coach Murin as an athlete and now coaching along each other.

Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?

        Even though I have played all different types of sports since I was little, I never felt pressured by my parents to do something that I didn’t 100% love. When I wanted to focus just on swimming, they supported that whole heartedly.  They drove me to late night practices, came to all my meets, even though they both worked full time and were always proud no matter the outcome. Was I the best swimmer? No. But being part of a team taught me responsibility at a young age, it taught me how to deal with disappointment and not give up.

        Now as a mom to a 9 year old girl who is starting to get into competitive swimming and softball, I am seeing it through a different lens. I have told her since day one that if she ever loses the spark of any activity she is involved in, to let me know. I want her to love what she is doing, and not continue something if the desire isn’t there. From someone that used to get so nervous before any competition, it is so refreshing to see my daughter cool, calm and collected. From huge swim meets, to softball games, she takes everything in stride and doesn’t let the weight of the competition get to her. She is just happy to be part of the team.

        Another way that a positive sports experience has helped shape my life is that I am now head coach of the Wall High School Swim team. I started last year as the assistant coach, with really no coaching experience, but being a former swimmer and school counselor and with knowing a lot of the students, I felt that I could bring positive energy with an awareness of the athlete psyche.

        This year, I have taken over as head coach and continue to try to build a healthy bond between the swimmer and the sport. I think having such a positive experience with Coach Murin, really helped shape the kind of coach I wanted to be. Coach Murin is still coaching the Manasquan High School swim team (25 years later) and it has been so great to reconnect with him and one of my former teammates, Kim Ward, as fellow coaches.

Q: What advice would you give to young girls who are just starting off in sports?

      My advice would be to make sure you are always having fun and always believing in yourself. There are going to be days when things don’t go your way, but it’s all about how you pick yourself up and learn and grow from each experience.