Posted: Apr 02, 2019
CHICAGO, Ill. - Scarlet Hawk fans, it's NCAA Division III week! This year, we will be profiling different Illinois Tech student-athletes all week. Each one will give us insights on their time at Illinois Tech, some of their favorite memories, and more!
Today's spotlight is with Mallory Tognetti of women's lacrosse. Check out what she had to say below!
Q: What is the best part about being a Division III athlete?
A: The best part of being a a NCAA D3 athlete is the fact that I am able to represent a select group of hardworking student-athletes. This opportunity has equipped me with the hard work, dedication, and work ethic for both on and off the field. I believe that no matter what level you are given the opportunity to play at, it is an extreme honor to be able to represent your school.
Q: What is your major and what are your plans and ambitions in your area of study after graduation?
A: I am majoring in Bio-Chemistry with a minor in Pre-Med. After I graduate from Illinois Tech, I plan on going to medical school. Hopefully in the years following that, I will be able to pursue a career in the medical field. I hope to be an orthopedic surgeon and possibly have the opportunity to work on/help student-athletes with injuries.
Q: What other clubs, positions, or activities do you have or are apart of at Illinois Tech?
A; At Illinois Tech I am also a part of a sorority known as, Kappa Phi Delta. Through this sorority, I have been able to grow and meet a lot of amazing people, and I am very lucky to have this opportunity. Being a part of other organizations is a great way to grow and learn outside of both athletics and academics.
Q: Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions you must do before every game or match?
A: Before every game, I always have to put on a specific essential oil that my mom gave me. It sounds super weird/crazy, but its been working for me so far, so why stop wearing it!
Q: Who are some of your role models (ie: family, other athletes in your sport, other influences in your life, etc.)?
A: My biggest role model is my little brother. He is the one who got me interested in lacrosse in the first place. He is the perfect example of small, but mighty. Every time he steps out on the field, he plays harder than any person I know, and I strive to be like him every day.
Q: What advice would you give to an incoming freshman student-athlete at Illinois Tech?
A: I would advise the incoming Freshman to come in with an open mind-set willing to learn, listen, and let the experience come to you. College life as a student-athlete is an adjustment.. life away from home, balancing academics and athletics. But I think it is important to keep in mind that you are extremely lucky to have been given this opportunity to be a student-athlete. Take this as motivation to give every practice, game, match, etc. all you have got because you never know when it might be your last time stepping on the field or court.
Q: What is your favorite Illinois Tech memory thus far (doesn't have to be in athletics!)
A: My favorite memory at Illinois Tech has to be about every chance I get to step out on the field with my team. I couldn't have asked for a better group of teammates. Everyday I feel so lucky that I have been given the opportunity to play the sport I love with them. (But other favorite moment has to be beating CUW for the first time in IIT Women's lax history!).