Name: Elena Grady
Instituion: William Paterson University
Year:  Junior
Sport: Women's Soccer
Hometown, State: Washington Township, NJ
High School: Our Lady of Mercy Academy
Major: Broadcast Journalism
 
What made you choose your institution?
I really wanted to attend a school with a strong Communications program and one that was close to New York City. After visiting the campus multiple times, I felt that William Paterson was a perfect fit for me.
 
What made you want to become a DIII collegiate athlete? 
I have been playing soccer for almost my entire life and wanted to continue to compete in the sport I love at the collegiate level. I also think that DIII schools are a good balance between academics and athletics.
 
What was your first memory of playing your sport?
When I first started playing soccer at around 4 years old, I remember how excited I was to get my first goal. However, at the time, my parents and coaches never told me that my first goal was for the wrong team...
 
What has been the greatest or most memorable moment of your experience as a collegiate athlete?
One of the most memorable moments for me as a collegiate athlete was during my freshman year when we were playing The College of New Jersey. Not only was it a great game to play in, but I played against my sister, Maria, who was a super senior at the time, and had to defend her and try to get by her during the game. That was the first and last time we'd ever play against each other, so it was a pretty memorable day. My family was confused on which school's team to cheer for!
 
Do you have any pre-game rituals? If so, what are they?
My high school soccer coach, Phil Caporale, passed away in a car accident in 2012, so when I came to William Paterson I chose to take on his soccer number that he was his whole life, which is number 20. Also, before every game, I tape my left wrist and write his initials and the number 20 on the tape to remind me of one of my biggest supporters.
 
What famous athlete do you look up to?
It's probably cliche for me to say this, especially as a soccer player, but I've always been a fan of Mia Hamm. I've watched a lot of soccer documentaries on her and the US Women's National team and it always amazed me how humble she was and still is even though she is one of the greatest women's soccer players in the world. Plus, she's an Olympic gold medalist and a World Cup champion, and I grew up watching her play.
  
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I have high hopes of being a sports journalist for NBC Sports or ESPN.
 
What is your favorite part about being an NJAC student-athlete?
One of the best parts about being an NJAC student-athlete is the competition. No game we play against an NJAC team is an easy game because the teams throughout the league are very talented. It's always a tough competition, but it's always fun.
 
What is your biggest accomplishment OFF the field, court, etc.?
I would have to say one of my biggest accomplishments so far has been making the Dean's List multiple times, and how I manage my time playing soccer and studying for my classes.
 
Quick facts about Elena…
Can't live without:  Food, music, and sleep
Favorite movie: Tough choice between The Sound of Music and Horrible Bosses
Favorite class you've ever taken: Tie Between Media Writing and Journalism
Favorite food: Homemade Cuban food
Biggest Fear: Heights, and Derek Jeter's retirement (which unfortunately already happend)
Favorite musical artist: Timeflies or Mike Stud
 
*The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight deadline is every Friday by 10:00 AM. Fill out the survey and you could be selected!