Field Hockey

Student-Athlete Spotlight: Kean's Marissa Robinson

There's no doubt the NJAC boasts some extremely talented athletes but we want fans to know that there's more to these athletes than just their accomplishments on the field, court, etc. The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight highlights one student-athlete each Friday.
 
The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight for the week ending October 5th comes from Kean University. A junior field hockey player from Bear, Delaware, Marissa Robinson is currently pursuing a degree in Special Education and Psychology.
 
Name: Marissa Robinson
Instituion: Kean University
Year: Junior
Sport: Field Hockey
Hometown, State: Bear, Delaware
High School: William Penn High School
Major: Special Education/Psychology
 
What made you choose your institution?
When I walked on to the campus of Kean University, I received a different feeling than I felt with any other school I visited. The diversity of the campus was a contributing factor to that feeling. I was looking for an institution whose student body encompassed multiple ethnicities and Kean definitly did. The field hockey program also had everything I was looking for.

What made you want to become a DIII collegiate athlete?
Just the opportunity to play. Initially, everyone has the dreams of going to a DI institution. However, after looking into my school, I noticed that at a DIII institution your opportunities are endless. As a student athlete, you get to play competitively, join various organizations and even study abroad if you wanted.

What was your first memory of playing your sport?
I would say my first memory playing field hockey would have to be the first day of tryouts. I forgot clothes to change into for tryouts and had to do everything in the clothes I wore to school. Despite being uncomfortable I loved every aspecct of the sport, and was surpised that I was not half bad considering that prior to that day I had never picked up a field hockey stick. However, I remember coming home that night anxious to go back the next day. I fell in love with the sport immediately.

What has been the greatest or most memorable moment of your experience as a collegiate athlete?
The most memorable moment I have as a collegiate athlete is getting to travel to Holland with my team to play.
Do you have any pre-game rituals? If so, what are they?
Every game I wear the headbands we get in my sock instead of on my head. When we walk out to the field we always stand in the same order. I am very superstitous so I have numerous little things that I like to have the same each game. 
 
What famous athlete do you look up to and why?
There isn't one specific famous athlete that I look up to. I would say I more admire the female athletes that prevailed after and even before Title IX was implemented. Those women helped make it possible for me to be a collegiate athlete. 

Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I will have my masters in Sports Management or Counseling in Higher Education. I will be working in the athletic department of an institution helping student athletes prepare for life outside of college. 

What is your favorite part about being an NJAC student-athlete?
The competition would have to be my favorite part of being an NJAC student-athlete. All of the teams in our conference are good competitors. I feel as though preparing to play these teams helps me to become a stronger athlete.

What is your biggest accomplishment OFF the field, court, etc.?
Off the field, my academics are my biggest accomplishment. I take extreme pride in maintaining my GPA.

Quick Facts about Marissa:
Can't live without: My family and the ability to be active
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans, A Walk to Remember or SIster Act 2
Favorite class you've ever taken: Sign Language
Favorite food: Ice cream
Biggest fear: Losing a loved one
Favorite musical artist: J. Cole

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