Gabriella Iagnocco '16 Recruiting Profile

The first time I touched a Molten, I became instantly hooked. The adrenaline rush from winning with my girls working together to defeat the opponent is one of the greatest feelings. Being involved in a team sport has really helped me grow as a person and a player. It's taught me selflessness, perseverance, determination, strength, strategy, courage, dedication, and above all fun!

Competing on the court is great and all, but what's even more important is competing with myself to achieve the best in the classroom as well. After all the term is "student-athlete" not "athlete-student." I've had the advantage in the classroom ever since I was young. Academics were just something that came easier to me than most. I always try to challenge myself in my classes and since entering high school, that has proven itself. I've maintained A's throughout most of my high school career. A few B's will pop up here and there, but for the most part I've remained at the higher end of the spectrum. 

Competing at the college level has been a goal for me since day one of stepping on the court. I have come to the unfortunate realization that my height may be a factor in determining what level of competition I am eligible for. However, what I lack in height I make up for in communication, speed, strength, determination, and heart. I am determined to reach the next level and I welcome any criticism and advice on where I can go and what I can do to make myself better for not only me as an individual, but also for the better of my team. I want to bring my best to the table to help my team compete at their best; I'd be a lousy teammate if I didn't want what is best for my team. I'm often called the "cheerleader" of any team that I am on. I love encouraging my teammates and praising them when they perform well. I make it a point to not cross any lines between giving advice and coaching another player because I am not the coach, but if I were not to give any feedback to another player, I feel like I would be hindering their growth instead of helping it. I love setting goals for myself and to be able to reach them is the best feeling, but there's always room for improvement and that's the journey that I am on now. How can I be better today than I was yesterday?