March 16, 2021
By Gianna Alberti
Editor
The Lighthouse’s Athlete of the Month is senior Maggie Fodera. The varsity soccer and track standout recently committed to Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island to continue her academic and athletic career. Fodera started running track her freshman year and has been on varsity ever since.
“Since middle school, I had always wanted to play college soccer, but when I started my first year of track freshman year, I fell in love with the sport and knew that was what I wanted to do in college,” Fodera said.
She has proven to be an all-around athlete who can accomplish any goal she sets out to achieve. Since her freshman year, Fodera has broken many records: the 5’2 high jump, 100m high hurdles with 15.45 seconds, 55m hurdles with 8.85 seconds and she is 10th in New Jersey for the pentathlon. A key athlete for the track and field team, Fodera has become an important part of the six league championships by excelling in her events.
PHOTO BY LORS PHOTOGRAPHY
“High school track has given me the opportunity to compete at the next level. Without winter and spring, I would not be where I am today to run at a competitive Division 1 school,” Fodera said.
She said having her junior year track season canceled was devastating because it is such an important year for recruiting.
“I am very excited for my senior year of track since my junior year was suspended due to Covid-19. It is important for me to have a strong senior year so that I can carry on and have a strong first year at Bryant,” Fodera said.
“High school track has given me the opportunity to compete at the next level. Without winter and spring, I would not be where I am today to run at a competitive Division 1 school.”
She said she never heard of Bryant University until the school reached out to her. Fodera did some research and found it to be a great fit academically and athletically.
“I ultimately chose to commit to Bryant University because it was where I felt at home. The vibe from the coaches and athletes made me feel very wanted. Also, I am looking to major in some type of business, and they have very strong programs that can help me succeed after college,” Fodera said.
Since her freshman year, Fodera has been breaking personal and relay records at LHS. She said she hopes to continue her triumph going into college.
“I feel like I always put a lot of pressure on myself, and the atmosphere will be different in college, but I think I strive under pressure and perform my best,” Fodera said. “Overall, I am excited to run Division 1 track as it makes me feel like all the hard work I have put into this sport is paying off.”
VIDEO INTERVIEW BY JENNIFER FODERA
