Mariah Runco

Year: Junior

Hometown: Olyphant, PA

Major: Pre-Physician’s Assistant

1. When did you start playing softball?

I started playing softball when I was about 8 years old.

2. Do you have any pre-game rituals before you go on the field?

Yes, I actually have a couple. The first is that I play catch with the same person before every game and we do our handshake once we’re done. The next one may seem a little funny, but I have to have my shoes tied by someone else because I can’t tie them tight enough.

 3. What music do you listen to before the game?

I listen to anything really before a game, but my favorite is country.

 4.Who is your favorite softball player? Why?

My favorite softball player is Jessica Mendoza. She has always been one of my biggest role models. She was a part of the Olympic team that won a gold metal.

5.Who is your favorite baseball team? Why?

My favorite baseball team is the Boston Red Sox. My dad was always a big fan of them so I guess I just followed in his footsteps.

 6. What softball pitcher would you not want to see 43 feet in front of you?

It would probably have to be Cat Osterman. She’s pitched in the Olympics for the U.S.A., and plays professional softball.

 7. What is your most memorable softball moment?

My most memorable softball moment had to be when I played in the Little League World Series, which was in Kalamazoo, Michigan, when I was 16 years old.

8. How has softball helped you become the person you are today?

Softball has taught me many qualities that I will always use in life, like patience, teamwork, and leadership.

9.What is a valuable lesson that you have learned from playing softball?

A valuable lesson that I learned is to never underestimate anyone or any team.

10.What do you plan on doing after Marywood?

I plan on becoming a physician’s assistant and starting a family practice with a few friends of mine that are also in the medical field. I also want to move out of Pennsylvania eventually.