WIAC Spotlight - Christy Cazzola
Each week during the 2013-14 academic year, the WIAC will feature two student-athletes (one male and one female) from one of its nine institutions for a "Student-Athlete Spotlight" Q & A segment. The segments will be posted every Thursday, and individuals are selected by the institution.
Name: Christy Cazzola
Hometown (High School): Kaukauna (Kaukauna High School)
Year: Senior
Sport: Women's Track & Field
Major: Secondary Education, Broadfield Social Studies
Why did you choose to be a Division III student-athlete?
I chose to be a Division III student-athlete because of the freedom and flexibility of the athletic programs. Also, the personal relationships and bonding are much better because of smaller teams.
What do you like most about competing in the WIAC?
I love coming together with some of the most talented teams in the country. Here in Wisconsin, the UW system has created strong, lasting programs that offer student-athletes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete at an elite level and achieve excellence.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned from being a student-athlete?
I've learned that taking care of my body and advocating for my personal goals is how I can get to the next level and go after my biggest dreams.
Who has been the most influential person in your athletic career?
My coaches, teammates and competitors have all influenced me and challenged me to grow in different ways.
If you have been involved in community service projects, which project has been the most rewarding and why?
I enjoyed penny wars and hosting the high school track & field meets at Kolf Sports Center. It was great to see high school students get excited and passionate about track & field. Penny wars was fun because we got to watch the losers dress up for practice, and the money raised went to support organizations in the Oshkosh community.
If you could meet any athlete, who would it be and what one question would you ask them?
Kara Goucher. What changed for you after collegiate sports that allowed you to progress so much?
What is your greatest sports moment?
The indoor WIAC meet – finishing the distance medley relay and running into my team's arms and feeling like I was part of something extraordinary. The whole team was celebrating the win of one event, and I felt really special to be part of that excitement.
What is your favorite TV show?
Any good murder mystery.
What are your favorite foods?
I love strawberries, mangos, avocado and pretty much everything you can think of.
If you could live any place in the world, where would it be?
It would depend on the opportunity or goals that surround those conditions.
What does your "bucket list" include?
Visit Hawaii and Italy.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
To be the fastest runner in the world!
How would your teammates describe you?
It depends on the teammate – probably all of them would agree with "old" or "mom."
Do you have any pre-event rituals?
Not really. Our team has their own warm up that we do at meets.
What is your dream job?
To help others grow and achieve their own personal goals. I also want to inspire people to help others and be involved in the community that they live in.
Previous WIAC Spotlights
Jordyn Bratel (Volleyball)
Jeremy Brandt (Track & Field)
Hannah Forcey (Swimming)
Bobby Kachel (Baseball)
Nazar Kulchytskyy (Wrestling)
Cole Myhra (Football)
Sarah Stecker (Basketball)
Photo by ProProductions