NEW YORK, N.Y. - A true trailblazer in women's athletics, Rosalia Gioia was, and still is, an amazing Hawk alum. The 1954 graduate (and Hunter Hall of Famer) was a dual athlete, playing both field hockey and basketball and was also the Sports Editor for the Hunter Bulletin. We were lucky enough to catch up with her HERE:
What have you been up to post Hunter?
"A little bit of everything. Educator, Administrator, Coach, Sports Official, Club Competitor in Field Hockey, Lacrosse, softball, basketball, Tennis, Track and Field.
You aren't lying, quite the post-grad resume! What was your favorite memory in a Hawks uniform?
"Manager/player 4 years for Coach Grace Boyce in basketball. Enjoying winning seasons and beating East Stroudsburg. pre-title IX days"
Very neat! Now, what was your favorite memory of your time at Hunter College?
"Great faculty, $10 all-inclusive registration fee. Intramural and interscholastic programs"
$10!?!?! Now there is something we can all get behind. Who was the staff member or coach who influenced you the most and how did they achieve that influence?
"Mrs Grace Boyce. basketball coach. Outstanding coach with best winning record at that time of all metro colleges. Inspired the best out of her players, calm, caring manner, knowledgeable. Encouraged all her players to give back by learning to become sports officials. Outstanding example of good sportsmanship and respect for opponents and officials."
Has participation in sports at Hunter prepared you for your current life/career?
"It opened many doors for me in athletics as a participant in national and international competition, prepared me for a successful career as an educator, coach and nationally ranked sports official in field hockey, lacrosse, basketball and softball. [I am a] Gold medal winner in United States National Senior Games, elected to US National Lacrosse Hall of Fame and Hunter College Distinguished Alumnae Hall of Fame among others."
Any advice to the Hawks that are on their way to graduation?
"Aim High. For women, become coaches and officials for men as well as female sports. Seek administrative positions."
