Jan. 24, 2014
Mallory Schonk
Sophomore, Attack, 5-6
Perry Hall, Md.
In 14 days, the Vanderbilt lacrosse team begins the 2014 season on Feb. 7 at Kennesaw State. To get ready for the 19th season in program history, vucommodores.com will spotlight all 29 players and coaches Cathy Swezey, Susan Ellis and Julie Gardner. This segment will offer an inside look into the team on and off the field.
Today, sophomore attacker Mallory Schonk, who wears jersey No. 14, continues our countdown. The Perry Hall, Md. native, returns after a standout freshman season. She finished second on the team in points (35), third in goals (25) and fourth in assists (10). She was named to the SEC’s First-Year Academic Honor Roll last year. She is creating her won major of cognitive and linguistics development and plans to pursue a career in speech therapy.
What were your expectations as a freshman?
I was excited to play but I didn’t expect to get nearly the experience I got last year. I was really honored to get that type of experience as a freshman.
Were you surprised at how well you did?
I think definitely my high school has done great historically. So I think that was a big help for me. In high school, traditionally I was more of a role player. Here it was nice to get to step in and actually make a difference in my freshman season.
How would you describe yourself as a player? Aggressive?
Yeah, I would say I’m aggressive. I like to play behind the goal and I like to play like a quarterback, look for feeds and stuff like that. I like to see the whole field in front of me. I like to play off the crease. I’m a lefty so I was moved there (in high school) and I’ve just kind of stuck. I feel comfortable back there so I like it.
What do you like most about lacrosse?
I think I love the fast pace of the game. I also played soccer. I loved that too but I like lacrosse is so different than any other sport. It is quick. There is always something happening. If you turn the ball over you get the chance right away to back after it. That is something I love.
Age I picked up a lacrosse stick: Six years old
When I was a kid I tried to be like: My big brother (Peter, 23)
A few words that describe the way I play lacrosse: I’d like to think I play composed but aggressive.
What I need to improve on to be a better player: Turning the ball over less
Favorite part about playing at Vanderbilt: Getting to travel and play every day will all my best friends
The thing that impresses me the most about Coach Swezey: Her ability to get us really fired up before a game and put us in the mindset to play a game
Favorite sport other than lacrosse: Soccer
Dream Date: Josh Hutcherson
My bucket list includes: Going to the World Cup
One thing my hometown is famous for: Crabcakes
The best tasting food I can make: Brownies from a box
The most famous person I’ve met: Michael Phelps
The best advice I’ve received: Don’t be so serious all the time or it’ll get to ya.” – Ms. Anne, who works at Last Drop Coffee at Vanderbilt
Biggest influence in my life: My mom
My advice to young people is: Play lots of sports when you have the chance. Try not to pick just one too soon.
