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Stories of GRIT: Gianna Puorro Commits to Bucknell
2022 West Essex High School Midfielder
Perfect Balance/Fit
Throughout the recruiting process Gianna Puorro wanted to ensure she found a school that prioritized both academics and athletics. She had many conversations with different universities and colleges and felt that after talking with the coaches at Bucknell, they would be able to support her the best. “The coaches made sure I felt confident and comfortable balancing field hockey and academics. They talked about providing their athletes with academic support or tutoring if needed and fitting the practices around the academic schedule. That was a big part of my decision.”
Because of COVID, Puorro was able to Zoom with the coaches and players. “The coaching staff did a great job of making me feel welcome. I asked so many questions and they were always so detailed and good at answering my questions.” As for the players, Puorro was very grateful for the opportunity to meet and talk with so many of the girls. “The girls were so welcoming and friendly. I was able to ask them more in depth and casual questions like what a day off looked like. They were all so nice and they even gave me their emails if I had any more questions.”
Process
Gianna Puorro, who plays field hockey at West Essex High School is excited to be headed to Bucknell with current teammate Alexandra Shizas. “I’m just so happy we are going together, having her there was a big part of my decision.” West Essex Field Hockey is a close-knit family and Puorro is looking forward to continuing that feeling into Bucknell with Shizas. “We are friends on and off the field and the chemistry is just great.” As the friendship between the two teammates will continue to flourish, Puorro is also looking forward to another four years playing together. “We play completely different positions but play really well together. She always knows where I am going to be on the front line and I know how she plays. I think it’ll be really great.”
Bucknell field hockey had an extremely successful 2021 season winning the Patriot League and making it to the semi-finals of the DI tournament. “It made me feel really good watching them play and win. It made me feel confident that they are good and hard workers. It’s comforting because that’s how I am and I’m looking forward to being a part of it!
”Puorro felt that although many parts of the recruiting process were challenging, she felt confident and eager overall. “I worked really hard and prepared by talking to coaches and getting my film organized.”
Now that the recruiting process is over for Puorro she has much to look forward to as she will soon embark on a new journey at Bucknell. “I’m looking forward to meeting new people and playing at an intense level. I am a bit nervous about the academic side, but I am also eager to learn at such a great academic school.” Puorro has always done a great job in balancing her athletics and academic responsibilities as shown by her recognition in 2020 NFHCA High School National Academic Squad. This recognition was only offered to significant multi-letter varsity team members with certain type of class load and predetermined GPA achievement. “That’s what makes Bucknell a great fit.”
High School/GRIT History
Puorro is a dynamic player both for her high school, West Essex, and club team, NJ GRIT. She has the ability to move seamlessly throughout the forward and midfield. “I feel like my strength as a field hockey player is my speed and awareness. As a midfielder playing in the center of the field, this allows me to see all over the field.” Puorro is able to carry and distribute the ball providing opportunities for many of her teammates. “Being in the middle of the field allows me to talk to my teammates and direct them.” Puorro’s leadership skills both on and off the field enable her to be an integral part of her club and high school team. As a captain of West Essex High School Varsity team, Puorro looks forward to helping take her team to States to keep the winning streak going.
Puorro is a three-sport varsity athlete at West Essex High School which provides her with many opportunities to develop and grow. She is a star on the field hockey field, basketball court, and lacrosse fields. She feels she has grown and developed as a well-rounded student athlete. “I not only improved on my stick skills for field hockey, but I also raised my GPA this year.” Being able to balance schoolwork along with after school athletics is important and takes careful time management and determination. From early on Puorro was always involved in many different activities that built her character. Puorro achieved a 1st Degree black belt, got a boating license, plays multiple instruments, and participated in many volunteering activities. “I enjoy coaching the younger kids and enjoyed sharing my musical talent in recitals for the elderly at assisted living facilities, because seeing them happy makes me happy."
Puorro has always had her parents by her side throughout all of her high school sports and endeavors. “I want to thank my parents and coaches because they have helped me get to this point."
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