Sarasota Athlete of the Week: 02.23.17

Kate Zoltak is a freshman lacrosse player for the Riverview girls team. She moved to Sarasota from New Jersey before this school year, and entered the lacrosse season coming off surgery on her patella tendon. Despite all this, she leads the team with seven goals and three assists through two games, both victories. 

When did you start playing lacrosse?

Eight or nine years, I think. I started with field hockey when I was 6 or 7. One spring, a bunch of my friends were joining (lacrosse), and my parents thought it would be fun, and so did I, because I could make new friends and all my old friends were doing it, anyway. 

What is your best skill on the field?

Drop controls and attack. I play attack and midfield, but I'd say that offense is my best quality. 

What is your favorite lacrosse memory? 

I played over the summer for four years on a south (New) Jersey team. I met so many girls that I'm still really close with. I just think that group of girls was special. That was the time I improved as a player also. Those are just my favorite memories. 

Have you set any personal goals for yourself this season?

Yeah, I would like to improve on my running and speed, just because I'm coming right off (patella tendon) surgery. I'd like to get back to where I was before. As far as stick skills and game IQ, I'd like to improve on everything, on every level, and become stronger. 

What is your favorite subject in school?

English. I was never very good at math or stuff like that. 

What is your favorite TV show?

Probably "The Office." It's such a classic, I love it. 

What is your favorite food?

Mac and cheese. 

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

Don't care about what others think of you. Do your own thing. Stay original. I feel like I'm more of a leader than a follower, and that makes me who I am. I don't like to go along with others, I like to be my own person. 

When was the time you laughed the hardest?

I don't know, I laugh a lot every day. I'm not a serious person. I smile and I laugh, whether it's about stupid stuff or a teacher is yelling at me or anything. I'm always making light of everything. 

Finish this sentence: "Kate Zoltak is..."

Oh gosh. I have no idea. You would have to ask someone else. Dedicated, maybe? I've stuck with this sport for as long as I can remember. In school, I work as hard as I can to get A's.