Mackenzie Hurst, a senior from Guilford, N.H., has been chosen for the focus of this installment of the “Endicott Student-Athlete Spotlight” for her works both on the field of competition, and even more important, off of it.  Mackenzie is an Exercise Science major that has played two sports her entire collegiate career in both field hockey and ice hockey.  We were able to catch up with the senior and ask her a few questions for the Spotlight.

Why did you choose to be a Division III student-athlete?
I chose to be a Division III athlete because I had a hard time choosing whether to play field hockey or ice hockey in college, therefore division III allowed me to play varsity field hockey and club ice hockey to continue playing both sports I love as well as focusing on my studies. 

What do you like most about being a student-athlete at Endicott?
The best part of being a student athlete at EC is the relationships that you make. Everyone on campus; whether they are athletes, non-athletes or professors, look up to you as a role model. The way you present yourself as a Gull sets the standard and has a huge impact on this community as a whole. 

What are some of the greatest lessons you have learned from being a student-athlete?The greatest lesson I have learned here at Endicott is the importance of being apart of a team. They aren’t just your teammates, but your sisters. They are your family and will always have your back no matter what. Through think and thin, you are one unit and it is an amazing thing to be a part of. 

Who have been the most influence people in your athletic career?
My family, friends and coaches. If it weren’t for my loving supportive family I wouldn’t be where I am today. 

How would your teammates describe you?
Hard-working, determined and energetic. 

Do you have any pre-game/pre-event rituals? If so, what are they?
I always drink a Green Smoothie with a wheatgrass shot (weird vegan super-foods that my teammates make fun of me for). I also put my right shin guard, and right cleat/skate on before my left.. Always! 

What is your greatest sports moment?
There are so many! But one of my favorites was wining against Nichols College my Junior year when I scored the sudden death penalty stroke goal in overtime! 

Which public figure (athlete, politician, entertainer, etc) would you most like to meet and what one question would you ask them?
Hillary Knight (one of the best female ice hockey players in the world): What have been your biggest motivators throughout your successful hockey career? 

What internships have you completed (or are a part of now)? What benefit have you gotten out of them?
I have completed internships at the Laconia Athletic and Swim Club as well as Summit Health Physical Therapy and am now looking for a semester long internship in a clinical Diabetes Center. I have learned that I need to work with individuals that are struggling with maintaining a healthy lifestyle and teach them to understand the importance of physical activity and nutrition. 

If you have been involved in community service projects, what project has been the most rewarding and why?
I have been a volunteer lifeguard for the Timberman Ironman Triathlon for the past 6 years and have had to make a handful of rescues, making sure the swimmers are safe. Every year I look forward to it because it is always a rewarding experience. 

Name three things on your "bucket list".
Complete a half-ironman triathlon before age 25, travel to Fiji and hike Mt. Kilimanjaro 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years after graduation? What is your dream job?
In 10 years I see myself working in a hospital or clinical setting helping patients with Diabetes control their blood glucose and other symptoms by teaching them the importance of exercise and nutrition. 

What would you say to someone currently in high school who is considering attending Endicott? 
Endicott is a beautiful, close-knit community that I am forever grateful to be apart of. The relationships that you make with your peers, teammates, coaches and professors are something to cherish for the rest of your life. It is always a great day to be a Gull! 

Is there something about you that we don't know? Tell is something special about yourself that we haven't asked!
If I could be any animal in the world I would be a dolphin because I love the water! And have you ever seen a sad dolphin? They are always happy!