For the Love of the Game – and Family
When Alexis Kanzinger
’ 28 steps on the court as a member of GMercyU ’ s Women ’ s Basketball team , she won ’ t be the first in her family to suit up for the Griffins .
Her mom , Jodi Babiarz Kanzinger ’ 96 , was a four-year starter for the Griffins and is etched into the record books . Jodi ranks first in scoring average ( 21.1 points per game ), third in overall points ( 1,370 ), first in field goal percentage (. 685 ), and first in steals average ( 3.2 per game ), just to name a few .
These are big shoes to fill but Alexis looks forward to the challenge .
“ I ’ m excited and proud to play for the same college and coach as my mom because it creates a special bond and connection to her legacy ,” Alexis said .
“ It feels like continuing a family tradition and honoring her achievements . Plus , having the same coach means benefiting from someone who shaped her career , which adds a personal and motivational aspect to my own journey .”
While legacy families aren ’ t new to GMercyU , this marks the first time in Head Coach Keith Mondillo ’ s ’ 04 nearly 30-year career where he is coaching the daughter of a former student-athlete . Coach Mondillo took over as head coach during Jodi ’ s senior year , bringing renewed energy and intensity to the team .
“ Coach Mondillo was and is very dedicated to the women ’ s basketball program ,” Jodi said . “ His energy , devotion and personableness will be part of his legacy .”
While basketball plays an integral role in both their lives , Jodi and Alexis chose GMercyU for the opportunity to pursue their other passion - helping people .
“ All of the colleges at the D1 or D2 level said I couldn ’ t major in nursing while on the basketball team ,” Jodi said . “ I felt like I had it all being able to play the sport I loved while pursuing my dream of becoming a nurse .”
It feels like continuing a family tradition and honoring her achievements . Plus , having the same coach means benefiting from someone who shaped her career , which adds a personal and motivational aspect to my own journey .
factor in why she chose GMercyU .
Other factors included the family-like atmosphere and camaraderie of the team – impacts she can already feel .
“ It ’ s only been a couple of weeks with the team and we already feel like a family ,” Alexis said . “ Making memories with a team builds strong friendships and creates unforgettable experiences . Working together towards common goals fosters a sense of unity .”
Alexis is also majoring in nursing and the ability to do both was a huge
Top : Jodi Babiarz Kanzinger ’ 96 ( second from left ) Left : Alexis Kanzinger ’ 28
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