Celebrating Women’s Student-Athletes at NJCU

As we embrace the vibrant spirit of Women's History Month throughout the month of March, it's only fitting we spotlight the remarkable achievements of female student-athletes at New Jersey City University (NJCU). This season has been nothing short of historic for many Gothic Knight athletic programs, with milestones shattered and barriers broken. From the soccer pitch to the basketball court and the wrestling mat, NJCU's student-athletes have exemplified excellence, determination, and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on the university's history. Mirroring the university's own journey of overcoming adversity, these remarkable women’s student-athletes have risen to prominence, showcasing NJCU’s trademark grit and determination in the face of undaunting competition and outside pressures. 

This past fall, the NJCU women's soccer team enjoyed a season that was truly inspirational. With their highest regular season finish ever in their 31-year history, they achieved a new standard for excellence on the field. Sophomore goalkeeper Sophia Mannino won the program’s first New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Goalkeeper of the Year award and was also named First Team All-Conference. Their first-ever home playoff game in program history was not only a testament to their hard work but also a celebration of their dedication to the sport. And when they clinched their first-ever playoff victory and secured a spot in the conference semifinals, they not only made history but also demonstrated the power of teamwork and perseverance. 

Over the last four years, the NJCU women's basketball program has emerged as not only one of the finest in the State of New Jersey, but in the entire country, with a team largely built with local talent. The 2023-2024 campaign was yet another extraordinary season, as our women captured their third conference championship in the last four years. The women’s basketball team is the first athletic team in any sport in the more than 90-year history of NJCU athletics to ever accomplished this. Led by the exceptional talent of two-time All-American, all-time leading scorer and Secaucus native Damaris Rodriguez, the team has showcased their prowess on the court. Their second NCAA tournament appearance in program history is a testament to their determination to compete at the highest level.

Since being launched in 2020, the NJCU women’s wrestling team have been trailblazers in the sport as the first women’s wrestling program in New Jersey or tri-state history and this year, the Gothic Knight wrestlers have continued making waves across all three divisions, earning a spot in the Top 10 national rankings. Their stellar performance this season culminated on March 9 with a historic victory by West Orange’s Sandra Guerrero, who became the first national champion in program history — the first national champion for any female wrestler from New Jersey or ANY state on the East Coast of the United States. Furthermore, Sandy was awarded the Most Outstanding Wrestler of the national tournament. Guerrero's triumph not only symbolizes the culmination of years of hard work and dedication but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring female wrestlers throughout New Jersey.

Our student-athletes are fortunate to be led by two strong female role models in Head Athletic Trainer and Senior Woman Administrator Karla Mejia, and Faculty Athletics Representative and Assistant Professor of Management Dr. Lauren Johnson.

“I could not be prouder of every single student-athlete we have,” said Mejia. “They open new doors for themselves and for one another. Possibilities are endless and I can confidentially say this will not be the last time NJCU’s women’s teams will be the paragon.” 

Dr. Johnson noted: “Our student-athletes at New Jersey City University have exemplified leadership in the classroom, throughout the University, and Jersey City community. There are numerous female student-athletes who are Dean’s list students and are at the top of their class academically. The women’s softball team co-organized an event with Women and Gender Studies to host a documentary screening for the entire campus community. Members of the women’s bowling team volunteered their time and talents with the Special Olympics of New Jersey.” 

The achievements of these remarkable student-athletes at NJCU underscore the university's commitment to fostering excellence, empowerment, and inclusivity in sports. Their success is a testament to their talent, perseverance, and dedication to their craft. It’s further proof that NJCU isn’t just surviving, but rather thriving. As we celebrate Women's History Month and reflect on the indelible contributions of women in sports, let us applaud the accomplishments of these trailblazing students and continue to support their journey towards even greater heights of success. In their achievements, we find inspiration, empowerment, and the promise of a brighter future for women in athletics.

Robert Cole
Director of Athletics

Dr. Lauren Johnson
Faculty Athletics Representative
Assistant Professor of Management

Karla Mejia
Head Athletic Trainer
Senior Woman Administrator