E8 Spotlight: Maria Allocco
The Empire 8 Conference is full of talented student-athletes and the E8 Spotlight is one way for fans to get to know them.
Maria Allocco (Ballston Lake, NY/Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake) and is two-sport senior athlete at Nazareth College. She is majoring in Social Work and competes in volleyball and basketball for the Golden Flyers.
A standout on the volleyball court, she is a two-time All-American, three-time All-E8 honoree, three-time E8 tournament MVP and two-time first-team All-Region selection.
On the basketball hardwood she has started 35 of the 69 games she has played in over three years, shooting .417% from the floor.
Career Stats:
Volleyball |
Basketball
Why did you choose to attend Nazareth? I really liked the small school atmosphere. I loved the campus and the town. Nazareth had my major (social work) and I just really wanted to play volleyball.
What has been the greatest part of your experience as a college athlete? Being able to go to the Empire 8 tournament and NCAA’s every year in volleyball.
Who has been the most influential person during your athletic career? Why? My parents. They come to every game they can and are always supportive, even when watching the games online when they can’t make it. They have done a lot for me.
Where do you see yourself in five years? I’m not exactly sure at this time. Maybe go to grad school, but hopefully working in social work field.
What do you like most about competing in the E8? Love the competition and the teams. I know a lot of the girls from high school on the opposing teams and its fun to compete against them.
What do you do in your spare time? I love hanging out with friends and family. I enjoy reading and Sunday night football.
Top 3 things on your bucket list? Go skydiving, travel, and compete in an extreme sport.
What is something most people don’t know about you? In high school I played the tuba.
Rapid Fire questions
Favorite food: Steak
Favorite band/musician: Jack Johnson
Favorite TV show: The Walking Dead
Favorite Movie: West Side Story
Favorite Book: East of Eden
Favorite place to visit: Wells Beach, Maine
Can’t live without: Chocolate
Pet Peeve: Waking up early
Celebrity Dream Date: Mark Wahlberg