Dec. 13, 2007

Goaztecs.com is catching up with former Aztecs to see where life has taken them after graduation. Katy Murphy, a four-year letterwinner in softball and two-year participant in club soccer, shares her experiences as a collegiate athlete and the successes she has achieved in life.

Earning most valuable player honors in 1983 and 1985, Katy made a significant contribution to the Aztec softball team. She played both in the infield (shortstop) and outfield (right and left) for the softball team, and was a forward with the club soccer squad. Her name still stands in the Aztec top 10 for most career triples.

After graduating with a Bachelor's of Arts degree in physical education, she went on to earn her Master's in teaching. Katy now works as an elementary school physical education teacher at Juarez Elementary, and is one of the ambassadors that helped promote the Girls and Women in Sports Day on December 2.

What are you most proud of?
My parental and family support throughout my life which has enabled me to be who and where I am today.

What did it mean for you to be a part of the athletic community and a student-athlete? Being a student-athlete was extremely important to me. The camaraderie and the friendships made during my life were exciting, enjoyable and fun. It gave me focus and a positive outlet, and also taught me that if you have a plan and follow it, you can do anything. If you persevere through the good and bad times, you will be a winner in life.

Have you continued your sport after college?
I have played some co-ed softball after college, but have gotten involved in various other competitive sports. I have competed in numerous triathlons (sprint distance, half Ironmans and Ironmans), marathons, soccer, outrigger canoeing, and most recently, Gaelic Football. I love to share these experiences with my friends.

What is your favorite part about teaching?
When you make an impact on a student and see the growth both physically, athletically and emotionally. I also love being able to see the smiles on the children's faces when it is their day for P.E.

How do you feel that being an athlete contributed to your success in life?
I learned how to persevere and continue until the goal was achieved. I learned how to get along with others and work together, as well as trust and rely on my teammates. This is something that I deal with in my everyday life and is a very big part of my profession.

What is your greatest memory from college athletics?
It is hard to pick just one memory, because I have so many. I enjoyed the amount of time I spent practicing and perfecting my skills with my teammates every day. I always looked forward to share experiences with my team.

What advice do you have for girls or women in sports today?
Girls today should get involved in some sport. There is something for all of you if you have the desire, discipline and the perseverance. The lessons learned today will serve you a lifetime.

What are the major differences in women's athletics between now and when you were in college?
The skill level of the women athletes today is much higher because of the improved coaching and Title IX. The equality with the men's sports have helped women's sports grow in accessibility, quality of facilities, coaching and public knowledge. Women are admired and respected for their accomplishments. There is still a way to go, but it is a never ending process.