Cato-Meridian senior Mackenzie Mahoney will continue her athletic career at the collegiate level, committing to play softball at Corning Community College, an NJCAA Division III program.

Mahoney, a versatile player who has contributed at third base and shortstop, is also a successful volleyball player. As she looks ahead to her next chapter, she said Corning quickly felt like the right fit.

“It is a great place. The campus is very scenic and small like I’m used to here at Cato-Meridian. They have a very successful softball team, and the college has great support for students,” Mahoney said. “My friend Grinchy, who I have played travel softball with for almost four years now, got me interested in it. I then committed there for softball.”

Mahoney’s love for the game has been shaped by years of memorable moments and the people who helped her develop along the way. When asked about her favorite softball memory, she immediately pointed to the coaches who supported and taught her throughout her career.

“I had great coaches,” she said. “Coach Terpening taught me how to bunt. I attended softball clinics and camps and took batting lessons.”

Some of Mahoney’s most fond memories come from her early playing days, when she began building the confidence and skill that would carry her into high school competition. One moment stands out above the rest: her first home run.

“My first home run was in little league, one of the last games. I remember everyone was asking me what I ate for dinner because they thought that was the reason I was able to hit it so far,” Mahoney said.

On the varsity level, Mahoney missed her freshman year of softball as she recovered from ACL repair sustained while playing basketball. After much perseverance and training, she came back even stronger. She said last season was especially meaningful as she grew both as a player and as a teammate, including taking on a new position on the field.

“I did very well last season, my batting average ended up being .577.” she said. “I also changed from third to shortstop. It wasn’t that much of a change for me. That side of the infield is a hot and exciting place to play.”’

In addition to her impressive batting average last year, Mahoney said she has been most proud of her speed and agility, often stealing bases.

Through every season, Mahoney said her family has been a constant source of encouragement and support.

“My dad and my mom. They are my biggest supporters,” she said.

At Corning, Mahoney plans to pursue health sciences, with long-term goals beyond the softball field. She said she hopes to continue her education after Corning and enter the medical imaging field.

Mahoney described the recruiting process as straightforward, crediting Coach Johnson’s outreach and the campus visit for helping her make a confident decision.

“It was one and done,” she said.

As she prepares to take the next step, Mahoney said she is most excited for everything that comes with the college experience both on and off the field.

“I am most looking forward to meeting new people, new experiences and being able to continue my career.” she said.

From a Blue Devil to a Red Baron, Mahoney is ready for her next chapter on the diamond at Corning Community College.