Brockport sophomore Karina Rozhevenko has made her mark this season by bringing home the program’s first-ever Co-Defensive Player of the Week award. Rozhevenko had an impressive stat sheet recording 19 flag pulls, eight tackles for loss (TFL) and six sacks. 

It all comes down to instincts for Rozhevenko and when she stays calm and doesn’t overthink, she performs at her best 

“My instincts are my biggest asset on the field,” Rozhevenko said. “When I stopped overthinking and just went with my instincts, it really helped me, and this allows me to be able to go full speed and react.” 

Just two weeks into the flag football season, Rozhevenko and the Golden Eagles have a sense of pride in the team’s accomplishments in their debut season and values being part of this new program they are helping build. 

“It feels great since our first season as a team,” Rozhevenko said. “I’m really proud of myself and proud of my team. Being part of something new like this makes it even more meaningful because we’re all building it together.” 

Rozhevenko’s success comes from her work ethic and teammates’ support, which drives her to improve. 

“My team, my effort, and the work I put in during the preseason are the biggest keys to my success,” Rozhevenko said. “Everyone on this team pushes each other, and that’s what helps me play at my best.” 

She emphasized the importance of off-field work, such as preparation and film study, which helps her improve and play at the top of her game consistently. 

“I focus on each game, giving 100 percent,” Rozhevenko said. “I watch film and learn from every game. That helps me stay consistent and play my role weekly.” 

After back-to-back victories over the weekend at Bob Boozer Field for the Golden Eagles, Brockport sits with a 5-2 overall record and 4-1 in Empire 8 play. The Golden Eagles are back in action at home hosting Elmira College Tuesday, April 14 at 6 p.m.