OCC Sophomore Jillian Buscio Honored at 29th Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Awards

Toms River, NJ - Ocean County College sophomore Jillian Buscio was named a “Woman of the Year” at the 29th Annual National Girls & Women in Sports Awards, held virtually on February 3rd. Buscio, a two-year singles and doubles player for the OCC Vikings Women’s Tennis team from 2018-20, earned both NJCAA All-Region XIX and All-Garden State Athletic Conference Team honors through her collegiate career, and played a pivotal role in the Vikings’ postseason success during her tenure.

“Jillian was dedicated to improving her skills everyday with each practice and match,” recalled OCC Women’s Tennis Head Coach Megan Steinberg. “She was an asset to her teammates both on and off the court, as she brought smiles and laughter to every warmup and bus ride. We were thankful to have Jillian as a part of our team each day, but especially at Regionals when she played a key role in earning our team a spot at Nationals in Peachtree City, Georgia, by placing 2nd in both her singles matches and her doubles matches in the Regional tournament. Her skills and positivity will be missed as we know she will continue to do incredible things in her future!”

“When I got the phone call I was awarded athlete of the year, I was overwhelmed and very honored,” remarked Buscio. “My emotions were all over and I was so excited to hear this amazing news. I would like to thank OCC Athletics for giving me an opportunity to play tennis for two years and being supportive. I would also like to thank my coach Megan Steinberg for being an amazing coach and mentor for our team. She never failed to help us grow and push us to become better players and people. My teammates also had a big impact on my experience playing tennis. We all got so close and always encouraged each other to push hard and to keep trying if we failed the first time. Lastly, I would like to thank my parents and my sister. They are my biggest support system and I am so thankful for them supporting me in everything and cheering me on during tennis season. The past two years playing tennis at OCC has been the best experience with the best memories made. Traveling to Georgia for Nationals was one of my favorite memories that happened with my tennis team. It was an amazing opportunity to play against different opponents and to help us grow as players. I am very thankful and honored for this award and opportunity.” 

The National Girls and Women in Sports Awards recognize outstanding student-athletes throughout New Jersey who have made significant contributions to their institution and community through athletic accomplishments, academic success, and community involvement. Congratulations to Jillian for receiving this prestigious recognition.

For more information about the National Girls & Women in Sports Awards, please visit the New Jersey Association of Intercollegiate Athletics for Women’s site.