When discussing stellar athletes at Nonnewaug High School, Sophia Garguilo is a frequent name that comes up in conversation. Garguilo is a Senior at Nonnewaug and is a well known multi-athlete who participates in field hockey and track, both indoor and outdoor.

“I have been running track since 7th grade,” Garguilo says. “I started because my dad ran when he was younger. I really love it and have gained so much through this sport. I started field hockey just for fun, but I actually really enjoy it.”

Garguilo doesn’t only enjoy what she does, she gives everything her all and is always putting in leadership and effort no matter what.

“Sophia was a dedicated captain and she focused on the team and always made sure we were doing what we were supposed to do and would correct us in a friendly way if we weren’t,” says Tatum Kociszewski, a sophomore at Nonnewaug. “She shows leadership by just being a senior and still making sure we stay in shape and making sure we are motivated to keep winning.”

“I stay motivated by celebrating small accomplishments,” Gargulio says. “My family and friends also help a lot and encourage me.”

Garguilo’s effort and love for the sports she plays shines on the field, rewarding her many accomplishments.

“She is just a beast. She’s incredibly athletic, she’s strong, she’s dedicated, and she’s a good leader,” says Deborah Flaherty, librarian, cross country and track coach at Nonnewaug. “She always does very well in her individual events whether that’s at the Berkshire League Championship, states, she’s gone to opens. She went to nationals and participated in the SMR (sprint medley relay) and ran the 400 leg, put up a great performance and broke school records.”

Garguilo has also accomplished the All-State title, and she contributed to the field hockey team by helping them secure the BL title and make it to the semifinals in states.

Not only does Sophia show passion on the field, but she shows it wherever she is. Sophomore Maddie Garguilo, sister to Sophia Garguilo, says she is the same way at home.

“Sophia at home compared to at school and track is the same,” Gargulio says. “She doesn’t act much different. She puts hard work into everything she does no matter the circumstances.”

Garguilo isn’t only a role model in sports, but as a person too.

“Having Sophia as an older sister is nice because I feel like I have someone to talk to and she always demonstrates hard work and is always working really hard and sets a good example for me to push myself,” Gargulio adds. “She’s also a really supportive person, so I try to be supportive too.”