Track and Field

Friday Focus with Emma Shafnisky

TOWSON, Md. – Every Friday, the Landmark Conference spotlights one of its standout student-athletes in the Friday Focus series. This week's feature highlights Emma Shafnisky, a member of the Moravian University women's track and field team. From finding a second home with the Greyhounds to competing alongside some of the conference's top athletes, Shafnisky shares what drives her on and off the track.

Why did you choose Moravian University?
I chose Moravian because it felt like home from the first time I toured the campus. I fell in love with the campus, but the track and field team is truly what made my decision. The close-knit, family-like atmosphere drew me in, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.

What's something you've learned from being part of a team?
Track has taught me how important resilience is. Not every race or performance goes perfectly, but it is important that when you have an off day, you continue to be supportive and cheer on your teammates. Learning to set aside my own frustration and to still be supportive has taught me that being a part of a team is much bigger than my own results.

Most challenging part of balancing athletics and academics?
The most challenging part of being a student athlete is managing my time, a skill that I am still refining. Balancing my track and field season with my academics requires planning and prioritizing. I've found that making a to-do list for each week helps me stay focused and on task.

Who do you play for — what or who drives you?
I run for 'little me'. Growing up, I have always dreamed of being a collegiate athlete, and I want to make the younger version of myself proud of how far I've come and all that I've accomplished. I also run for my dad. He showed me the importance of hard work and dedication. He inspired me to always give everything my all and to always show up and put in the work even when no one else is watching.

Favorite Landmark Conference opponent, and why?
I like to race against Scranton. They have a lot of really good athletes who push me to perform at my highest level. Facing good competition brings out my best and makes the competition even more exciting.

If your sport had walk-up music, what would yours be?
If track had walk-up music, I would pick Stay Fly by Three 6 Mafia

What's one thing you're proud of off the track?
I'm proud of the discipline and maturity I've developed. Coming to college and learning how to navigate a busy schedule, stay organized, and remain consistent even when I'm tired has made me a better person. I'm proud of the person I'm becoming through the challenges of the last few years.

Best piece of life advice you've ever received?
The best piece of advice that I've received is to focus only on what I can control. There are variables in life that we have no control over, and it's easy to be overwhelmed by them. I've learned that instead of stressing over these things, I should put my focus on things I can control.

Favorite movie quote or show line you always say?
Just keep swimming from Finding Nemo.

First time you knew you loved your sport?
The first time I knew I loved track and field was when I went to one of my first indoor track meets at Ocean Breeze. It was my first real exposure to a high level of talent and fast races. Watching and competing with those athletes made me realize that this is where I wanted to be.

Favorite place on campus to relax or recharge?
My dorm room for a nap.

Favorite song before a competition?
Lose Yourself by Eminem.

One teammate you'd want on your trivia team?
Katelyn Davis