To honor Women’s History Month, University of Detroit Mercy’s Office of Marketing & Communications spoke to Titan student-athletes and coaches about their experiences in sports, which Title IX made possible. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of the landmark legislation.
Here’s what cross country and track and field student-athlete Kaitlin Murray had to say:
Kaitlin Murray
Year: Junior
Hometown: Redford, Mich.
Major: Biology
Expected graduation year: 2023
Sport: Cross country and track and field
Why did you choose Detroit Mercy?
I chose to attend Detroit Mercy because of the small class sizes and I like the team atmosphere.
How did you get involved in sports? How old were you? What sports did you play?
At a very young age, I was involved in sports because my whole family runs and encourages us to be involved in sports. I was like 5 when I ran my first race and played soccer and danced. I did tap and ballet, I ran, of course, and I played soccer as well.
What has your experience as a student-athlete at Detroit Mercy been like?
My experience has been good. The team is very supportive, especially throughout COVID, and we’ve been able to have fun events, even when everything was canceled. I really enjoy how close the team is and the atmosphere here.
How has participating in sports shaped your life experiences?
I have always loved to move and be active. I’ve always loved being a part of something and being a part of a team. My life has always been better for it, and my family has always supported me and always wanted me to succeed at every sport that I tried.
Who is a role model that you’ve had in sports?
I’d say that my mom has been a great role model. She was also a runner and she was running all throughout my childhood. I just wanted to be as fast as her when I was younger.
Check out our other profiles on our women student-athletes and coaches: women’s lacrosse student-athlete Kaileigh Nuessgen; women’s fencing student-athlete Isabella Cole; women’s soccer student-athlete Hannah Alexis.