The Lasting Impact of Being a Jersey Blue

A Jersey Blues Testimonial: Christal Cocozza’s Lessons Beyond The Court

Christal Cocozza’s time as a Brookdale Community College student-athlete from 2011 to 2013 provided much more than memories on the basketball court. As a center for the Jersey Blues women’s basketball team, Cocozza developed discipline, accountability, teamwork and resilience while forming friendships that remain an important part of her life today.

Balancing academics, basketball and everyday responsibilities taught Cocozza the importance of time management and continuing to push forward when faced with challenges. Her Brookdale experience also gave her a strong sense of belonging, particularly within the athletics department.

“Brookdale always felt like a family and I always felt welcome in the athletics department,” Cocozza said. “The locker room was our safe place.”

Cocozza was also part of the first Jersey Blues team to play in the newly renovated Collins Arena, an experience that added another special memory to her Brookdale career.

Of all her moments on the court, however, one still stands out. Cocozza remembers hitting the first three-pointer of her career during a home game and hearing the crowd erupt in celebration.

“I honestly don’t even remember who we were playing, but I’ll never forget the feeling of hearing the crowd go wild after I made it,” she recalled. “That moment reminded me how much I loved competing and being part of something bigger than myself.”

Following Brookdale, Cocozza continued her education and earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Today, she works as an Access Service Representative in the emergency room at Hackensack Meridian, a busy and demanding environment where many of the skills she developed as a Jersey Blue continue to serve her.

“My experience as a student-athlete at Brookdale prepared me well for balancing the workflow, managing the pressure and staying organized,” Cocozza said. “The discipline and time-management skills I developed as a student-athlete continue to benefit me in my everyday life.”

Some of the most meaningful things Cocozza carried away from Brookdale cannot be measured by wins or statistics. Several of her teammates became some of her closest friends, and they continue to get together and catch up whenever possible.

Looking back, Cocozza remains grateful for the coaches, teammates, friendships and experiences that helped shape the person she is today.

“The lessons I learned at Brookdale have stayed with me long after my playing days,” Cocozza said. “I’ll always be proud to say I was a Brookdale student-athlete.”