While schoolwork is the priority for Katie Falotico, her work ethic on the field is second to none.

BY RON FOX
SPECIAL TO THE RECORD | THE RECORD

Her teachers at Emerson High School can be sure that Katie Falotico always will be prepared for class.

“When I was little, people told me, don’t worry about homework. It’s only elementary school; it isn’t important,” the All-Bergen County softball player recalled. “But if I didn’t have my homework done, I would freak out and worry that the teacher would get mad at me.”

Falotico, a first baseman who’s about to enter her senior year, no longer has such worries, because schoolwork has been a priority ever since. She credits her parents, Jerry and Sharon, for her work ethic and her entrance into sports.

Jerry and his two brothers were star athletes at Emerson and Sharon was a standout basketball point guard in New York State.

“They pushed me to do my best,” Katie said. “My dad is my biggest fan and my biggest critic, and that’s what I love.”

However, there’s been little reason for criticism, either in the classroom or on the field.

As a junior, Falotico batted .571, drove in 24 runs and scored 33. At first base, she committed only one error for a .994 fielding percentage. In her high school career she’s totaled 144 hits, 96 runs, 94 RBI and a .642 on-base percentage.

“I like hitting, but honestly, fielding is my strong point,” the 5-foot-9 onetime pitcher said. “I’m more comfortable and more confident out there. But who doesn’t like hitting? When you’re up at bat, you’re a playmaker.”

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