Alumni Spotlight - Nov. 30, 2012
Megan Fortunato (Fisher) - Field Hockey & Lacrosse (Delaware '00)
One of the most successful two-sport stars in University of Delaware women’s athletics history, Megan Fortunato served as captain and earned all-conference and all-region honors in both field hockey and lacrosse. One of the last student-athletes to play both sports at UD, the Hatboro, Pa. native competed in a combined 151 games, Megan led teams to a record of 92-57-4, earned all-conference honors six times, and all-region recognition four times. In lacrosse, she led Blue Hen teams to America East conference titles in 1998 and 1999 and to an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2000 for head coach Denise Wescott.
She earned all-conference and IWLCA All-Region honors three times each and upon graduation ranked No. 4 all-time at UD in assists (70), No. 8 in points (188), and No. 9 in goals (118). In field hockey, she was a three-time all-conference and two-time all-region pick who led the 1997 team to an America East conference runner-up finish. She played in a UD record 82 games for head coach Carol Miller and registered 9 goals and 15 assists. Megan earned her degree in health and physical education from Delaware in 2001 and her master’s degree in education from Wilkes (Pa.) University in 2006. She has taught health and physical education at Upper Moreland (Pa.) High School since 2002 where she also coached field hockey and lacrosse in 2002-08. She has also completed four marathons, including two Boston Marathons. She and her husband, Toby Fisher, reside in Lansdale, Pa. with their infant daughter, Kate.
She was inducted into the UD Athletics Hall of Fame in November, 2012.
What did your induction into the UD Athletics Hall of Fame mean to you?
"When I chose to play field hockey and lacrosse at Delaware, I had no idea the impact it would have on my future. The skills and life lessons my coaches instilled in me have helped me become the teacher and coach I am today. The memories and friends I have from Delaware will always hold a special place in my heart. I am so proud to be a part of the University of Delaware Athletics Family."
As a student-athlete, what brought you to the University of Delaware?
"When I visited my senior year in high school, I imediately fell in love with the campus. I attended a field hockey game and saw the intensity level the team was playing at. I knew I wanted to be a part of the program. I also liked that it was only one hour away from my home so it was far enough away from home to be independant and close enough if I needed to come home."
What do you remember most about your time as a student-athlete at the University of Delaware?
"My fondest memories of all the bus trips with both field hockey and lacrosse. We always had a great time and continually learned new things about my teammates."
Do you continue to follow the team?
"Every year my roommates and I set a date to go to one fh and lax game a year. Of course, we eat at Klondike Kates before heading over to the stadium. It is so exciting to see the strides the program has made since graduating."
What would be your advice to today's student-athletes?
"Don't take your college experience for granted. Before you know it, you will be graduating. On the field, play each game like it is your last. Even though you may be at UD for a sport, study and do the best you can in the classroom. "
What do you like to do outside of work?
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After I get home from work, I enjoy spending time with my daughter and husband, going for a run and watching tv."
What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?
" I enjoy baking and cooking for family and friends. I am always looking for new recipes to try."
