Jaime Biskup is a star. She graduated from the champion program of Eastport South Manor last year, but Jaime couldn’t play a single game. A devastating ACL tear kept her on the sidelines during ESM’s championship run. Jaime was a constant presence for her team, and her energy was an inspiration to the rest of the Sharks. Jaime also excelled as a member of the Eastport field hockey team, her versatility and speed made her a multi-sport standout and landed her a lacrosse scholarship to the University of Virginia. She is in Charlottesville now, with the knee injury behind her she is preparing for her first season of college lacrosse.
Q: How have you been adjusting to college?
At first it was really tough to be away from my family. No one can really prepare you for that feeling, but luckily we have an amazing group of girls here that have made me feel so comfortable! I think one of the toughest parts was adjusting to the workload and the intense hours of practice and lifting. It definitely took a little bit more for me to get used to, but I think I have gotten the hang of it! Managing your time between classes and practice/ lift time is probably the hardest part of every week. You learn how to use your time wisely and end up getting everything done.
Q: Why did you choose UVA?
There are so many reasons why I chose UVA! I love all of the history behind this school, I absolutely love my coaches! I don’t think that many people really even know how much history is behind this school and all of our sayings, songs and rituals that go on here. I chose UVA because I could picture myself playing here and being a part of this team. I feel like I’m in the perfect place for me and I couldn’t be more excited about my future here. We have such an amazing community here, it’s awesome to be a part of it.
Q: What was last season like for you, having to watch?
Watching last season really benefitted my lacrosse IQ and I think it really helped me understand the game more. When something negative happens, I’ve been taught to find a positive- no matter how hard it is. I definitely learned so much and I am at a place mentally where I can be grateful to have gained so much from this experience. Hanging up my stuff my senior year knowing I would never again play for ESM was unquestionably one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. It was tough never getting that last chance to play with my best friend Kasey Choma. This was not the way had envisioned our five year varsity career coming to an end. We had big plans, and luckily for me I was supported by close friends, family and fans so much so that it felt like I was playing, not just standing on the sidelines. Watching the girls win the title was one of the proudest moments of my life and I’m so happy to have been a part of something so great.
Q: What are you missing most about Long Island?
I really am missing my family! And of course my dogs. It certainly is weird adjusting to not seeing my parents everyday and having them make dinner. Even spending time with my parents and friends is something I miss. It’s hard coming to a new school, and playing for a new team without really knowing anyone. With time you become close with your teammates, its one of my favorite parts of the game, I can’t wait to go visit my old teammates at their new schools. I’m very excited to come for the holidays and catch up with everyone.
Q: How do you see yourself fitting into the UVA team?
Right now I’m still in rehab, but I think I can be a good part of their offense this year. Again, standing on the sidelines is a great learning opportunity and experience. I’m not sure where I’ll be playing yet (middie/attack) but I would be able to handle either of those roles. I’ll be fully cleared in January, and I cannot wait to start playing again. I’m even more excited to start playing with my new teammates and start to make connections on the field. It’s a little hard for to envision myself playing again, because it’s been so long. I have no worries that once I resume, it will be like I never left. We have so many great attackers and midfielders at Virginia, I really can’t wait to get out there and challenge myself daily.
Q: Where do you see yourself after school and how does lacrosse play a role in that pursuit?
I think that I really see myself pursuing my dream of doing interior design and maybe getting an internship somewhere in the city. My mom is an interior decorator/ designer so I would love to work with her after school. I’m honestly not sure where lacrosse stands after college. The sport has shaped my life and made me who I am. It is going to be very tough whenI inevitably have to make the choice whether to continue to playing. It is definitely something I want to continue doing. Even if its coaching lacrosse means so much to me, I know when the time comes I will make the right decision.
Q: Favorite song/artist?
10,000 hours + every single day of Justin Bieber and Dan + Shay.
