Tori Bernardoni - Fredonia State Women’s Lacrosse
For many athletes, injuries can be one of the toughest challenges they face during their college careers. For Tori Bernardoni, recovering from knee surgery tested both her physical and mental strength, but it also gave her a new perspective on the game she loves.
Bernardoni says the recovery process was difficult from the very beginning. Going from daily practices and competition to rehab sessions and time away from the field forced her to slow down and focus on healing.
“It was definitely hard mentally,” Bernardoni said. “You spend so much time playing and being around your team, and then suddenly everything changes. I had to learn how to stay patient and trust the process.”
Throughout her recovery, Bernardoni leaned on her teammates, coaches, and family for support. Even while sidelined, she stayed involved with the team and remained focused on returning stronger than before.
“My teammates really helped me through it,” she said. “They reminded me that I was still part of the team even when I couldn’t play. That support meant everything during recovery.”
Bernardoni says knee surgery taught her the importance of resilience and appreciating the little victories along the way. From regaining strength to stepping back onto the field for the first time, every milestone became meaningful.
“You don’t realize how much you miss the game until it’s taken away from you,” Bernardoni explained. “Coming back made me appreciate every practice, every workout, and every opportunity to compete.”
Now back with her team, Bernardoni says the experience changed her mindset both as an athlete and as a person. She believes the adversity helped her become mentally tougher and more grateful for the opportunity to play Division III lacrosse.
“The recovery wasn’t easy, but it made me stronger,” Bernardoni said. “It showed me how important perseverance is, and it reminded me never to take the game for granted.”