Mercer Island senior Katie Brodsky made a small decision in 2009 that changed the course of her life forever.

Brodsky, who was enrolled in third grade on Mercer Island at the time, was prodded by one of her best friends to sign up to play the sport of lacrosse.

“My friend Tessa Guerra actually told me I should play lacrosse when I was in the third grade. I didn’t want to play. I was like, I don’t want to wear that eye gear and stuff like that. My dad was the one who said I should try it out and that it would be cool. I tried it and it was really fun. I have loved it ever since,” Brodsky said.

Fast forward to nine years later and Brodsky is team captain on the Islanders girls varsity lacrosse squad. Brodsky will play Division-1 collegiate lacrosse for Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona, next year. Brodsky verbally committed to ASU in 2016.

“Arizona State is such a cool school. I really wanted to play in the PAC-12. When I visited there, I just fell in love with the campus,” Brodsky said.

Before making the move 1,415 miles south for her collegiate career, Brodsky is completely focused on leading the Islanders as far as she possibly can in her senior season.

“Last year, we made it to the playoffs but we lost in the first round. The previous year (2016) we made it to the semis. I’m hoping we make it to state (finals) this year,” Brodsky said.

Brodsky, who plays midfielder, relishes the opportunity to be the leader of the Islanders varsity squad.

“It is a really cool honor. You always have to hold yourself to the highest standard and you always have to keep your head off regardless and set a good example,” she said of her role.

The Islanders have compiled an overall record of 4-0 thus far in early season action. Recently the Mercer Island Reporter had an opportunity to ask Brodsky a few questions about her life away from the world of lacrosse.

Mercer Island Reporter: What is your favorite restaurant in Mercer Island?

Katie Brodsky: Pagliacci Pizza.

MIR: What is the last movie you saw in the theater?

KB: “Finding Dory.” It was so long ago. It was really good.

MIR: What is your dream vacation spot?

KB: Kauai. I love it there. It is so laid back and has really nice weather all the time. I love the ocean too.

MIR: What is your biggest pet peeve?

KB: My biggest pet peeve is slow walkers. I hate being stuck behind slow walkers.

MIR: What kind of music are you listening to the most in your car right now?

KB: I listen to country music. I like Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood.

MIR: What is the last book you’ve read?

KB: “Cat’s Cradle.” I thought it was really cool. It was a really interesting book. I read it for my English class.