By Kaitlin Seguso
The ref’s whistle blows as the players step onto the ice for the upcoming faceoff. Left winger Chris LaRossa skates in front of the circle as he hears his coach’s voice in his head: “Make sure you’re faceoff ready.” He makes sure to do just that, ripping a puck into the net.
Chris LaRossa is a hockey player at White Plains High School who doesn’t let fear stand in his way. He’s a goal scorer, a playmaker, and someone who executes his plans on the ice. He’s been playing varsity ice hockey since his freshman year, scoring four goals last season. So far this year, he has a total of five goals. But Chris isn’t just an athlete—he’s also a humble, laid-back guy with a lot of sportsmanship. He’s one of the funniest players I’ve ever had the pleasure of playing with, and after reading this, you’ll probably want to play with him too.
Chris started playing hockey at the age of 9, during the “squirts” age group. He loves the sport, as well as both his travel team and varsity team. He enjoys playing with friends and is a true team player, both on and off the ice. I had the chance to interview Chris and learn more about his hockey career and personal life, including his thoughts on sportsmanship, friendships, and training.
For Chris, hockey was once just a fun game to mess around with. But as he got older and the game grew more serious, his enjoyment of the sport only deepened. Now, he has a blast practicing, staying in shape, and playing with close friends. He’s committed to the sport because he knows he’s good at it and, more importantly, he genuinely loves playing and being with his friends. “I love the sport; I’ve made a lot of fun memories and many friends. I want to be the best I can be at it,” Chris says. Hockey has had a significant impact on his life, and it’s what he loves to do most. The sport has also boosted his confidence, toughened him up, and made him stronger every day. Chris is so invested in the game that he plays for two teams and even plays the NHL video game. However, he doesn’t see a future in the sport professionally but still plans to stay involved. He might play club hockey in college or even in a league later in life. Chris is one of the best athletes I know, and he’s an invaluable asset to both the White Plains High School varsity hockey team and the White Plains Plainsmen travel team.
But Chris is not just a great athlete; he’s an amazing person as well. He’s kindhearted and always looks to lift people up, no matter the circumstances. Chris is a funny, entertaining person who constantly makes his teammates laugh. He knows what he’s doing, no matter what his coach asks of him. Even when he gets yelled at, he still knows how to improve. Chris never really considered quitting hockey, mostly because of how much he loves the sport, even though it can be tough and there’s often pressure to perform. Although he almost didn’t play varsity hockey his freshman year, a lot of convincing led him to suit up, and he’s glad he did. Playing varsity hockey has given him new friends, plenty of fun memories, and a deeper love for the game.
Through hockey, Chris has learned many life lessons. He’s learned to be a team player, and that teamwork is more important than individual success. He’s also taken to heart a quote from his coach: “Good enough is the enemy of excellence.” It means that being just “good enough” isn’t enough when you have the potential to be excellent, and that’s something Chris strives for every day.
Playing hockey has helped Chris become a more confident and benevolent person. He works hard to improve every day, never letting fear hold him back from playing his best game. He’s learned to push through even the toughest challenges, always finding a way to succeed. No matter what, Chris can always find the back of the net—and with that one shot, he gives his team an opportunity to win.
Commenti