By Ryan Massad, Contributing Writer
Photo/courtesy Shelly Negrotti
School: Saint John’s High School
Sport: Hockey
Class: 2016
Coach: Michael Mead
Notable stats: 3 goals and 7 assists through 16 games
What are your earliest hockey related memories?
“One of my earliest memories of hockey was checking. I loved to play the body. At first, the refs would explain that it wasn’t allowed, except in summer tournaments, but I just couldn’t wait until summer. Playing a physical game has always been my style.”
Who encouraged you to get into hockey and succeed at it?
“My parents encouraged me to try hockey. I started skating when I was three, and began playing youth hockey at four. My dad also played hockey, as did my brother.”
What is it like to play for Saint John’s?
“It has been a goal of mine to play varsity, become a captain, and represent our school community. I like the level of competition and the camaraderie my teammates and I have developed on and off the ice. I am very proud to represent SJ.”
What is it like to play for Coach Mead?
“As a captain, I have been working with Coach Mead to develop and best represent SJ. We work well together. When I suggest something may work better, or to try something we need to work on in game situations, he is receptive. Coach is very approachable and fair.”
What are your expectations for the remainder of the season, both individually and as a team?
“Individually, of course I want to put up some higher numbers, as we all do. But more importantly is how we develop as a team. It’s how our team improves our record together, as a unit. We need to keep working hard in practice.”
What has been the single most special game of your young career?
“That’s hard. There are lots of great memories. Playing for my old team the Northstars, we had two state title wins. Those were exciting games. Most recently, the game SJ just played against Shrewsbury was very exciting. We won 2-1 in front of a packed Northstar Arena.”
What other sports/hobbies do you partake in?
“I played lacrosse for many years. I also enjoy the beach, boating, and fishing with the family.”
What is your favorite class in school?
“Saint John’s is a very academic school. I have had a lot of good classes with excellent teachers. I guess I would have to say Spanish. I feel learning a second language is very important.”
Who are your favorite NHL team and player?
“The Boston Bruins of course and my favorite player is Patrice Bergeron. He is an effective and talented two-way player. I work hard in all three zones, and Bergeron does it all, and is a good role model for younger players.”
What type of legacy would you like to leave behind at Saint John’s?
“Many kids have left our high school program early, for juniors, prep school, or other reasons. We have a young, still developing team with only three seniors. I want to be remembered as a good captain, a good leader, and I want our team to be remembered as a group who played with a lot of heart, who did their best to represent the school in a positive way both on and off the ice.”