1. What made you want to be a NYC Cyclone?

I wanted to be a NYC Cyclone because I saw the respect the players had for each other and I was able to see the way the coaches taught the players the correct way to play the game of hockey.  I didn't know much about the game of hockey yet but I knew if I wanted to learn and this was the best place for me in Manhattan.

2. How did the NYC Cyclones help shape the player you are today?

As I started coming into my own as a hockey player it became evident I was a play-maker.  From what I have learned over the years, many coaches would have pushed me to turn into a more physical player instead of focusing on what I do best, play-making. My coaches did a great job of enabling me to hone my natural talent and not changing my game.  You can now see these results as I'm leading the EJEPL U16 Diamond in assists and second in points overall to one of our own Cyclones, Joey Peracchia.   

3. What was the most important lesson you learned as a player with the NYC Cyclones?

The most important lesson I learned as a player with the NYC Cyclones was to work as hard as possible every time you are on the ice, have respect for your teammates, coaches and your opponents. This has helped me both in hockey and my life away from the rink.

4. What was the highlight during your time with the NYC Cyclones?

The highlight of my time with the NYC Cyclones was going to the New York State Championships with my peewee AA team where we lost in the Semi-Finals.  At the NYS Championships we had at least a hundred people watching every game which was so exhilarating as a young athlete and something I will never forget. 

5. Why do you think your NYC Cyclones teams had such success?

My NYC Cyclones teams had such success because we had very well-structured teams where everyone worked hard every game or practice and would not accept losing.  Our coaches instilled in us that it's not just skill that wins a hockey game, but often who works the hardest and has the most determination.   You can see our results from the past years, it works.   

6. Where are you playing now and how did the Cyclones prepare you to compete at your current level?

I am still playing for the NYC Cyclones and now I'm the assistant captain for the most competitive team in the organization. I was lucky enough to have great coaches along the way that made sure we were always playing the most competitive teams in the country and made it clear that not working hard was unacceptable. Being successful in this sport is not easy and it's not always fun but now I see that everything I went through was crucial in shaping the player I am today.