Tommy Palasek
PBLA Team: Syracuse Spark
College: Syracuse University
At what age did you start playing lacrosse, and what was the first lacrosse team you ever played on (and where, meaning, city and state)?
I started playing when I was five years old. My dad was a player at Syracuse University, so I was able to have a stick in my crib when I was born. The first team I ever played on was for an in-house league for the Ward Melville youth program on long island. I was so ready to go my dad had to say I was older to play with the youngest level, which was eight years old.
What are you looking forward to the most in the first season of the PBLA and why?
Every year, the most anticipated thing for me is the vision of raising that championship trophy. This first year is extra special to me since I got to play for the same city where I played college ball. That being said, the most anticipated thing for me is a chance to play with so many new teammates. This is a special group that has some experience together in the past. Teammates bonding like family is most important to me, and I can’t wait to start proving that to the guys.
What would you say is the strongest part of your game?
My versatility. I’ve been a goal scorer and offensive player my entire life. I want to be able to provide some dynamic offensive production but, more importantly, use my effort and athleticism to be a beast on loose balls, defense, and transition. I’ve been a football, basketball, and lacrosse player all my life, so I think the athletic experience should be a big factor in what this league Is all about.
What is the biggest adjustment going from field lacrosse to box lacrosse?
I think the obvious answer is the size of the goal and the open spots to score. Another adjustment is going to be the new substitution patterns the PBLA has made to make the game a bit faster.
Even though athletes always talk about “team first,” have you set any personal goals for this first season in the PBLA? If Yes, please share at least one.
Being the best teammate I can be really is my number one personal goal going into any season. This season I think that goal will be even more important since I am a new face to many of my teammates. Trust, desire to play for each, and chemistry have been the main factor on any championship team I’ve ever been on. As an offensive-minded player, I always want to be a key contributor or leader to a team that leads the league in offense.
On a scale of 1-10 with one being “not at all” and ten being “embarrassing, I shouldn’t even play,” how nervous will you be on the night of your team’s first game and why?
I would call it more anxious than nervous. I can’t wait for that first whistle to blow and start our championship journey.
If it’s up to you, what do you choose to eat as your pregame meal? (specifically, not just “something healthy”)
Chicken parm and past or Steak veggies and potatoes combo.
What’s most misunderstood about the sport of lacrosse?
I would say the lack of understanding around the origins of the sport. More people need to understand the medicine game from its roots and how special the opportunity to play this game is.
Follow Tommy on Instagram: @tpalasek
