Athlete of the Week: Heart of a Leone

Northborough resident and lacrosse midfielder, Mike Leone, has earned a worthy reputation by helping his teammates on the field, mostly through a discerning glance and without destroying their confidence. One of his favorite quotes comes from Herb Brooks in the American sports film, Miracle, who said, “the name on the front of the jersey is a heck of a lot more important than the one on the back.” This phrase has become a lifestyle philosophy to Leone and that’s why he knows that it’s important for certain players to set an example for the younger guys. “Ever since joining the Tomahawks, I’ve just tried to be a team player and support my teammates,” he says. “It’s a way of showing my commitment.”

That discipline is just a tiny part of what keeps Leone among the top athletes in Lacrosse. Northborough Patch looks at a few more ways the senior channels his energy into a sport that has taught him about more than just wins and losses.

Northborough Patch: With four years in the system, you’ve flourished the way coach Luongo envisioned you would. What are some other ways you’ve prepared yourself for the lacrosse season?              

Mike Leone: Well, I play hockey in the winter season, so coming into the spring season, I'm in good physical condition. I try to get in as much stick work as I can between hockey and tryouts.

NP: How has the extra time you put in to perfect your game benefited you over the long haul?

ML: I am able to trust in my stick skills that I will catch a pass or make a good pass.  Also, I can use my strength and endurance to my advantage during games.

NP: The team has once again proved their resiliency and craftiness by getting off to a 10-3 start (8-0 in Mid-Wach-A). What part of the game has the team contributed most to the early success?

ML: Discipline has been what has made us successful so far. We don’t take too many stupid penalties, stay disciplined on defense, and don’t force it on offense when we are playing our game.

NP: What do you love most about lacrosse?

ML: I love the ground ball battles the most in lacrosse.

NP: Do you play any other sports at Algonquin?

ML: I also play hockey at Algonquin.

NP: Your approach to lacrosse is as unique as your approach to academics. Your coaches have said you’re committed to doing your best in school. Why is it important for an athlete to find the right balance?

ML: The majority of high school athletes don’t have a future in sports. Realizing this, I know that it is also important to keep my grades up in school even though sports are a lot more fun than schoolwork (laughs).