Zeke Tocci

Zeke Tocci always looks like he’s excited to play lacrosse and his positive attitude is contagious.

“He plays like he wants the ball more than anyone else,” Lake Region varsity boys’ lacrosse Coach Don White said. “Zeke never gives up on defense. Throughout the game, you will see Zeke come out of a large scum of players with the ball, dive across the field to knock the ball out of the opponent’s stick, or continually hound the other team’s player with the ball.”

On offense, Zeke is fun to watch.

“He is elusive when he dodges around the defense to get close to the goal,” Coach White said. “He also knows how to get himself open to set up a hard shot from up top.”

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Zeke is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed T-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The Tocci File

Name: Zeke Tocci

Year in School: Sophomore

Town: Naples

Parent: Holly Polk

Sports you play: Lacrosse, hockey, soccer

School organizations: Varsity Club

Best piece of advice you have received? To prove everyone who doubts you wrong and when the hard work pays off, that’s who won the fight. The person who is successful doesn’t have to be the most successful in the end — my dad.

Who is your biggest fan? My mom because she tries to come to every game.

I know I have had a good sports day when…I get a lot of favorites on the after tweet and when I’m sweating like a pig.

What is your favorite sport? Lacrosse because it’s fast and it’s what I want to play in college.

If I could change one thing about myself as an athlete, I would change…Being able to run as fast as I can for longer periods of time.

What qualities make for a good teammate? Someone who pushes the team on and off the field. Someone who’s not only a friend on the field, but a friend off the field, as well.

What do you believe you bring to your team? I try my hardest to give everything I can to my team so I hope I bring a sense of not giving up because you should never give up.

What characteristics do you feel make for a good coach? Someone who you respect on the field and someone who is wise about the sport you play.