Trying new things is not for everyone, however, for Teddy Skopak, stepping up to play in a lacrosse goal as a middle schooler set the tone of his upcoming years as a high school athlete. Skopak’s passion in the net grew and led to his accomplishment of setting the record of 770 saves at West Essex. His strong leadership skills and determination have ultimately led him to achieve this milestone.
“It means a lot to me, it shows my hard work, all the training and all the practices coming together and paying off,” Skopak said. “Even setting a good example for my teammates, being able to do that for them and hopefully inspiring the younger kids to look up to something.”
Reaching this accomplishment was a special feeling, however, Skopak said his focus snapped right back to leading his team to a victory after that record setting save. His skills on the field are not all he brings to the table, Skopak is able to navigate his team through difficult times while in the net. His long training on his own, dedication and his desire to be a leader sets him aside from many.
“Teddy is a vocal presence for sure,” head boys lacrosse coach Justin Schwindel said. “That’s a necessity at the position. He also has a great overall lacrosse IQ. Every great goalie I’ve coached has been like another coach on the field, and that’s Teddy for sure.”
Skopak gives tribute to his family who always pushed him to success, his club lacrosse team Mad Dogs for helping him advance and West Essex coaches for their lasting support and training. The support around him has pushed him to continue to get better and help him get to where he is today. Even after he set the record, Skopak highlights that he truly wouldn’t be able to do it without all the time and dedication people have given him.
“My biggest influence in my lacrosse career was my family as they always paid for training sessions or always used to drive me to them,” Skopak said. “Then there also comes my great goalie coach, who I look up to as a goalie. He has helped me a lot with technique and pushed me to constantly get better.”
Skopak’s 770 record breaking performance is more than just a number, but proof that dedication, leadership and unwavering support can truly lead to success. He will continue to make his mark with his upcoming team as he was given the opportunity to play D2 lacrosse at Rollins College. His legacy at West Essex serves as an inspiration to many, showing that passion and hard work can set someone up for future success. Through his own experiences and constant drive to continue to improve, Skopak offers encouragement and advice, showing his love for the sport.
“Stick with it, even if you have a great start and you’re young or you’re not having a great start,” Skopak said. “I had no idea playing lacrosse in college was even an option for me. I thought it was going to be the end of a meeting, but just stick with it, and good things will come if you just put your heart into it.”
