The founder of Team 91 Lacrosse, Brian Spallina is a 2000 graduate of Hofstra, where he was a two-time All-American, who holds the Major League Lacrosse for most championships won by a single player, with seven titles to his name. In this episode, Brian talks about rising to the top of the sport.
Having over 200 penalty minutes in the sport of lacrosse is not something that most people focus on when they think of Brian Spallina. In fact, Brian will tell you that one of the best descriptions about his career was the word "misunderstood". What does come to mind about a 17 year career in a sport that he basically helped put on the map was his 7 title championships. He will be the first to admit, however, that every single one was a team effort and that is what makes the sport of lacrosse great.
Growing up with 2 older brothers and 1 younger brother and sister, Brian attributes his work ethic from both siblings and parents. "You want a new pair of cleats" his Dad would say, "Ok first you need to rake all of the leaves in the yard".
It was, however, during his High School years at Rocky Point that he really started to understand the game of lacrosse and was fortunate to have some great coaches along the way. Fast forward, 7 championships later over a 17 year career, Brian founded 91 Lacrosse. What started out with having 3 boys and 3 girls lacrosse teams in year 1, sky rocketed to 16 teams in year 2 and is still growing. providing that support and education to kids from all over has been Brians greatest gift through it all. It is one of the reasons why is biggest passion is his teaching career.