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Tmoney6996 · 02-02-2025, 01:55 PM

With the S81 SMJHL draft cycle in full swing, recent draft declarer, Thomas Passarelli thought it would be a good time to sit down with reporters, share stories of life in the ISFL, why he decided to make the switch to hockey now, and what he’s expecting or looking forward to in this adventure.

Passarelli: Thank you all for coming out! I see some media members that I recognize, and some that I don’t. A lot of new faces, but this isn’t the first time that I’ve been in this position and probably won’t be the last. I don’t really have much of an opening statement, I think we all know why we’re here, so let’s get into things.

Reporter #1: What do you have to say to all the Second Line fans that have followed you throughout the past 10 seasons? What’s the message to everyone that has been through the highs and lows with you and the team?
Passarelli: Well, first off, I want to thank all those fans for sticking with the team through the down years and then being there to celebrate the back to back championships that we had. Those are some of the best memories I have as a football player, and no one can take those moments and that wins away from us. Looking ahead though, I hope that those same fans can take a chance on a sport they may not be familiar with and follow me over there. I know that the Specters player right up the street from us, so get on down to the arena and show out, even if I’m not there.

Reporter #7: Shifting focus to the future, why decide to make the switch to hockey now? What do you say to the critics who don’t think you belong?
Passarelli: Ha, why not? Hockey has always been in the back of my mind as the potential next step, and with my ISFL career winding down, it makes logical sense to pull the trigger now. I’ve got 1 more solid season ahead of me with, and then all of my focus will be on being the best damn hockey player I can be. I’ve already been working physical trainers, and some living legends of the league to help prepare me for this next step. I think the sky is the limit.
For those that are already doubting me? C’mon now, you know I thrive off of that stuff. You all said the same thing when I was drafted for football. You really think I’m not going to put my all into this and try to be one of the best? You must be out of your minds if you think that. Next question!

Reporter #4: How would you describe your approach to the game and to the league as a whole?
Passarelli: I’m an all in guy. Once I set my mind to something, I’m going to make it happen one way or the other. That’s no different here. I want separate myself from the pack and show what I can do. If you want to be remembered as one of the greats, you’ve got to put in the work, and I’m prepared to put in the time and effort needed to make that a reality. Obviously, there’s some luck and other factors included in there, but you just need to focus on what you can control. But again, I’m focused, I’m ready, and I’m excited to jump in with a team.

Reporter #2: Since there’s no real tape of you on the ice just yet, how would you describe your game to scouts and other interested parties?
Passarelli: I guess everyone will just have to wait and see, right? Just kidding! That’s a good question. Fast and efficient. That’s about as simple as I can describe my playstyle. I want scores goals and I want to generate opportunities. One someone sees me out there, I want to be recognized as an offensive threat that’s not afraid to put his body on the line to get someone in the right position.
Now, there’s been some talk in some circles about swapping to play as a D Man instead of a forward, and that I say, I’m on board. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still an offensive minded guy, but if a D Man is what is needed, then I can make that switch. Might need to put on some more mass, but we could make it work.

Reporter #1, again: What do you bring to a team, off the ice, that maybe doesn’t show up on the stat sheet or maybe teams don’t know?
Passarelli: Now that’s a fun one! I’m a huge nerd. My close friends and family all know that it may not be common knowledge to the outside world. I always find that being the best teammate and engaging in topics and activities that my teammates enjoy is always the best way to keep everyone engaged and in the moment. I want to be the best teammate, and I want the team, the organization, and the fans to have a good time when I’m around (or not). Definitely not looking to come in and dominate the LR with Warhammer or other video game talk! Unless someone wants too!

Reporter #6: With the Juniors draft only a week away, and scouting in full swing, what’s the one thing you want to prove to Orgs and scouts in the next week?
Passarelli: That I’m not a one-hit wonder. In hockey, football, any other sport you can think, people always think they are going to come in and set the world on fire. Then we look back even a week later and they’re nowhere to be seen, and find themselves left out in the cold. I mean it when I say I want to be remembered as one of the greats, and I’m here to put the work and the time in to ensure that I can put myself in a position to do just that. I’m not here to just a flash in the pan, enjoy the portal for a week and then disappear. It took a lot of consideration to make this switch, and like I said earlier, I’m not a half-ass guy. I’m doing this and I’m doing it right!

I think that’s all the time we have for today, and I appreciate everyone coming out firing with the questions today! I hope to hear from you all throughout the next week and into draft night!

baz · 02-02-2025, 05:58 PM

Thomas Passarelli in a hockey league the leagues doomed hes here

hhh81 · 02-02-2025, 07:09 PM

uh oh

Now you're in my house, kid.

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