WESTON, Mass. — Joseph Ladocsi (17) is a seasoned athlete, having immersed himself in basketball and lacrosse from a young age. His journey began in kindergarten for basketball and in 1st grade for lacrosse. Now, as a junior at Weston High School (WHS), Joe stands as captain of the Boys Varsity Basketball team and has been a force on the Boys Varsity Lacrosse team since 8th grade. He also has been a dedicated member of Laxachusetts Lacrosse club since 6th grade.

Known for his mental and physical toughness as well as leadership skills, Joe is instrumental in maintaining team morale and focus, particularly during challenging times. His unwavering work ethic extends beyond practices and games, driving him to excel in both of his sports.

These attributes have helped his WHS lacrosse team earn three consecutive titles as DCL Foley Division Champions (2021, 2022, & 2023) and reach the Elite Eight in 2022 and Final Four in 2023. Further, Joe has received individual recognition in lacrosse where he has been named Rookie of the Year (2022), a DCL All-Star two years in a row (2022 & 2023), and, last season, a Co-Offensive MVP. Further, Joe has been a key part of the WHS basketball team going all the way to the D3 State Tournament the past two seasons.

Congrats, Joe!

Interview with Joe:

What are your personal goals within your sport/athletic dreams?

Joseph Ladocsi: Team wise, I would love to win a lacrosse State Championship. Individually, I would like to be the best leader I can be by setting an example and building my teammates’ confidence. I would also like to leave behind a positive team culture in both of my teams.

What do you love about your sport?

Ladocsi: Being teammates with my best friends from school has been incredible. I also love the speed, fast pace, and physicality of both basketball and lacrosse. Further, I take pride in doing the fundamental things that are often overlooked, such as boxing out, defense, and assists.

What is your biggest challenge in your sport, and what do you do to manage this challenge?

Ladocsi: Being a small town, the biggest challenge in sports is often being the underdog. My teammates and I try to embrace this underdog mentality and use it as motivation.

What was the best advice you were ever given?

Ladocsi: Flush it!’ You have to have a short memory to move forward, especially when things don’t go your way.

Do you have a pregame ritual you follow?

Ladocsi: I listen to pop music to calm myself down before each game.

Describe a mistake you made while competing and how you overcame it.

Ladocsi: Overthinking rather than moving on instinct. I have to just let my muscle memory take over and just play.

What do you like to do outside of your sport?

Ladocsi: Hang out with my friends, go out to eat, and watch my friends compete in their sports.

What has being a member of a team taught you?

Ladocsi: The value of leadership and team chemistry. No good team can be successful without these two things.

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