LONGMEADOW, Mass. — Nowadays, three-sport high school athletes are hard to come by because of the demands of each sport and how they overlap. But Leigh Chapman plays golf in the fall, basketball in the winter months and lacrosse in the spring. Since Leigh was a toddler, it was obvious he was all about caring how others felt and was selfless. Leigh would always be outside playing and the coolest thing was how he would stop what he was doing to ask a neighbor how his day was… “How’s it going, Phil?” Even at a young age and still to this day he is that teammate who will put an arm around a fellow hoop player or lax teammate who is having a rough day and come up with something to help bring them back up with a positive thought or kind words.

How long have you been playing golf and lacrosse?

Leigh Chapman: I first picked up lacrosse in first grade because my cousin played and I thought it was cool. Down the line, come third grade I was at one of my brothers games and they needed a goalie which I volunteered for and played the game. Being that I played well, it just stuck. As for golf I first picked up a club when I was two years old because my dad was a golf pro. I started to take golf more seriously once the pandemic hit and gave me another option besides lacrosse.

Describe the 2023/24 Lacrosse team and why you enjoy playing for the Lancers?

Chapman: As I look at the 23/24 season I hope to see us have a great year especially now that we are an independent program and can chase a state championship. I think that with great leadership from our captains and coaches I think that we will continue to have a strong team into this season.

What do you enjoy doing away from school and sports?

Chapman: Away from school and sports I like to spend free time with friends and family. Whether it’s watching tv or just sitting around, it’s always a good time.

Who are your role models for golf and lacrosse?

Chapman: A role model for my golf game is probably Justin Thomas or Matt Fitzpatrick because I like how analytical and deep they get into their game. I am similar to that. As for lacrosse, my role model is Will Mark because he puts his team first, works hard, is tough, and didn’t expect to play lacrosse in college, let alone a goalie.

Describe how supportive your family is in everything you do in your life?

Chapman: My family has always been super supportive of everything for me whether it’s getting a good grade on a test or winning a tournament or championship. They have always been there and will continue to do so. My dad in particular has always made the time to drive, show up, coach, and be a part of the process for me to get to where I am trying to be with all of my athletics. My mom has been a great motivator in the non-athletic side of my life helping to guide me through the daily grind of school.

If you were given a million dollars and had to give it to one charity, which one would you choose and why?

Chapman: Difficult question. I would probably pick autism awareness because of my cousin Finn who is autistic.

What are three things people don’t know about you?

Chapman: I actually enjoy doing yard work, and helping around the house. I’m good at having a conversation with someone. Lastly, I used to be in a go-cart league and won a championship .

Coaches Corner:

“It was a pleasure to have Leigh on the Varsity golf team this year. Leigh has an incredible work ethic. He works very hard on all aspects of his game and is always striving to get better. He is well respected by his teammates as well as every coach he interacts with. Although he is just a freshman, he takes the initiative to lead and set a great example for both fellow freshman and upper classmates. This year “The Coaches Award” on our team went to Leigh, the first year it was ever awarded to a freshman. I am looking forward to watching Leigh develop as a golfer, as well as an individual throughout his high school years.” – Coach Susan Denmark

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