Ramapo hockey player wears No. 22 like father years ago
FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J. — Hockey player Jack DeKorte knows playing on “home ice” has its’ benefits but what is especially appealing is when the rink is located out the back door.
“When I was five my father made an ice rink in our backyard,” said Jack. “Our family loves when it gets cold so we can all skate.together”
The backyard rink is constructed of a plastic base and fastened wood boards. It measures 72 ft by 36 ft.
“Six adults can skate at a time ,” said Jack. “I like to play three on three hockey games with my friends.”
Skating has been a part of Jack’s life since a family trip to Sky Top Lodge in the Poconos.
“I was only 2 years old when I learned to skate,” said Jack. “My entire family enjoys skating.”
His love of skating and hockey were inherited from his father, John.
“My dad played defense on the Ramapo High School boys hockey team and so do I,” said Jack. “My uncle Brian also played for Ramapo, as a forward.
Like father, like son both wore the number 22.
“When I was a freshman his number was available and I took that jersey,” said Jack. “It’s cool that I was able to wear the same number for all four years of my high school career.”
This year, Jack was the team captain and enjoyed the camaraderie of the other players.
“When we are on the ice together we are a family,” said Jack.
The Raiders enjoyed their best season in 40 years with a 18-9-1 record and a trip to the semi-finals of the state tournament.
“In the tournament, we played against Northern Highlands High School. It was our fourth time playing them this year,” said Jack. “There was so much energy and everyone put their heart into the game. Even though we lost it was a great game to end my high school hockey career.”
The high school senior appreciates the style of coaching he received from Raiders coach Michael McLachlan.
“Coach McLachlan helped us with the game of hockey but also cared about our character and our lives,” said Jack. “Think about how crucial it is when you are between the ages of 14 to 18 years old to have someone who cares. He is always about the well-being of his players.”
Jack also speaks highly of his number one fan and other “coach” … his dad John.
“He practiced with me and gave me tips but he told me to enjoy playing hockey,” said Jack. “He wanted me to understand that I was making memories for the rest of my life. I was living my best years.”
In addition to playing for four years on the Rampo team, Jack also played for five years on the North Jersey Avalanche hockey team.
“It was great getting to play hockey at a high level alongside players from neighboring towns,” said Jack.
At 5’ 8”, Jack admits his height has sometimes factored into success on the ice.
“I am fast and I was able to outmaneuver taller and stronger players,” said the 17-year old. “Even though I am defensive player, I can still contribute on the scoresheet.”
Jack had a goal and 10 assists this year for a total of 11 points on the season.
While his high school hockey career is finished, Jack is not ready to hang up his skates.
“I hope to play club hockey in college,” said Jack.
He explains his love of the sport.
“Everything good or bad that has happened that day disappears when I am on the ice,” said Jack. “It’s a place where I can escape.”
Jack calls himself a “faithful” New Jersey Devils fan and favors hockey player Andy Greene.
“He’s calm and cool,” said Jack. “You can sense he has a vision of the game.”
When not on the ice, Jack trades his blades for golf shoes.
“I am really enjoying playing golf with my dad and family on the weekends,” said Jack.
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