It’s as familiar as an old shoe for Ryan LaRue. The Mahopac High School senior and three-sport captain trades football cleats for basketball sneakers, then swaps those for lacrosse cleats before doing it all over again, year after year. The endless routine has helped cement his place among the most accomplished athletes in school history.
As a wide receiver and defensive back for the football team, LaRue was often unguardable, leading the team in receptions, yards and touchdowns while also serving as its top cover man this fall.
Likewise on the hardwood, LaRue is a two-way force, delivering key buckets and lockdown defense, which he hopes to translate into Mahopac’s first Section 1 hoops title this winter.
“Ryan is as competitive of a kid as I have had in my time at Mahopac,” Wolf Pac basketball coach and assistant principal Matt Calabro said. “He has really stepped up as a leader and is willing to play any role for his team and coaches in order to win.”
But it’s on the lacrosse field where, perhaps, he leaves his greatest mark. There, LaRue has developed into one of Section 1’s premier players, combining the toughness forged on the football field with the athleticism and court vision sharpened on the court. Those traits have made him a cornerstone of the Wolf Pac program and a long-stick nightmare for opponents.
“LaRue is a true thoroughbred, one of Mahopac’s finest athletes in quite some time,” lacrosse coach Jon Bota said of the All-Section LaRue, who scored 32 points as a junior long-stick midfielder and will surely be considered for All-Section honors in football. “He’s an insane athlete and has always produced; not just in lacrosse but in football, basketball and lacrosse. He reminds me of (all-time Mahopac greats) TJ Foley and Danny Koch. He’s that special. He brings the energy just entering the room; not in a loud way, but in a controlled manner. He’s someone that I get excited to coach every day.”
The transition from sport to sport may appear seamless; in reality, it is anything but.
Every season demands a different skill set, mindset and level of physical preparation. The challenge of constantly recalibrating while balancing academics and the expectations that come with being a captain in three sports is one few high school athletes ever undertake. For LaRue, however, it has simply become a way of life for an accomplished three-sport standout.
Mahopac hasn't reached the boys basketball final four in more than a decade. Why might the upcoming season be different? I think our biggest advantage this year is our experience. Having three three-year starters is a big advantage against other teams.
What’s been the most challenging part of high school? Trying to balance school and three sports.
What’s your favorite high school memory, thus far? Beating Yorktown on senior night in football.
Has any particular educator made a difference in your life? Mr. Delasandeo, definitely; he shows support to all my games and texts me after each one.
People are so divided these days. What trait do you possess that might unify us? I think one trait I possess is the ability to get along with anyone. I enjoy meeting new people, making connections, and bringing positive energy wherever I go.
What do you see yourself accomplishing in five to 10 years? Graduating from college and hopefully playing a sport that I love.
What’s your favorite sport to play and favorite sport to watch? My favorite sports to play are football and lacrosse and my favorite sport to watch is football.
Favorite athlete: Ohio State WR Jeremiah Smith
Favorite pro and/or college team: Philadelphia Eagles
Name a chore that you hate: Laundry
Favorite place to visit/vacation: Myrtle Beach
College decision, college major intentions: Undecided
Hobbies outside of your main sports: Golf
Best slice of pizza in Mahopac: Cacciatori’s
Best chicken wings in Mahopac: Red Mills Pub
Favorite local restaurant: Blue Hen
Favorite birthday meal: Steak and mashed potatoes
What do you do on a day off? Play 18 holes with the boys then watch college football.
What are you an expert at? Food reviews
What are you not nearly an expert at? Fantasy football
Favorite pregame ritual: Watch "Troy: Fall of a City"
Favorite band: Kings of Leon
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