By: Collin Regina ’28, staff writer
For most student-athletes, managing practices, games and academics is already a full plate but for one being a first responder is also on the list of activities.
Originally from Lebanon, New Jersey, Sam Spagnuolo just finished Firefighter One over the summer and is currently an active member of the fire department here in Annville. Along with doing that he is also a current member of the men’s lacrosse team at LVC.
“In my experience, I know when I have time to respond to a call, and it’s always in the back of my mind,,” Spagnuolo, a sophomore attackman, said. “School and sports take priority, but when I’m available, I’m constantly thinking about when I’ll need to switch gears.”
Being a first responder is a tough task for all, but Spagnuolo uses his time management skills to help him stay focused on his duties on campus such as sports and school.
When Sam is off the field and has free time, he uses firefighting to help better himself with tasks he must do on campus. He credits firefighting with sharpening the same skills he relies on in the classroom and on the field.
“Discipline is a major overlap between both firefighting and lacrosse,” Spagnuolo said. “It makes you stick to your game plan and your role within it. In lacrosse, that means following the coach’s play; on the fireground, it’s carrying out the assignment your officer gives you.”
Beyond responding to calls, Spagnuolo is passionate about spreading awareness of the importance of first responders and encouraging others to get involved.
“One message I have for other students is: just try it,” Spagnuolo said. “That doesn’t mean signing on the dotted line right away, but it could mean going to your local volunteer organization and just talking to somebody.”
Looking ahead, Spagnuolo hopes more student-athletes and students alike will take part in community volunteer work. For him, firefighting is not just a responsibility, but also a way to strengthen himself on and off the field while giving back to the community.