SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Patrick Hackler is an athlete from Central New York. A high school all-american on the lacrosse field and starting quarterback on the football field, Hackler was born a leader.
His leadership style consists of hard-work and humility. In 2019, Hackler made a decision not to attend his graduation of Skaneateles High School and tryout for the United States Under-21 Men’s Lacrosse National Team.
Supported by his family, Hackler’s blue-collar mentality earned him a spot on the final roster. “The opportunity to compete at the highest level as a member of team USA and wear the red white and blue is an honor I will forever cherish,” Hackler said.
Hackler remembers the first time picking up a stick at Skaneateles lacrosse camp coached by upstate lacrosse’s greatest minds. He said learning from legends like former Syracuse University lacrosse player Kevin Rice paved the way for him. “Playing lacrosse in upstate New York is participation in history and tradition,” Hackler said.
Hackler’s love of the game and personality have come from his family. Most of Hackler’s siblings attended all of his games at Yale this past year. Hackler says he’s grateful for all of the sacrifices his family make.
“My mom who’s just been a rock for our family and has sacrificed so much to give me the opportunity to compete and my siblings every opportunity to succeed.”
A team of many different backgrounds Hackler says he couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunity to be on the team and the opportunity to create relationships that will last forever.
