Interview: Kevin Lassman on Choosing Hobart

Connecticut Jr. Rangers defenseman Kevin Lassman recently committed to Hobart. The Florida native has seven points (1g-6a-7pts) in 19 games this season for the Rangers.

Prior to joining the Rangers in the NCDC, Lassman played at Williston Northhampton.

“Puck-moving defender that plays a rugged game on the back-end,” our scouts said. “Constantly involved in the play and plays with an edge. He has average feet and does a good job keeping tight gaps. He has a strong motor and competes hard all over the ice. He plays physical in his zone and uses an active stick to cut down space.”

NZ: Who or what first got you into playing hockey as a kid? 

Lassman: “My parents introduced me to hockey at a young age. I started skating when I was 4 years old.”

NZ: You’re a Florida native? What was the hockey scene like for you growing up there? 

Lassman: “I was born in New York, and moved to Florida when I was a year old. I enjoyed playing hockey in Florida. I played for the Florida Jr. Panthers up until peewee. I also played a year for the Florida Alliance. The local travel hockey was competitive but the team that gave us the most competition was Tampa 2000.”

NZ: When you grow up in Florida and you play hockey, did you know you’d have to leave at an early age to play at a high level? It seems like there are more programs down there now.

Lassman: “I knew I would have to leave at some point to play at a higher level just from the competition in the tournaments I played in up north. My parents and I thought that prep school would be the best route for me. When I was 14 I moved to New Hampshire and played for Top Gun so that I could get exposure for prep school.”

NZ: What were some of the biggest things you learned in your three years at Williston? 

Lassman: “It’s not always the teams with the best and most talented players that win. Coach Cunha stressed that the teams that have players who buy in every day and play as a team and play for each other will win. I remember my sophomore year we beat Salisbury and The Gunnery because we played as a team.”

NZ: At the same time, what was your experience like with the Springfield Rifles?

Lassman: “My experience with the Springfield Rifles was great. Coach Kervick helped me out a lot during my freshman year by picking me up from school and driving wherever our game was. He was a huge help. Even though we did not have many practices, Coach Kervick still managed to help my game improve and develop.”

NZ: What attracted you to the NCDC?

Lassman: “I was drafted by the CT Jr. Rangers in 2017. I was excited to come to play for Coach Henkel and I played for Vinnie Montalbano growing up for East Coast Kings in the spring and summer. Vinnie is the GM of The CT Jr. Rangers, so he knew how I played and what attributes I would bring to the team.”

NZ: Hobart is obviously rolling right now – what was it about Hobart that made it the place for you? 

Lassman: “When I visited Hobart I felt comfortable right away. I loved the campus and the area around the school. Coach Taylor and Coach Fiorentino showed a lot of interest in me over the past year and gave me a tour I would not forget. I chose Hobart because I can receive a great education and play a high level of hockey.”

NZ: What was your recruiting process like? Was it hectic or did you feel like it was managed well? 

Lassman: “The process went well. I visited a few schools and talked to coaches after games but I never felt overwhelmed.”

NZ: How would you describe yourself as a D? 

Lassman: “I am a two-way defenseman that’s likes to jump up in the play and join the rush. I am also solid in the D-zone.”

NZ: What are some of your goals for this year?

Lassman: “Just to continue to develop and improve every aspect of my game. I think there is always room for improvement. Leading my team to playoffs and winning a championship is also a goal of mine for the year.”