East County Athlete of the Week: Emma Arrigo

Emma Arrigo is a junior midfielder on The Out-of-Door Academy girls lacrosse team. Arrigo, a Stetson University commit, scored 46 goals for the Thunder in 2022. ODA (0-0 as of Feb. 20) will play its next home game at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 28 against Lakewood Ranch High (1-1). 

When did you start playing lacrosse?

Seven years ago. I saw a random lacrosse game on TV in a restaurant and thought it looked cool. It was so aggressive. I wanted to try it so I did. 

What is the appeal to you?

I love playing the game itself but I also love meeting new people through it.

What is your best skill?

My lacrosse IQ and my speed. Having played for seven years now, I know where I need to be on the field and how to set up plays.  

What have you been working to improve?

I have been working on my offense and my goal scoring in particular. I have mainly been an assisting player or a defensive player, but I want to generate more scoring opportunities myself. 

What made you want to commit to Stetson?

I loved the team and it was the exact type of school I was looking for: smaller and not in a big city. It is perfect for me. 

What is the team's outlook for the 2023 season?

I think we're going to be a great team even with the seniors we've lost from last year. I'm excited. We all have such great individual skill and it will be cool seeing it come together over the course of the year. (ODA went 15-2 in 2022.)

What is your favorite food?

I like spaghetti a lot. Any variation of it is great. I could eat it every day. 

What is your favorite movie?

This is tough because I watch a lot of things. 'Back to the Future' has been one of my favorites for a while. 

What is your favorite class?

I love everything about chemistry. 

What are your hobbies?

I like to be outside, things like kayaking or hiking with my family. 

Which superpower would you want?

I want the ability to fly. It would make getting around places easier. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Never give up. When I first started lacrosse I was not good. My parents (Amy Arrigo and Mike Arrigo) went out to practice with me all the time and I got better, but it took time. 

Finish this sentence: "Emma Arrigo is …"

Shy. I'm not a big social person. I'm quiet. But I have a big heart.