Renovations to Sollazzo Rec Center in Harrison ends decades-old tradition for street hockey players

Unfortunately for the hockey fans, renovations set to take place at the center will soon convert the court to a parking lot.

News 12 Staff

May 28, 2023, 8:23 PM

Updated 468 days ago

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Street hockey players held their final game at the court of the Sollazzo Rec Center in Harrison Sunday before it is scheduled to be renovated.
For several decades, the Sollazzo Rec Center court has been a meetup site for street hockey fans across Westchester.
Every Sunday morning at 9:15 a.m., players would gather at the location for a weekly game.
"We’ve been playing here nonstop every Sunday for the last 42 years,” said Tommy Russo, of the Harrison Street Hockey Association.
The court has been a sacred space for many players since they were teenagers.
“It’s the brotherhood of all those that love hockey, and we just enjoy each other’s company,” Russo said.
"It’s a chance for us to all get together whether were talking about the game or anything that’s going on. You just forget about it for a second and focus on having fun,” said hockey player Kevin Gironda.
Unfortunately for the hockey fans, renovations set to take place at the center will soon convert the court to a parking lot.
As the players begin to search for a new spot for their games, the hockey players said they will always treasure the memories made at the court.
“Forty-two years is something to celebrate, and also be sad about,” Russo said.