MOUNTAIN TOP, Pa. — The captains of the Crestwood boys' lacrosse team were all smiles when they saw their assistant coach, Roderick Delarosa, for the first time in weeks on Friday.
The former professional lacrosse player turned defensive coach for the Comets has been undergoing rehab at Allied Services in Wilkes-Barre for the past six weeks. He was left almost paralyzed after contracting sepsis.
"We were all devastated, especially me because I've known him all of the cross and everything. He's very outgoing," said Logan Rolles, Crestwood senior and Lacrosse team captain.
"When we found out we would have the chance to come and talk to him, and he would be at the game today. We were thrilled," said Matthew Sklarosky, Crestwood senior and Lacrosse Captain.
For the first time this season, Delarosa left rehab to return to the field for one of the biggest games of the year—under the Friday night lights.
"We are a family, and that's what I love about this community, the school, the team," said Delarosa.
Delrosa was honored in a pre-game ceremony and congratulated on his recovery from both sides of the field.
"The support from prep, and of course Crestwood, the Mountain Top community I mean, it's just amazing," added Delarosa.
But once the whistle blew, Delarosa was back to what he loves most: coaching.
"Right now, both teams are doing great. Defense, I mean phenomenal," commented Delarosa.
As his recovery continues, Delarosa knows he will push through, a lesson he learned from his team.
"Just gotta work hard and don't give up," said Delarosa.