Damon LaSalle’s journey back to college athletics at New Jersey City University (NJCU) is a tale of determination, inspiration, and second chances. As a 40-year-old college volleyball player, LaSalle keeps the university’s athletic trainers on their toes. His daily routine involves managing aches in his hamstrings, knees, and back, thanks to the physical demands of the sport. With regular chiropractor and acupuncture appointments, along with frequent visits to the training room, LaSalle humorously notes how he’s held together by a “professional team taping me and sewing me together.”
Despite the challenges, LaSalle, playing as a middle blocker for the Knights, is eager to make the most of his return to collegiate sports. Most of his teammates had not even been born when LaSalle first made his mark as a Division III volleyball star over two decades ago. His academic journey was halted prematurely when he was ruled academically ineligible before what should have been his senior season. With encouragement from his wife, he returned to NJCU to honor his late mother’s wish for him to earn a degree and to set a positive example for his three children.
Academically, LaSalle is thriving. As a fire science major, he’s maintained a dean’s list-worthy 3.8 GPA and is poised to graduate this spring. But the volleyball journey has had its ups and downs. Injuries have limited him to participating in just 10 of the team’s first 18 matches, with some injuries unrelated to volleyball, like tweaking his hamstring while shoveling snow.
Reflecting on his athletic performance, LaSalle admits that he doesn’t have the same speed or jump height that he did in his prime. A reality check shows that while he once dunked basketballs, now he can merely touch the rim. Yet, he can still hold his own on the court. NJCU’s coach, Carlo Edra, notes LaSalle’s young appearance, as neither of two rival coaches could identify him as the 40-year-old in a photo lineup.
LaSalle’s first tenure at NJCU ended abruptly due to his poor academic performance, emphasizing the mistake of prioritizing sports over studies. He dropped out and found work through Edra, eventually making a career out of it and starting a family. Inspiration to return to school came when LaSalle saw his wife’s Rutgers diploma, prompting him to consider his children’s potential questions about his unfinished education.
With close friends continuing to push him towards finishing his degree and volleyball career, LaSalle embarked on a path to regain academic eligibility. After juggling part-time classes to improve his grades, he returned to full-time status and rejoined the volleyball team last fall. Although he hadn’t played organized volleyball since 2006, he stayed physically active and returned ready to compete.
LaSalle’s teammates have warmly welcomed him, dubbing him “Big 40” for his undeterred effort and leadership on the team. Knights captain Alex Casais treated LaSalle like any other teammate until LaSalle proved his worth on the court. LaSalle’s approach has been to blend in, working hard alongside his teammates without expecting any special recognition for his past achievements.
The volleyball landscape may have evolved, with faster-paced games and increasingly sophisticated tactics, but LaSalle’s dedication and skill have ensured he competes effectively. Coach Edra acknowledges that LaSalle’s ability to compete with players half his age is surprising and commendable.
Cherishing every practice and match, LaSalle knows this second chance is a rare opportunity. Reflecting on his past, he notes the significance of playing each game, remembering how his previous career ended without warning. Now, he views every day on the court as invaluable, embracing his role and savoring each moment.
