One on One

By Kevin Neibauer

Coaches, players, fans and officials from the Philadelphia Box Lacrosse Association (PBLA) all have been razzed, heckled or just teased by a member of the Grim Reapers.  Bill Kennedy, also known as "Nitti". Is a good natured guy who just seems to have fun at the Rink and life in general.  "Nitti" received the moniker years ago from a longtime friend. Born and raised in South Philly, Kennedy now resides in New Jersey with his family.

I recently caught up with Nitti and got some insight on the colorful Kennedy.

KMN- What is your lacrosse background?

BK- "I’ve played 12 years in the PBLA. Never played any high school ball."

KMN- When did you get involved in the PBLA?

BK- “My career started in 1988 with the Grim Reapers. I then moved on to coaching when I started my own team, that was 1997 into 2000. If not for Frank Menschner, I probably would not have been involved in the PBLA all these years."

KMN- You had retired, what brought you back?

BK-"Actually it was a combination of two things. First, my son, Owen expressed interest in Lacrosse and when he found out that I had played, his face just lit up. That kind of started the ball rolling. Second, the PBLA had an Old Timers game that was held at The Great American Showplace, Rizzo Rink. Frank Menschner and Bob Stewart put the event together on July 16, 2010. The game showcased the past and the present players; it was a great time for all. Frank approached me about playing in 2011. With a big smile on my face, I jumped at the chance!"

KMN- How much longer do you see yourself playing?

BK- "That’s a really good question. As long as my health is good and barring any injuries, I can see myself playing another four or five years."

KMN- Do you see coaching in your future?

BK- "Definitely, I already have coaching experience in the league with the Renegades so it would be an easy transition."

KMN – Do you have any family involved in Lacrosse?

BK- "My son, Owen comes down to Rizzo during preseason and regular season and throws the ball around with me before the games. I start him off with basic throwing and passing to kind of get the eye to stick coordination down. Nothing too fancy yet."