Hall of Fame
Although Anthony Rocco was originally recruited by a defensive coach for Norwich's football team, he excelled at lacrosse as well. He lettered in football for three years and lacrosse four years. Rocco was captain of the lacrosse team in 1984. He was also an All-Star in defense in the Coxe Memorial Lacrosse League, and was selected to play in the senior East-West All-Star game at Trinity College.
Rocco recalled fondly Coach Wally Baines, whom he had, "the utmost respect for." Baines was a new coach Rocco's freshman year. "He allowed me to essentially take over defense and coach from the field," Rocco said. "He had confidence in me and that was very special."
Since lacrosse is a spring sport and Vermont winters are long, Rocco has vivid memories practicing in Plumley Armory. "It was tough," he said, "but it made us stronger as a team. We could not wait to get out onto the field."
A criminal justice major from Norwalk, Conn., Rocco was also a member of Mountain Cold Weather for two years. He remembered working with the Special Olympics and helping kids learn how to snowshoe.
Since graduating from Norwich with a degree in criminal justice, Rocco has worked in the investment field. He now works in financial planning at Raymond James Financial Services. Most of his clients are individuals and Rocco enjoys the long-term relationships he has formed with many of them. "They are an extension of my family and it's great to help them financially and partner with them in other areas as well," he said.
Rocco said that his experience at Norwich helped his early career because he was used to taking orders, working with relationships and listening to people. "Unlike others, I knew I didn't know it all and was able to really listen to direction," he said.
Rocco also spends time volunteering at a local hospital and Norwalk's annual Oyster Festival on Long Island Sound. He has a son, Brandon.
