Jets honor Lazar LaPenna's memory
New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh, right, watches his players practice during tookie minicamp on May 6, 2022, in Florham Park, N.J. Credit: AP/John Minchillo
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – The Jets are honoring the memory of Lazar LaPenna, the 10-year-old boy from Long Beach who tragically died during a Little League game last week.
Lazar suffered an epileptic seizure after hitting a baseball and running to first base at Point Lookout Park.
The Jets, who began their rookie minicamp on Friday, didn’t issue the No. 9 – LaPenna’s number – to any of the 68 players taking part this weekend. A No. 9 Jets’ jersey with LaPenna’s name hangs in the end zone inside the fieldhouse where the Jets are conducting practice.
Additionally, Jets general manager Joe Douglas and head coach Robert Saleh wore black sweatshirts with “LL” over the No. 9 on the front left chest. The back also had the No. 9 and LaPenna ’s name under it.
“A tragedy for Lazar,” Saleh said as he put his hand over his left the side of his chest. “A young man who tragically passed. Joe and I and the organization are honoring him and his family. An absolute tragedy.”
The Jets also plan to coordinate other tributes for the LaPenna family throughout the season.
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
