Nicholas Commisso is a very involved person. He plays football and basketball at Oriskany Junior-Senior High School, and is a member of Student Council and several other organizations at school. In his 16 years, he’s learned the value of teamwork, doing things for others and the importance of family and faith. In fact, his favorite times are Sunday dinners at his grandfather’s house.
You are involved with many organizations at school. You’re the junior class president and are part of Student Council, SADD, Science Club and Rachel’s Challenge. What have you learned about yourself by taking part in these activities?
I’ve learned … that I really enjoy helping and doing nice things for others.
You are a captain on the varsity football team and you also play basketball and baseball for Oriskany. How did you get interested in sports?
I became interested in sports for many reasons. One reason is because I have been playing baseball since I was 5 years old. I really enjoy being part of a team and working together to accomplish a goal.
If you could only pick one, what is your favorite sport?
My favorite sport is football because if you want a play to be successful, everyone has to do their job and work hard for the play to work. Also, in football everyone has to work hard if they want to win games.
Do you have aspirations of playing sports in college? Where would you like to attend?
I have aspirations of playing sports in college, but I know I will have to continue to work extremely hard if I want that to happen. I am not sure where I would like to attend yet.
What has playing on teams taught you?
Playing on teams has taught me that you can’t be successful unless you work together and to never give up.
Sunday dinners at your grandfather’s house take precedence over friends and sports any day. Why is that so important to you
Sunday dinners at my grandfather’s house are very important to me because I enjoy spending time with my family and being able to talk to them while enjoying delicious food.
Why is family so important?
My family has always been a huge part of my life and I know they will always be there for me whenever I need them.
You attended Vision 2015 at Notre Dame University over the summer. Please describe that experience?
It was an amazing experience. I was able to meet new people who all shared the same faith as me. I enjoyed it because people from all around the world had the same values and beliefs as me.
If there was one thing you learned there that impacted you the most, what would it be?
Treat others the way you want to be treated. I believe that impacted me the most because I think that if everyone did that the world would be a better place.
Faith is important to you. Who did you learn that from and why is it important?
I learned that faith is important from my parents. It is important to have a strong faith so that you can have a better connection with God.
You made your Confirmation at Mount Carmel / Blessed Sacrament in October. What does this parish mean to you?
This parish means a lot to me because it’s special to my family. We attend Mass as a family. My parents were married at this parish. My dad and his eight brothers and sisters went to school here. My mom has been teaching religious education here since I was 2 years old. I was baptized and made my First Communion in this parish, so it means a lot to be confirmed here.
If you were to share your faith with your friends, what would you tell them?
I would tell them that my faith is always welcoming to others and that having a strong connection with your faith can help you live a happier life.
Nicholas Commisso
- Age: 16
- School: Junior at Oriskany Junior-Senior High School
- Family: Dad, mom, two sisters and a brother
- Things you like to do: Play sports, read and spend time with my family and friends
- Favorite athlete: Steph Curry
- Favorite TV show: “Friends”
- Favorite book: “American Sniper”
- Favorite movie: “Sandlot”
- Favorite quote: “Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.”