This month’s Senior Spotlight recognizes hockey standout Niko Smilovic. A force to be reckoned with on the ice, Smilovic has been a key player throughout his career, competing at some of the highest levels and repeatedly proving his dedication. With his skill, determination, and passion for hockey, he has left a lasting mark on the ice and in the Ramapo community.
Smilovic’s journey in hockey started long before he ever stepped onto the ice. It began with a gift—a gift from his neighbor: roller skates and a stick that ultimately sparked a passion. Smilovic would practice every day, and shortly after, his parents would buy him his first set of ice hockey gear, and he was off.
At just eight years old, Smilovic joined his first team, the Hackensack Ice Dogs, playing against older, more experienced competitors. The challenge only fueled his competitive spirit. And after two years, he moved up to the North Jersey Avalanche AAA program, where he sharpened his skills at an elite level. Now Smilovic is a key member of the NJ Rockets, one of the top-ranked club teams in the country, with his team currently preparing to compete for a national championship.
Smillovic’s road to success hasn’t been without obstacles. Last season, he suffered a wrist injury that took him off the ice for two months– a tough blow for any athlete. Instead of letting that slow him down, he used the time to improve his skating, an area of his game that has now become one of his greatest strengths. “With all the free time, I took pride in becoming the best skater I could be, and I think that really helped me in the long run,” he shares.
His hard work paid off in more ways than one. Over the years, he has racked up numerous honors including NJ All-County, League All-County, Player of the Week, Player of the Game, and even a Sophomore of the Year nomination.
His teammate and friend Jared Silvestri shares his heartwarming experiences with him: “Niko may be the most skilled hockey player I have ever shared the ice with. However, he’s never let his talent set him apart—he actively uses it to elevate everyone around him. I’ve seen a lot of skilled players let their egos get the best of them, but not Niko. Whether it’s a practice, or the biggest game of the year, he works his hardest and stays humble, always putting the team first. This year, me and Niko have grown much closer and now he is less of a teammate and more of a true friend. I’ve come to appreciate not just his skill on the ice, but also how funny, friendly, and down-to-earth he is. I’ve also noticed how he always includes everyone, creating an environment where everyone feels like they belong. I am lucky to call him a teammate, and even luckier to call him a friend.”
While he has yet to decide on a college, Smilovic has big plans for his future. He intends to take a gap year to play junior hockey and earn a Division I or club-level scholarship. Off the ice, he hopes to pursue business, specifically finance or accounting, and work in investment banking after college.
Smilovic leaves a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and undeniable talent. Whether competing for a national championship, securing a hockey career, or preparing for the future, one thing is sure–his determination will take him far.
