Ari grew up in a family of hockey enthusiasts. By the time he was old enough to ask about playing hockey himself, he was denied because of scheduling. Ari was relegated to attending games at "Nassau Mausoleum" (Coliseum). He had the opportunity to see some greats take the ice in front of him, including Gordie Howe (albeit in a Whalers uniform).

His love for the sport took on a new level when he finally decided to commit to taking it from the stands onto the ice. He has not looked back since. Now he stands as the only one of all his cousins that still plays hockey on a regular basis!