Dr. Joe LaPlaca

Founder/Sports Vision Optometrist

Role with AESV

Dr. LaPlaca founded Ares Elite Sports Vision in July 2018, bringing together his deep-seated passions for sports, vision science, and cutting-edge technology. This unique blend ignited a mission: to empower athletes by optimizing their visual and cognitive abilities. For Dr. LaPlaca, there's nothing more rewarding than helping athletes overcome challenges and realize their highest career aspirations.

Athletic Background

Dr. LaPlaca’s athletic background includes earning a first-degree black belt in Kyuki-Do, playing soccer and wrestling competitively through high school, and recreational participation in basketball, hockey, and volleyball. (And for some reason, his parents only took pictures of him participating in said sports from ages 8-13…) Ah, the days before social media!

Favorite Sports to Watch

Off-The-Clock

Professional Background

Graduated from Marquette University in 2005 with a Bachelors of Science in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. Graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry in 2009 with a Doctorate of Optometry. Began with Corporate optometry for 7 years, started Ares Elite Sports Vision in 2018.

NHL (Chicago Blackhawks), NFL (Chicago Bears), Soccer/Futbol, and IndyCar (Motorsports).

When not at AESV, Dr. LaPlaca cherishes time with his family: his wife Deanna, children Remington and Asher, and dogs Zoey and Faye.

He also enjoys traveling, woodworking, and thrift shopping. A true sports enthusiast, you'll often find him watching various sports and cheering on AESV athletes as they compete.