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Yale was thisclose to making it to the NCAA Division I Final Four this past spring.

The Bulldogs lost to eventual national finalist Syracuse 7-6 in the quarterfinals.

Judging by the Bulldogs’ recent recruiting efforts, a semifinal appearance in the coming years seems almost inevitable.

On what was a big day for major recruiting news in the tristate region, two-time All-American Joey Sessa from Minisink Valley (NY) committed to the Yale University admissions process, as first reported at Twitter.com/Joe_Lombardi.

The 5-foot-7 Sessa, a lightning quick, athletic, elusive, dodging attackman who runs a 4.7 in the 40-yard dash, is a rising junior junior.

Now, here’s a Q&A with Joey on his commitment.

What were the main factors in your decision?
There were many factors that were important in my decision to play lacrosse at Yale.  Most importantly, when I visited the campus, (Yale Head) Coach Andy Shay made it clear to me that he prided his team on its work ethic and willingness to compete. I always considered myself a blue-collar kid, and every time I play, I do not want to get outworked.

From what he told me, I knew Yale was the place I wanted to play.

The other key factor that I took into consideration was distance from home. The fact that Yale is only a little over two hours from my house means my mother and father can come see at least every home game, which is extremely important to me.

What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
In early September I visited Notre Dame.  I’d like to thank (Notre Dame Assistant) Coach (Gerry) Byrne, (Notre Dame Head) Coach (Kevin) Corrigan, and the rest of the Notre Dame staff for that great opportunity.  Other than that, Yale was the only other school I visited.

What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
As far as strengths go, it’s hard to say because I still have so much to work on to become a successful player at the next level. But I realize my speed, athleticism and hustle help me tremendously. I’d describe my style of play as intense.

What area of your game do you need to work on?
Of course I need to work on all aspects of my game, but most importantly my ability to beat my defender using both hands in order to get to the goal or find the open man.

Along with that, my shot from all areas of the field needs to get better. I know it is very important to be a well-rounded player, so i hope to improve everything throughout the rest of my career.

How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
I started playing lacrosse in third grade thanks to some encouragement from my dad who was a great lacrosse player at Lindenhurst High School on Long Island. In the past I’ve played both basketball and hockey, but now I only play lacrosse and football.

What travel team do you play on and what showcase events did you participate in?
I play on Prime Time out of Cross River John Jay. This year I participated in NYLA, Jake Reed Nike Blue Chip and MVP.

Any final thoughts?
I would just like to thank every single person involved in this entire process. In particular I’d like to thank Nick, Chris and Mike Daniello. If it wasn’t for the Daniello family I don’t know where I’d be, as they were always helping me along.

I’d like to thank my Prime Time coaches Chris Latino, Charlie McCormick and Bob Crossett.

Also, I’d like to thank my high school coach Chad Lakeman who has always given me the chance to succeed, and my youth coach and family friend Chet Krinsky.

Finally, I’d like to thank the entire Yale lacrosse staff for this great opportunity, and my mother and father who have always been there for me.