It didn’t take Matt Gavin long to step in and step up on one of the nation’s most tradition-rich and successful high school boys lacrosse programs.
A lefty feeder/finisher, Gavin had 40 goals to go along with 26 assists for Manhasset (N.Y.) this past spring as a freshman.
Gavin’s hoping to make a sudden impact at the collegiate level, too.
The 2016 attackman has given a verbal commitment to Duke University, a decision reported by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s Lacrosse Insider premium coverage section.
The 5-foot-11, 150-pound Gavin, who was heavily recruited by many major Division I programs, is a quick player who has tremendous footspeed and a high lacrosse IQ that helps him break down defenders. You can watch Gavin’s highlight reel here.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Matt on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
I was fortunate to have a number of offers from schools that I was interested in. All the schools were great and I felt I couldn’t make a bad choice.
Attending a strong academic school was very important to me. I felt Duke offered me the best balance between academics, athletics and campus life of all the schools I visited. The coaches and players are very friendly and they made me feel comfortable right away. Duke’s strong alumni network and school spirit made my decision an easy one.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I strongly considered Georgetown, Harvard and Penn. I also visited and considered North Carolina, Virginia, Johns Hopkins, Loyola, Maryland, Michigan and Richmond.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I feel my quickness, stick skills and lacrosse IQ are my strongest assets. I’m a strong shooter with good vision who can finish or feed effectively. I also enjoy being physical and creating turnovers on the ride.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
There is always room for improvement. I plan to continue to work hard to develop and improve every aspect of my game. Increasing my strength and overall fitness is always one of my goals.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
Growing up in Manhasset, lacrosse has always been part of my life. I grew up with a stick in my hand and started playing in my backyard with my brother when I was 3 years old.
I started playing organized lacrosse in first grade with Manhasset PAL. When I’m not playing lacrosse, I enjoy playing basketball and soccer.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
My primary travel team is Long Island Express. When I was younger I played two years for FLG. I also play in various tournaments with the FCA national team.
This past summer, I participated in Jake Reed Nike Blue Chip, Maverik Showtime, Under Armour Uncommitted Game and the Long Island Showcase.
Any final thoughts?
I would like to thank all my coaches and teammates who have been by my side since first grade. Special thanks to coaches Bill Cherry and Mike Chanenchuk for all their support and guidance throughout the recruiting process.
Finally, I would like to thank my parents for the sacrifices they have made so that I could enjoy so many memorable lacrosse experiences. Without their love and support, it would not have been possible to accomplish any of this.
Have a recruiting commitment to report? Send an email to info@laxlessons.com, contact Joe Lombardi directly at joe@laxlessons.com or send a Tweet to @Joe_Lombardi or @LaxLessons.
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Posted In: Long Island lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown, Section 8
