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With the Empire State Games ending this past Sunday, and the Battle of the Hotbeds ending today, the next few weeks should be very busy as far as player commitments are concerned.

Last night, Rye’s Michael Collins, a rising senior defenseman who was a member of the Hudson Valley Empire State Games team, verbally committed to accept a scholarship offer from Binghamton University.

Here’s a Q&A with Michael on his commitment:

What were the main factors in your decision?
My main factor was that Binghamton is an academics-first school. The coaches had focused on that from the day I was in contact with them.  The size was also a perfect size for me. Coach (Ed) Stephenson and Coach (Kevin) McKeown are awesome guys and really made me feel welcome.

What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I was considering Siena, Marist, Fairfield, Sacred Heart, Franklin & Marshall and Air Force.  I visited Siena, Franklin & Marshall and Sacred Heart.

What adjustments do you think you will need to make to play at the next level?
I think I definitely need to get in the weight room.  I have a smaller frame and it is a must that I pack on more muscle.  I also could work more on my off-ball defense.

What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I would say my strengths are my speed, footwork, and stick skills.  I would describe my style of play as fast paced and always looking to push transition.

What players have you looked up to as you have moved up through the varsity ranks?
Although he does not play the same position as me I’ve always looked up to our goalie Mike Linehan.  Since my first year on varsity as a sophomore, he has always been there for me.  I respect his work ethic more than anyone I know. He is always pushing people to get better and better.

When did you first realize you had the potential to play at the college level?
The end of last summer.  During the Hotbeds tournament, I was selected to the all-star team, and had the opportunity to play in front of coaches like Dave Pietramala (Johns Hopkins) and Joe Breschi (North Carolina).

* For more info on Michael Collins, check out his recruit profile by clicking here.