As an attackman at Yorktown High School, Jake Thorp is part of one of the most established varsity lacrosse programs in the nation.
At the next level, Thorp will get to experience an interesting change. He will be helping the College of Saint Rose in Albany build its program from the very start.
The 5-11, 161-pound Thorp will be a freshman at Saint Rose in 2011-12, the inaugural year of its brand-new Division II program.
Here’s a Q&A with Jake on his commitment:
What were the main factors in your decision to attend St. Rose and what are your thoughts on being part of an upstart program?
The main factor was the education. Attending Saint Rose will give me the opportunity to pursue the Ph.D. in physical therapy that I hope to receive at the end of my studies. Also, being a part of the first year of a new program will bring many opportunities to build a name and a reputation to the College of Saint Rose in lacrosse.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I was considering Marywood University and the University of Scranton, and also visited Hartwick, SUNY Oneonta and Muhlenberg University.
What adjustments do you think you will need to make to play at the next level?
I need to keep up with practicing stick work along with shooting and playing off ball, also building up my strength and speed and continue to build knowledge of the game of lacrosse.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I work well off-ball and from playing both midfield and attack this past season and throughout the summer I have a good feel for both sides of the field.
What players have you looked up to as you have moved up through the varsity ranks?
The players I have looked up to most were certainly Rocky, Michael and Joey Bonitatibus, John Ranagan, and my coaches Coach (Dave) Marr, Coach (Sean) Carney, Coach (Adam) Lodewick and Coach (Dave) Graham.
* For background info on Jake, check out his recruit profile by clicking here.
Posted In: Recruiting Rundown
Congrats Jake. A gutsy move by a gutsy player and great person.
I know your parents are proud like the rest of your Westrock family.
Have fun, work hard and win!
Win a national championship. no excuses
Another Westrocker makes Hotbeds Count!!!!!
Sounds like an exciting opportunity. Good luck Jake!
Jake, sounds like a great move! you get the education you are looking for and a chance to be part of something new and exciting. go out and get that first ever goal!
Congrats Jake! Great interview!!!