Lacrosse is spreading from East to West — and from North to South.
Case in point. Rollins College, which is located just outside Orlando in Winter Park, Fla., on the shores of Lake Virginia.
The Tars are set to start their fourth season as an NCAA Division II program. And some help is on the way from the Hudson Valley/Long Island/Connecticut region by the time they start their fifth year in 2012.
John Jay senior attackman Mike Lupinacci has given a verbal commitment to attend Rollins.
Lupinacci, who just wrapped up a strong summer season for the Prime Time travel team, will be one of the leading returnees on the defending Class B sectional champion Indians next season.
Here’s a Q&A with Mike on his commitment:
What were the main factors in your decision to attend Rollins?
I was looking for a school that would provide me with a good education in a warm climate, where I could continue playing lacrosse. Rollins was a perfect fit for me.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I was also considering Florida Southern. Earlier in the process I visited WNEC, Roger Williams and Fairleigh Dickinson. But after visiting Rollins, I knew that it was the right place for me.
What adjustments do you think you will need to make to play at the next level?
I think I need to increase both my speed and strength.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I have good stick skills, and I think I have a high lacrosse IQ. I am always looking for the open man, and work hard at limiting turnovers.
What players have you looked up to as you have moved up through the varsity ranks?
Chris Daniello and Mike Bocklet are two John Jay players that I have looked up to, and I am fortunate that they both have actually coached teams that I have played on.
When did you first realize you had the potential to play at the college level?
As a rising junior, playing for Prime Time Lacrosse, we played against some of the best competition in the country. I played well at these tournaments and had colleges that saw me play contact me.
* For more on Mike Lupinacci, check out his recruit profile by clicking here.
* Be sure to e-mail any recruiting commitment news to us at info@laxlessons.com.
Recruiting coverage
Updated recruiting review and commitment rundown (for classes of 2011 and 2012)
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Very impressive. Rollins is an outstanding institution. His parents must be proud. What an achievement.
Mike, congrats on the move to Rollins. Great school and an up and coming lax program. Good luck on your senior season at Jay.
Congrats scoop! Aim for the stars.
Congrats Mikey.
Hey is this the John Jay recruiting site or WHAT?
Hey Mike:
Congratulations and best of luck at Rollins! In addition, we wish you a “high scoring” senior season at Jay!
Hey William Rehnquist (that is the correct spelling, not the one you used by the way). Maybe, just maybe it’s because John Jay produces more college bound players than any other program? I may not be the most intelligent man on the planet and my intellect is no where near that of a Supreme Court judge past or present, but maybe that’s the reason?
You can’t beat lax in the Florida sun.
Great news and well deserved – Lupi!!!!!!
Way to go Lupe. Have fun!
Nice interview. Congrats Michael!
Got to love playing lacrosse in Florida. Congratulations Mike!!
Lupe Fiasco – don’t leave us! Congrats man, keep killing it.