What do you get when you combine good size with strong skills?
If you’re a long-stick midfielder/defenseman, plenty of Division I interest.
That’s the scenario that surrounded James Marusi’s recruitment.
The Fairfield Prep junior has committed to join coach Greg Cannella’s program at UMass.
Marusi is 6-foot-1 and his strong stick skills help him excel in unsettled situations.
Here’s a Q&A with James on his commitment:
What were the main factors in your decision?
One main factor in my decision was the coaching staff at UMass. I really connected with the coaches and they were 100 percent committed to me which is very reassuring. They are all younger coaches and I know they will be there for my four years at UMass.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
The other two schools that I was seriously considering and visited were Army and Ohio State.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
My strengths as a player are causing a turnover, picking up the groundball, and then pushing the ball down field to transition it to my offensive players. I like to shoot a lot and get into the mix offensively.
What areas of your game do you think you need to improve on?
One huge area of my game that can always be improved on is my footwork. Communication can always be improved as well.
When did you first realize you had the potential to play at the college level?
The first time I realized I had the potential to play at the college level was when I started getting letters and phone calls from various coaches. The whole process was very exciting and I believe I made the best of it.
What were some of the big summer showcase events you’ve competed in the last couple of years and how did you do?
This summer was really the first year I had done any showcases and big tournaments. With my summer team (Bulldog Elite), I competed in the Brine Shootout, King of the Hill and Tri-State. The two recruiting camps that I went to were Top 205 and Peak 200 where I made the all-star teams at both so I was very successful this past summer.
* For more info on James, check out his player profile by clicking here.
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Posted In: Recruiting Rundown
