Mike Skluth’s path to lacrosse success has been paved through hard work.
The results speak for themselves.
The junior is one of the top defensemen on a John Jay team known for its defense.
He’s also be continuing his career at the Division I level.
Skluth, a junior, verbally committed to the University at Albany.
The 6-foot, 185-pound Skluth has plenty of talent — including good footwork and strong stick skills — to go with his work ethic.
That combination put him on the wish lists of several Division I programs and also makes him a welcome addition to the Prime Time 2013 team.
“Mike is a very tough and hard-nosed, plays strong positional defense and is a player that possesses a very strong Lax IQ,” Prime Time director Nick Daniello said.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Mike on his commitment:
What were the main factors in your decision?
Albany has a great business school and they will be opening a new business center when I am a freshman. I felt right at home with (Head) Coach (Scott) Marr, (Assistan Coach Liam) Gleason and (Assistant Coach Eric) Wolf. The size and location of the school was exactly what I wanted. I felt an instant connection with the Albany lacrosse players.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I was also considering Army, Navy, Yale, Binghamton and Vermont. I only visited Albany and Vermont.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
On the field, I am a very versatile defender. I like to play with my feet and take good positions, which has been stressed by (John Jay) Coach (Tim) Schurr. I also handle the ball well, meaning I can clear and push the transition game.
What areas of your game do you think you need to improve on?
The college game is much faster and more physical. I am a hard worker so I will work to improve all aspects of my game such as footwork, team defense and speed.
When did you first realize you had the potential to play at the college level?
Since freshman year of high school it has been my dream to play at the college level. On Sept. 1 of my junior year, I received interest from college coaches, which is when I realized I could compete at the college level.
Throughout high school I have been very fortunate to have mentors such as Tom Interlicchio, Kyle DeVito and Tom Branca, who have helped me significantly with the process and improving my game.
Coach Schurr, Nick Daniello and (SuperStar coach) Roy Colsey have also provided me with a lot of encouragement and helped me throughout the process.
What were some of the big summer showcase events you’ve competed in the last couple of years and how id you do at them?
This past summer and fall, I was fortunate to compete in many well-run showcases. Section 1 Moonlight showcase, Battle of the Hotbeds, UMass Summer Classic and Jake Reed Nike Blue Chip Fall Camp were the main recruiting events that I participated in. I played very well at all of the camps.
For more info on Mike, check out his player profile by clicking here.
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Posted In: Recruiting Rundown, Section 1
Michael,
Congratulations young man. The hard work and effort you put in has paid the ultimate dividend, enjoy the moment with your family and friends, this is well deserved.
Congrats, and best of luck in the future. I have one piece of advice – this is the beginning, not the end. Continue to work hard, as you have and more good things will come. Now lets focus on the Purple and Black before the Purple and Gold!
Good for you! Best of luck at Albany.