It was a breakout season for both Ward Melville and Daniel Bucaro.
The Patriots finished 22-0 in winning their New York Class A state championship – their first state crown since 2000 – and finished as the consensus No. 1 team in the various national rankings.
Bucaro, meanwhile, in his first year as a starter, finished his sophomore year with 57 goals and 30 assists, including four goals in the 12-3 Long Island Championship win over Massapequa.
But clearly, the best is yet to come for the 6-foot-3 attackman.
Earlier today, he decided where he would spend his college years following two more varsity seasons with the Patriots.
Bucaro, regarded as one of the leading players nationally in the Class of 2015, verbally committed to Georgetown University, a commitment that was first reported when it was made earlier today by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s “Lacrosse Insider” section.
“This is a huge pickup for Hoya program and Kevin Warne, who finished his first season as Gtown coach and who’s been working the summer circuit hard,” Tweeted Joe in breaking the news.
Bucaro has a combination of outstanding size, shooting ability and stick skills. He’s also an excellent dodger and effective feeder.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Daniel on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
The academics at Georgetown, and the students/players at the school and the coaches are fantastic. I also love the city there.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
Harvard, Duke, Cornell, Virginia, Princeton and Brown.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
My dodging, scoring and feeding ability. I’m a team-first kind of guy.
What are your thoughts on this past season at Ward Melville both as a team and for you individually, stepping in and taking on such a big role on the undefeated national champions?
This year was a great learning experience for me. My teammates taught me so much and showed me how to be a great leader. I did what the team needed me to be and that was to be a threat. It was the best year of my life so far.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
My dad actually brought me into the game. Coach McCullouch, Coach McGinley and Coach Swift always help me with my game. I play ice hockey in the fall.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
I play for the Patriot Elite Green team. I went the Philly showcase, blue chip 205, and Long Island showcase.
Any final thoughts?
I want to thank all of my teammates, coaches, and family members for all the support.
Welcome to Gtown Dan!