It’s not often a recruit says a goalie coach was key in his college decision, but Doc Schneider is no ordinary goalie coach, and he sure was no ordinary goalie.
Schneider, a former Massapequa High School and UMass goaltending standout, is now an assistant coach at UMass who also coaches the team’s goalies.
In a few years, one of those goalies will be Sean Sconone.
The rising junior at East Islip High School (N.Y.) has verbally committed to the Minutemen, a commitment first reported when it was made by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s “Lacrosse Insider” section.
Having a chance to refine his skills under one of the top goaltenders to come out of Long Island is something Sconone is eagerly awaiting.
The 5-foot-11, 220-pound Sconone is a left-hander who is a strong stopper. He also plays varsity football for the Redmen.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Sean on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
A great goalie coach (Schneider), the campus was beautiful and I just had that feeling of this is where I want to be. An awesome academic school. It’s the perfect distance away – about three hours.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I was considering St.John’s, Army, Stony Brook, Hartford and Sacred Heart. I visited all of these schools except army.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I have been taught by many great goalie coaches. The shooters shoot, and I stop the ball.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
I need work on both quickness with my feet as well as my hands.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
My older brother Rob had played and I have been playing since I was four years old. I also play Varsity football at East Islip.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
I play for the progression Hurricanes for coach (Darryl) Delia. I have participated in the Long Island Showcase, Jake Reed camp, Hotbeds and Gait Cup National Tournament.
Any final thoughts?
I want to thank my dad for helping me since I first picked up my stick and taking me all over the country to watch me play. Also Coach Tim McIntee for all the hard work training me one on one and helping me throughout the recruiting process. Just wanted to thank my travel coach, Darryl Delia, as well as my high school coach Joe Ancona.
[…] Chance to work with goalie great Schneider is key in UMass-bound Sconone’s …LaxLessonsThe rising senior at East Islip High School (N.Y.) has verbally committed to the Minutemen, a commitment first reported when it was made by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s “Lacrosse Insider” section. Having a chance to refine his skills under one of … […]
[…] Chance to work with goalie great Schneider is key in UMass-bound Sconone’s …LaxLessonsThe rising senior at East Islip High School (N.Y.) has verbally committed to the Minutemen, a commitment first reported when it was made by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s “Lacrosse Insider” section. Having a chance to refine his skills under one of … […]
That’s a player who will do well. One who knows he can develop with the right coach…
Seems you’re a good sportsman just as Frank Sconone (your grandfather?) was. He was my brother and his favorite thing back in the 40′ s was stickball on the streets of NY. I now live in NM and doubt I’ll ever return to NY. All the best to you in whatever you’re involved in.