Boston University broke into the Class of 2017 back in mid-April.
As first reported by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s Lacrosse Insider premium coverage section, BU received a verbal commitment from a freshman for the first time in the history of the newly launched Division I program.
In the process, Center Moriches High School on Long Island also saw its first freshman ever give a commitment.
Nicholas Brode, who gave the Terriers the verbal, is a polished, versatile attack who is a strong feeder and finisher and also efficient on rides and groundballs. He is also an outstanding student and carries a 3.5 grade-point average.
The 6-foot, 175-pound Brode, a lefty, became a varsity starter as an eighth-grader last year. He plays travel lacrosse for coach Jim Mule on 2017 Team 91 Orange.
You can watch his highlight reel here.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Nicholas on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
The great academic reputation of BU. The campus and the atmosphere at BU made me feel like I was home. (BU Head) Coach (Ryan) Polley and his coaching staff made me feel like I was already a part of the team. Also, the opportunity for me to grow with this new program.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
Villanova, UNC, Michigan, Fairfield and Cornell. I had the opportunity to visit Michigan, UNC, Duke and Fairfield.
Did you ever think growing up you would decide on a college as a freshman and how does it feel now that the decision has been made and you are the first freshman commit for both Center Moriches and BU?
I always knew I would be going to college, but I never expected to be committed as a freshman. It was an amazing feeling when Coach Polley asked me to be his first 2017 commit. After reading all the posts on Twitter, Facebook and LaxLessons (LaxLessons’ Lacrosse Insider), I realized I had achieved a great accomplishment for myself.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
Some of my strengths are riding, my lefty shot and dodging. I feel my style of play is aggressive.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
I need to work more on dodging and shooting with my right hand.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
One of my friends at school asked me to try it and I have been playing since. Football has always been my sport. I have been playing football since elementary school. I also enjoy basketball as my winter sport.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
My club team is Team 91 Orange. I participated in Brine National LI Middle School North Team, Nike Rising Freshman, Philly Fall Freshman Showcase, National 175.
Any final thoughts?
I would like to thank my parents for all the time spent traveling taking me to my practices, games, camps and tournaments. Especially, a big thank you to my dad for always pushing me and working with me in the backyard to help better my game.
My club coach, Jim Mule, for believing in me and placing me on your team. Playing for him has made me the lacrosse player that I am today.
To my teammates thank you, you are my brothers on and off the field.
Last but not least, thank you to Kevin Scott, my high school coach, for having the confidence in me and pulling me up to play for your varsity team. The past two years have been a great experience.
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Posted In: Long Island lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown, Section 11
