Photo by Gene Morris/Smithtown Patch
There are just a few hours to go before the Fall National Letter of Intent Early Signing Week for current high school seniors is one for the books.
Be sure to check back first thing tomorrow for a rundown of those seniors who are now officially signed and sealed.
For now, let’s take an up close look at one of the players from the nation’s No. 1 hotbed for lacrosse, the Hudson Valley/Long Island/Connecticut region, who put his name on the dotted line this past week.
Alex Dodge.
The 5-foot-9, 165-pound Smithtown West righty is a two-way midfielder and adept dodger.
He will continue his college career in Fairfield, Conn., at Sacred Heart University.
Here’s a Q&A with Alex on his commitment:
What were the main factors in your decision?
(Sacred Heart Head) Coach (Tom) Mariano, the assistant coaches and players really made me feel a part of the team during my visits. The coaching staff stayed in touch with me and made me feel they really wanted me last year when I missed the season due to an injury. The size of Sacred Heart and its academics also appeals to me.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
Hobart, UMBC and Towson. I visited UMBC, Marist, Manhatten and Hobart.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I’ve been told my speed, groundballs and shot on the run are my strengths. I would describe myself as a two-way middie.
What areas of your game do you think you need to improve on?
I know I need to gain a few pounds and get stronger to succeed at the D-I level. I also need to work more on my left hand.
When did you first realize you had the potential to play at the college level?
During varsity practices at Smithtown West the last few years. When you’re able to keep up with players like Brett Madarasz, Jordan Stevens, Kyle Keenan and James Pannell every now and then, it gives you confidence. I also did pretty well at the summer and fall tournaments.
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?
I attended Top 205 rising junior camp and was chosen for the Suffolk Showcase rising senior team last year. My summer travel team, Team Smithtown West, also competed at Tri-State, Champ Camp and Hofstra showcase/tournaments the last few summers.
* For more info on Alex, check out his player profile by clicking here.
Have a recruiting commitment to report? Be sure to email us at info@laxlessons.com.
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Posted In: Long Island lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown, Section 11
