Growing up in Manhasset, N.Y., James Roberts became immersed in lacrosse at a young age.
It’s a passion for the game that has only grown through the years and will continue to grow even more.
Roberts, a Class of 2014 attackman/midfielder at defending CHSAA (N.Y.) AAA champion Chaminade, is not only looking forward to his senior season with the Flyers, but beyond.
The lefty has verballed to Lafayette College, a commitment first reported when it was made by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s “Lacrosse Insider” section.
Roberts, who is strong with both hands, is an effective dodger with good speed who thrives in settled situations.
Now, here’s a Q&A with James on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
There were many factors in my final decision to verbally commit to Lafayette. Head Coach Jim Rogalski and his staff of Coach Ed Williams and Coach Matt Musci immediately made me feel like part of the Lafayette lacrosse program from the outset of the recruiting process.
I firmly believe in the coaching staff’s vision to soon make Lafayette a Patriot League and Division I powerhouse. The athletic facilities are state of the art and the chance to play in Fisher Stadium is a great opportunity. From an academic standpoint, Lafayette is one of the top engineering schools in the country.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
During the process I was also considering Harvard, Yale, Richmond and West Point. I visited both Harvard and Yale and I have seen both Richmond and West Point prior to the recruiting process.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
My speed, my ability to play with both my left and right hand, and my ability to dodge from anywhere on the field from the position of midfield or attack. I like to play a fast-paced game and I’m always looking to throw or receive the extra pass.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
I want to improve my vision on the field and would like to improve my strength by spending more time in the weight room.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
Growing up in Manhasset, I’ve always been around the game of lacrosse. I started playing in first grade and I’ve loved the game ever since. Along with running track in the winter, and swimming in the summer, I currently still play basketball, soccer and golf.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
I play for both the Long Island Jesters and Manhasset 32 travel lacrosse programs, and I have played in showcases such as Hotbeds, Summer Slam, Up-Lax, NYLA Lax Fest and Rutgers. I just recently participated in the Brine National Lacrosse Classic with Team Long Island North.
Any final thoughts?
I would like to thank all of my Chaminade coaches including (Head) Coach Jack Moran, Coach Steve Leghart, Coach DeMeo, Coach Fay, Coach Regan, Coach Pomponio, Coach Grismer, Coach Kay and Coach Hoey.
I would also like to thank Coach Bill Cherry and Coach Rich Nessim as well as my youth coaches Cook, Scaring, Hannan, and Malhame.
Finally, I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me in my lacrosse career.
Have a recruiting commitment to report? Email us at info@laxlessons.com or joe@laxlessons.com or send a Tweet to @Joe_Lombardi or @LaxLessons.
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Posted In: CHSAA lacrosse, Long Island lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown