The term “reckless abandon” is not always associated with the attack position.
But if you’ve ever seen Paul Guarino play, you know it fits.
“I believe this game has to be played with no inhibitions,” the senior at national power St. Anthony’s (N.Y.) said. “A lot of people look at my style of play as too extreme for the college level.
“I will always play with no fear of failure and I can’t think of the last time I stayed on my feet for a whole game.”
Guarino will take his all-out style of play to SUNY Oneonta, a commitment first reported by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s Lacrosse Insider premium coverage section.
The commitment by the 6-foot, 190-pound lefty gives the Friars 17 Class of 2014 commits. Also a standout in football, a sport he’s played since sixth grade, Guarino just finished four years as a wide receiver at St. A’s. You can watch his lacrosse highlight reel here.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Paul on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
Out of the schools I visited, I didn’t feel an excitement. The universities were great to check out and had a lot to offer, but the Oneonta State coaching staff and team were very welcoming and right away, we shared a liking toward each other.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
Maritime, Molloy, York College, Arizona State, Salisbury, the University of Delaware and the University of Tampa.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
As an attackman, you need to know just as much about the opponent’s defense as your own team’s offense. This is something I’ve lacked. I need to be aware of each slide as I’m dodging to the cage as well as the open man.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse?
I’ve played the sport since I was 3. My dad came home one day and handed me a fiddle stick which I still have and I still have a strong passion for lacrosse.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
I played for the Long Island Jesters and Long Island Express and played in the Island Uprising Tournament and Red Storm Showcase.
Any final thoughts?
My parents and brother have always taken time out to personally help me even at times where they need to focus on their own lives. Chazz Woodson has been my idol since eighth grade and helped me keep my work ethic even throughout scarce playing time all of high school.
My best friend, (St. A’s senior goaltender) Baylee Modugno, who will be joining me on the team at Oneonta, is a kid that will always have my full respect and I can’t wait to play another four years with him in cage.
Have a recruiting commitment to report? Send an email to info@laxlessons.com, contact Joe Lombardi directly at 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