Two of the top performers at the 2017 all-star game at the Maverik Showtime National Lacrosse Recruiting Spotlight held last week at Western Connecticut State University were a pair of University of Maryland commits who play for varsity teams in Suffolk County (NY).
Commack High School midfielder Kevin Snyder, who, as we told you when it happened, decided on the Terrapins back in February, had three goals.
Sachem North attackman/midfielder James Avanzato also enjoyed a strong game. Avanzato verballed to the Terrapins just prior to the start of Maverik Showtime, a decision also first reported by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s Lacrosse Insider premium coverage section.
A varsity starter this past spring as a freshman, the 5-foot-10, 150-pound Avanzato plays three sports for the Flaming Arrows, which Sachem North coach Jay Mauro said has played a role in Avanzato’s growth in lacrosse.
“James is a very good athlete with a high skill level,” Mauro said. “He’s a good kid who plays the game with the great energy and hustle.”
Now, here’s a Q&A with James on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
I picked the University of Maryland for a good education and to get the opportunity to play high end lacrosse.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I also considered attending Hofstra University and Penn State University.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
My ability to beat my man and draw the double and to find the open player. My style of play is smart, error-free lacrosse.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
The areas of my game that I need to work on are turning the corner and having a quicker release.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
I started playing at a local clinic in kindergarten and have loved the game since.
I have played baseball, hockey, soccer, wrestling, football, basketball, and volleyball.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
Long Island Express Tenacious Turtles.
The showcases I went to this year are: Maverick Showtime (2017 all-star), Long Island Showcase, Under Armour All-American (Top 88) and Philly Showcase (Fab 40 all-star).
Any final thoughts?
I would like to thank my parents and siblings for the hours they have given me. Also, Coach Mauro, Coach George Powers, Coach Joe DeSimone and Brian Griffin all of these coaches have to taught me to love and respect the game.
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: Long Island lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown, Section 11
