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Bucknell University has broken into the tristate Class of 2017 by securing commitments to its admissions process from a pair of longtime friends who are likely to be freshman-year roommates.
One of the leading sophomore defenders on Long Island, Garden City’s Philip Puccio, is the latest.
Puccio, known as “Pooch,” joins Massapequa resident and St. Anthony’s (NY) 2017 D/LSM Tyler Senerchia, known as “Gooch,” as Bucknell sophomore tristate commits.
The 5-foot-10, 160-pound Puccio, a lefty, is extremely athletic and has good quickness and stick skills. He is dangerous in the open field and in transition and is adept at getting groundballs and starting fast breaks.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Philip on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
Bucknell University was the perfect combination of high academics and a competitive Division I lacrosse program.
I instantly felt comfortable with the coaches and was overwhelmed after seeing everything the school had to offer.
What other schools were you considering andwhat schools did you visit?
Air Force, Michigan, Fairfield and Cornell.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
Clearing and transition are the strongest parts of my game. My stick skills and footwork help me cover some of the bigger attackmen and middies.
I’m more of a mobile defenseman. I like the one-on-one game and the early slide.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
Although it is definitely an advantage being a lefty defender, I need to focus on improving my weak hand.
I want to work on my off-field weight training and speed and agility to be in top physical shape for the Spring.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
I moved to Garden City from NYC in first grade and have had a stick in my hand ever since.
I played all youth sports but now I play football and lacrosse at the high school
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
Before joining Team 91 this year, I played for FLG since 6th grade.
This past year I attended Maverik Showtime, Jake Reed, Philly Showcase, Team Nassau vs. Suffolk, NXT Cup All-Star
Any final thoughts?
I’d like to thank my parents for all of the time and support they have given me, my high school coaches, Steve Finnell, Tom Flatley and Dave Ettinger, and my club coaches, Mike Winkoff from FLG and Jim Mule from Team 91.
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Posted In: Long Island lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown, Section 8
