College coaches often suggest that they are happy when they find lacrosse players who excel in more than one sport. Two of the top players in Section Five this year have made their future college coaches smile. Mike Messina from Aquinas, who was named MVP at the NYS football champion-ships last fall will honor his verbal commitment to Syracuse. Zach Reed, from Bath-Haverling, who was named MVP in his fall Sectional tournament in soccer last fall has honored his verbal commitment and will attend Hobart next year.

Both players have had a close, off-season relationship and each credit their association with Rochester legend, Tim Soudan, with inspiration and in helping them to recognize their potential. Mike Messina said, "I credit Coach Soudan for much of my success. He opened my eyes to many things about the game" and Zach Reed "wanted to acknowledge Tim Soudan, whose passion for the sport has inspired him to love the game as well."

Other Players Signing This Year:

Check the "College Signings page" for stories on Mike Messina (AQ/Syracuse), Zach Reed (Bath/Hobart), Colby Wehner (Irondequoit/Canisius), Drew Hays (Fpt/UNC), Ryan Yunker (C-C/Bryant), James Burke (Pitts/Delaware), Alex Kober (Pitts/Air Force) and Jake Bailey (McQ/UNC).  

What is the National Letter of Intent?

The NLI is a binding agreement between a prospective student-athlete and an College or University offering athletic financial aid. It is is one-year agreement in which the student-athlete promises to attend and participate on the school athletic team in exchange for athletic financial aid. Only Division I and Division II schools offering athletic aid can be part of the NLI program, although not all schools choose to participate. More information can be found at the NLI web site.