"My top two schools were Mercyhurst and Le Moyne because I wanted to play at the D-2 level." He looked at the educational programs and the Hurst came out on top. " I want to go into business and Mercyhurst has an amazing business program."

Coach Chris Ryan played at Irondequoit and has a strong recruiting connection with Section Five. Six other players from our area are planning to attend Mercyhurst, who won the NCAA Division II championship last year. It was not a major factor in Derek's decision though. "It's nice knowing that if I need a ride home some weekend there will probably be a ride."

He had a good season last year and after fighting for the starting position, Derek realized that he could play at the competitive college level. Although he acknowledged that he is not the biggest player in the defense, his quickness gives him an advantage on the field.

It was his dad that started the former baseball player out in lacrosse in fourth grade. "That first year I actually played with Tyler and Kevin and Corey (who was on the Fairport team at the time). So we have been playing together for a long time."

He's looking for one more good year before he leaves for Erie. "I'm just looking for another great season like last year. I 'm excited to play at Mercyhurst. I'm excited about my senior season which has been great so far. I want to win this year with my friends and get the Sectional title again and then go head over heels to Mercyhurst."

More images are available in the gallery.