Army has landed another top senior from the Hudson Valley in John Jay’s Will O’Donnell.

The 6-foot-1, 190-pound O’Donnell is a throwback midfielder who plays with heart and intensity who is known for dishing out hard hits.

For a sample, check out this video clip of an especially memorable hit that O’Donnell dished out against Somers during his sophomore season in 2008.

O’Donnell, who is known for never taking a play off, will be joining an Army recruiting class for 2010 that includes Somers all-section attackman Greg Petre.

“The main factor was the overall reputation of West Point and its lacrosse program,” said O’Donnell, who also was recruited by Delaware, Fairfield and Loyola. “It has great academic opportunities and  athletic facilities.

“West Point is a great environment to work with other people on and off the lacrosse field. Coach (Joe) Alberici was very welcoming and is known as a great coach.”

O’Donnell is eager to earn playing time any way he can.

“I will do whatever the coaches ask, in practice and on game day, to help the team,” he said.

Though not known for his scoring, John Jay coach Nick Savastano said O’Donnell can also play attack.

“Will is a big, strong kid who can play midfield or attack,” Savastano said. “I think he will be a perfect fit for the style that Army plays. His character and dedication is top notch.”

Posted In: Recruiting Rundown

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3 Responses to “Army gets a throwback midfielder in O'Donnell”

  1. Mr. Merlino says:

    Hey Will:

    On behalf of entire Merlino Family, congratulations and best of luck in the future.

    We are very happy for you!

  2. gunna32 says:

    this kid is going to be big this year WATCH OUT

  3. Mike Dunworth says:

    Way to go Will! Congratulations and best of luck this year.

Leave a Reply to gunna32