One of the top players in New Jersey, Christian Cuccinello, has decided on his college destination.
The rising junior attackman from Mountain Lakes is equally dangerous as a feeder and finisher. At 6-foot, 198 pounds, Cuccinello, who also plays midfield, has good size. The righty is also strong with either hand and has a high lacrosse IQ. All those attributes are on display on his highlight film.
They will also be on display at the major Division I level after his two remaining seasons with the Lakers. Cuccinello verbally committed to Villanova.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Christian on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
Villanova offers a great blend of academics and athletics. I was also very comfortable with the coaching staff as I had attended camps and clinics there over the past few years. My mom and uncle both graduated from Villanova, so I have been going to games there since I was very young.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I visited Villanova, U Mass, Fairfield, Towson, UNC, Navy and St. Joe’s. I also considered Bucknell and Marquette
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I think my lacrosse IQ and ability to do different things on the field. I played midfield and attack this year at Mountain Lakes, and can play as a feeder behind the net at attack, or in front of the net also. I try to mix good decision making with creating and initiating.
Who have been some of the biggest influences on you during your development as a player?
My high school and club team coach, Tim Flynn. He has won the most games in New Jersey lacrosse history and just coached the US U-19 Team to the gold medal. He teaches us more than just lacrosse, he helps us to learn to always put team goals ahead of anything else, and always push yourself.
My football coach (Darrell Fusco) and basketball coach (John Bydook) are also positive influences on me as an athlete.
And my brother, Greg, who plays at Towson, has always been a positive role model for me.
What travel team did you play on and what were some of the big showcase events you participated in this summer?
Laker Future, which is our ML summer club program. We played at MVP, UP Lax, Bay Bridge Brawl and Princeton Team Camp. I also went to Jake Reed Blue Chip and Maverik Showtime, where I made the all star game.
Follow Joe Lombardi at Twitter.com/joe_lombardi.
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Posted In: New Jersey lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown
Have seen this kid alot in spring/summer. Very nice combination of skills.
Nice article Chris. Congrats kid.