Ryan Matthews was just 4 or 5 years old when he first picked up a lacrosse stick. So as time went on, Matthews’ skills steadily improved.

Then, he soon had the size to go with those skills.

That combination has brought the Manhasset junior  to the brink of the highest level of Division I lacrosse.

The 6-foot-3 midfielder will be spending it at Johns Hopkins.

Matthews, who hopes to play professionally after that, still has plenty of high school lax remaining for the two-time defending Class C state champions.

Here’s a Q&A with Ryan on his commitment:

What were the main factors in your decision to attend Hopkins?

Johns Hopkins is a special place with great traditions in both academics and lacrosse. JHU started playing lacrosse in 1883. Coach Pietramala explained the important aspects of Johns Hopkins. After my visit I felt that JHU was the best place for me.

What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
Princeton, Duke, Yale and Harvard.

What adjustments do you think you will need to make to play at the next level?
I want to work on all aspects of my game, but if I had to pick one, it would be getting my left hand as good as my right.

What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
My strengths are my speed, size, and athleticism. I would describe myself as having a quick and powerful game.

What players have do you look up to?
Paul Rabil and Stephen Peyser.  They play the game the way I would like to.

When did you first realize you had the potential to play at the college level?
When I was moved up to varsity as a freshman and we won the state championship.

* For background info on Ryan Matthews, including a highlight video, check out his recruit profile by clicking here.

* Be sure to e-mail any recruiting commitment news to us at info@laxlessons.com.

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Posted In: Recruiting Rundown

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4 Responses to “Manhasset’s Matthews headed to Hopkins”

  1. LI Guy says:

    Great choice. Congrats to you Ryan!

  2. IslandLaxpert says:

    Nice job by young Mr. Matthews.

  3. IslandLaxpert says:

    Is it me or has Hopkins been recruiting this region with a vengeance the last few weeks/months?

  4. kr says:

    congrats…any word on how the knee is rehab’ing?

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