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The Class of 2014 for John Jay High School (N.Y.) has experienced a significant amount of growth this month.

We told you that defender Bob Giordano verbally committed to Stevens Institute of Technology.

Earlier this week, another verbal increased the Indians’ number of rising senior commits to four.

The latest verbal comes from another defender, Matt Lanza, who has made the new Division I program at Marquette his choice, a commitment first reported when it was made on Aug. 13 by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s Lacrosse Insider special coverage section.

Lanza, who has been a member of the Indians’ varsity squad since his freshman year, excels in starting transition opportunities, is a strong man-to-man defender and adept at getting groundballs.

What were the main factors in your decision?
I wanted a school that offered me a good education and a high-level lacrosse program. I understand that lacrosse will not be my job after college, so I wanted to go to a school that would provide me with good opportunities for a job after I graduate.

I was especially interested in Marquette because I like the Midwest and was attracted to the urban setting. I also liked the idea of being on the ground floor of a new D-I program.

Another important factor in my decision was the coaching staff. All of the coaches made me feel like a part of the Marquette family.

What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I visited and was interested in several schools including, Dartmouth, BU, UPenn, Notre Dame, UMass, Sacred Heart and Gettysburg. I strongly considered Sacred Heart and Gettysburg, where my older brother (junior defender Alex Lanza) currently plays. Marquette was definitely the best fit for me.

What area of your game do you need to work on?
I need to work on my clearing and one-on-one defense with strong attackmen. To play at the next level, I’ll need to get bigger, stronger and faster.

How did you get introduced to lacrosse?
Alex introduced me and my friends to the game when I was in third grade.

What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
I’ve played for the Prime Time program since it started five years ago.

Last summer, I attended showcases including Maverick Showtime and Jake Reed’s Nike Blue Chip.

This past summer, I played at tournaments such as MVP, King of the Hill and Battle of the Hotbeds.

Any final thoughts?
I’d like to thank the entire John Jay lacrosse coaching staff and program, especially Coach Tim Schurr.

A big thanks to Prime Time director Nick Daniello for helping me through the recruiting process.

Shout out to Hatau and Marv. Thanks to my parents especially my dad who drove me to every visit and tournament and a shoutout to Mrs. C who has always supported me.