By Chris Goldberg
Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 3/3/09

Radnor senior defender Dan Schmader has made a verbal commitment to attend the College of Holy Cross next year.

Sschmader, who plans to study either business or political science, said he liked the academics at the Wooster, Mass., university.

“At Radnor we have very strong academics and a good lacrosse program,” Schmader said. “I was searching for a college that was the same. I chose Holy Cross mostly for the academics; their lacrosse team is getting better.

“It’s also pretty close to Boston, which is a great city. It’s also near Providence (R.I.). The campus itself is relatively small, which I like. I won’t get lost in the mix.”

Schmader was disappointed that the first day of practice was cancelled Monday due to the snow. He and his Red Raiders have hopes of contending for the Central League crown this year and advancing far in the District 1 playoffs.

“We’ve been working very hard in the off season,” he said. “The Central League is as tough as it gets when it comes to Pennsylvania lacrosse.

“The goal is to win the Central League. It’s a tough league and every week is a grind. We have to prepare ourselves to do that.”

Schmader is part of a strong Radnor defense that includes Notre Dame signee Tyler Andersen.

“Playing defense, the key is obviously to defend one-on-one,” he said, “Playing off-ball defense is also huge. You have to be able to keep your head and not go ball-watching.

“You also have to slide and help your teammate if they need it. You also have to work with the goalie and listen when he tells you where to go or where to slide.”

Tags: Radnor