By Chris Goldberg
Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 1/15/15
Bridgewater-Raritan (N.J.) 2017 defender Melissa Hawkins has made a verbal commitment to play Division I lacrosse at Vanderbilt University.
Melissa Hawkins log:
High School: Bridgewater-Raritan High School, N.J.
Graduation Year: 2017
Position: Defender
College Choice: Vanderbilt University
Club Affiliation: Steps Elite (Randolph, NJ)
Major lacrosse honors: Maverick Showtime Camp – All Star Team
What will you major in/study? Special Education
Why did you choose school? “I always wanted to go south. When the email came that Vanderbilt wanted me I was ecstatic. After meeting the coaches, I fell in love with Vanderbilt and wanted to commit on the spot. The reputation of Vanderbilt is outstanding. It just felt right as a natural fit.”
Outlook for your High School team? “Our team last year had seven freshman, six starters plus the experience and direction from the upperclassman. We set our standards high and we accomplished a lot. We have high expectations throughout our HS careers.”
Thank You: “Of course I want to thank MG Hollingsworth for saying I should play lacrosse in fifth grade. I was still loving softball at the time and made the travel switch my 8th grade summer. I then want to thank Charlie Shoulberg for encouraging me on the Steps B team my first year and working so hard to make the A team. I have had wonderful people guide me. But most importantly, my parents. I lost my dad right before freshman year, but I kept his confidence in me deep in my heart and our dream together was for me to play Division I. I know he is still my biggest fan. I want to thank my mom for countless hours of watching my lacrosse games, my brother who encourages me; as well as my two cousins, Bobby and Michael, and the rest of my family for believing in me.”
Other schools considered: Elon, High Point, Rutgers, Duquesne
Longstreth Women’s Sports, the official sponsor for Phillylacrosse.com girls’ recruits, congratulates Melissa Hawkins. Longstreth specializes in equipment, uniforms and apparel for women’s sports. Longstreth carries a huge selection of all the best women’s heads, handles, goalie gear and player accessories – including shoes and apparel. Visit longstreth.com for directions and information.
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