An Inside Look – Anthony Cicio of The Benjamin School
Written by Lee Roggenburg on . Posted in Uncategorized.
This is part of a series of interviews Florida Lacrosse News is conducting with recent Florida lacrosse players that have committed to college programs. We bring you these interviews as a way to give you an inside look at how they got to where they are now . . . as well as getting to know them at a personal level!
Anthony Cicio – Benjamin School
Position: Goalkeeper
Height: 5′ 7′
Weight: 165
Club Team: Palm Beach Storm & Team Florida
Honors:
1st Team All District & 2nd Team All-Region (Sophomore)
1st Team All-District & 1st Team All-Region (Junior)
Why Did You Choose Manhattan College?
I chose Manhattan College for a variety of reasons. I instantly loved the location and the campus, as well as the team. The guys were awesome, as was head coach, Steve Manitta. Coach Manitta is only in his second year but is rebuilding the whole team and changing the culture of lacrosse up there and I can’t wait to be apart of it. I have tons of family in Long Island and New Jersey, as well, so I’ll be far from home but not far from family which was important to me. Playing Division I lacrosse in New York City really is a dream come true.
Was the recruiting process what you thought it would be?
The process can turn into a hassle at times but in the end it’s worth it. Kids are committing as freshman now which seems crazy because I didn’t even send out my first email to a coach until after my sophomore season. You have to find a school that is a good fit for you academically and athletically.
How Would You Describe Your Game And What Do You Want To Improve On?
I like to play a fast paced game style. I like to make the save and quickly fire the ball out to a teammate breaking down the field. That’s the most exciting part of the game for a goalie really. Making the save and getting the ball downfield for a fast break goal is a good feeling. I like to think I’m pretty quick for a goalie so I’ll bring it up the field pretty often while Coach Rye covers his eyes. I’m definitely going to continue to improve on my technique and clearing abilities, to be prepared for next year.
What Was Your First Lacrosse Experience?
In 1st grade when I was 7, I signed up for lacrosse through JTAA. My dad and Jim Jacobs were the coaches of the team. We didn’t have a goalie when the season started. Coach Jacobs told the team whoever volunteered to be the goalie would be exempt from the conditioning. I told him I’d do it and have been doing it ever since.
Who Was Your Biggest Lacrosse Influence?
My dad always pushed me to be the best goalie I could be from an early age. He played lacrosse at Huntington High School and then at Cortland State so the sport has always been a big part of our family’s life. If it wasn’t for him, I don’t think I’d be where I’m at today.
Which College/Pro Players Do You Like Watching The Most?
I love to watch college goalies play, just to see the stuff they do and their tendencies. Niko Amato from Maryland is really exciting to watch considering his small size, but Hofstra’s Chris Selva might be my favorite as a fellow Floridian.
What Is Your Lacrosse Goal For This Season?
Reaching the Final Four last season was a great accomplishment and definitely a season I’ll never forget but we’re coming back this year with a strong team, despite losing a really good class. I think making the Final Four has just made our whole team hungry to get back there again, advance to the championship and take it all. That is our one and only goal this year as far as I’m concerned.
Do You Already Know What You Want To Study In College And What Is It?
I plan on studying broadcast journalism at Manhattan College. I figured if that’s what I wanted to do, there wasn’t a better spot to be than New York City.
About Me:
Favorite Meal:
Buffalo Wings
Favorite TV Show:
Breaking Bad & How I Met Your Mother
Favorite Sport Besides Lacrosse:
Football
What Is On Your iPod/Smart Phone for Music?
A lot of country music
What celebrity would you most like to meet?
Will Ferrell
What Hobby Or Interest Do You Have That Would Surprise People Who Know You?
I am a member of the Benjamin varsity bowling team.