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! R.J. Garcia – Ponte Vedra High School Position: Midfield Height: 6’3” Weight: 185 Club Team: Team Florida, Possums, North Florida Elite Honors: 11^th grade all county, 11^th grade most improved player, 11^th grade Nike South Top Performer, 2014 Top Ten Player at The Battle of the Hotbeds by TopLaxRecruits.com, 2014 Team Florida All-Star. Why Did You Choose Jacksonville? I chose Jacksonville University for many reasons, but most importantly, because of their coaching staff. Coach Van Arsdale is the type of coach that inspires, motivates, and strives for excellence. He represents all the things I believe in for a winning team. Also, staying in my hometown where my family can come to all my games and still be able to play Division 1 lacrosse was a big factor in my decision. Lastly, JU has a tremendous Aeronautical program where I plan to become a commercial pilot. Was the recruiting process what you thought it would be? No it wasn’t. Coach West was a huge part of my recruiting process. He always said make excellence a habit and not an act. Let the coaches see who you are and what you can do, and everything will fall into place. How Would You Describe Your Game And What Do You Want To Improve On? An intense, physical, and diverse Midfielder that is capable of dodging and shooting from any given point on the field. I would like to improve on my defense, due to the fact of the new rule changes in which I will find myself playing more defense than in the previous years. What Was Your First Lacrosse Experience? My first lacrosse experience was playing catch with one of my high-school teammates, Cody Legeza after a football practice in 6^th grade. Who Was Your Biggest Lacrosse Influence? My JV lacrosse coach Frank DeMasi had a tremendous influence on me. He was always tough on me, bringing out the best in me and how I played. He taught me how to be a grinder and get down and dirty for the ball. Also, Coach Jimmy Oliver always pushed me to my limit and motivating me to be a better player. Which College/Pro Players Do You Like Watching The Most? Paul Rabil, because he plays the same position I do and its amazing to see how only one player is able to take over an entire game and have such a tremendous impact on his team. What Is Your Lacrosse Goal For This Season? To win a State Championship, not only for myself but also for my teammates who I have been playing with for the past 4 years, and have become part of who I am. Do You Already Know What You Want To Study In College And What Is It? Aviation and Flight Operations/ Commercial Pilot About Me: Favorite Meal: Chipotle Steak Burrito Favorite TV Show: Workaholics Favorite Sport Besides Lacrosse: Football What Is On Your IPod/Smart Phone for Music? Hip-Hop/Rap What celebrity would you most like to meet? LeBron James What Hobby Or Interest Do You Have That Would Surprise People Who Know You? Wakeboarding