Congratulations to Benjamin on his college choice and good luck in the future!

Name

Benjamin Stephenson

High School

Calvary Christian Academy

Graduation Year

2018

College Choice

Montreat College

Club Affiliations

Mission Lacrosse club

Why did you choose this college?

This college really stuck out to me for many reasons. First off, the location. The college is located in a small valley with lots of tree cover and beautiful weather. My major will also be Wilderness studies. Not many people can say they will be taking a hike and mapping a trail as an assignment. Although all these things are amazing, I’m choosing to go here because of the culture of the lacrosse team and its coach. The team instantly made me feel like I was one of them. The choice from that point was a no brainer. I knew I had to be a Cavalier.

What are your first memories of the sport?

I can remember so vividly growing up around the sport. My father played lacrosse all throughout my childhood and even now. I first picked up the stick at 5 years old playing for 2 years. I dropped the sport until my 8th grade year, which is when my oldest brother played his senior year as a goalie. That’s when I met Adam Bond, (who was/is the schools head coach) who very quickly encouraged me to play lacrosse instead of baseball. Best decision of my life.

What part of the process was most surprising to you about the recruiting process and what would you like to pass on to those who are going to face it in the future?

I found how many coaches emailed me asking if I wanted to come and visit and be on their teams very surprising. My coach Adam Bond introduced me to Field Level my sophomore year in high school. A great website that helps athletes get exposure to many coaches. I tried my best to utilize the website as much as possible and often. I recommend asking your coach for advice on recruiting and see if he/she can help in anyway or contact a coach of interest.

Who would you like to thank for helping you get here?

My family first and foremost for keeping me on track and not straying away from my life’s path. My father who has been a mentor in the game of lacrosse and in life. Teaching me moves that defenders hate and using their weakness to my advantage. Also my coach Adam Bond for taking me under his wing at the Attack position and helping me with the game of lacrosse and helping me to have integrity through all things. Also Coach Gary Fuchs for taking me to camps, inviting me to travel teams, and helping me get better at beating his defense in practice. I would not be here however if it wasn’t for my brothers on the field. All of the hard checks to the hand and arms by Ajay Joseph have payed off tremendously to help me get space from my defenders. All of the amazing saves by Ben Fuchs have helped me put the ball where I want it.