McGrath's Lax Career Moves to Adelphi
John McGrath earned his stripes in the Huntington lacrosse program. He learned his lessons well along the way and this past spring led the Blue Devils to the Suffolk Division II finals as the team's exceptional goalie.
The talented athlete recorded 185 saves, which coupled with his quick outlet passes made Huntington's transition offense a potent weapon this year. His efforts earned him All-County honors. McGrath is headed to Adelphi University in Garden City where he received a scholarship to play on the NCAA Division II national runner-up team there.
"I'm real excited about my future at Adelphi University," McGrath said. "What I am most excited about is obviously the lacrosse program. Getting to come in and join a D2 national runner-up team is an honor. Getting to play in front of 25,000 people at the finals would be unbelievable."
McGrath, who was recruited by Adelphi head coach Gordon Purdie, has paid his dues in the sport, climbing the Huntington lacrosse ladder at his position. He put together a string of sensational performances that helped carry the Blue Devils past several strong opponents and brought the team to the brink of the county crown.
The Adelphi lacrosse program is one of the most storied in NCAA Division II history. This past spring the Panthers (16-3) advanced to the national finals, dropping a heartbreaking 9-8 verdict to Mercyhurst (14-2).
McGrath recently completed orientation activities on the Adelphi campus and he's ready to join the elite lax program there. "I remember going to the Final Four in Baltimore and Philly when I was a kid and now to have a chance to be on that field is mind blowing," he said. "I'd love to get that national championship since Huntington came up short in our county final game this year. Maybe that would redeem it."
While McGrath is entering Adelphi with an undeclared major, the teenager said he's "leaning heavily towards a political science major or history major, since history has always interested me and I was good at it."
Lacrosse has been a year-round pursuit for McGrath, who practiced and played with his Huntington teammates indoors during the winter months and in summer tournaments up and down the East coast.
Known as a real student of the game, McGrath converted from attack to goalie in ninth grade after working with J. Taylor Finley Middle School seventh grade coach Joe Roy, who he credits for most of his success. McGrath is expected to quickly adapt to the fast-paced style of play featured on the college level.
"Adelphi just got new facilities, such as dorms, a brand new athletic complex and classrooms, so I'm ready to start a new part of my life," Mr. McGrath said. "High school was amazing and I'm hoping college will be the same."