The Jersey Strong Showcase, featuring games between 16 of the top teams in the state, was held Wednesday at Madison High School.
The participating teams were in attendance by invitation only, which meant there was plenty of good lacrosse being played on a picturesque early summer afternoon and evening.
The teams participating in the Jersey Strong Showcase all from the Garden State were Chatham, Delbarton, Don Bosco Prep, Glen Ridge, Hunterdon Central, Kinnelon, Madison, Mendham, Moorestown, Morristown, Mountain Lakes, Seton Hall Prep, Sparta, St. Augustine Prep and Summit.
With some excellent programs participating on the field, college coaches needed little other incentive to attend. But coupled with the events central location and mid-week timing freeing it from competition the turnout was incredible.
Over 80 college coaches were in attendance from some of the top programs in the country ranging from the DI to the DIII ranks.
Among the schools represented from the DI landscape were defending National Champion Duke; ACC powers Maryland and Virginia; and Ivy Leaguers Harvard, Princeton and Yale.
The DIII scene was also well represented. Among those spotted were defending National Champion Stevenson, national power Cortland State, and NESCAC players Bowdoin, Middlebury, Tufts and Wesleyan.
Each team played three games, with contests starting at 4:15 PM and running through two final faceoffs at around 9:15 PM. With teams on a constant rotation, some great matchups were played on four neighboring fields, making access very easy for the coaches in attendance.
The event ran seamlessly, and allowed ample opportunity for players to showcase their talents. With the amount and quality of the college coaches in attendance, the New Jersey Showcase was a resounding success.
Be sure to check back to LR News for our Featured Five players who made an impression as well as a great recap video from the event.