Sachem North incoming junior Madison Hoffer instantly became a marquee lacrosse prospect when she verbally committed to play at the University of North Carolina last month.
Sporting a winners mentality, Hoffer chose North Carolina because she wants to be part of a program that is capable of winning a National Championship during her tenure. The Tar Heels, who compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference, were 15-6 last season and lost in the NCAA Tournament.
“I love the state of North Carolina and the school has a great program and academics,” said Hoffer, who was thinking about staying closer to home, but ultimately decided on Tar Heel territory. “It’s just a great atmosphere.”
The recruiting process for lacrosse has increased to where student-athletes commit during their sophomore years, leaving their final two years of high school play filled with motivation to work hard once the commitment is out of the way.
“It’s a relief committing early,” said Hoffer, who also plays on the Long Island Top Guns 2016 Black Team under Hofstra coach Shannon Smith. “It’s a stressful and tough process.”
Hoffer excels in fast paced games, especially on defense. She led Sachem on caused turnovers and midfield assists last season and brings a strong defensive mindset to the field. She’s also speedy and agile and can react quickly in multiple situations.
Hoffer was a key reason for the resurgence of Sachem North girl’s lacrosse this season as the Flaming Arrows made the playoffs for the first time in a number of years.
“As the years go on, I think the program is just going to get better and better,” she said.
With a North Carolina bound threat on the roster, she’s probably right.