The LoHud Boys Lacrosse Blog

There will be a pretty strong Yorktown presence at one of the nation’s premier collegiate lacrosse programs for years to come.

I just got off the phone with Yorktown attackman Kevin Interlicchio, the 12th-ranked junior in the nation by Inside Lacrosse Magazine.

Moments before our conversation, Interlicchio gave an oral commitment to accept a scholarship offer from Johns Hopkins. Interlicchio’s commitment came tonight shortly after his return from a visit to Hopkins where he met with coach Dave Pietramala. After being recruited by many of the nation’s top programs, Interlicchio narrowed his choices to Hopkins and North Carolina.

Yorktown’s Kevin Interlicchio, left, the 12th-ranked junior in the nation by Inside Lacrosse Magazine, gave an oral commitment earlier tonight to Johns Hopkins head coach Dave Pietramala after returning from a visit to Hopkins earlier today. (Journal News file photo)

After reaching his decision tonight, Interlicchio informed best friend and next-door neighbor John Ranagan. Within seconds, Ranagan came over to Interlicchio’s house where he playfully tackled him in celebration. The two will be teammates at Hopkins for three years.

Ranagan, a senior midfielder for Yorktown and the 35th-ranked senior in the nation, orally committed to Hopkins in June. Yorktown head coach Dave Marr and assistant Rob Doerr are also former Hopkins stars.

I conducted a Q&A with Kevin on his decision and will put it up here as soon as I get on a computer. (I’m writing this on my Blackberry.) So check back for that later tonight, folks. And in the meantime, be sure to weigh in with your thoughts.

Q & A WITH KEVIN INTERLICCHIO ON HIS DECISION

What were the deciding factors in selecting Hopkins?

John Ranagan was a big influence on my decison. He’s been my best friend since we were old enough to walk, and he’s my neighbor, so right after I told him, he was in my room.

The campus and facilities were incredible. Coach Petro is awesome. He really knows the game and his players very well. Obviously, Homewood Field is amazing. The tradition that Hopkins has is unbelievable and that is something that I really wanted. It’s something like Yorktown — rich in tradition.

And of course, the fan base. Hopkins lacrosse is the biggest sport on campus and the fans come out every game to support the team.

My coaches at Yorktown also had a influence on my decision. They never tried to push me towards one college or another, but the things that they have taught me so far, have all helped me make my decision to attend Johns Hopkins. I’m sure Coach Marr, and Coach Doerr always had a little hope though.

What schools did you visit and what schools were your finalists?

I visited Princeton, Hofstra, Duke, UNC and Hopkins. It came down to UNC and Hopkins. All the schools were incredible though.

How many schools would you say contacted you?

About 25 schools.

When did you reach your decision?

I reached my decison as soon as I left Hopkins today. I knew that Hopkins lacrosse was something that I wanted to be a part of, and it was a special place. I called Coach Petro when I got home.

Could you talk a little bit more about just how big a factor the fact you will be playing with John Ranagan at Hopkins for three years was in your decision?

It really is going to be fun being with John again. It did affect my decision. Hopefully when the time comes, we will be able to represent Yorktown in a NCAA championship game, but obviously, we would much rather represent Yorktown in a state championship game right now.

Are you relieved to have the process overwith and did you enjoy weighing the pros and cons of some of the top programs in the nation?

It is a relief to be done with the process. It was awesome while it lasted though. It was a great time seeing some of the finest institutions in the country. The process still isn’t over though. Of course my grades, as well as John’s, have to stay above average because as well as having great lacrosse, Hopkins is also know for its great academics.