Riverhead boys lacrosse coach Vic Guadagnino remembers exactly when midfielder Mark Andrejack really caught the attention of Aldephi University.
“We were at a tournament at Hofstra University,” Guadagnino said. “Mark told me, ‘Coach, Aldephi is coming to see me play one more time’ and at that time he was already talking to like two or three schools pretty seriously.”
Aldephi had been interested for quite some time but they just needed some convincing to finally offer the scholarship. Andrejack did just that.
“Five minutes before the game starts he tells me that they’re coming to this game,” Guadagnino said. “And he tells me, ‘I’m going to get it right now’.”
He scored 10 seconds into the game.
“Three minutes into this game we’re up 4-0 and Mark has three of our goals and an assist,” Guadagnino said. “The coach leaves at halftime and I tell Mark, ‘I’m going to kill you, why don’t you play like that all the time?”
“I saw the coach walk up as I was getting set to take the face-off,” Andrejack said. “I knew that I would have to perform then if I wanted to get a scholarship. I ended up having a monster game and took over.”
“It’s hard to even explain what was going on in my head at that point,” Andrejack continued. “I just knew this had to be my game.”
Even so, the scholarship wasn’t offered after that game. Aldephi came back once again to see him play.
“They saw the same person,” Guadagnino said. “He’s consistent. A true workhorse.”
Adelphi eventually finished the deed and offered the scholarship. He gave his commitment and signed his official paperwork on Wednesday.
“I’m really excited to be playing for Adelphi,” shared Mark. “The team is ranked #1 in the pre-season rankings. The academics there are good and the campus is great. I can’t wait!”
But before he goes off to college, his goal this year is to make the playoffs; a goal that seemed to elude the Blue Waves last year.
Andrejack has played varsity lacrosse since sophomore year and was named team captain this coming season.
Top photo caption: Riverhead High School senior Mark Andrejack surrounded by his parents, John and Jackie, and (standing, from left) Riverhead High School principal Charles Regan, Blue Waves boys lacrosse coach Victor Guadagnino, guidance counselor Anastasia Cobis and director of guidance Charles Gassar. (Phtotos: Sandra Kolbo, courtesy of Riverhead Central School District)
The survival of local journalism depends on your support.
We are a small family-owned operation. You rely on us to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Just a few dollars can help us continue to bring this important service to our community.
Support RiverheadLOCAL today.
