Congratulations to Cole Robillard (Edge 2016) on his recent commitment to attend New Jersey Institute of Technology.  Cole has been with the Edge program for quite some time now joining us at the age of 12.  The 6'1 midfielder from Brantford, Ontario is a very gritty midfielder who gets the tough ground balls and isn't afraid to get his nose dirty.  Robillard also has the ability to find the back of the net.  He has a big outside shot and is as equally dangerous off ball.  Cole first began playing lacrosse at the age of 5 with the Brantford Minor Lacrosse Association and is now currently playing with Six Nations, Hamilton and our Edge 2016's.  We would like to wish Cole the best of luck at NJIT and have no doubt that he will have a big impact on their new Division I program! We had a chance to catch up with Cole

Check out Cole's highlight film

Where did you first begin playing lacrosse? Where are you currently enrolled/playing?

I first began playing Lacrosse after deciding I was too tough for soccer at the age of 5. I joined up with the Brantford Posse, and started getting out my more aggressive toddler tendencies. A little later I was convinced to play field lacrosse where I met my long-time coach Joel Firmin in Hamilton. Throughout the years I’ve played for many different teams, including: Brantford, Hamilton, Six Nations, Edge, St. Catharines, Welland, and my high school team.  I’m still involved with all of these teams except Brantford and St. Catharines. I’ve had a lot of success with all of these teams, most recently winning a provincial championship with my high school team (Assumption College).   

Why did you choose NJIT?

I chose NJIT because it seems to be a great fit for me; it’s a medium sized school in a large urban setting, which I really like. What I also loved about the school is the rapid development that is occurring, and you can literally see how it’s growing.  I’m excited to be a part of their brand-new Division 1 lacrosse program with a great group of coaches. Also, the academics are definitely where I want them to be.

What are you looking forward to most at NJIT?

Well firstly is obviously lacrosse! But after that I think what I am most looking forward to is the complete change of settings, and the growth that I will help to expand. I am only minutes from NYC which is really significant to a kid from a city like Brantford.

Future ambitions and goals beyond NCAA lax?

After getting a prestigious education from NJIT, I have plans to attend a Chiropractic College where I want to become a doctor. After that I want to open my own business as a chiropractor, or join a sports team as their trainer.

When did you join Edge? Can you tell us about your experience in the program?

I first played with Edge when I was 12 years old, and have had nothing but great times! I think it’s a great program that really allowed me to develop with a lot of skilled players, and had given me great exposure in the States.

Any future advice for Edge members?

From my experience I think what is the most important thing to do in this program is to do what all the smart people tell you to. The coaches and Edge staff know what they’re doing, and you have to trust them and put in the work and dedication that is required. Just always push to get better and keep your marks up.

Favourite memory with Edge?

My favourite memory with Edge is either placing second in the Dick’s Tournament of Champions, or placing second in the NSCLA this past summer.

Who did you look up to growing up?

Growing up I had two neighbours who made me believe soccer was a girl’s sport, and that I should play lacrosse. They were both lacrosse players and attended Mercyhurst University and Western University. I would always be outside trying to play catch with them, and I think they really were a positive influence in my lacrosse career.

Any shoutouts, special thanks?

Obviously I have so many people to thank for this huge step in my life, but some big ones include Joel Firmin and all my coaches along the way, Alan Tsang and Stu Brown, and obviously my Mom, Dad and all the other family members that were there to help. Without the cumulative support of all these people I would have never got anywhere close to a commitment.