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Edge Announcement - Mackenzie Iacocca

By AT, 09/23/15, 2:00PM EDT

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Congratulations to Mackenzie Iacocca on his commitment to St.John's University! Mackenzie, a product of Guelph Minor Lacrosse, has been a member of EDGE Lacrosse since he was 14. In that time, Mackenzie has developed and become a key player for our 2017 team and one of the top 2 way middies in Ontario. Mackenzie was also a member of team Ontario U16 that captured a National Gold Medal in 2014! Mackenzie was actively recruited by a number of DI programs and US/Canadian prep schools and ultimately made his decision once he had a chance to visit and meet with the coaches at St.Johns! 

Mackenzie has been an absolute pleasure to coach. Mackenzie is one of the hardest working, selfless players I've had the pleasure of coaching. Mackenzie puts the team's success ahead of his own and is an excellent teammate in every regard. Mackenzie is a 'do it all' middie, he can score, feed, dodge, defend and run in transition, all at a high level. Mackenzie will have success at the NCAA level because of these skills, his work ethic and commitment to the team's success.' - Coach Adam Lukanchoff. 

We will enjoy following Mackenzie's progress and career in the NCAA! We had a chance to catch up with Mackenzie about his experience with EDGE:

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

MI - I started playing minor box in Guelph at 4 years old. I’m currently in grade 12 at Bishop Macdonell High School in Guelph. I played Guelph Jr.B last season and Edge 2017

Why did you choose St. Johns ?

MI - For a number of reasons. Academically, it was a very good fit for me as they offer a good sports management major . I really liked the campus and its location. They have great history and tradition in athletics.  The coaches: (Paccione and Miller) and I are on the same page with respect to my academic and athletic goals.  I would have to say the coaches were key in my decision. From the minute we first met, they made me feel comfortable. I have a great deal of confidence in their experience and ability in helping me reach my goals  

What are you looking forward to most at St Johns?

MI - The challenge of playing at the D1 level, and having a positive impact on the program.  Also competing for a big east championship, and playing against some of the best teams in the NCAA. Also, living in, and exploring New York City, the sports, the culture, everything it has to offer.

Future ambitions and goals beyond NCAA lax?

MI - Pursue a career in the field of Professional sports. Keep playing Lacrosse as long as possible. Then give back to lacrosse in some way, like coaching

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

MI - I joined edge when I was 14. My experience with edge has been nothing short of fantastic. I can’t say enough about how much edge has done for me. First: I have to mention the friendships that I know will last. Second, the success our group enjoyed. Not sure of our overall record, but I remember at one point we had lost only 3 games. Third: my personal development and exposure to NCAA coaches. Playing with great team mates, coaches in the best Club tournaments. I do not play high school lacrosse, so it’s EDGE that allowed me to be seen and recruited.  

Any future advice for Edge members?

MI - It’s different for every player, but from my experience I would say be patient, and stick with Edge and follow their directions. Always give your absolute best effort. It is a process. Do not get discouraged if you don’t receive interest early on or if a school that was interested suddenly loses interest.

There seems to be a lot of pressure to commit early these days, I made my commitment as a senior in High School, and was talking to a number of schools who still had spots left in my class.

Also, enjoy it, have fun. What could be better than playing the game you love?

Favorite memory with Edge?

MI - The summer of 2014 was a special one. We had a special group with a lot of talent. It was a lot of fun beating big name club teams and winning the NSCLA championship.

Who did you look up to growing up?

MI - I looked up to my older brothers who taught me many things about life and lacrosse. In addition, Chris Driscoll my minor lacrosse coach for many years, instilled in me, the value of a strong work ethic and a high compete level .He played a significant role in my development. I grew up watching him play pro and tried to compete the way he did   

Any shoutouts, special thanks?

MI - I’d like to say thanks to Alan and Stu for helping me through the process and always keeping me connected with coaches. In addition ,my thanks  to  Adam Lukanchoff and Jason Donville for  helping  me develop my Field lacrosse game 

And of course, my parents , who never for a second stopped believing in me, and always supported my lacrosse career. Could not have gotten this far without you.


Mackenzie on his visit


Mackenzie w Guelph