Marisa Gallelli“Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents, which in prosperous circumstances would have lain dormant.” – Horace
Entering Cabrini College as ability-laden lacrosse player out of St. Joseph’s Prep High School, Mike Cottone was looked at as constant at the next level in the bright future of Cavaliers lacrosse. What wasn’t aware were the troubles Cottone would have to overcome in his college career. His courage to triumph over hard times and his ability to succeed are why this Cottone has been chosen as a spring sport senior profile athlete.
This year for the Cavaliers men’s lacrosse team, Cottone was a Captain coming off a year in which he was selected as a member of the All-Conference 1st team as a Junior. This year Cottone has used his leadership and seniority to take the Cavaliers to their highest ranking ever in school history at #9 in the country. Cottone is also a favorite to be selected to the all-PAC team again this season, as well as a nomination for the division three North-South All-Star game featuring the nation’s best players.
However, things haven’t always been this easy for Cottone.
“The summer between his sophomore and junior years is when he really turned the corner,” said Steve Colfer, Men’s Lacrosse Head Coach. “Mike did struggle a bit with his academics in his first two years here and just wasn’t all together ready. But that summer, he really matured. He physically got into shape and mentally as well. He totally committed to the team.”
Wearing the number two on the back of his jersey, the Long Stick Midfielder leads the team in takeaways and is among the leaders on groundballs. His captaincy is found more on his actions then his being vocal to the team and is an ideal example for the rest of his teammates to follow.
“He brings great athleticism and conditioning to the team,” said Colfer. “Because of that he can go harder and longer with his opponent and usually wear them out. He’s older so his wisdom and experience makes him more prone to do the right thing. Off the field, he has had some trouble before, but Mike has really persevered through the adversity to become a more mature person.”
During the winter Cottone had to overcome even more adversity. After being sick over the years, his mother had passed away on Christmas day.
“He has honestly personally exceeded all my expectations I’ve had for him,” said Colfer. “I have a lot of respect for that kid.”
Posted to the web by:Mark Garlit
