GAME ON: From RI to the NCAA - J.J. Gilbane

GAME ON: From RI to the NCAA - J.J. Gilbane

Each year the most accomplished scholar-athletes take their awards and state championships and head off to compete in colleges and universities across the country. For players like JJ Gilbane, a former All-American from Providence Country Day - the road to playing for the #6 ranked Division I, Cornell lacrosse team has been complex. 

How was the transition from being a high school athlete to becoming an athlete in college?

The transition from high school to college was difficult. Going from being the go-to guy in high school to a team where everyone was the go-to guy in high school and now is fighting for playing time was difficult to adjust to. But once you realize that as long as you give your best effort everyday, you'll be successful, it makes things a lot easier.

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What do you miss most about playing in high school?

What I miss most about playing lacrosse in high school is being able to be around my family and childhood friends. Since I was about 10 years old, my cousins and I have always either played on the same team or played against each other and having our parents, aunts, uncles, and family members being able to travel a short distance and be at the games was really special.

What is your biggest challenge as a college athlete?

The biggest challenge in my opinion is bringing your best everyday. Every single day from the time you step on campus in August, until you leave for the summer in June, everyday you are tested physically on the field as well as mentally in classroom, and balancing the two can be extremely difficult.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your athletic career?

The most rewarding aspect of my athletic career has got to be the relationships that I have created through playing lacrosse. I have met so many amazing people through the sport that have helped me develop not only as an athlete, but as a person, and has made me who I am today. Many of my closest friends are one that I have met through lacrosse and I continue to make connections through this sport that I love so much.

 

Story developed by GoLocalProv Contributor Rachel Eides