Saddle Brook Lacrosse Standout Signs With Felician University

RUTHERFORD, NJ — Saddle Brook High School graduate and three-time All-New Jersey Indoor Lacrosse League defender Matthew Branco will suit up for Felician Univeristy when the next lacrosse season begins.

The program announced in a Tuesday news release that Branco was one of five recent signees to the program, including two others from New Jersey.

"Matt plays solid on-ball defense, but I'm more excited about his ability to handle the ball and recognize transition opportunities," said Felician Head Coach Brendan Bonacum. "Having another defender involved in the transition offense will allow us to take more chances."

Branco was a two-sport athlete at Saddle Brook High School, and was named the soccer team's MVP, and received recognition as an honorable mention selection for the NJIC All-Meadowlands Team.

Felician, an NCAA Division II athletic program, plays in the Central Atlantic Athletic Conference.

The conference cancelled the spring 2020 athletic season in March, and announced earlier this month that the 14 member colleges voted unanimously to cancel all fall competitions.

"This decision was not made lightly," CACC Commissioner Dan Mara said in a statement. "Our presidents and athletic directors have had extensive conversations about what is the best plan of action for the safety and welfare of student-athletes, coaches and staff. A decision regarding how student-athletes can practice and prepare with their coaches during the fall semester is forthcoming."

Spring seasons for CACC schools are not affected by this vote, and are expected to be played as originally scheduled.