April 05, 2018

Getting To Know Steve DeNapoli Xcelerate Lacrosse Camp Director

Steve DeNapoli has a wealth of experience having been a collegiate player at Division I Canisius College, professional player and Team USA member.

Coach DeNapoli will be directing our Xcelerate Nike Tennessee Boys Lacrosse Camp at Vanderbilt University this summer, June 11-14.

How many years have you been coaching lacrosse?
I have been coaching for the past 6 years - youth, high school and college.

What is your favorite camp drill/activity?
It has the be the "Camp-ionship"

What do you find most rewarding about being a coach?
Watching players progress, try new things on field and become leaders before your very eyes.

What is one of your favorite memories of being a coach?
When one of my players came back from the Air Force. I sat and had lunch with him and he told me I was a factor in his success.

What is your most memorable experience playing the sport?
Winning the Nassau County Championship in High School.

What is your favorite sport outside of lacrosse and how do you think knowledge/skills in that sport translate to lacrosse?
Golf. I would say focus and remaining mentally tough.

What do you believe are the most important characteristics of improvement?
Self motivation. If your coach is improving your game, that is expected. But the willingness to improve has to come from within.

What do you think is the most under-appreciated skill/ability in the sport of lacrosse?
Being able to play the wing on a faceoff.

What is your go-to Nike apparel/equipment?
Any type of footwear they put out (cleats or sneakers)