Leadership takes the center stage in the world of lacrosse, and captains are the embodiment of this quality. They are the motivators who inspire their teammates to strive for greatness and persevere through hardships. Junior Richie Finn, symbolizes this important role as a prime example of leadership, athleticism and strategy.
Rich Finn started playing lacrosse in the second grade in his hometown, Lagrangeville, NY. The moment he picked up a lacrosse stick, he knew he had found his passion, and when deciding to pursue lacrosse in college after playing at Arlington High School, it was an easy decision for Finn. He credits his father for always being by his side and guiding him in the right direction. A great education along with playing a sport he’s always loved is the direction he chose.
“My father has always been my role model. For as long as I can remember he’s been by my side guiding me in the right direction. I am a better man because of him,” said Finn.
Finn revealed that the biggest challenge that he has faced at Cortland was making the adjustment of being a faceoff specialist after playing offense his entire life. Regardless of the shift, even Finn can admit that his ability to counteract other faceoff specialists’ moves has been his strong suit.
“Being I’ve only faced off for a couple years now I was reliant on my defensive strategies early on and they became what I’m best at now,” said Rich Finn.
The role of a captain entails being a leader both on and off of the field. This title means that the teammates have to trust their captains to guide them in the right direction at all times. It is important to implement a strong relationship between the team to foster unity and cohesion within the team. Finn can honestly say that his teammates are his brothers both on and off the field.
“I feel very confident due to the individuals I’m surrounded with on this team. There isn’t a more selfless and more hardworking team in the country than what we have here at Cortland,” said Rich Finn
Finn’s family and teammates are what motivates him the most. He has always prided himself on being a selfless player, so when his success benefits his teammates and makes his family proud, that is a win in his book.
Preparing for the games are essential for any player. For Finn, he studies lots of film on their opponents, ultilize the same stretching routine every game day and visualize the things he needs to do in games to help his team be successful.
The biggest thing the SUNY Cortland lacrosse team has taught Finn is to be selfless. He believes that being a part of something bigger than you teaches you to be the best for the guys next to you and not yourself.
“This title means that your teammates trust you to guide them in the right direction at all times,” said Rich Finn. “It is truly an honor to lead these guys into battle each week and they push me to be the best version of myself.”
Rich Finn is the embodiment of leadership, strategy, and athleticism. His priorities and values involve his family and friendships that he has made throughout his life. An insight into Finn’s life reveals that he is much more than a lacrosse captain. His passion shines through as he strives to maintain his close relationships as well as guiding his teammates.
