UVA senior goalie Adam Ghitelman has played against Syracuse in all four of his years as a Cavalier. Ghitelman still gets excited for every matchup against the Orange and tonight's contest will be no different.
Ghitelman joined College Crosse for a few questions on tonight's game.
I asked Ghitelman, who is saving 58 percent of the shots he see's, what it is like to play in a game as exciting as this one.
"It's always special to play in the UVA versus Syracuse game. I've had the opportunity to play against them all four years during my career. What is so special is that unlike any game in college lacrosse, both teams want to run up and down the field and make plays. In the end, its about the team who keeps a level head and is the most disciplined that usually comes away with the victory. It should be a fun one."
Ghitelman also talked about what it is like to play in the Carrier Dome. He say's its a special place to play, but a little tough on goalies, especially if you aren't used to it.
"The carrier dome is a special place. If it weren't for Klockner stadium, the Dome would be the best place to play college lacrosse in the country. You just cannot help but to be excited to play in that place. It isn't the most goalie friendly stadium, with the high stands and dim lighting, but that's what makes this game special. There will be a lot of goals but also a lot of goalie saves."
Lastly I asked Ghitelman about the Syracuse offense, which is very similar to his Cavalier offense,
"Their offense can attack you from anywhere. That is what make this team great. They are not afraid to take shots from all over the field, so I have to be ready for a shot at any time. They are a very personnel driven team, so scouting them in terms of formations is less important than understanding tendencies. They will put up some goals, but will also make some mistakes in terms of shooting and turnovers, but as does every team. They are a great offense and I'm excited for the challenge. There's no different preparation for this game than any other. Just see the ball and react."