This is the fourth entry in a question and answer series with the first High Point University men's lacrosse team. Get to know the entire team as they prepare for the program opener against Delaware on Feb. 2 at Vert Stadium. Bucky Smith is a redshirt-junior from Great Falls, Va. who was chosen as one of the team captains for the season.

What has the transition been like from high school to Division I lacrosse?
The transition from high school to Division I lacrosse was certainly a challenge. The pace of the game and intensity are on a much higher level and it took some time to get acclimated to the change. My freshman year fall ball was a bit overwhelming. You really have to learn on the go and be able to manage your time more efficiently if you want to succeed on and off the field. At times it was a bit stressful and you really have to rely on your teammates to get you through.

What drew you to High Point?
I transferred to High Point at the beginning of my junior year so I have a bit of a different background. It came down to Hofstra and High Point and once I came down to HPU and met with the coaching staff the decision was easy. There was a very unique energy around the program and it was apparent from my first visit that the coaching staff, the athletic department and the administration had very high expectations for this team. We are held to a higher standard as High Point lacrosse players and I wanted to be a part of that.

What is it like to be part of High Point's first men's lacrosse team?
It's an absolute blessing. I can't imagine playing anywhere else in the country. Day in and day out we leave 100 percent on the field and we take great pride in being the hardest working group of guys we can be. There are certainly a lot of expectations heading into the season and with the caliber of guys we have on the roster there's no reason we can't accomplish every goal we've set for ourselves.

How would you describe yourself as a player?
I've always been a player that can get up and down the field well. My strengths are in the open field where I have space to use my speed. The individual skill development we've received as players from our coaching staff has been unbelievable. It has elevated everyone's game. When we first came on campus we were all pretty raw but after the time we've spent under our coaching staff we're much more refined and prepared for the season.

What game are you most looking forward to this season?
Delaware. As a member of the group of guys that were on campus last year this is a game we've been preparing for since August 2011. It's been circled on the calendar for a long time and we're getting pretty excited for it now that it's right around the corner.

What has your academic experience been like at High Point?
It's been great so far. I am a business administration major and minor in anthropology. Some of the best classes and professors I've ever had have been at HPU. They expect a lot out of the students and in general we are held to a higher standard than other big state schools. It's been a reward experience so far.