This is the second 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. Today's featured player is sophomore defender Pat Farrell. Farrell transferred to HPU from Scranton where he appeared in 16 games with 10 caused turnovers.

What was the transition like from high school to Div. I lacrosse?
The transition was challenging. The game is faster and there are more responsibilities as a student and an athlete to deal with. Besides academic duties and lacrosse requirements we have community service projects. But it is easy to juggle these things with time management and help from all the advisors available to us.

Your father played Div. I basketball at UMBC. What advice did he give you about being a collegiate athlete?
My Dad played basketball at UMBC so he understands the commitment it requires to be a student-athlete. He told me that anything I wanted to accomplish at this level is possible but it would require 100 percent of my time and effort. There are no days off.

What game are you looking forward to most this season?
I am looking forward to facing St. Joseph's on Feb. 16. My twin brother, Will, is on the team and it will be the first time we compete against each other. I have never been on the same field as him and not been on his team. My brother and I attending different colleges was something that just happened. College lacrosse came into the picture for us at a late stage in our high school career and we chose schools that were the best fit for us individually.

How have you been challenged off the field at HPU?
The academics at High Point really offer another way for us to challenge ourselves outside of lacrosse. I am undecided on a major but leaning toward business. However, I have really enjoyed my history classes and Spanish. The strength & conditioning coaches are also always helping us and pushing us to get better off the field.