Matthew Ullrich began playing lacrosse because one of his buddies bought a stick and convinced him to buy one. Little did he know that stick would lead him to becoming a college athlete.
Ullrich, a captain for the Clarkston boys lacrosse team, signed a letter of intent to play lacrosse at Wooster College.
‘Mike Sasse bought a stick in eighth grade and said he really liked it so I got one,? Ullrich said. ‘We played together and then got in a league. Then, when I got in ninth grade, I played J.V. here. I got moved up to varsity my freshman year for the playoffs. I scored my first goal in one of the playoff games. It was one of the only times I got in during the whole playoffs too.?
Ullrich and Sasse have played together for five years, but now are nearing the end of their high school careers. The two are key parts of the Clarkston offense, which has led the team to a seven-game winning streak heading into the state playoffs.
Ullrich scored three goals in the Wolves 8-7 victory over No. 13 ranked Rockford on May 20. Ullrich has 21 goals this season and is hopeful he can help Clarkston win a regional title.
A regional title would cap off a solid high school career for Ullrich, who said he wanted to make sure he played after high school. He said he choose Wooster because of the lacrosse and science programs.
‘I went down there and they have a really good science program, which is what I want to go into,? Ullrich said. ‘I really liked the coach and the school. I think it will be a great opportunity for me.?
Clarkston Lacrosse Coach Brian Kaminskas said he loves to see his players go on to the next level.
‘It’s terrific,? Kaminskas said. ‘The fact that they have the love for the game, the desire and the skill is everything you want from your players.?
Kaminskas is hopeful Clarkston will get to keep playing for a few more weeks in the state playoffs and said Ullrich will play an important role.
‘As a four-year player and captain he runs our offense,? Kaminskas said. ‘He decides if we are going to settle down or take the isolations and shoot. He’s a terrific leader and all the kids look up to him.?