Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 8/29/17
From Press Release
The Ohio State men’s lacrosse program welcomed 13 new student-athletes to its program this fall. The addition of its latest recruiting class continues the Buckeyes’ trend of attracting the best and brightest players from the United States and Canada. The group represents nine different states and provinces.
“As a whole, this class is a great fit both academically and athletically for the culture we’ve built in our program,” said head coach Nick Myers. “They’ve developed in elite high school programs under exceptional coaches and mentors. They’ll undoubtedly have an impact for us this season both on and off the field.”
Luke Russomanno
Goalkeeper
5-11, 203 lbs.
Medford, N.J. / St. Augustine Prep/South Shore
AT ST. AUGUSTINE PREP
Made 174 saves and earned first team All-New Jersey non-public as a senior.
Averaged 9.6 saves per game.
A two-year starter, stopped a combined 281 shots in 2016 and 2017.
A US Lacrosse High School All-American for his efforts on the field and Academic All-American for his work in the classroom.
As a senior, helped St. Augustine Prep advance to the NJSIAA Non-Public A state quarterfinals.
Part of a senior class at St. Augustine Prep that produced 15 seniors who committed to play college lacrosse.
PERSONAL
Is the son of Anna and Joe Russomanno.
Has one brother.
Played six years of club lacrosse for South Shore.
Following graduation, would like to start his own business.
Russomanno on why he chose Ohio State: “I picked Ohio State for one main reason: the way that the school made you feel at home was unlike no other. What made this so special to me was I didn’t get this from something someone said I purely got this from the contagious culture of the school and how everybody buys into a community that’s something larger than just yourself.”
Colby Smith
Attack / Midfield
6-1, 199 lbs.
Lancaster, Pa. / Hempfield/NXT LC
AT HEMPFIELD
Team captain and Lancaster-Lebanon League All Star.
Scored 86 goals and dished out 23 assists as a sophomore, helping Hempfield reach the Lancaster-Lebanon League final and the District 3 semifinals.
Four-year varsity letterwinner.
Played his club lacrosse for NXT and is the program’s career points leader.
Participated in Nike’s “The Ride” and the USA U19 national team tryouts.
High school national champion at Lake Placid in 2016.
Was also invited to Maverik and Nike Blue Chip showcases.
Selected as a Central Pennsylvania Academic All-American.
Also played soccer in high school and holds Hempfield’s all-time points record (63 points, 25G, 13A).
PERSONAL
Is the son of Whitney and Andy Smith.
Has an older sister, Mackenzie, who played tennis at the University of Mary Washington.
His aunt played basketball at Campbell University.
Intends to major in biology.
Was a member of the Future Business Leaders of America club in high school.
Smith on why he chose Ohio State: “I chose Ohio State because the school, campus environment and lacrosse facilities have impressed me from the moment I first visited OSU. Coach Myers, Coach Ross and the entire lacrosse staff have made me feel like I was joining a family driven towards excellence both on the field and in the classroom.”
Hunter Barco
Attack / Midfield
6-0, 176 lbs.
Plain City, Ohio / Dublin Jerome
AT DUBLIN JEROME
First team All-Ohio for head coach Andy Asmo at Dublin Jerome High School.
Selected to play in the Senior All-Star Game at Obetz Fortress Field.
A first-team All-Midwest and All-Region selection as Dublin Jerome finished 15-5-1 during Barco’s senior season.
Played club lacrosse for Titanium Lacrosse.
Was a defensive back and wide receiver for Jerome’s football team.
PERSONAL
Is the son of Michael and Rosanne Barco.
Is one of five children.
Has three older siblings and one younger.
Mom was a cheerleader at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and dad played football.
Pastimes includes boating, fishing, music and photography.
Barco on why he chose Ohio State: “I chose to be a Buckeye because of the atmosphere. I grew up in Ohio, as a huge buckeye fan. There’s no better feeling than wearing the scarlet and gray. It’s a program that is much bigger than myself. When you get the opportunity to represent your state it’s close to impossible to deny. Being a buckeye has been my dream since I was six years old.”
Colby Barker
Midfield
6-1, 199 lbs.
Pittsford, N.Y. / Pittsford Mendon
AT PITTSFORD MENDON
US Lacrosse High School All-American and played in the Under Armour All-American game in 2017.
Four-year letter winner and first team all-county selection at Pittsford Mendon.
Led his team the New York State final four as a sophomore and the championship game as a senior.
In addition to earning All-Greater Rochester and All-Section V honors during his senior year, was the team’s leading scorer and most valuable player.
Scored five goals in the state semifinals to help Pittsford Mendon erase a three-goal first half deficit.
Also played football and was an all-state selection as well as first team all-county and All-Greater Rochester.
PERSONAL
The son of Scott and Julie Barker.
Is the younger brother of current Buckeye Brandon Barker.
Lists his greatest sports thrills as winning the Section V championship with his brother as a sophomore in high school and advancing to the New York state final four as a senior.
His father, Scott, was a member of the 1988 national championship football team at Ithaca College.
While in high school, raised money for the Golisano Children’s Hospital and organized multiple events to help raise awareness for a local child, Craig Winter, who had been diagnosed with cancer.
Barker on why he chose Ohio State: “When I stepped on campus, I instantly felt like I could see myself living here for the next four years. The lacrosse program has always felt to me like a close group with a family feel. Having the chance to play with my brother again for two years was a draw as well. The academic support is the best I’ve seen and there is a strong network of OSU alumni that will allow me opportunities after I graduate.”
JT Bugliosi
Attack
5-9, 156 lbs.
Forest Hill, Md. / Calvert Hall
AT CALVERT HALL
Two-time All-American for one of the top high school programs in the country.
As a junior, was an Under Armour All-American, All-Metro first team and MSLCA All-State.
Named his team’s offensive MVP in both 2016 and 2017.
During his senior year, again earned MSLCA All-State recognition and earned US Lacrosse All-American honors.
Played in the MSLCA Senior Game and was named the Most Valuable Player.
Led Calvert Hall to a MIAA title as a senior, the program’s first since 2012.
Named the Mid-Atlantic Player of the Week by US Lacrosse Magazine on March 30, 2016 after scoring the game-winning goal in overtime against Malvern Prep.
PERSONAL
Is the son of Joe and Linda Bugliosi.
Father played baseball at Towson University.
Has a younger sister, Emma.
Graduated with honors from Calvert Hall and was a member of the National Latin Honor Society.
Intends to major in finance.
Bugliosi on why he chose Ohio State: “As soon as I arrived on campus, Ohio State felt like home. I had a great connection with the coaching staff and was made to feel like a part of the family. The combination of academics and athletics at Ohio State are second to none and provided an opportunity that was a perfect fit for me.”
Omari DeBerry
Midfield
6-3, 165 lbs.
Woodstock, Md. / Calvert Hall
AT CALVERT HALL
Four-year starter for one of the top programs in the country.
Registered 18 points as a senior and over 20 as a junior on team’s that produced multiple high-level Division I products.
Helped Calvert Hall win the MIAA title, its first since 2012.
PERSONAL
The son of Phil and Monique DeBerry.
Intends to major in sport industry and pursue a master’s and/or law degree after graduation. Aspires to be a general manager, athletics director or president of team operations.
Lists his greatest sports thrill as winning the MIAA championship over McDonough.
His father played football at Liberty University and uncle played at the University of Richmond. His aunt played basketball at VCU.
DeBerry on why he chose Ohio State: “I chose Ohio State because athletically when you think of Ohio State you think of winning. That perception is confirmed in the winning atmosphere when you get on campus for visits. Also academically I felt like the right people would be put around me so that I could succeed and unlock my potential.”
Griffin Hughes
Midfield
5-8, 167 lbs.
Powell, Ohio / Olentangy Liberty
AT OLENTANGY LIBERTY
Two-time first team All-Ohio and the 2017 OCC Player of the Year.
Named Ohio’s Division I Player of the Year following his senior year and a US Lacrosse All-American.
Set Liberty’s program record for career goals and points.
Two-time team Offensive Most Valuable Player.
Led Liberty to a undefeated conference record and the team’s first OCC title in over 10 years.
Also played football at Liberty and had three interceptions (two for touchdowns) and one kickoff return for touchdown during his senior year in 2016.
Helped the Patriots to an undefeated regular season and appearance in the regional finals.
PERSONAL
The son of Susan and Shane Hughes.
Has two siblings: an older brother and younger sister.
Lists his greatest sports thrill as going undefeated during the regular season with his Olentangy Liberty football team during his senior season.
Hughes on why he chose Ohio State: “Growing up in Columbus, I’ve had a dream to be a buckeye my whole entire life. With the outstanding academics and a national championship caliber team, is was an easy decision for me.”
Justin Inacio
Midfield
5-10, 177 lbs.
Oakville, Ontario / The Hill Academy
AT THE HILL ACADEMY
Played for head coach Brodie Merrill and the No. 1-ranked high school program in North America and is considered one of the top faceoff specialists in the Class of 2017.
Helped Hill Academy win the Geico National High School Lacrosse title.
Selected to play in the prestigious Under Armour All-America Game for the South squad.
Participated in three major showcases/camps: the NSCLA National Cup Showcase, Maverik Showtime and All-Canadian Games All-Star.
A member of the Canadian U-19 national team.
PERSONAL
Is the son of Nelson and Sandra Inacio.
Has an older sister.
Plans to major in biology and take pre-dental courses at Ohio State.
Would like to attend dental school in Canada and open his own practice.
Lists his greatest sports thrill as the “fling and a prayer” – a play for the U-19 Canadian team in which he won a faceoff, flung the ball downfield, leading to a tying goal vs. the United States U-19 team. Canada would go on to win the game in overtime.
Inacio on why he chose Ohio State: “The first time I stepped on campus I felt something special. You can literally feel the school spirit and love everyone has for this school. I wanted to become a Buckeye ever since that moment. The lacrosse coaches and staff were so welcoming and made me feel like family right away. I wanted to be a part of it, make an impact, and compete for a national championship – something I felt like we could do under Coach Myers.”
Jed Manning
Defense
6-5, 208 lbs.
Cockeysville, Md. / The Hill Academy
AT THE HILL ACADEMY
An ideally sized defender with exceptional cover skills.
Started his high school career at Calvert Hall before finishing at The Hill Academy.
A multi-sport athlete, also played football, ice hockey and water polo.
Was a member of MIAA championship teams as a freshman at Calvert Hall in both football and ice hockey.
Played club lacrosse for the Breakers (2010-17) and Crabs (2017).
PERSONAL
Is the son of Jeff and Laura Manning.
Has fourth older siblings – two brothers and two sisters.
All four of his older siblings played sports collegiately.
Is an avid sailor and fisherman.
Intends to major in business.
Manning on why he chose Ohio State: “Ohio State has a tradition of excellence, and that pursuit was evident to me the moment I stepped on campus. It’s a place where pride goes farther than just the stands of The ‘Shoe. Ohio State also has no shortage of resources academically, socially and athletically. The unique opportunity to be a part of something as big as Ohio state was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and one I just couldn’t pass up.”
Paxton Marks
Defense
5-11, 161 lbs.
Dallas, Texas / Episcopal School of Dallas
THE EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF DALLAS
A highly skilled and athletic long stick midfielder who gained a reputation as a shut-down defender.
Three-time all-league selection for head coach Pat Kennedy at Episcopal School of Dallas.
Led a defense that helped ESD win four consecutive SPC titles.
Denver Showcase Most Valuable Player in 2016 for his club team, Stick Star.
PERSONAL
Son of Paxton Jr. and Erinn Marks.
Has a younger sister.
Intends to major in business and get his master’s degree after graduation.
Involved in Young Men’s Service League, Bridge Lacrosse Leadership Program and Boy Scouts of America.
Marks on why he chose Ohio State: “I chose The Ohio State University because of the family atmosphere along with the level of expectations for character growth shown both in the Buckeye Creed and portrayed by all of the Buckeyes.”
Jackson Reid
Midfield
5-11, 162 lbs.
Culver, Ind. / Culver Academy
AT CULVER ACADEMY
Selected to play in the Under Armour All-America Game.
Three-time first team All-Midwest and two-time Inter-Ac champion.
Scored two goals and had one assist is a 12-9 win over No. 1-ranked McDonogh School.
Netted eights goals in a 17-6 win over No. 5 St. Paul’s.
Helped Culver avenge an early-season loss to Haverford School with a 9-5 victory in the Inter-Ac Invitational.
Honorable mention US Lacrosse Magazine National Player of the Week (May 9, 2017).
PERSONAL
Is the son of Jeff and Denise Reid.
Has two younger sisters.
Reid on why he chose Ohio State: “I chose Ohio State because of the reputation for great academics and athletics and also because of the support and passion that is all around you. You are a part of something much bigger than yourself. You are a part of a community of people that will help you get to where you want to be.”
Evan Riss
Defense
6-0, 178 lbs.
Columbia, Md. / Oakland Mills
AT OAKLAND MILLS
Four-time team captain and the 2017 Howard County Player of the Year.
Finalist for the C. Markland Kelly Award, given annually to the top player in the state of Maryland.
Two-sport athlete who also was an all-county selection on the football field.
Second team All-Metro from the Baltimore Sun and Washington Post.
As a sophomore and junior, was selected for the Under Armour Underclass Tournament.
MSLCA Public School first team All-State selection.
PERSONAL
The son of Sue and Jim Riss.
Has one sibling, an older brother.
Lists his greatest sports thrill as scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to complete a come-from-behind victory over cross-town rival Wilde Lake.
Member of the National Honors Society and Oakland Mills Choir.
Riss on why he chose Ohio State: “I knew that this is a place where I will be pushed to be better. Coach Myers and the coaching staff hold the guys on the team accountable and it really brings us all together. That sense of brotherhood and family is why I chose to be a Buckeye.”
Jackson Smith
Midfield
6-2, 185 lbs.
Ashburn, Va. / Paul VI
AT PAUL VI
Three-year starter and twice voted his team’s Offensive Most Valuable Player.
Played in the Under Armour Underclass Tournament as a junior in 2016.
Team captain and all-metropolitan during his senior campaign in 2017.
Also a two-year letterwinner in football as a wide receiver.
Led his team in receptions and was voted all-state.
PERSONAL
The son of Shelly and Rob Smith.
Has two siblings.
Intends to major in business and pursue a career on Wall Street following graduation.
Lists his greatest sports thrill as scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to help Paul VI come-from-behind and erase an eight-goal deficit.
Smith on why he chose Ohio State: “I chose to be a Buckeye because of the family culture that is embedded in Ohio State athletics and displayed by the Ohio State lacrosse team. I knew Ohio State was where I wanted to call home.”