Huntington Senior Valentina Puccio Chooses Hofstra

Valentina Puccio played a key role in the Huntington High School girls’ lacrosse team’s march to Suffolk and Long Island championships last spring. The senior is committed to play on the NCAA Division I team at Hofstra University where she is expected to make an immediate impact.

“I chose Hofstra because I really like its strong programs in business, media, and law; those are all areas I’m interested in, even though I haven’t totally decided what I want to major in yet,” Ms. Puccio said. “I also like that it’s on Long Island and so close to New York City, which means there are tons of great internship and career opportunities nearby.”

Known as Tina by her teammates, Ms. Puccio is also a starter on the Blue Devils’ highly regarded tennis team. She’s a great competitor, playing hard to win. Hofstra and its rapidly improving program seems to be an ideal fit for the teenager.

“I was really drawn to Hofstra’s women’s lacrosse program,” Ms. Puccio said. “The head coach and the whole coaching staff have built something really strong over the last few years and I wanted to be a part of that. I know a few players who are already on the team and others who’ve been recruited, and you can tell the program’s just getting better every year. I’m excited to join them and hopefully make a big impact on the team’s future success.”

Ms. Puccio was named to the All-State team after tallying 38 goals and 10 assists at midfield/attack. She scored two goals against Ward Melville in the county championship game and three more goals against Massapequa in the Long Island title contest.

“My experience at Huntington High School has been amazing,” Ms. Puccio said. “I came here my junior year and at first I thought it might be tough to make the transition from my old school. But honestly, everyone — my friends, teammates, teachers, guidance counselors, and coaches — made me feel welcome right away. It’s just been such a great community to be a part of.  I’ve had awesome experiences playing tennis and, of course, lacrosse. Winning the lacrosse county championship and the Long Island championship was incredible — it’s something I’ll never forget.”

Ms. Puccio transferred into Huntington High School from Kellenberg as a junior and along with her younger sister, Olivia, seamlessly fit into the Blue Devil program and with her teammates.

“I’ve been lucky to play alongside the best lacrosse players on Long Island, and my teammates and coaches have been amazing,” Ms. Puccio said. “It’s been a lot of fun, and there’s just one thing left to do before I graduate: win another county championship, win another Long Island championship, and this year — bring home a state title!”