LILJ Winter Premier Showcase Recap, Stand-outs & MVPs

The LILJ Boys Winter Showcase wrapped-up last night at Stony Brook Indoor complex. After two straight nights of unmatched player development from top NCAA college lacrosse coaches with Long Island roots, the boys in attendance showed signs of tremendous growth, team play, individual development and exposure. The LILJ had an amazing time covering some of Long Island’s best players and promoting the amazing college coaches in attendance. Below are some players who stood out and the 3 MVP winners from the Winter Showcase.

All-Showcase Team + MVPs

Colin Waxer

Attack | Bethpage, NY | Bethpage HS | Class of 2028

Waxer displayed excellent off-ball play throughout the Winter Showcase, consistently finding seams, getting open, and creating space for teammates to initiate the offense. He shows good hands and the ability to finish in tight. Excited to see the impact he continues to make at the varsity level for the Bethpage Eagles.

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Brody Jackson

LSM | Bethpage, NY | Bethpage HS | Class of 2028

A tall, speedy, and skilled LSM, Jackson showcased his value by scooping up ground balls and clearing the ball efficiently. His two-handed ability and poise with the ball make him a strong between-the-lines pole. As he continues to grow into his body and hit the weight room, his upside is clear.

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Danny Peters

Defense | Garden City, NY | Garden City HS | Class of 2028

A typical Garden City defensive product, Peters showed strong flashes at the Winter Showcase. A tall, long, and disciplined defenseman, he has significant upside. In a system that consistently develops high-level defenders, Peters is only going to continue improving under the Trojans’ staff.

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Dylan LaGala (Legendary Offensive MVP presented by Gait)

Midfield | Long Island, NY | Miller Place | Class of 2027

LaGala created advantages all over the field at the Winter Showcase. He put on a show with his ability to attack short sticks, rip shots on the run, and dodge effectively from anywhere on the field. An uncommitted junior, LaGala continues to improve year over year and looks poised to land at a strong collegiate program.

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Corey Dellafranca

Attack | Babylon, NY | Babylon HS | Class of 2028

A super-skilled and athletic attacker from Babylon, Dellafranca is an up-and-coming south shore product. He displayed strong coachability, good decision-making, and the ability to elevate those around him. A sophomore to keep tracking as we head into the 2026 season.

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CJ Rogler

Attack | Garden City, NJ | Garden City High School | Class of 2028

We had the opportunity to cover Rogler for one night—and it was more than enough. Coming off a tremendous weekend at the IMCLA Players Summit, he generated highlight-reel plays whenever the ball was in his stick. Rogler brings football-level grit combined with elite skill, especially from X and in tight spaces. A tough cover who demands a slide.

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Alex Liguori (Difference Maker Defensive MVP presented by Chick Fil-A)

Defense | Garden City, NY | Garden City HS | Class of 2028

Liguori was a lock-down, hard-checking, no-trespassing defenseman at the Winter Showcases. He did an excellent job adjusting and implementing coaching feedback to elevate his play. One of many talented 2028s in the Garden City program, Liguori’s high school career is just getting started.

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Zachary Psilakis (Supreme Goalie MVP presented by Supreme Lacrosse Academy)

Goalie | Garden City, NY | Garden City HS | Class of 2028

Psilakis is a front-runner to be one of the top goalies in his class in Nassau County. Another strong Garden City product, he is set up for continued growth within a storied program. Psilakis stands out with his quick hands, fast outlets, and advanced ability to read shooters.

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Connor McIntee

Attack/Midfield | East Islip, NY | East Islip HS | Class of 2028

McIntee is a beast. After getting to cover McIntee at night 2 of the Winter Showcase, it’s obvious McIntee is going to be a force this upcoming Spring. With Varsity experience, McIntee isn’t phased by contact. Connor stung a righty shot on the run while taking a big hit. He popped up, shook his head, and got dialed for the next play. His ability to draw slides, shoot hard on the run, pick-up tough ground balls and play defense, makes him one of the most well-rounded 28s on the island.

LILJ Winter Premier Showcase MVPs (Left to Right) Alex Liguori, Zachary Psilakis, Dylan LaGala

More Players That Impressed

Christopher Cielusniak 2029

Sonny Alessi 2029

Preston Sawyer 2029

Erik Klebers 2029

Carter Mauro 2029

Joseph Berhalter 2029

Cameron Manuel 2029

Brendan Babst 2029

Connor Zummo 2029

Ramon Mateo 2028

Beckett Mills 2028

JR Barth 2028

Mark Escher 2028

Cameron Meadows 2027

Riley Meadows 2027

Jacob Zohar 2027

Giovanni Palladino 2027

Dougie Ruhs 2027

James LaRosa 2027