Stadeli will play for Notre Dame de Namur University

Jens Stadeli, a senior and four-year varsity lacrosse player, is excited about his opportunity to play lacrosse at the next level. Stadeli has signed with Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU), and will head to Belmont, California, in the fall and play at midfield for the Argonauts.

Stadeli was first introduced to lacrosse when he was in the seventh grade, and he clearly recalls the moment.

"My cousin was playing in the SALI Tournament, and it looked a lot more fun than baseball, which I was playing at that time," said Stadeli.

Jens switched over to lacrosse, and hasn't looked back. Stadeli loves the sport, and told The Nugget that it has helped him connect with his Native American heritage.

"I was able to travel to the Six Nations Reservations to play in an invitation-only tournament where we took second place," said Stadeli.

Varsity Coach Bill Rexford has been a major part of Stadeli's lacrosse experience.

"Coach Rexford is the reason that I am where I am today," said Stadeli. "Without him to guide me, and the program the last four years, I'm not sure I would have this opportunity."

Rexford said, "Ever since I met Jens, he's loved lacrosse, and I am so happy he's going to play at the next level. I know he'll contribute to the team, and make everyone better, just like he did here."

Stadeli has visited the campus at NDNU, and told The Nugget that it felt like home.

"The coaches were great, and extremely devoted to the team, and to the school," he said. "The program as a whole was very welcoming, and you couldn't tell the difference between the seniors and the freshmen."

Jens plans to major in kinesiology and sports medicine.