Neumann’s Alex Rucci Named Atlantic East Male Scholar Athlete of the Year
LANCASTER, Pa. – The Atlantic East Conference named the 2019-20 Male Scholar Athlete of the Year, naming Neumann University’s Alex Rucci as the recipient.
A four-year member of the Neumann men’s lacrosse team, Rucci played in 54 contests as a long-stick defender. He tallied 105 ground balls, 54 caused turnovers, six goals and five assists. Rucci was named Second Team All-Conference twice as well as to the conference All-Academic team all four seasons.
Rucci was a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Club (SAAC) where he served as President. He is a member of Chi Alpha Sigma and named the 2020 Neumann Athletics Reverence Award Winner, which is awarded to a student-athlete who honors the worth and dignity of their teammates, coaches, and officials, while celebrating each relationship within and surrounding their team.
In the classroom, Rucci received the 2020 Division of Business Academic Award Winner (first in Neumann history), was an eight-time Dean’s List recipient and a member of the Delta Mu Delta and Delta Epsilon Sigma National Honor Societies.
Off the field and out of the classroom, Rucci volunteers at the HEADstrong Foundation, participates in the 93.3 WMMR Preston and Steve Campout for Hunger and Stockings for Soldiers at Christmas. He was also a Presidential Ambassador and a peer advisor to incoming freshman.
Alex’s Reflection on his Four Years at Neumann:
“Throughout the last four years at Neumann University, I have seen myself become someone I never dreamt possible. The relationships I have built with classmates, teammates, and faculty are some of the many reasons I consider Neumann University more than just a school to me, but a home.
As a member of the men’s lacrosse team, I have had the privilege to play alongside and be coached by so many incredible individuals. I often reflect on the day that I committed to Neumann, many of my peers laughed at the fact that I would be joining a team that went 1-15 the season before. However, I was determined to help turn this program around. Despite everyone's background, and skill level, we came together to reach one common goal. In three years, my teammates, coaches, and I were able to complete a winning season, and take a trip to the Atlantic East semifinals, after winning our first playoff game in 15 years. Through this experience, I was able to learn how to become a better athlete, teammate, and most importantly a better leader, all of which I will carry with me toward my future.
At Neumann, not only did I receive endless support on the field, but off the field as well. Everyone around me pushed me every day to be the best version of myself and I am forever grateful for them