On Jan. 10, 2026, junior lacrosse defender Delaney Serbinski announced her commitment to further her academic and athletic career at Youngstown State University in Youngstown, Ohio at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I level.
Serbinski fell in love with the environment of the college and all of the opportunities awaiting her. She knew that Youngstown was the place for her because of the coaches and team environment around her.
“The coaches made me feel wanted and not just like another number on a team,” Serbinski shared.
Serbinski is grateful for the support system she has had throughout the recruiting journey such as coaches, friends and especially her parents, specifically her mom.
“My biggest support throughout my athletic journey has by far been my parents, specifically my mom,” Serbinski noted. “She was my first ever coach and has been there for me for every tournament, camp and high school game.”
Staying disciplined and consistent outside of school is one of the key factors that contributed to Serbinski’s commitment.
“Discipline plays a role in my daily routine by practicing everyday and working outside of practice,” Serbinski explained. “I maintain it by doing wall ball and private lessons.”
In order to stay disciplined, Serbinski sacrificed what would be days off for other teammates to go to lessons or camps in order to achieve her dreams.
“I’ve had to sacrifice my weekends, breaks, and hanging out with friends,” Serbinski mentioned. “Most of my days off aren’t days off.”
Serbinski’s club lacrosse team, Eagle Stix 27 Blue, is ranked top ten nationally, which adds pressure to her already challenging commitment.
“I felt pressure to commit fast and to a bigger school just because my teammates were, and that was what people expected from me,” Serbinski explained.
Through this experience, Serbinski knows how important it is to stay true to yourself and hopes other athletes hoping to commit can remember the same.
“There is a plan for everyone and yours might not look like everyone else’s, but that is okay because it is your journey and not theirs,” Serbinski shared.
