This week we caught up with 2017 Midfielder Dan Wigley. A captain of both the football and lacrosse teams at Shawnee High School, Dan is looking forward to finishing his career at on a high note. He will also be coaching for Blue Star SJ this summer with teammate and Blue Star Player Mike Shinske.
Off to a strong start, Dan looks to continue Shawnee's momentum into the late spring
Dan was a running back and safety for Shawnee Football
When did you start playing lacrosse?
When I was in 6th grade. Most of my friends played and my friends dad happened to be a youth coach. I began playing with the South Jersey Black Storm Program.
Did you play any other sports growing up?
Absolutely. Football has always been a big part of my athletics and I also played baseball up until 6th grade and I also played basketball up until 8th grade.
Were Mom or Dad lacrosse players?
No, but my Dad played football at TCNJ.
What about your two older brothers - did they play any sports?
Yes, they played a bunch growing up including lacrosse. My oldest brother played football at Gettysburg and just graduated, and my second oldest brother plays soccer at Gettysburg right now.
We always want to give a shoutout to Mom!
Absolutely. My mom drove me around the country to countless tournaments and games and even more, she had to wash my pads and sweaty uniforms for 10+ years! Thanks Mom!
What are the core values your parents instilled in you?
They told me to always do the right thing. People are always watching what you do and you need to listen to yourself and make the right decision.
Outside of sports, what do you spend your free time on?
I really enjoy going to the beach and hanging out. Also, I am a big music guy and listen to a lot of stuff on Soundcloud.
When did you start getting serious about lacrosse?
In 8th grade I sort of realized that I could be pretty good if I worked hard and stuck with it. So the summer going into freshman year of high school I began to weigh lift and run/shoot on my own.
When did you commit to Loyola University?
The August going into my sophomore year.
What advice would you give for players going through the recruiting process now?
Be patient. There is a school for everyone and it just takes time and hard work. If you work hard good things will happen and the process will sort itself out.
What are the expectations for this season?
We always aim to win the Group 3 South Title and then compete for the Group 3 State Title
People are always watching what you do and you need to listen to yourself and make the right decision.
Talk about your relationship with Mike Shinske - you guys have essentially been teammates since 6th grade?
Yeah, Mike and I have pretty much played on every team together growing up since we were eleven years old. Like me, he also played football growing up.
Toughest player you've gone against in practice?
Curtis Corley for sure (currently a starting defenseman at Maryland).
Any players you look up to?
Chris Lapierre (former Shawnee football and lacrosse standout, UVA Lacrosse captain)
Best coaching advice you ever got?
When you dodge, try to look through the defense. That way you can find the skip lanes and read the defense.
Wigley and Shinske Score Five Goals
Quick Hitters
Favorite Music? Black Kodak
Pregame Ritual/Superstition? None, I have a pretty simple pregame.
Favorite Movie? Benchwarmers
Favorite Subject in School? Math
Favorite Food? Buffalo Wings
