Columbia Lacrosse Star Rachael Burek Selects UAlbany Great Danes, America East Conference

EAST GREENBUSH — Rachael Burek said talking to lacrosse coaches she did not know about their colleges was extremely stressful. The exception for Burek was University at Albany coach Lindsey Hart.

Burek competed for Hart with the Albany Elite club team for two years and as a member of the 2008 Adirondack Region scholastic squad over the summer. After visiting the school and seeing her potential teammates, Burek decided to give Hart her oral commitment to compete for the Great Danes of the America East Conference.

"I knew some of the girls already and I love coach Hart," said Burek, who also considered Fairfield, UC Davis, George Mason and Limestone.

Burek, who competes in field hockey, basketball and lacrosse at Columbia, plans to major in physical therapy at UAlbany.

"My parents are glad to be able to come see me play," Burek said about staying close to home.

By JAMES ALLEN