Versatility Is Essential On and Off the Field
José Oliverio, 1975 Courtesy of West Point
I grew up watching José Oliverio in the goal at West Point where he received All-American honors in lacrosse and soccer. His versatility was amazing! This was during a period in West Point lacross history in which during his tenure, Army had consistently been a top five Division I program. I'm known as a guy who played all over the field and in part I gleaned that from José as a possibility. His coach, Hall of Famer Dick Edell, had Jose face off for the Black Knights and then sub back into the goal after beating the other team's face-off specialist. In addition, as a product of Brentwood high school on Long Island, he was a great stopper closed the door on some great players like Hopkins' All American attackman Mike O'neil. I remember the sign in the stands at Michie Stadium which said, "Only Jesus saves more than José," LOL. He ended his career as a second team All-American (first-team that year had been John Hopkins Hall of Fame goalie Mike Federico). José is still involved in the game today serving as a referee. He lives in northern Virginia.
