Stickman Luke Gillespie was named freshman of the year at Pfieffer University in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The 19-year-old Maple Ridge native was asked to join the field lacrosse team at Pfieffer in December 2011, after graduating from Pitt Meadows Secondary.

A tough decision for Gillespie initially, as he had to decide on the spot and leave for North Carolina within a month.

He chose to take the offer on a full scholarship and start his university career towards a business degree.

Gillespie proved his big stick, defensive skills to his team, coaches, and school.

He received the freshman of the year award as well as second-team in his conference award.

Gillespie's name is in Pfieffer's record books for earning the second highest number of ground balls in a season.

He received some interest from a few Div. 1 universities and is now weighing his options and hopes to make a decision soon.