Cole Simmons '26 Recruiting Profile

My name is Cole Simmons, and I am in the class of 2026 at Milton Academy where I compete in the Independent School League (ISL). I play LSM/Defense for both my high school varsity team and 3d New England Blue (2026), wearing number 99, at 6'1" and 180 lbs. Though I had experimented with Lacrosse in middle school, my coach approached me in Freshman and Sophomore year to return playing.  I committed because I love defense and I knew I could contribute to the team. 

Lacrosse has quickly become a sport I love because it challenges me both mentally and physically. One of the things I enjoy most about it is that it's a true team sport. I've always enjoyed team sports because of the bond you create with your teammates, you learn and grow from mistakes, and push each other to get stronger. Knowing that I just started playing competitively last spring, my determination to grow and contribute to my team has only strengthened since then.  

While academics does not necessarily always come easy for me, I have a strong passion for it, especially in math and science. I am enjoying Statistics right now, especially seeing how data can be manipulated to tell a story.  I find this especially true for sports. I currently hold a 3.3 GPA, which I am actively working to improve. My work ethic with academics is similar to how I train and play on the field! I meet with my teachers outside of class just like I do extra workouts and train in order to get better. What makes me different is knowing that I can always work better, smarter and differently next time. I have a growth mindset and each day I work harder, even if I improve only 1% at a time. 

I’m looking for schools that will continue to give me a high level of competitive lacrosse development and play as well as the opportunity to be challenged academically.  I would love to be a part of your lacrosse program and campus community.  In addition to lacrosse, I also play varsity basketball for one of the top teams in New England (Milton Academy) where I’ve been on the team since freshman year. Playing basketball at Milton has allowed me to know what type of culture, attitude, and work ethic is needed to have a winning season. I’ve learned that every single player has to be committed to the same goal. As my coach quoted every year,  “your team is only as strong as your weakest link.” 

My family is deeply involved in competitive sports and academics—one of my brothers plays basketball at Yale, another runs track at Princeton, and my dad also ran track at Princeton. This foundation has taught me the importance of hard work and balance.