Interview Conducted by Athletic Communications Intern Nevaeh Wall

Royal Reflection shines a light on the senior student-athletes who embody what it means to be a Royal. In this edition, we feature Jason Kozak of The University of Scranton men's lacrosse team as he reflects on the moments that defined his time as a Royal.

Favorite Scranton memory?

• Spring break trips to Tennessee during my freshman and senior years. Getting to compete, travel, and spend that time with my teammates created memories I'll never forget.

One lesson Scranton Athletics taught you?

• Hard work pays off. Staying consistent and trusting the process always leads to growth, both on and off the field.

Pregame or pre-competition ritual you'll miss most?

• Getting Sacco's with my teammates the night before game day. It was always a fun way for us to relax and spend time together before competing.

Teammate who made the biggest impact on you?

• Mitchell Kozak.

Best advice you've received during your career?

• The best advice I received during my career was, "Don't think too much — just play." It taught me to trust my preparation, play confidently, and stay in the moment.

What does being a Royal mean to you?

• Doing the work when nobody is watching and always putting the team first.

What are you most proud of from your time at Scranton?

• What I'm most proud of from my time at The University of Scranton is being part of the culture change within the lacrosse program and helping win Landmark Championships alongside my teammates.

What surprised you most about yourself this past season?

• What surprised me most about myself this past season was realizing how much I appreciated every moment knowing it was my last season. It made me value the relationships, competition, and daily routines more than I ever had before.

How do you hope to be remembered by your coaches and teammates?

• I hope to be remembered as someone who was trustworthy, fun to be around, and always brought positive energy to the team — and of course for my hitch.

What's next after graduation?

• After graduation, I'll be attending Stony Brook University School of Health Professions to pursue my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.