Introduction to Senior Spotlight
Overview of Buck DeLaMater’s Story
EAST GREENBUSH, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Buck DeLaMater’s story is one of true perseverance, grit and determination, which made him an ideal candidate for this week’s Senior Spotlight.
Watching DeLaMater light up the lacrosse field this past spring, you’d never know the Columbia High School senior narrowly had his career cut short. In April of 2024, DeLaMater was in the midst of a stellar junior campaign when he suffered a season-ending Lisfranc injury.
The Injury and Road to Recovery
Details of the Injury
"That Lisfranc injury is a really tough one," said Columbia boys lacrosse head coach Greg Sherwin. "If it doesn’t heal right, you’re done with sports; you don’t play again. [Buck] played two games after that injury, which we weren’t aware of until the MRI came in. So he could’ve caused further damage, which would’ve ended his career."
Rehabilitation Process
After an initial surgery, DeLaMater spent four months in a boot. He then underwent another surgery in October to remove two screws from his foot before beginning his road to recovery, which included spending the next six months rehabbing and doing therapy to be ready for the 2025 lacrosse season.
Personal Reflection on the Recovery
"It was hard. I’ve never had an injury like that, so going through that process was new to me," said DeLaMater. "But being confident that you’re gonna get back to where you were – I know it may seem hard – but staying confident is definitely what helped."
Achievements and Accolades
Record-Breaking Performance
It became very apparent that DeLaMater had returned to form when he scored a program-record 11 goals in a game against South Glens Falls on April 22 – almost exactly one year removed from when he suffered his injury.
Teamwork and Success
"My team was giving me good looks," said DeLaMater. "I was getting good opportunities. I just capitalized. I can’t really thank anyone but my team for that one."
Career Highlights
But that wasn’t the only record DeLaMater shattered this past season. He went on to set program highs in career goals (137) and hat tricks in a season (13). He finished the year with 92 points, and his brilliant comeback campaign culminated in being named a USA All-American.
Future Plans and Reflections
Reaction to Being Named USA All-American
"It means a lot," said DeLaMater. "It’s been a long year in the making; definitely a goal I had set. It showed that, you know, if you keep trying, you can get back from an injury, even if you don’t think you can. And it felt great."
Coach’s Perspective
"Filled up my heart…when I was at the meeting and found out he got the All-American, which was like the pinnacle of his goal," added Sherwin. "And then making that phone call to the family…it teared me up. I got real emotional about it. I’m so proud of him, and I couldn’t come up with a better end to his high school career."
Next Steps
The next stop for DeLaMater is Albany Academy for a postgraduate year he hopes will gain him more Division I interest – a move his now former head coach believes will set him up well for further success.
Coach’s Expectations for the Future
"Sky’s the limit," said Sherwin. "He’s going to have a bunch of kids around him who have equal talent…if not better. I think Buck is going to really rise to that occasion. And then he’s going to have all those teammates around him that are just gonna make him that much better. So, I think he’s really gonna shine there."
Conclusion
Buck DeLaMater’s story serves as a testament to perseverance and determination. From suffering a season-ending injury to making a remarkable comeback and achieving numerous records and accolades, DeLaMater’s high school career has been nothing short of inspiring. As he moves forward to the next chapter of his athletic and academic journey, his legacy at Columbia High School will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.
FAQs
What was the nature of Buck DeLaMater’s injury?
Buck DeLaMater suffered a season-ending Lisfranc injury in April 2024.
What records did DeLaMater break in his senior season?
DeLaMater set program highs in career goals (137) and hat tricks in a season (13), and scored a program-record 11 goals in a single game.
What are DeLaMater’s plans after high school?
DeLaMater will attend Albany Academy for a postgraduate year in hopes of gaining more Division I interest.
How can I recommend a senior for the Senior Spotlight?
For future Senior Spotlight recommendations, you can send an email to sports@news10.com.
