Last month saw two of Notre Dame Academy's standout student-athletes take an important step in continuing their athletic careers beyond the hunt-country.

Senior lacrosse stalwarts Matt Miller and Alex Nieves signed their National Letters of intent in an all-school ceremony a few weeks ago.

Matt Miller, a four-year starting defenseman at Notre Dame, has accumulated numerous honors at while at the school. In addition to being a 2007 All-State Performer and a two-time First-Team All-MILL (Maryland Independent Lacrosse League) selection, Matt is also a 2008 Under Armour All-American. Matt holds career records at Notre Dame for takeaways and groundballs, and is a co-captain for the 2009 season. Matt will be furthering his academic and lacrosse careers at the University of Notre Dame, an NCAA Division I Quarterfinalist last season.

Alex Nieves has been a standout midfielder for the Dragons for the past two seasons. A shifty dodger, Alex was second on the team in scoring last year, and first in assists (15). A First-Team All-MILL performer last season, Alex has also been voted co-captain for the upcoming spring season. Alex has committed to play for eight-time, and defending NCAA Division III champion, Salisbury University.

"These are two standout athletes, to be sure," says Notre Dame Athletic Director Carla Adgate. "We feel athletics have always played, and continue to play, an important role in the growth and development of our students. Seeing students like Matt and Alex really make the most of the opportunities presented, and their own natural gifts and talents, is always special."

Rob Horne, boy's varsity lacrosse coach at Notre Dame, echoed Adgate's sentiments.

"I couldn't be happier for these two. They've both worked incredibly hard and deserve everything they've earned. I know they'll bring the same dedication and effort we've come to rely on to their final high-school season."