How young is too young?

Shriver is also concerned about the pressure on the athletes. He points out that some players develop later than others and those who don't commit early feel pressured because they aren't sure whether there will be scholarships available. Even those who commit early feel pressure because if they don't take the scholarship when it's offered, somebody else will.

"It's hard for kids to be patient when a player sees a sophomore or junior being heavily recruited," Shriver said. "This started happening about 10 years ago. I don't see Starsia or Pietramala as the culprits. They are no different than the rest of us. Actually, you have to give them credit. They recognized opportunity, and then it started snowballing."

Lacrosse recruiting is like the economy. It's going to get worse before it gets better. Lacrosse parents like to believe the sport is on the same level as major college basketball and football. They believe there is an endless amount of scholarship money to fund the sport.

You often hear parents claim their son is on a full scholarship, but in fact, most are fortunate to receive only a few thousand dollars a year.

High school coaches are aware of the situation. Because of the early oral commitments, we'll see more and more players changing their minds later. That's because of the early pressure, pressure that really isn't needed. All the NCAA has to do is stand up and move back the recruiting date.

It would even the playing field and make a tough decision easier for a bunch of young players.

Listen to Mike Preston on Mondays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Fox Sports 1370.