Cody Ruggirello of Walden, New York has informed InterMat that he has given a verbal commitment to Hofstra.
Ruggirello, the younger brother of current Hofstra wrestler Louie Ruggirello, is a four-time New York state placewinner and a 2007 state champion. This past season, Ruggirello placed third at the NYSPHSAA (Division I) State Championships at 125 pounds. In April, Ruggirello placed fourth at the NHSCA Junior Nationals at 130 pounds.
"I decided to give a verbal to Hofstra because I have a lot of confidence in Coach Shifflet and the rest of the coaching staff," Ruggirello told InterMat. "I believe that I can reach all of my academic and athletic goals there. My older brother, Louie, wrestles for Hofstra and it will be awesome to be on the same team as him. Hofstra seems like a perfect fit for me and I'm really excited to be going there."
Hofstra has already received a verbal commitment from Nick Arujau, who is ranked as InterMat's No. 42 senior recruit. Ruggirello defeated Arujau to win the 2007 NYSPHSAA (Division I) state title at 103 pounds.
Ruggirello is expected to compete at 141 pounds for Hofstra.
