Lacrosse senior defender Dane Helt has committed to playing lacrosse and attending Iona University in New Rochelle, N.Y., outside New York City. The Gaels play in the Division I Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference.
“For me, I wanted a school near a big city with its own campus,” said Helt. “Iona is right next to New York City, arguably the biggest city. It is an excellent area with four seasons. It is a good place.”
Helt will play for Head Coach Chad Surman, who enters his fourth season as head coach of Iona University men's lacrosse in 2025–26 and his second year guiding the Gaels in varsity competition.
“Coach Sermon is a kind-hearted person and passionate about his players and the game of lacrosse,” said Helt. “He brings a strong sense of community to the team.”
Helt was named to the Arizona Lacrosse League (ALL) All-State Second Team following his junior season. He was second on the team in turnovers caused, with 30, and ranked fifth in ground balls last season, as part of a third consecutive state championship team.
“Dane is a four-year varsity letterman and a two-year starter for us,” said Head Coach Pat Harbeson. “His growth and commitment to development are qualities that every young player in our program should model. During his first two years, he demonstrated patience and maturity, learning from upperclassmen and contributing whenever called upon. Dane has evolved into a commanding presence on the field, consistently tasked with defending the opposing team’s top offensive threats. He has the opportunity to make an immediate impact at Iona.”
Helt, who is a member of the National Honor Society, said his communication skills are something that helps him as a player who clears the ground and talks through defense. He says, “I do a good job defending the ball and making sure the team is in position.”
He lists the Kairos retreat as his favorite moment at Brophy for its transformative effect, saying, “I was able to grow a lot personally and have made many friends now, thanks to the experience.”
He is looking forward to his senior year and the opportunity to compete for another title.
“As a senior class, we have won the last three years, and hopefully we can go four for four and have five in a row as a program,” said Helt. “It would be a great moment for us.”
Helt is one of four lacrosse players who have made collegiate commitments.