A left-handed defensive weapon of mass destruction, AJ Theodorakakos uses size, speed, and instincts to dominate opponents at every turn. He plays with a system-first mentality that fits seamlessly with his culture of discipline and accountability.

From his freshman year on varsity, Theodorakakos asserted his authority, posting 54 takeaways (second most in NY Section V), 39 ground balls, and 11 points (6 goals, 5 assists) in 2023. He rotated between crease defense, long-stick midfield, and occasional faceoff duties, showcasing versatility while setting the tone as a vocal leader.

In 2025, AJ earned Section V Defensive Player of the Year honors while controlling his assignment and winning possession battles. He was also named a US Lacrosse High School All-American (NY – Section 5 Finger Lakes), bringing a high-level pedigree to every matchup. His anticipation, physicality, and field IQ make him a constant threat — capable of locking down top players, maintaining defensive structure, and changing the pace simply by being on the field.

Signed to play at Army West Point, Theodorakakos projects as a foundational piece of the Black Knights’ juggernaut defense. His athleticism, cerebral play, and leadership give him the ability to deliver heavy checks and anchor the defense from his very first shift!

Theodorakakos committed to the Black Knights shortly after midnight on July 1 of last year, surely disappointing potential suitors in the Ivy League, ACC, and Big 10. Also a strong football player, the big left-hander always performs with a high level of intensity, but still plays within himself. Physically, he’s beyond college-ready and looks like he’d be at home on Army’s close defense right now. Theodorakakos, who was named Section V’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2025, possesses the proper balance of knowing when to get physical, when to rely on position, and when to throw a fancy takeaway check. On top of that, he’s got clean stick work and can be a menace in transition when the opportunity presents itself.

Army and Joe Alberici landed the No. 1 overall defender in the ’26 class. Theodorakakos is an athletic monster. Standing at 6’1″, 195 lbs, the close defender is a fundamental artist. He has a keen sense for the ball on the ground and is one of the best in the class in getting first-time GBs. He is a strong lefty who has great stick skills and approaches the ball like a D1-ready pole. His game reminds me a lot of Mason Woodard: hard, choppy checks. He can guard anywhere on the field, down low or up top. His ability matches well with physical attackmen, and he has the speed to keep up with the quicker ones. His viral icepick check in the NLF Championship game sealed the deal for his case at No. 1.