HOLBROOK, N.Y. — When Michael Bollinger is not stopping lacrosse balls flying in his direction at more than 100 mph or completing his bachelor's degree in business, the Stony Brook University senior often is found at Holbrook Fire Department Station No. 2.

Bollinger, the starting goalkeeper for the Seawolves, began his association with the department at age 10 as a junior firefighter. His volunteer work continued when he started answering emergency calls while a senior at Sachem East High School. And he was cleared to begin driving a fire truck and ambulance upon turning 21 last April.

After his expected graduation in May with a bachelor's degree in business and marketing specialization, the 6-foot-2, 205-pound Bollinger expects to seek a full-time job as a first responder.

"I'm really into helping others," Bollinger said. "I want to become a cop or a fireman or be in that type of profession when I get older. I thought this would be good experience."

Given his academic and lacrosse responsibilities, especially with regular-season workouts having started this past week in preparation for Stony Brook's Feb. 11 season opener against St. John's at LaValle Stadium, Bollinger's free time is scarce. He is required to answer 25 percent of calls and undergo mandated monthly training on topics including vehicle operation in order to stay active with the department in Holbrook, where he grew up.

The department receives 2,500 calls a year — roughly 50 a week — for fire or medical emergencies. Bollinger estimates that he personally answers 15 calls a week.

"I've got to balance it at night," he said. "After schoolwork, I'll go down to the firehouse and see if I can get a couple of calls. I look at the schedule and say, 'I practice this day, so I can't get to [firefighter] training that day. I've got to figure out another day to do it.' I work it out."
 
As for lacrosse, Bollinger was a second-team All-America East selection last season as a junior. He started all 15 games for the Seawolves and recorded a 10.97 goals against average and .509 save percentage. He has played in 34 games through three seasons.

"Mike possesses great size and quick hands," assistant coach J.P. Brazel said. "He has the ability to make the remarkable save. He has the potential to make game-changing saves and win a game single-handedly. He's also a fantastic teammate."

Bollinger is slated to again start in goal this season under first-year head coach Anthony Gilardi.

Bollinger would pursue a Major League Lacrosse or Premier Lacrosse League opportunity if it presents itself after graduation, but he is expecting to become a first responder.

In the interim, he has plenty of fans at in his Holbrook firehouse. Fifteen or more volunteer firefighters from the department routinely attend Stony Brook men's lacrosse games to cheer on the Seawolves' goalie.

"He's hardworking on the field. And he's hardworking here," Holbrook F.D. captain Rob Avitabile said. "We go to all his games. He puts in the time doing all the training, focusing on his professional career as well. It speaks a lot to his character."

Said Bollinger: "I appreciate everyone from the department who comes down and supports me."