Daniel P. Capozza, a senior at Cooperstown Central School, has been nominated by Congressman Sherwood Boehlert for a rare slot at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, fulfilling a dream he has had since the eigth grade.

Capozza is a member of the cross country, swimming and track teams.

These activities may have contributed to his success during a grueling four-hours-long physical examination at Fort Drum in Watertown, one of the more rigorous aspects of admittance to West Point.

"I ran into a glitch with my glasses," Capozza said. "But that was all."

Capozza also participates in Students Against Destructive Decisions at CCS. For one of his admittance essays, he addressed what he perceives to be a problem in the community-substance abuse. Other essay topics included why he'd like to attend West Point and his greatest accomplishment of the last two years, becoming an Eagle Scout.

"It's always a pleasure to review the applications of our best and brightest students for military academy appointments," said Boehlert. "This year's nominees are outstanding candidates, each having demonstrated the leadership qualities, high academic standards, and overall excellence that our military academies are looking for. As their congressman, I am proud of their high school accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom."

Capozza was in the seventh grade when he first became wonderstruck by an Army career.

His father is an Army man and told stories that played a large role in his son's development.

In the eighth grade, Capozza first heard about West Point.

"I knew this was the way I should go," he said, "so that I can have a career in the Army and get a great education in the meantime."

Capozza said that he has a letter of assurance from West Point, which means that as long as his grades stay as they are and he doesn't "get arrested," his place is assured.

That is, after his February interview, the final hurdle in the acceptance procedure.

The process has been a long one. Boehlert's nomination came only after Capozza was interviewed by a five member panel, and physical aptitude tests included standing long jumps and throwing a basketball from a kneeling position.

CCS high school principal Gary Kuch said, "We're all very excited about this. Dan is well respected by his peers and by the faculty, and he's an excellent student, very deserving of this honor. He'll do the country proud."

In February, Capozza will find out whether or not all his diligent efforts will result in a coveted spot at West Point. But it's looking pretty good.