When it comes to gaining an advantage in the recruiting process, few things beat family ties.
That’s the big story surrounding Syosset junior standout Andrew Keith’s decision to attend Cornell.
The midfielder’s brother, Thomas, is a junior defenseman for the Big Red.
As you’ll soon learn, that factor played a big role in the younger Keith’s decision to commit to Cornell after being heavily recruited by numerous Division I programs.
Interest in the 6-foot-2, 175-pound lefty, an strong athletic with exceptional stick skills (similar to Thomas Keith), picked up after he made the all-star game at the Maverik Showtime Classic.
Cornell has established quite a Syosset connection. Another former Braves standout, Doug Tesoriero, is a sophomore midfielder at Cornell.
Andrew Keith’s oldest brother, 2007 Syosset grad Ryan Keith, played club lacrosse at Villanova.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Andrew on his commitment:
What were the main factors in your decision to attend Cornell?
The fine academics, the terrific lacrosse program and lacrosse facilities. The coaching staff and the system that they play was also a factor in my decision.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I was also seriously thinking about Notre Dame, Brown, Dartmouth, Delaware, Ohio State and Fairfield.
How big a factor was the factor that your brother Thomas now plays for the Big Red?
It was a huge factor. My familiarity with the program was very important. My brother Thomas is having a great lacrosse experience at Cornell and I wanted the same for myself.
What adjustments do you think you will need to make to play at the next level?
I need to get used to the speed of the game in order to play at the next level. I am 6-2 now, and I would like to add some additional size and strength to my frame.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
Some of my strengths include the ability to use both hands, my size and athleticism. My ability to dodge, and play on both ends of the field also contributes to my game. My work ethic also adds to my success.
What players have helped influence you as you made your way through varsity?
My two brothers, Ryan and Thomas, have greatly influenced me throughout my lacrosse career. They motivated me to always work hard on and off the field. Other players that have influenced me include Alirio DeMeireles (Yale), Doug Tesoriero (Cornell), and Ryan Feit (Johns Hopkins).
When did you first realize you had the potential to play at the college level?
When I made varsity as a 10th–grader at Syosset. Watching my brother Thomas play at Cornell motivated me to work hard with the goal of becoming a Division I player.
* For more info on Andrew, check out his player profile by clicking here.
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Posted In: Long Island lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown
Hope Cornell has a lot of candy