Garden City has had a recurring theme during its run of back-to-back New York Class B state titles.
Namely, strong senior classes.
If that trend continues next season, Connor Riedell will undoubtedly be a big reason.
Riedell is a two-way midfielder with good speed who excels in transition.
Earlier this week, the athletic right verbally committed to Division III power Washington & Lee, as first reported at Twitter.com/Joe_Lombardi.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Connor on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
The main thing I wanted to find in a school was where I was going to fit in the best socially, academically and athletically. I feel that Washington & Lee fit all three of these very well.
Being in Virginia, there is a certain culture and vibe that you get that is unlike any other area of the country. W&L’s esteemed business program also held a huge role in my decision because it is one of the best in the country, and is one of the few top-tier liberal arts colleges with a business program.
Finally, W&L being a historical top lacrosse program in D-III was a huge attraction to me. (Washington & Lee Head) Coach (Gene) McCabe, (Assistant Coach Nat) St. Laurent and (Assistant Coach Kevin) Kiley are all great guys and really made me feel welcome when I overnighted earlier in the year. Once I stayed over and met the players, I felt right at home and I knew this is where I had to go.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I visited and strongly considered Middlebury and Bowdoin. I visited Amherst and Wesleyan too but also considered Tufts.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
Conditioning and speed. Not getting winded on the field is a huge advantage over my opponents and I can open up opportunities when going against someone who is gassed. My speed also helps me get to groundballs and clear the ball so I can help my team get necessary possessions to win games.
I would characterize my style of play as a two-way midfielder that can play fast and push the ball in transition to create offense.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
The area of my game that I need to work on the most would be my off-hand. My left is sufficient but it isn’t where I would like it to be.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
I got introduced to lacrosse in second grade when I moved to Garden City from Harborfields. Other sports I have played over the years are track, wrestling and football.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
I play for Long Island Sting Black under Coach (Ken) Miller and I have participated in the New England 150 Camp, Legacy Tournament and Under Armour Shootout.
Any final thoughts?
I would like to thank my family and friends for being there for me and helping me throughout this process. Also, (Garden City Head) Coach (Steve) Finnell and Coach Miller have helped me a lot by being supportive and making me a better player.
[…] Garden City middie Riedell finds the perfect fit in Washington & LeeLaxLessonsI got introduced to lacrosse in second grade when I moved to Garden City from Harborfields. Other sports I have played over the years are track, wrestling and football. What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in? I play … […]