Kerrigan Miller had her pick of many of the nation’s top Division I women’s lacrosse programs.
But when it came down to it, the mix of academics and athletics were her main determining factors.
“Sun and 80-degree weather doesn’t hurt either,” the Bayport-Blue Point High School (N.Y.) 2016 standout said.
Not at all.
Miller will be heading out west to the University of Southern California, a commitment first reported by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s Lacrosse Insider premium coverage section.
Miller, who has played a major role on BBP’s varsity squad since eighth grade, is a 5-foot-5 righty with exceptional athleticism, speed and field vision.
Now, here’s a Q&A with Kerrigan on her commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
Most importantly, I knew I wanted a challenge academically and athletically. The thought of building a program with Lindsey Munday would be any player’s dream. The coaches, campus and big-time football seemed like a perfect fit.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I was very fortunate to visit many schools. I visited USC, BC, Notre Dame, UVa, James Madison, UNC, Duke, Stanford, Syracuse and Florida.
Ultimately the decision was narrowed down to USC, UNC and University of Florida.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I’m often recognized for my speed and field vision. I get a bigger trill when causing turnovers then scoring goals. I’m known for my defensive work in the midfield and play a “dirty in the 30s” style.
What area of your game do you need to work on?
Shooting in general is defiantly one part of my game that I’m always working to improve in.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
I can remember playing lacrosse with my older sisters when I was very young. I also played at a competitive level of soccer until it came time to choose. Soccer or lacrosse? One of my easier decisions to make.
What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
I play for the Long Island Yellow Jackets 2016 Blue Team. I participated in Nike Elite 120, Under Armour All-American Underclass Uncommitted games, US Lacrosse U15 National Tournament 2012 and 2013, Primetime lacrosse tournament, Mid Atlantic Showcase, Rilvalry Challenge and DeBeer Presidents Cup.
Any final thoughts?
Moving to the Yellow Jackets was the best decision I’ve made in my life so far. The girls I play with every weekend have grown to be my best friends. I would not have these opportunities with out them.
Throughout the recruiting process it worked out that I’d go on visits with a teammate or two. We’d jokingly tell coaches we’re a “package deal.”
When the process came to a end and it came to decision making, they were always there.
I’m fortunate enough to be going to USC with a current teammate of mine. The Yellow Jackets’ coaching staff, including Carol Rose have helped me throughout this crazy process and opened so many doors for me in the lacrosse world. Playing for Coach Rose makes you want to raise your game to the next level. I’m so grateful to be a Yellow Jacket and to have gotten the opportunities given to me over the past year.
Have a recruiting commitment to report? Send an email to info@laxlessons.com, contact Joe Lombardi directly at joe@laxlessons.com or send a Tweet to @Joe_Lombardi or @LaxLessons.
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Posted In: Long Island lacrosse, Recruiting Rundown, Section 11, Women's lacrosse