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We’ve been reporting on the University at Albany’s ability to attract upstate New York players.

Albany also has a proud record of Native American players on its roster.

But factors played a role in the decision  of Colyn Lyons committing to Albany, a decision first reported when it was made last week by Joe Lombardi on LaxLessons.com’s Lacrosse Insider special coverage section.

Lyons is a 2015 defender for IMG Academy (Fla.), who transferred from Syracuse area high school power LaFayette.

What were the main factors in your decision?
How close to home it was, and the relationships they hold with other Native American players. It’s nice to have other Natives to be around with and play our game together.

It’s a great combination with Albany’s style of play and the way they run things. It will be nice have all these factors tie into a very well structured academic school, with a great atmosphere and campus.

What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I also considered UMBC and Loyola.

What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
My ability to run the ball and push transition. Another strength that I hold is my emphasis to being a bully with my stick. (Team United) Coach (Ric) Beardsley and my box lacrosse background helped me figure out that type of playing.

What area of your game do you need to work on?
All of it, in general. There is always room for improvement and I definitely need it if I’m going to be playing at the next level.

How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
I got introduced to lacrosse by my traditions. Growing up on the reservation, you kind of have to play the game. It’s the Creator’s game, and it is a great way to get to where I want to go.

Besides playing lacrosse practically all my life, I also ran track and cross country before transferring to IMG Academy.

What travel team do you play on what showcase events did you participate in?
The travel teams I played for was Team United and Road Warriors. Both very strong teams. The only showcase events I participated in was a few camps here and there. None in particular that I can remember, but the Capital Challenge Showcase camp.

Any final thoughts?
I’d like to thank my brother, mother and the rest of my family and friends. I’d also like to thank the United coaches; Coach Beardsley, and (Team United) Coach (Steve) Carc (Carcaterra) were very helpful in my process of recruiting and getting me out to the college tournaments. Also, the coaches that have coached me in the past and present, and my community for helping me grow not only as a player, but as a young man.

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.