One of the factors that influenced Corey Haynes’ decision to verbally commit to St. John’s University had nothing to do with lacrosse, or even the university itself.
You see, the Red Storm play many of their home basketball games at Madison Square Garden, which is also the home base of a certain NHL team.
The fact that Corey Haynes is a huge Rangers fan was a factor that helped SJU’s cause in landing the commitment from the junior midfielder at East Syracuse Minoa High School. Haynes’ decision was first reported at Twitter.com/joe_lombardi.
The 5-foot-11, 175-pound Haynes is a two-way player who is a righty but strong with either hand. He also has good field vision and can feed as well as finish.
Now, here are Corey’s thoughts on his commitment.
What were the main factors in your decision?
Mainly the way St. John’s plays the game. They move the ball well and I love the intensity of the team and the coaching staff. The coaches really made me feel wanted. Plus, I’m a huge Rangers fan.
What other schools were you considering and what schools did you visit?
I considered Drexel, Hartford, Furman and Marquette. I visited Drexel, Hartford and St. John’s.
What are your strengths as a player and how would you describe your style of play?
I see the field well and play with both hands. A coach doesn’t have to worry if I get stuck out on the field as I am a two-way player. I play with intensity and finesse.
How did you get introduced to lacrosse and what other sports have you played?
My dad (Ray Haynes) put a stick in my hand as a baby and I haven’t looked back since. Soccer, football, baseball, and my second favorite hockey.
Who have been some of the biggest influences on you during your development as a player?
There are many coaches that have shaped my game. Coach (Mike) Stagnitta with the CNY Roadhawks, Coach (Tim) DeBlois with United, (Head) Coach (Jon) McCoy and my high school coaches Jones, Litten and Porter, who all had great faith in me at crucial times.
My dad, who taught me the game from start to finish, especially the importance of vision, ball movement and making my left as good as my right.
And finally, coach Ric Beardsley, whose intensity and coaching has raised my game to new heights. He worked extremely hard to find me a home. He is truly the man.
What travel team did you play on and what were some of the big showcase events you participated in last summer?
I played with Team United, CNYRoadhawks and Liberty Lacrosse at numerous tournaments in the summer and fall.
* For more info on Corey, check out his player profile by clicking here.
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Posted In: Recruiting Rundown, Section 3, Uncategorized, Upstate New York Lacrosse