Soccer standout signs with Skagit Valley CC
<p>Pictured front row, left to right: Adam Tajan, Austin Keyes (holding Skagit coach Darren Bell up via Skype), and Tom Albertson. Back row: David Keyes, Marlisa Keyes and SHS athletic director Kris Knowles. (Photo by ERIC PLUMMER)</p>
SANDPOINT — He’s been playing soccer since the third grade, and now he gets the chance to take his game to the college level, as Sandpoint senior Austin Keyes recently signed a letter of intent to play soccer next fall at Skagit Valley Community College in Mt. Vernon, Wash.
Keyes, who posted five shutouts in goal as a senior including two huge ones to help the Bulldogs win the 4A state championship, has always wanted to play in college. He also received scholarship offers from Great Falls University and Spokane Falls Community College, and is eager to see how his skill set transfers to the next level.
“I’ll challenge for a starting spot; that will be cool,” said Keyes, who spent parts of the past two years playing club soccer for not only the Strikers, but teams from Portland, Seattle and Post Falls. “I like the thrill of getting outside, fresh air and the smell of fresh cut grass.”
Skagit Valley head coach Darren Bell saw Keyes play at the club level and liked what he saw enough to offer a scholarship.
“Tremendous character, and willing to compete,” described Bell of his new goalie. “We feel like we have the full package in Austin. We think he’s going to be an impact player for us.”
Sandpoint head soccer coach Adam Tajan said Keyes has been putting in the time and work it takes to play at the next level, and sees his former keeper holding his own at the collegiate level.
“He’s a competitor, he’s going to rise to the occasion and go to battle,” said Tajan. “He’ll probably step in and have an instant impact.”