Johns Hopkins' Boyle accustomed to pressure
Friday’s edition of The Sun included a profile of Johns Hopkins senior attackman Steven Boyle, who leads the team in goals (19), assists (10) and points (29).
The first player from New Hampshire to play for the Blue Jays, Boyle said he joined the program for the 2007 season with an open mind.
"When I came in, I didn’t really know what to expect, coming into Division I lacrosse from New Hampshire," he said. "Now I realize what it’s like to play at Johns Hopkins and the tradition that comes with it and how different the game is. You really have to be on top of everything right from the get-go."
Even though his older brother Brian played lacrosse at Penn State, Boyle’s commitment to Johns Hopkins was huge news in his home state. But Boyle said he didn’t feel the weight of the state on his shoulders.
"I don’t think I felt a ton of pressure coming in," he said. "I think I placed more pressure on myself because I wanted to come in and make a contribution and try to make an impact on the team."
Boyle found himself in an enviable position, joining an offense that boasted midfielders Paul Rabil and Stephen Peyser and attackmen Kevin Huntley and Jake Byrne.
"Those years were great," Boyle recalled. "… Playing with guys like them, they really help you along the way. I played attack with Jake and Kevin, and Jake would tell me certain stuff like what to expect and what’s coming. Jake was great, and Paul and Steve were just tremendous athletes who opened up so much for us down below because they were dodging up top."
