Andrew Settlemire narrowed his college decision to two schools, but where to sign became a formality after he visited Erskine this past fall.
The Beaufort High forward signed his letter of intent Wednesday to play soccer for the Flying Fleet, a Division II program in Due West. He practiced with the team last year and attended a playoff game the next day. The atmosphere impressed him.
"It just seemed right," he said. "I just wanted to be out there with them."
Erskine coaches told Settlemire during his visit he had the ability to be on the team right then, that his playing time as a freshman would be determined by whether he continued to play to that potential.
Settlemire said he has played up top at forward throughout his high school years because he enjoys scoring goals. The Flying Fleet might also use him as an outside midfielder or outside back. At this point, any position will do, he said.
"Now that I decided I'm going to college, I just want to do the best I can to help out the team," he said.
Beaufort High will start Settlemire's senior season ranked in the top 10 in Class 4-A. The team fell to Irmo in the last year's Lower State semifinal.
"We're expecting high expectations," Settlemire said. "We have to back up everything, because everybody's saying we're overrated."
Name: Andrew Settlemire
High school: Beaufort High School
Sport: Boys soccer
High school coach: Gabriel Nieves
Position: Forward
College: Erskine College
Probable major: Physical education
About Erskine College: In 2010, the Flying Fleet completed their third winning season as an NCAA Division II program, finishing 11-8. Erskine, coached by Warren Turner, won five consecutive games before ending its season with a loss to Coker in the Conference Carolinas semifinals.
Why Erskine? "Erskine just felt more of a fit for me. I got along well with the coach. I just felt like I'd be more comfortable at Erskine."
Other schools that offered scholarships: Catawba
Other high school sports played: None
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