Eastern Illinois University Athletics

HIGH SCHOOL: Andy is a local product who graduated from Charleston High School in 2009 having earned four varsity letters in tennis, one in golf and one in football… was the tennis team captain in 2008 and 2009 under coach Ryan Schick… was a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society and finished in the top 10 of his class academically.... 

PERSONAL: Son of Clint & Kirsten Bays… is still undecided on a major… his number one personal sports moment was getting his first victory at the varsity level during his freshman year… his major influence in his sports career is his tennis instructor Brian Holtzgrafe, “not only did he teach me the fundamentals of tennis, he pushed me in all aspects of life, and he taught me the value of modesty, trust and love of life in general”... most admires Rafael Nadal, “because he has the most heart of any athlete today”.… 

FUN STUFF: Chose to come to EIU “because it’s close, fun and cost efficient”... most admired former EIU athlete is basketball star Henry Domercant… would like to participate in badminton, volleyball and football intramurals… has mastered the game Frogger for Super Nintendo… currently drives a red 1998 Ford Mustang… favorite food is fried pork chops but has a strong disdain for mustard… Eminem and Bring me the Horizon are most likely to be played on his I-Pod… enjoys classes taught by Dr. Nida Elmuti, professor of Biological Sciences… enjoys hanging out with friends… his favorite quote is “Vini, Vidi, Vici,” from Julius Caesar, meaning “I came, I saw, I conquered”… his advice for youngsters is “be modest no matter your skill and you will excel”.... 

BLACKBURN SAYS: “Andy was one of the strongest players in middle Illinois last year and had some good results playing for Charleston High School in his four years there... he has been working very hard this off season, making some good strides in his game, and I think he has big upside... I’m excited to watch his development this year.”