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Rutgers men’s lacrosse received huge news this week as All-American goalkeeper Colin Kirst received a medical hardship waiver that allows him to play next season. The news was first reported by Ty Xanders of Inside Lacrosse. A Rutgers source confirmed the news to On The Banks soon after.
In regard to the @Inside_Lacrosse report from @tyxanders earlier today, a Rutgers source has confirmed that Colin Kirst received a medical hardship waiver this week that will allow him to return next season. Huge news as RU looks to build off of the quarterfinals run last season.
— Aaron Breitman (@aaron_breitman) August 18, 2021
The additional year was granted due to time missed from an injury suffered when Kirst was at Lehigh prior to his arrival on Rutgers.
Kirst was named was named the Big Ten Specialist of the Year and was a First Team All-Big Ten selection last season. He led the conference in save percentage (.566) and saves per game (13.77), which was sixth most nationally. He posted a 10.77 goals-against-average while notching double-digit saves in 12 of 13 games. Kirst was also named an All-American by Inside Lacrosse and US Lacrosse Magazine.
After making 17 saves in Rutgers’ first NCAA Tournament victory in 31 years last season, Kirst was equally brilliant with 16 saves in an overtime loss to then no. 1 North Carolina in the Quarterfinals.
It’s fair to consider Kirst the top goalkeeper in the nation returning for next season. His ability to make saves at point blank range and start the break with pristine outlet passes make him special.
The Scarlet Knights have reloaded the roster this offseason through the transfer portal. The return of Kirst in net is a huge development and raised expectations for next season. Back to back NCAA Tournament appearances should be a realistic goal at a minimum.