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NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – John Jay Cross River quarterback Tyler Keech was understandably excited to meet former New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms and former Giants receiver Amani Toomer on Sunday.
The two Super Bowl winners judged MSG Varsity’s first Tri-State Quarterback Showdown at New Rochelle High School. Keech and 24 other quarterbacks from Westchester, Long Island, New Jersey and Connecticut participated in the skills competition.
The caliber of judges made the proceedings a bit more intense for Keech.
“There was a lot of guys here. It’s always competitive and to have them judge us, it was a little nerve wracking,” Keech said. “But it was fun. I had a good time.”
Keech started playing football in middle school and played on the junior varsity squad as a sophomore. He moved up to varsity as a junior and took over as starting quarterback. Keech said his time on the JV team was crucial to his development.
“(It) really helped a lot. I developed a lot of my skills, which helped me to get back in junior year (and) come out with a good season,” Keech said. “And that’s what got me here.”
Keech did not make it to the second round of the competition on Sunday and said he “didn’t do as well as (he) could have.” He critiqued himself after his performance but ultimately focused on the positives.
“I had a few good throws but my rollouts were a little sloppy,” Keech said. “I would have wanted to do a little bit better but I was pretty happy with my performance.”
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