2028 ATH Andrew Johnstone got a closer look at Syracuse’s game day scene over the weekend, and the visit gave the Patchogue-Medofrd (NY) High offensive lineman another chance to build on the relationship he’s developing with the Orange.
Johnstone, who received his first offer from Syracuse in July, had already been to Central New York twice this year for spring practice and Franchise Camp. But this trip was different. Instead of a practice setting, he was able to take in the atmosphere at the JMA Wireless Dome while watching Syracuse’s season opener.
"It was great,” Johnstone said to The Juice Online. "It was amazing to be back up on campus, watch a game, and talking with some of the coaches and recruiters.”
For Johnstone, the best part was sharing the day with his family. He also made time to connect with Syracuse’s staff before and after the game, including his main recruiter, offensive assistant coach Charles Watkins.
"Coach Watkins found me and my family on the sideline during warmups,” Johnstone said. “He was very excited that I was back up on campus.”
Johnstone also spent more than an hour with offensive line coach Juan Castillo. That conversation left a strong impression.
"Coach Castillo caught me and my family at the end of my visit,” Johnstone said. "Coach Castillo introduced himself to me and my family and told us more about him and his experiences as a coach.
He was very interested in me as a player and the one I could turn into. He made it clear that if I wanted to get to the next level after college, he could get me there.”
On the field, Syracuse rolled past New Hampshire 66-3 to open the 2026 season. The Orange piled up 513 total yards and set a school record for points in an opener, and Johnstone noticed how the offensive line helped fuel it.
"I think Syracuse played very well in their win against New Hampshire,” Johnstone said. "Syracuse has some studs and I think that they are going to do much better than last year.”
The visit also seemed to reinforce Johnstone’s comfort level with Syracuse and its staff. He said he’s looking forward to coming back.
"Being back up on campus and building a relationship with coaches and recruiters definitely makes me feel better about Syracuse.
Johnstone’s own season is about to get underway as well. Patchogue-Medofrd opens Wednesday against Sachem North, one of the top teams on Long Island.
"My season has been going great,” Johnstone said. "I'm more than ready and I can say the same for my team."
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