Andres Casais

Classroom

Andres Casais is on pace to graduate in 2011 with a degree in energy business and finance. A two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and a 2009 Academic All-America nominee, Casais maintains a 3.52 GPA. He plans to dedicate his career to discovering, promoting and implementing renewable energy sources.

Character

Despite his small stature, Casais has earned teammates’ respect through his bold and fearless play. He often goes head-to-head with much larger players, and in 2008 that style of play resulted in a broken cheek and orbital bone on an attempted header. However, Casais fought his way back into the starting lineup after just seven games and this season teammates elected him as a co-captain.

Community

Casais organized a drive to collect soccer equipment for the group Ubuntu Sports Outreach, an organization that uses religion and soccer to deter destructive lifestyle choices in South Africa. Casais aided USO’s efforts with donations of cleats, shin guards, shirts, balls, gloves, etc.

Competition

Last season Casais, an All-Big Ten first-team selection, led a defense that recorded nine shutouts and allowed just five goals in conference play. Regarded as Penn State’s best tackler, Casais led the team in minutes played and was placed on the NSCAA All-Region third team.