Don't underestimate the ties of language and kinship. As a second generation Italian-American I've seen it with my own family and with Greek-Americans, Romanian-Americans, Chinese-Americans and Indian-Americans where ties with the old country (even somewhat attenuated ties) help make useful business and social connections.

As you know, a lot of recruiting is making players feel at home, that they're a welcome part of the family.

Kisonas' background may be mere coincidence. But in light of other recent Mercer recruiting and hirings, maybe not.