UA_LI_SPRING_II_2014 by UA MEDIA

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Dear Readers, First off, congratulations to all the teams out there, it’s been an exciting year. We here at Ultimate Athlete Magazine are thrilled to have covered such an eventful season. In this month’s edition we wrapped up the season with boys and girls lacrosse. We also will be taking a look at the girls’ softball and boy’s baseball teams. Eager fans watched as the West Islip Lions baseball team won their first Long Island Class AA Championship against Massapequa. But that was not the only team from Suffolk county to come away victorious this season. Sayville’s Golden Flashes softball team managed to defeat Carey to win the Class A Long Island Championship. Our hats go off to all the athletes who participated in the 2014 spring season. A number of jaw-dropping plays were seen this season, but none more prevalent than the plays made by Massapequa’s Ian Kirby during the New York State Class A lacrosse championship, as they beat FayettevilleManlius for their first state title to date. And West Islip fans watched as their lady Lions lacrosse team beat out Farmingdale to capture their first Long Island Class A title. Congratulations to Bay Shore’s Ryan Mazzie and Connetquot’s Erin Melly, who won the Dellecave Award, which is presented to the male and female senior athlete of the year in Suffolk County.

Ultimate athlete magazine PUBLISHER/CEO EXECUTIVE EDITOR SPORT EDITOR

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR SENIOR MEDIA MANAGER GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

PAUL CORACE N.J COMANZO ANDREW DAVIS

LOUIS H QUACH PONNUTHURAI JEYATHAS WIN-KYE CHEONG

RICHARD BROOKS KEVIN FREHEIT JACKLYNKELLI KRONEMBERG BRIAN COLEMAN JUSTIN MACKIN DR. TOM FERRARO SANDY SARACONA MIKE MEJIA CSCS

mike repertorio lisa holahan robert devita

IN-HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

KEVIN SPERANDEO

MORGAN HARRISON BILL KELLY adil borluca

KEVIN SPERANDEO

For an extended version of our magazine be sure to check out our website www.ultimateathletemagazine. com. Again, congratulations to all the Long Island teams. Sincerely,

Andrew Davis Senior Sports Editor

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Ultimate Athlete Magazine (ISSN 1931-5295) is published 12 times a year by Ultimate Athlete, Inc., 24 Woodbine Ave, Northport, New York 11768. All contents copyright 2012 by Ultimate Athlete Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or part of the content without the prior written consent of Ultimate Athlete, Inc. is strictly prohibited. All logos and trademarks are properties of thier respective owners. Although the writers and the publishers have exhaustively researched all sources to ensure the accuracy and the completeness of the information contained in this publication we aassume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or any inconsistency herein. The opinions expressed in all materials are those of authors and do not neccesarily represent those of Ultimate Athlete, Inc or Long Island’s Ultimate Athlete Magazine.

CONTENTS

LONG ISLAND

SPRING_VOL. I_ 2014 6

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FEATURES

PG 10

EAST MEADOW

PG 16

HALF HALLOW HILL WEST

PG 24

MANHASSET

PG 30

MANHASSET

PG 36

MASSAPEQUA

PG 42

ST. ANTHONY’S

PG 50

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

PG 54

WEST ISLIP

PG 56

NUTRITION

PG 58

SPORT TRAINING

Girls’ Softball

Boys’ Baseball

Girls’ Lacrosse

Boys’ Lacrosse Boys’ Lacrosse Girls’ Softball

Boys’ Softball

Girls’ Lacrosse Fitting Fat Into A Fitness Backfiels In Motion

PG 60

SPORT PSYCHOLOGY To Protect or Attack

PG 66

SPORT TRAINING

Multi-tasking Your Muscles

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The East Meadow Lady Jets Soar High Toward Victory STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN

he East Meadow Varsity Softball team has been having an incredible season so far and if the first half of their season is any indication of how much potential these girls have then it looks like they have a lot to look forward to. The East Meadow girls are known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lady Jetsâ&#x20AC;? and they are a talented bunch who is taking the competition over by storm. The girls stand proudly at the top of their division which is the Nassau Conference AA-I. Only the most proficient team can stand at first place without getting knocked off or bumped down and these girls have shown that they are not going anywhere. They have a total of 12 wins and 2 losses and they are 11-1 in their Nassau Conference, making them the number one team to watch out for. The spring season began on March 19th when the East Meadow Lady Jets opened the season with their first win. They played against Plainedge High School and gained a two point lead resulting in a 5-3 win for the team. Once the team scored their first win, they picked up their first loss of the season soon after. The East Meadow girls played against Clarke High School and the team just fell short with a score of 1-2. Opening season had the girls standing with one win and one loss, a 50/50 stance to start with and no one would have been able to predict how phenomenal the rest of their season would be. After their second game, the girls began an outstanding ten game winning

PHOTOS BY KEVIN SPERANDEO streak out of their total of twelve winning games so far this season. In fact, out of the ten continuous wins, three of them were complete shut out games. These passionate and determined girls were ready to take on the rest of the league and they did just that. The game that started their streak of wins was against Mepham High School, where they were very close to shutting them out with a score of 4-1. They would get the opportunity to have their first shut out during the following game that was against Massapequa High School. East Meadow sealed the deal with an end score of 8-0. Their next batch of wins continued on from the beginning to the end of April. The Lady Jets started the month of April by playing against MacArthur High School where they gained a lead of four runs and ended the game 11-7. The team of girls was beginning to get all fired up now and they had been excited about their previous wins but little did they know that this was only the beginning of their road to victory. The Lady Jets would score their second shut out game of the season when they versed Oceanside High School. They cleared the score boards with a dominating score of 4-0, representing East Meadow High School proudly. The team then continued on to keep proving themselves and showing how badly they want to win.

After the win over Oceanside, the girls took another win home and this time it was over Syosset High School. The mighty Jets crushed the competition, leading the game by six runs and winning 8-2. East Meadow’s next three games were some of their most impressive games to date, these games truly showed just how talented these young ladies are. The Lady Jets played against Hicksville High School and obliterated the opposing team with a total of 15 runs scored to a mere 1 run effort by Hicksville. The team continued their success when they went on to play against Calhoun High School. Their win against Calhoun would be recorded as their third shut out game, scoring a total of 12 runs to zero. The East Meadow girls then played against Baldwin High School and proceeded to impress the league where they scored runs galore, conquering with a twelve point lead and a final score of 13-1. The Lady Jets seemed to have an unbelievable winning streak and it still was not over, carrying victories from late March towards the end of April, these girls proved to be real superheroes at bat and on the field. After their takeover at Baldwin, the girls’ next game was against Long Beach High School where they still managed to keep the streak alive and well. The Lady Jets scored an impressive 8 runs against a one run effort by Long Beach. Then the team revisited Massapequa High School, where they previously won and they put the school to shame once again. They beat Massapequa for the second time this season, winning over the school with a score of 7-2. Sadly the Lady Jets’ ten game winning streak eventually came to an end when they played against Mepham High School, who is currently in second standing for the Nassau Conference AAI. The game was extremely close for the Jets but they just could not come up with the win, falling short to Mepham 2-3. However, the Jets were quickly able to bounce back and won their most recent game against MacArthur High School. They beat MacArthur again, this time with a final score of 6-2 which leaves them on a high note for their successful month of April. The Lady Jets have had an incredible season so far and it looks like there is no slowing down for this team. Even when the team hit their two losses of the season, they were extremely close scores which shows that this team poses a major threat to its competitors. The team is such a talented group of heavy hitters and one among them is Claire Travis, who is currently one of the scoring leaders with a total of five home runs. They also have an outstanding pitcher that goes by the name of Kerri Shapiro, she helped lead the team to the Long Island Championship just last year. The Lady Jets were always a team that was meant to be victorious and if they keep up the successful drive that they have, these ladies will for sure remain the queens of the diamond. DESIGNED BY WIN-KYE CHEONG

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JOHN FARACI HALF HOLLOW HILLS WEST

BASEBALL

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Hills West Pitching Has Them Dominating Suffolk Competition S TORY BY BRI A N COLEMAN | P HOTOS BY KE VIN SPE R ANDE O | M O RGAN H AR R ISO N

t has always been the notion that pitching is the name of the game when it comes to baseball. While the casual fan wants to see home runs and tons of extra base hits, when it comes down it, pitching is still the straw that stirs the drink for the majority of successful baseball clubs. That narrative is no more evident than in the 2014 Half Hollow Hills West team, who are battling for a chance to play in the Suffolk County championship. The Bulls have been led by a senior pitching staff that has been nearly unhittable all season long, and is the reason that it is one of the few teams left vying for the county title. The Bulls had entered the season coming off a successful 2013 campaign that saw Hills West charge into the winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bracket final of the Suffolk County playoffs. After losing to Ward Melville, the eventual Long Island champions, the Bulls traveled to Connetquot to play in the loserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bracket final. A walk-off base on balls sent Hills West home in disappointing fashion with back- to-back losses. Enter 2014. Half Hollow Hills West came into the year with a bit of a chip on its shoulder because of the way last season ended and boasted a deep and talented pitching rotation. Hills West opened up the season looking like a team on a mission. The Bulls won 12 of its first 13 games as they looked to join the ranks of Suffolk County League IV. After a minor blip on the radar that saw two losses in three games, Hills West, quickly righted the ship and won four straight games to wrap up its regular season.

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The Bulls have had arguably the best pitching in Suffolk County all season. Led by junior right handed stud Aaron Glickstein, and a formidable pitching staff, Half Hollow Hills West entered the postseason with a legitimate shot at making a deep playoff run.

A four-run third inning was all that the Bulls needed as the offense was paced by two hits by

“Aaron Glickstein had one of the best pitching seasons we have seen around here,” said head coach Tom Migliozzi. “He was one of the stars who shined for us this year.”

In two playoff games, the Bulls pitching did not allow a run and surrendered just five hits in 14 innings of baseball. However, the offense was only able to muster up five runs in the two games as the team struggled to drive in its base runners.

Glickstein’s record eight wins this season, was a remarkable number considering the team has won 19 games overall up to this point. Not only did the junior start in the rotation, but came out of the bullpen in the opening playoff game against North Babylon. After the Bulls number two starter, Jon Farici, went six innings and allowed just one hit, Glickstein channeled his inner Mariano Rivera and came out of the bullpen for the save. Owen McMenamy drilled a two-out double that drove in the game’s only run in the bottom half of the sixth inning. Glickstein closed up shop in the top of the seventh, striking out two North Babylon hitters to preserve the 1-0 first-round playoff victory. Migliozzi then handed the ball to his ace for the quarterfinal bout with Connetquot. Glickstein pitched arguably his best game of the season, even though he had thrown a no-hitter previously this year. The junior went the distance, striking out nine and allowing just four hits.

Sean Noriega, Justin Pelletier, Tyler DeLucia, and Mike Moreno to lead Hills West into the semifinals.

That issue would rear its ugly head as Hills West entered its semifinal bout with West Islip. The Lions boasted its own impressive pitching staff, which set up a classic pitcher’s duel as both teams were battling for a spot in the Suffolk County winner’s bracket final. West Islip’s sophomore James Kory brought his best stuff and baffled the Bulls all afternoon long. He allowed just three hits and one run as the Lions shocked the Bulls 2-1 to send Half Hollow Hills West into the loser’s bracket of the double elimination tournament. “We missed a big opportunity,” said Migliozzi. “We played our worst game in the most important situation. We struggled to get that timely hit and it really cost us.” Kory was able to out duel his opponent, Jon Faraci, who had been the Robin to Glickstein’s Batman all season long. He tried to pitch through an injury, but didn’t quite have the stuff that had made him dominant throughout the year.

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“He pulled [his] inter collateral muscle recently and it bothered him,” recalled Migliozzi. “He tried to push through, but he struggled with it all afternoon and just wasn’t the same.” Despite the injury, Faraci still managed to pitch an outstanding game, allowing just two runs to keep his team in the game. However, the inability to pick up the timely hit cost the Bulls a chance to move on. Down 2-1, the Bulls had runners on second and third late in the game, but could not drive home the tying and game-winning runs. While a 2-1 loss in that situation can be deflating, Half Hollow Hills West is still alive in the Suffolk County playoffs and has not given up the goal. No matter what comes of the rest of the playoffs, head coach Tom Migliozzi is proud of the way his team played all year long. “We definitely had a successful season,” said Migliozzi. “We had a great group of kids that knew there role and did a lot of good. They did all the right things.”

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LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY POST PIONEERS DOWLING COLLEGE golden lions

return, LIU can really start expecting more victories. Even with that, the Pioneers have some areas to improve upon, and Collins has already been making adjustments. “Going into the year, we felt solid in certain areas, but we had certain question marks in other areas,” Collins said, “We have to stop giving up the big play.”

Story by Kevin Freiheit Photos by Morgan Harrison

The defense has had a rough time, especially over the past two games, giving up 86 combined points. It was a major difference as the defense allowed just 28 in the first pair of games. Collins is confident that the Pioneers can recover from the losses and put together a winning season.

DOWLING Men’s Soccer A Stands Tall

“This team is sticking more together,” Collins said, “Adversity causes some to break, and others to break records. We’re always working hard, and we have excellent recruiting class that is showing.” A big piece of the Pioneers’ puzzle is how the younger players perform. “It’s a huge role from younger players,” Collins said, “We’re very happy with the freshmen class. We want to

he Dowling College men’s soccer team was unsatisfied with their

“

We have a tremendous roster and This season, the Pioneers got off to a start again, winning the opening pair we have already won hot more games of games and scoring 71 points. However, this year than all ofLIUlast year. took a step backwards as they dropped the next two games, falling back to .500

maintain a winning attitude, and make sure the freshmen are seeing it.” The confidence level for LIU is still high, and the Pioneers believe that they are a talented enough team to put together a successful season. The coaches believe in the players, and they are willing to work to make them even better. “I really do believe this is a special group of players,” Collins said, “They’re preparing very hard to play these games. Everything is in place for them to succeed, and we’re hoping for big things from the Pioneers this season.”

declining, and they have lost that winning touch they held onto for so long.

results from a year ago. After DiRico noted that the team lost eight posting a 2-15-1 record, the Golden Lions games by only one-goal last year, but knew that change was necessary. With regardless, it was still a disappointing Dowling has season. The Golden Eagles have played fter a disappointing finish to only last 13 onreturning the year. players, The Pioneers are facing alreadyancollected more situation wins than all of season, the Long Island University eerily similar to the one in four one-goal games this year, but have bythey winning the firstbut fiveare been on the winning side more frequently. Post Pioneers are looking to last get year that were three in lastofseason, games looking this season. back where they belong. Following two for a completely opposite With an experienced coach like successful winning football seasons, theHead outcome. Despite the two coach John DiRico is game in hislosing DiRico, Dowling already has a starting Pioneers finished with a 3-7 record 22nd last year streak, head Coach Bryan Collins is of coaching and understands point to get back on track. “We have a year, falling short of their ultimate goal. team can getLions back on the what itconfident takes to that win.hisThe Golden completely different team than last year,” right track. were National champions in 2006 and DiRico said, “We have a tremendous Despite winning the first two games would consistently post season 10 roster and we have already won more of the year by a combined 91-36 score, “I fully expect us to of compete,” or more wins.said, However, overis the last9-2, games this year than all of last year.” LIU was unable to keep the momentum Collins “Our goal to go two years, their up performance has been one week and one week down. going. Bloomsburg University halted the energy and the Pioneers started an Attack the next opponent.” The unfortunate string of defeats. Throughout Pioneers have been battling injuries the rest of the season LIU would only during both this season, and the winKevin one other game, a 20-15 victory over last one. While many coaches will Story by Freiheit Millersville University on homecoming never use injuries as an excuse, Photos by Morgan Harrison weekend. A losing season can be looked they certainly hurt the overall at in more ways than one. While it wasn’t quality of the team. the anticipated or wanted outcome, the “Our starting running back Pioneers used the year to learn, rebuild has battled an ankle injury, but and improve. he’s playing through it,” Collins

“

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said, “We’ve been struggling with injuries. If we can get back healthy, we’ll continue to get better each week.” Once a few of the injured players begin to

Freshman infielder Alex Hailes is one of the new players on the team and is looking to get his collegiate career off to a good start. “This team has gelled together really quickly and I have high expectations,” Hailes said. Hailes, who is from England, didn’t hesitate to say that he is more concerned than how the team is doing than personal statistics. At the same time, he knows that he is going to have to step and contribute when called upon. “Hopefully I can make a big impact, stay off the bench and make a difference,” Hailes said.

team become that successful once again, but he’ll have to do it with a completely new set of players, a lot of whom are new. “This team has the makeup, the talent and the chemistry to get back to where we are used to being,” DiRico said. “I have a good sense of where this team can go.”

Returning striker Kariym Balthazer knows what it’s like to play for Dowling, as he did last year, but wants to see the team be successful. “The sky is the limit”, Balthazer said. “We have a lot of work to do, but we’re responding well. I’m happy with how we already beat our record from last year.”

DiRico’s determination to win translates to his players and he aims to recruit players that have the same mentality that he does. “I recruit players from winning programs and my players hate to lose more than they love to win,” DiRico said.

Improving a record from a season ago, but that’s just the first step for Dowling soccer. The Golden Lions made a name for themselves and were a strong force, and an intimidating team to play against.

Head coach John DiRico

DiRico has plans of seeing his

DiRico has set high standards for the Golden Lions and he has every season, regardless of past records or performances. “The coach has high expectations of you and doesn’t settle for mediocracy,” Balthazer said, “I respect him as a coach.”

The Golden Lions are off to a good start, but the season has just begun. Dowling will try to make a deep run for the first time in three years.

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SUFFOLK COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE sharks NAS SAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE

LIONS

“I believe that hard work beats talent, every time talent does not work hard,” says Kim Simpson, head coach of the Suffolk County Community College Girls Volleyball team. In Coach Simpsons past five seasons with the �harks, the team has made it to the regional semifinals four times. Last season, the Sharks had a record of 22-1 and went to nationals after winning their region. The team included an all-American nomination, as well as multiple all-regional players.

about the game, I must also exhibit it. I work my girls hard and expect a lot out of them.” She says, “No matter how talented, I expect my teams to work, work, work until we hit our final goal of winning the region.”

volleyball, you always know when she is on the court.” Brittney led the team in kills last season. “She works extremely hard and is passionate about the game. She loves to have fun at practice with her teammates and loves to push them. She is a true leader ”, according to Simpson. With a bright future ahead, on and off the court, Brittney is pursuing a future career in nursing. Simpson says, “She is going to do amazing things on the next level when she leaves Suffolk.”

NASSAU LIONS OFF TO A STRONG SEASON Kim Simpson’s volleyball career began at NYIT, where she was a scholarship player for four years. Since then, she has worked with multiple volleyball programs such as the Longwood PAL and the Long Island United travel 18 year old volleyball team. Coach Simpson’s enthusiastic coaching and hard work by the players has lead to indisputable success for the Suffolk Volleyball program. Simpson believes in leading by example, “I think if I want them to have desire and passion

SUFFOLK SHARKS

Team captains for the 2013 season include returning sophomores Amanda Dill and Brittney Olazagasti.

Amanda Dill, from Patchogue, was nominated to the all tournament team at the regional playoffs in 2012, where the team took first place. �impson says, “I am very lucky to have someone like Amanda on the team who pushes others to be the best they can be.” This dedicated student athlete is described as a , “consistent, strong, and a mentally tough player.” Amanda hopes to continue playing at a four year school after graduating from SCCC. Fellow team captain and extremely talented player, Brittney Olazagasti, from Selden, NY is a first team all regional player. Coach Simpson says, “Brittney loves

Sophomore Katie Shannon from Selden, controls the court for the Sharks, and is the team’s setter. “The team depends on her and she has done such an amazing job setting up all of our hitters so far this season. She loves the game and wants to continue playing at the next level. Katie is willing to work on anything or try anything you ask her to. Sometimes as a coach you know you push people, and sometimes you must stop before you break them, but there is no breaking Katie. She wants to be the best player she can be!” says Coach Simpson. Simpson describes her as, “a caring, dedicated and hardworking

Story By Kevin Freiheit // Photos By Kevin Sperandeo

look forward to successful year Story and Photos By Kevin Sperandeo

Suffolk Girls Volleyball

NASSAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOOTBALL

In their six wins this season, Nassau has put up 240 points, an average of 40 points per game. Those numbers increased after the Lions defeated Hudson Valley Community College 68-20 in a game that got out of hand quickly.

young lady.” Fighting her way to a starting spot with very talented group, freshman, Carly Lombardo from Stony Brook has been able to find her role on the team. Coach Simpson says, “She is volleyballminded. She has been around the game for so many years and is driven to be successful.” Carly came to the team from High School coming off not only a Division 1 Suffolk Championship, but also a Long Island Championship. Described as a player that always brings one hundred percent, Simpson says, “She is a versatile player, I can ask her to play any position on the court, and she will gladly do so.”

Another key player for the team is Kiersten Kissinger from Islip. This is �iersten’s first year with the �harks. According to Coach Simpson, “She is a humble player; she works hard at practice, and truly loves the game.” Kiersten is a sophomore transfer student from SUNY Oneonta. Coach Simpson says, “We are lucky to have Kiersten transfer back home to join the Suffolk volleyball team.” Having a presence on the court, Simpson describes Kiersten as a, “strong, loud and aggressive player. She is great to watch when she gets more excited for a teammates accomplishments then her own.” With great teamwork, dedication,

respect and passion, Coach Simpson believes the team will go far. The goal is always to win the region and make it to nationals, “That is always what the girls are working to”, says Simpson. This year’s team looks promising, and they are set for another successful year. Simpson says, “They have many talents on the court, strong hitters, big blockers, tough defense, but I love that these girls know the true meaning of being a team and what a teammate really is.” The �harks played their first match on September 3rd. They beat Hostos Community College with a score of three games to none.

The Lions defense has allowed more than seven points in a game just twice this season and have yielded 60 points overall, through the first six games. By scoring four times more than the opponent, Nassau isn’t going to have a problem winning games. They haven’t been relying on star senior players, either. Nassau has been able to spread the wealth and possesses numerous ways to score.

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�ophomore quarterback Troy �ones has led the Lions to victory at every chance he has had this season. �ones has completed 56 of 97 attempts this season, along with 10 touchdowns. His longest play of the year went for 82 yards and he is averaging just over 1�0 per game. �ones has plenty of talented wide outs to throw the ball to, but if there’s a favorite target he has, that very well may be sophomore Antwane Grant. Grant has found the end zone six times this season, including three in the win against Hudson Valley. Grant has three 100-yard receiving games and has made at least a reception during every game, except one. When they’re not throwing the ball, the Lions have a great option in sophomore running back Travis Lock, who has been a big part of the offense this year and has made some big runs all season long. Lock has gained �23 yards and three touchdowns on 93 carries. His longest run of the season was 56 yards.

“I believe that hard work beats talent, every time talent does not work hard” Kim Simpson, head coach

Suffolk Girls Volleyball

With these offensive options, the Lions can be an unpredictable group, and can win games in different ways. Grant and �ones have created problems for their opponents so far because they are both so dynamic.

f there’s one word to describe the Nassau Community College football team, it’s “dominant”. The Lions are plain and simple destroying their opponents this season and have shown no signs of slowing down. The Girls Lions are off to a 6-1 start and have Suffolk Volleyball proven, time after time, that they will be a team to beat going forward. Nassau has been on a roll and is building more momentum and confidence with every win, making it that much more difficult for another team to stop them.

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The Lions will look to both of these players to keep doing what they have been as they continue. The Lions had their toughest game of the season recently, and the results were different this time. Nassau suffered its lone loss of the season, which snapped a six game winning streak. The Lions fell to Georgia Military College, the �1 ranked school, by a �5-22 score. Playing the top seeded school is always tough, but Nassau has the talent and mentality to bounce back. The Lions have a few games remaining on their schedule. They will take on Louisburg College, Globe Tech and ASA College to close out the regular season.

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The Manhasset Indians Protect Their Spot on Top STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN | PHOTOS BY BILL KELLY

he Manhasset Girls Varsity Lacrosse team has been going strong this season and their exceptional team is looking better than ever. The team is currently undefeated in the Nassau Conference I and they hold a current record of 10-0, currently making them number one in their league. In fact, dominating the competition has become a norm for the Manhasset team. Their head coach Danielle Gallagher has been a household name in the lacrosse world for quite some time now, and she was a powerhouse player who both played and coached at the collegiate level. Gallagher has been acknowledged by many of her accolades, including being inducted into the Manhasset Lacrosse Hall of Fame, The College of William and Mary’s Hall of Fame, and the Long Island Metropolitan Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Head Coach Danielle Gallagher and assistant coach Meg Clarke were both previously students at Manhasset High School and they continue to share their knowledge and love of the game by guiding the Manhasset Team on the road to success. The Manhasset team otherwise known as the “Indians” has been making a spectacular effort on the field with an overall total of 13 wins and only 1 loss so far during this regular season. They are holding on tight to their eight game winning streak that began in late April, and is currently ongoing as of now in mid-May. The only loss the Indians suffered this season thus far was to Notre Dame High School, which was a nail biter that they eventually fell short of by only one goal, losing the game 6-5. The team started their season off with a bang when they played against Plainedge High School, and won the game with a tremendous score of 14 goals to a mere 4 by the opposing team. This game basically set the trend of what the season to come would be like and as they continued on throughout. The Manhasset Lady Indians have shown skills that have really outshined all competitors on the playing field.

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Some highlights of the season were when the Manhasset team played against schools like Long Beach, Darien, and North Shore. What makes these games stand out from the teams other several wins of the season was that they won each of these games by over ten points. Starting with Long Beach High School, the Lady Indians scored a major win when they crushed their opponents with an incredible eleven point lead and ended the game 16-5. They were able to duplicate another eleven point lead when they faced the challengers of Darien High School. The Lady Indians came out full force on the playing field and ultimately dominated Darien 17-6. Another notable win to add to the impressive Manhasset team record this season was from North Shore High School. When the team played against North Shore they had an outstanding twelve point lead over the North Shore Vikings and the Lady Indians came out victorious with a final score of 15-3. One of the most compelling things about the Manhasset Girls Lacrosse team is that even with consistent winning this season, they never take any game for granted, and they always play with their hearts out on the field. The Lady Indians are an extremely talented team and they have the potential to go all the way this year to the Nassau County Lacrosse Championships. In fact, the Manhasset team is very familiar to being all the way on top. The team has won the Nassau County Class C Championship for six years in a row, between the years of 2005 to 2010. Even with a great team like Manhasset and their amazing capabilities, it helps to have such an honorable coach like Coach Gallagher. Not only playing lacrosse firsthand but excelling in the sport, Gallagher is a coach that you really want to have in your corner during lacrosse season. Assistant coach Clarke also adds to the teams assets by both being a former student and lacrosse player at Manhasset High School, and knowing what the perspective of a Lady Indian is like. The talented team of girls has made their most jaw dropping performance most recently on May 12th when they versed Great Neck South High School. The team of blue and orange took the game over by storm and proved that the playing field will always be their domain. They played a game against Great Neck South that would make any competitor cringe when they scored a phenomenal eighteen point lead. Needless to say, Manhasset beat Great Neck South 20-2, making their most recent win also their highest scoring game of the season thus far. The Manhasset team is standing proudly in the number one spot, and they are currently an undefeated team in conference games. The Garden City High School Lacrosse team, whom Manhasset had previously beat earlier this season, is in the number two spot with Wantagh High School following close behind. The next challengers for the Lady Indians will be on May 15th where theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll play against Calhoun High School. If their last game served as any indication of Manhassetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future, then the Lady Indians should have no problem protecting their spot on top.

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MANHASSE INDIANS TH S TO RY BY BRI A N CO L E MA N | P H OTO S BY BI L L K E L LY

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ET DEFENSE HAS HINKING COUNTIES A

year ago, the Manhasset Indians were 48 minutes away from calling themselves the Nassau County Champions as they dueled with the Garden City Trojans in the Class B championship. Garden City was the seventime defending county champion, and it made eight consecutive county championships as they cruised past the Indians 10-4 on their way to a second consecutive New York state championship. The Indians were able to exact some revenge versus the Trojans, as the two clashed in the Nassau Class B semifinal at Hofstra University, with the winner advancing to play for a county championship. This situation couldn’t have been more familiar to Garden City, but Manhasset had different ideas. In what was one of the most low-scoring games of the lacrosse season, Manhasset goalkeeper J.P. Young, was phenomenal in between the pipes. With his team leading 4-3 in the final minute, Young made a brilliant save with 12 seconds on the clock to preserve the Manhasset lead and launch them into the Nassau Class B finals. “Our defense and goalie were outstanding,” said Manhasset head coach Bill Cherry. Garden City had been Class B champions for the past eight seasons, and was vying to continue its dynasty. Manhasset’s back-end stood strong against the powerful Trojans and brought an end to their reign. “On that last shot, I saw him get open on the crease and I just tried to step up a little bit to take away as much of the goal as I possibly could so he wouldn’t have a lot to shoot at,” Young told Newsday after the game. “It managed to hit the inside of my leg and it didn’t trickle in.” The defense and goaltending of the Indians has been the key to success all season long. After a slow start out of the gate, that saw Manhasset lose five of six games at one point, the boys turned it around and banded together to try and reach their goal. As Manhasset prepared for its semifinal bout with Garden City, they knew they had some unfinished business to take care of. Not that a team needs any more motivation than playing for a county championship, but when you have an opportunity to play the team that knocked you out in the year prior, it adds a little something extra.

“They were very motivated,” said Cherry, who is in his eighth season as head coach. “After losing the championship game, the kids vowed to work harder than ever. They did and although the results were not what we wanted early, we always played hard. We

farther away. Cherry made a wise coaching decision midseason, moving Tyler Dunn from attack to the midfield. Dunn also assumed the faceoff duties, and brought great stability to the center of the Manhasset lineup. The move allowed the defensive unit of Benny Borgognone, Austin Orlando, and Ryan Kiess to come together as a unit, which really locked up the defense in front of Young. Since the rough patch in the middle of the season, the Indians have won eight of its last 10 games including its most recent victory in the semifinals versus Garden City. Cherry credits the turnaround on his team’s ability to stay focused and keep working to get better. “It was a recommitment by the team to play together and for each other, no matter what the naysayers said,” recalled Cherry. “The negative comments by fair weather fans and on lax power was a huge motivating factor for us.” The team pulled together and put together a nice string of victories that put them right back in the conversation of playoff contenders. Despite an inconsistent, out of conference record, Manhasset dominated the Class B competition and finished with an 8-1 conference record, and the number two seed.

started to put it all together the last [few] weeks of the season, and the kids were focused on getting to the semifinals versus Garden City. They felt if they came to play, they had a chance to beat them.” The game played right into the hands of the Indians, who pride themselves on defense all season long. They allowed just three goals on the afternoon, capped off by the brilliant play by Young in the final seconds.

While the skies look bright as of today, it wasn’t always the case for Cherry and Manhasset this season. After losing five of six games, the Indians were sitting at 3-5 as the possibility of the playoffs seemed to drift

Riding high off a fabulous end to the season, Manhasset carried that momentum into the playoffs as it opened up with the seventh seeded Division Blue Dragons, who turned out to be just a turnstile. The Indians dismantled Division 16-2 as Mike Gavin poured in five goals and added an assist, while Henry Griffith added three goals to pace the offense. The defense did what it had done all season and Young continued to be a brick wall allowing just two goals in the contest. The victory put Manhasset into a quarterfinal matchup with Carey who gave the Indians a bit of a test. The offense was stifled a bit, but got picked up by its defense and goaltending. The catalysts for Manhasset all season long stood up against the Seahawks as Young, recorded 14 saves, and allowed just four goals to send the Indians to a semifinal matchup with familiar foe Garden City. The Trojans were the hump that the Indians were looking to get over in order to make the next step. Manhasset was able to slow down the explosive offense of Garden City, and dictated the tempo over its rivals. As it looks forward to the Class B county championship against the Lynbrook Owls, the Indians understand that it needs to move on from the victory and focus on the task at hand. “We need to keep playing hard and playing great team defense,” stressed Cherry. “We have to be very focused on what we are doing on both sides of the ball. “I think it is going to be a great game. Lynbrook’s very talented and very well-coached.”

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de s i g ne d by w i n -k y e c h e o n g

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MASSAPEQUA BOYS’ LACROSSE 36

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The Massapequa Chiefs Chase Another Championship Win | STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN | PHOTOS BY ADIL BORLUCA |

he Massapequa High School Boys Varsity Lacrosse team has had an outstanding spring season this year, and the boys are ready to conquer their challengers as they advance from the regular season to the playoffs. The Massapequa Boys Lacrosse team, also known as, the Massapequa â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chiefsâ&#x20AC;? are determined to repeat history and go all the way this year to win the Nassau County Conference A Championship title. Their head coach, Tim Radomski, has been coaching the Chiefs for several years now and helped the team win the Nassau County Conference A Championships for 2013. A year later, and the Chiefs are still going stronger than ever, winning 14 games and losing only 2 games during the regular season. The Massapequa team is currently ranked number one in their division, and they are

an undefeated team in conference games with an overall record of 10-0. The team has had a ton of success this year, and all their hard work has paid off, only letting two regular season games slip by while managing to hold on to the number one spot in their division, and remain undefeated for conference games. The spring season began during mid-March and the Chiefs opened their season playing against Carey High School. The Chiefs were off to a fantastic start of the season when they took home a win of 11-7 against Carey. After their first win it became clear that the boys were ready to take over Nassau County by storm. The team continued on and gained a tremendous win against Kellenberg High School. The Chiefs had a ten-goal lead over Kellenberg and crushed the school

with a final score of 15-5. The Massapequa team suffered only two losses this season and they were able to beat their previous record of three losses in 2013. The team lost both games early on in the season after their previous wins against Carey and Kellenberg. The Chiefs lost to Chaminade and Garden City High School but both games ended in intensely close scores, Garden City being the real nail biter with a score of 6-5. Nevertheless, the team persevered onward after the two losses that completed the month of March and came back stronger than ever in April. In fact, the Chiefs have won every single regular season game in both April and May. The Massapequa Chiefs broke another record by having an eight game winning streak in April that continued throughout May for a total of twelve continuous wins.

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During their ongoing winning streak, the team had many amazing wins of ten plus goals over the opposing High School teams. Some of these impressive wins include ten point leads against Kellenberg, East Meadow and Calhoun High School. They also had eleven point leads against Syosset and Plainview High School. Most recently, the team revisited Calhoun High School during the first round of the playoffs and Massapequa gained another eleven point lead that ended in a win of 15-4. However, the Chiefs most astonishing win of the season was early in May when they played against MacArthur High School. MacArthur was the last school that Massapequa played against during regular season, and the Chiefs proved that they really knew how to go out with a bang. They achieved an incredible fifteen point lead over MacArthur, who was only able to score one goal and the game overall ended in a final score of 16-1. Massapequa has been so successful this spring, and the team of extraordinary players has been making their school proud as they continue to work hard, and advance from the regular season to the Nassau County tournament games. The Chiefs will be playing against the

Farmingdale High School Dalers this Wednesday, on May 21st at Hofstra University for the semifinals. If the Chiefs beat the Dalers they then will advance to the finals that will take place on Tuesday, May 27th which will also be held at Hofstra. If the team advances to the finals they will be up against the winner of the Hicksville vs. Syosset game. Luckily, our Massapequa team has previously beaten all three of the semi-finalist throughout the regular season. This puts our boys as the top choice to go all the way this year, and score another championship title. The Massapequa team is made up of gold and navy blue jerseys that have been shining bright on the field all season, and the exceptional team has already made 2014 such an outstanding year thus far. You can bet when the Chiefs go up against the Dalers on Wednesday, they are going to give the semi-finals everything theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got because they are a hardworking team with a determination to win.

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The Fria

Coming Out T

he St. Anthony’s High School Varsity Softball team has had an amazing regular season so far, and it seems like nothing can get in their way from victory. The St. Anthony’s team also known as the “Friars” has been playing an excellent game of softball this season, and they are definitely the team to watch out for. The team is currently 13-1 in the NSCHSGAA, otherwise known as the Nassau Suffolk Catholic High School Girls Athletic Association. The team also has recorded 16 wins and only 1 loss so far this season, which proves how impressive the Friars really are. Their head coach, Mike Massa, has coached the Friars softball team for several years now, and was named the Long Island Coach of The Year back in 2001. In fact, Coach Massa has done a lot since then, he currently holds a record at St. Anthony’s of 60-13 over the past three seasons in the teams division. He has helped the St. Anthony’s Softball team make playoff appearances every season, as well as, going to the Long Island CHSAA championship game, two out of the last three years. This year, the team plans to head full force to the playoffs as they continue being triumphant on the diamond. The spring season began at the end of March for the St. Anthony’s softball team and the team kicked off the season right, opening with their first win. After winning their first game, the team had set the tone for what the rest of the season would be like. In fact, the Friars went on to play a ten game winning streak, and beat some of the most topnotch schools in the Catholic league such as Kellenberg and Holy Trinity. Their only loss of the season was to St. John the Baptist High School, both teams faced off neck and neck, but the Friars fell short by one run and they lost 2-1. The St. Anthony’s softball team would get their redemption of that loss later on in the season when both schools faced off again, but this time no mercy was shown, the Friars won 6-4 against St. John the Baptist. Some of the most memorable games of the season are the games that the Friars gained tremendous leads in, ultimately leading their team to victory every single time. When the team played their second game of the season, they played against Our Lady of Mercy High School, and pummeled the team by nine runs with a final score of 11-2. The team scored an eight run lead when they revisited Our Lady of Mercy later on in the season, and they scored the same lead again when they played against Archbishop Molloy. Ultimately, the Friars beat Mercy for the second time, 10-2 and Archbishop Molloy for the first time this season, 9-1.

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ars

Are t Swinging

STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN PHOTOS BY KEVIN SPERANDEO

DESIGNED BY WIN-KYE CHEONG The team of Friars has attained some notable stats so far this season, and they are a nearly undefeated team. Lately, they have been on fire with the amount of shutout games that has been occurring and the games have only added to the Friars revived six game winning streak that has been continuous since their loss to St. John the Baptist. The St. Anthony’s softball team has had a total of five shutout games so far this season. The last three of them were of recent and have been back to back. The first shutout game that the team had was against Sacred Heart High School. Towards the beginning of the season the St. Anthony’s softball team played against Sacred Heart, and shut them out 3-0. During midseason, the Friars went up against St. Mary’s High School where the team demolished the school 10-0, making that game one of the most outstanding games of the season thus far. Recently, the team has been going strong shutting out Holy Trinity, Kellenberg, and St. Dominic High School. In the beginning of May, the Friars played Holy Trinity and crushed the team 7-0. They then went on to play Kellenberg and beat the team 1-0, devastating a top three conference contender. The St. Anthony’s softball team had their most recent victory when they played against St.

Dominic and wiped out the competition 4-0, shutting out three honorable schools in a row. The team plans to continue to bulldoze through their competition and remain the number one contenders of the league. The Friars currently rank first in the NSCHSGAA standings, winning 13 conference games and 16 regular season games with an overall loss of only one. As of now, the top three conference spots belong to St. Anthony’s, St. John the Baptist, and Kellenberg. St. John the Baptist is currently in the number two spot with 11 wins and 2 losses in both conference and regular games. Kellenberg follows closely behind in third, they have 10 wins and 4 losses for conference games, and 16 wins and 7 losses overall for regular games. The Friars have really become the queens of the diamond this year, and the team of black and gold should be proud of all their amazing accomplishments thus far. The team will be continuing on to play against Holy Trinity again this Saturday, May 17th. If the Friars can keep their positive momentum going, then we can expect to see them in the playoffs this season, but this time around they will be ready to win it all.

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dominant pitching has st. john the baptist thinking repeat S TORY BY BR IAN COLEMA N PH OTOS BY KE V IN S PER A ND EO

he goal of any catholic high school sports team on Long Island is to compete for a Nassau/Suffolk Catholic High School Athletic Association (CHSSA) championship at the end of the season. From baseball to track and field, each studentathlete at these high schools strives to be crowned as the best team in the CHSAA that year. The Cougars of St. John the Baptist accomplished that feat last season in 2013, storming through the regular season on its way to the CHSAA championship series. St. John the Baptist, which is located in West Islip in Suffolk County, played its best baseball in the final month of the season leading up to the playoffs, and carried that momentum all the way to the CHSAA title series. The season turned around following a dismantling at the hands of perennial powerhouse St. Dominic. The Cougars lost 15-0 and were held without a hit by St. Dominic pitcher John Mione, an obvious low point in the season for St. John the Baptist. However, it became a source of motivation and the Cougars got better from there on out, reeling off nine wins in 10 games to finish with the number three seed in the CHSAA playoffs. From there, it finished the job and exacted its revenge for the blowout, sweeping St. Dominic in the championship series. The Cougars got outstanding pitching from its starters in the two games, Frank Demaio and Greg Egan, and gave up just two runs combined in the two outings. It was St. John the Baptistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first league title since 2008, and it carried that title into the 2014 season.

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While a number of key seniors would not be back for this year, a young core with an explosive pitching staff made the Cougars the favorite to repeat as NSCHSAA champions by the majority of people before the season. The team is led by a number of juniors who got a taste of the varsity level and a championship as sophomores a year ago, and have begun to play its best baseball down the stretch as it prepares for another title run. Led by head coach John Habyan, a former professional baseball player, St. John the Baptist carries a professional and business-like approach to the game, which is demonstrated by its hard-work and sustained success as a program. Thus, the school from West Islip is poised to defend its CHSSA crown and complete its season-long goal. Up to this point, 2014 has been a rollercoaster ride for the defending champions. Alternating winning and losing streaks, the Cougars have been able to keep pace because of its lights out pitching which has St. John the Baptist hot at the right time. The Cougars raced out of the gate to begin the season, winning its first five games to start the season. In the season opener, on April fool’s Day, St. John the Baptist got a fantastic pitching performance from Andrew Mundy. The 6’0 junior was featured as one of the top 100 players on Long Island coming into the season, and lived up to the billing in his season debut, hurling a complete game while allowing no earned runs and striking out seven hitters in the 4-1 Cougar victory. While it was only one victory, the opener illustrated everything the team saw in it coming into the year. An outstanding pitching performance complemented by timely hitting, as Ryan Dalton and Pat Lagravenese each drove home two runs to pace the offense. The Cougars would win four straight games following the season opening victory, but then followed it up by dropping three straight games to fall to 5-3 overall. In that three game losing streak, the offense was only able to scrounge out four runs. It was a minor blip on the radar, as the pitching staff would put together one of the most dominating stretches any team has had this season over the next few games. Over the next five games, the St. John the Baptist pitching would throw four shutouts and allowing one run in the other game. As part of a seven game winning streak, it would get shutouts from Pat Besch, Pete McQuade, Noah Lorenzo, and two from right-handed ace Mundy. As good as the pitching was, the offense did its part as well. In the final game of the streak against Holy Trinity, the Cougars busted out for 11 runs in a seven run victory. Lagravinese knocked four hits and drove in three runs, while Tom Archer and Tom Colombo each had three hits. The experienced Cougars are now preparing for the postseason and a shot at defending its CHSAA throne. With the offense coming together at the right time, and the pitching being consistently dominant all season, the young Cougars are gearing up for the postseason. It is always important to build momentum at the right time of the season, and is what St. John the Baptist has done. In its final two regular season games against St. Anthony’s, the Cougars won 1-0 and 4-0, respectively, to go into playoff action with the wheels in motion. While the team is young, it has a number of starters who were a part of the CHSAA title team a year ago. If the pitching staff maintains its dominance, most notably from ace Andrew Mundy, St. John the Baptist is a force to be reckoned with in the catholic high school baseball scene.

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d esi g ned by wi n- kye ch eong

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WEST ISLIP GIRLS’ LACROSSE SUCCESS IS HERE TO STAY S TORY BY B R I AN CO L E MAN

he West Islip girl’s lacrosse team enjoyed a ton of success in its 2013 campaign, losing just two games in the regular season on its way to a 14-2 overall record and a number two seed in the Suffolk County playoffs. Despite a minor hiccup that was a two-game losing streak in early April 2013, the Lions stormed into the Suffolk County playoffs with a nine-game winning streak and a legitimate chance of winning a county championship. However, that dream was stopped much earlier than many thought as West Islip prepared to meet the number seven seed Northport in a quarterfinal matchup. In a matchup between Lions and Tigers, the Tigers of Northport prevailed in a 12-9 victory on the road that knocked the Lions of West Islip out of the playoffs. Despite leading 6-4 at halftime, West Islip was unable to close the deal and were outscored by five in the second half, only able to muster three goals past the Northport goalkeeper in the final stanza. With the surprisingly early exit a year ago, the 2014 West Islip Lions have come out on a mission, in hopes of accomplishing the goal it had last season. Thus far, it has done everything it can, putting together a dominant season that it hopes will culminate into a Suffolk County and possible Long Island championship. “The key to our success has been solid play all around,” said head coach Joe Nicolosi, who is in 10th season heading the West Islip program. “We have several different goal scorers and are really balanced from our attackers to the midfielders to the defense.” There is no doubt that the Lions are balanced offensively. Take for example its most recent game, the regular season finale against Middle Country on May 14th. Six different

P H OTO S BY M O RGA N H A R R I S O N

girls scored goals, while five different girls all dished out assists, leading to a 14-8 victory on Middle Country’s field. As a result of the win at Middle Country, West Islip finished the regular season 16-0 (14-0 in Suffolk Division I) and will be entering the playoffs with an undefeated record. While the squad has a number of senior leaders (10) on it, the Lions have some excellent underclassmen that have played above their age to help make West Islip a favorite to win the whole thing. Emily Beier and Vanessa Costantino are two of the young girls that have played outstanding lacrosse this season, and lead by example on the field. Despite their age, the two have been some of the hardest workers and bring a certain passion to the field. “Emily had a great year,” said Nicolosi. “She is just a freshman but is such a hard-nosed worker and that play is contagious for the rest of the team.” Costantino, a sophomore, was one of team’s leading scorers in the regular season. She buried 28 goals and dishing out 29 assists, serving as the catalyst for the team’s offense in the midfield and getting everybody involved. The chemistry between the girls is a major plus as illustrated by the balanced scoring all season long. The young core of West Islip has built a foundation for sustained success for the coming years. From offense, to mid field, to defense, the Lions have gotten significant contributions from freshman and sophomores throughout the season that makes them a threat in the girl’s lacrosse scene in Suffolk County in the future. “It’s obviously a really good thing that we have such young talent,” said Nicolosi. “Our junior varsity team only lost a couple of games this season also, so as a whole the program is really strong.”

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The leading scorer for the Lions is senior midfielder Lindsay Darrell. She paces the team with 60 total points, 35 goals and 25 assists. The fact that the team’s leading scorer has 60 less points than the county’s leading scorer demonstrates the arsenal of weapons that West Islip possesses. The victory over Middle Country was a big one for the team heading into the postseason, as Nicolosi and his girls understand the importance of taking every game seriously, as a successful season can end with just one loss. “Middle Country is a very good team and a good test for us,” said Nicolosi. “The Ortega sisters are two of the best goal scorers in the county, so our defense

will really be tested.” The Lions passed that test and look poised to make a run at the county championship that eluded them a year ago. The recipe for success will be the same in the playoffs as it was all year. “We need to limit the unforced errors and take better shots,” stressed Nicolosi. “Our teamwork has been excellent and we have been doing a good job on draw control. We’ll need to continue to do those things.” The West Islip girls’ lacrosse program has been one of the top in the county over the last several years, and it will look to put its stamp on an undefeated season as we head to the playoffs. Nicolosi has been a part of the program for quite some time now as he graduated from the school back in 1992. “I graduated here and I love the community here,” said Nicolosi. “I couldn’t ask for harder working girls and a more passionate bunch. The kids are really into it.”

While the young core brings hope for the future, these West Islip Lions are focused on the present and the task at hand this season. Following its victory over Middle Country, West Islip cruises into the playoffs with an unblemished record, with the offense being led by a senior.

FRAMED POSTERS Our stories and cover photos are available to purchase. Choose from any cover and/or article from any Ultimate Athlete Magazine issue to have made into a poster. Covers are available in a 8.5x11 or 12x18 print. Articles are available in a 12x18 print. Any prints can be ordered with or without a black frame. To order, call 1.800.680.3213 or email Paul at publisher@ultimateathletemagazine.com

8.5x11 Framed Cover CONNETQUOT HIGH SCHOOL THUNDERBIRDS

CONNETQUOT HIGH SCHOOL THUNDERBIRDS

CONNETQUOT â&#x20AC;&#x153;

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Every year our goal is to win the Long Island Championship.

THUNDERBIRDS

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Story By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg / Photos By Morgan Harrison

he Connetquot varsity football team enters the season ranked number three in Division one in Suffolk &RXQW\ /HDGLQJ WKH &RQQHWTXRW Thunderbirds is head coach Mike Hansen. Hansen is entering his WK VHDVRQ DV WKH KHDG FRDFK /DVW season, Connetquot ended the season with eight wins, two losses, and lost LQ WKH 6XIIRON &RXQW\ VHPLÂżQDOV â&#x20AC;&#x153;This year our goal is to try and win every game,â&#x20AC;? said Hansen, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every \HDU RXU JRDO LV WR ZLQ WKH /RQJ Island Championship.â&#x20AC;?

A few of the players from last season have since graduated, and the Thunderbirds have only three offensive returning starters, and three defensive returning starters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a solid team this season,â&#x20AC;? Hansen said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have skilled players and a good defense.â&#x20AC;? There are a couple of players looking to make an impact this year, and help get the team to the championship game. Senior wide receiver Tyler Nason (5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;10â&#x20AC;? 185 lbs.) was one of the top receivers RQ /RQJ ,VODQG ODVW \HDU ZLWK

â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a lot of kids that have the potential to be real impact players this season for us,â&#x20AC;? said Hansen, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a great team and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a pleasure to coach them.â&#x20AC;?

Senior running back/ linebacker Marcus Gutierrez (5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;9â&#x20AC;? 180 lbs.) is another key player to watch for this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Marcus is a tough hard runner,â&#x20AC;? Hansen said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He will carry a lot of the load this year.â&#x20AC;? The offensive line features three seniors DJ Gallino (6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;2â&#x20AC;? 270 lbs.), Rob Dawson (6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;1â&#x20AC;? 270 lbs.) and Jimmy Oliver (5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;11â&#x20AC;? 250 lbs.). â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a solid offensive line,â&#x20AC;? Hansen said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;DJ, Rob and Jimmy are the anchors of the offensive line.â&#x20AC;? The defensive line features junior Sean Moore (6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;0â&#x20AC;? 250 lbs.), Gallino and Oliver. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our defensive line is physical and work hard.â&#x20AC;? Hansen said. Connetquot takes their ÂżUVW VWHS WRZDUG WKH /RQJ Island Championship on September 11, 2013, when they open the season against Patchogue Medford.

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NUTRITION

FITTING FAT INTO Written by Sandy Sarcona

hree macronutrients make up calories: Protein, fat and carbohydrate (carbs). Protein is the magic macronutrient among athletes as it is equated with muscle, and followed by carbs for fuel. But where does that leave fat? Most athletes have a fear of eating fat since they think its role is just to make them fat! The truth is that not all fat is bad. There are different kinds of fat and getting the right types and amount is important for your health and your performance. As an athlete, you need some fat in your diet to add flavor, for essential fatty acids needed in your body, to absorb fat-soluble nutrients and to serve as a source of energy. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 20 to 25 percent of calories in your diet to come from fat. Translation: If you are eating about 2500 to 3000 calories per day you would need about 70 to 85 grams of fat. Look at the label on a small bag of potato chips and see that it provides 11 grams of fat in one ounce and realize how easily you can go overboard on fat just from overeating high fat snacks. A quarter pound cheeseburger with a large order of fries will deliver your daily allotment of about 70 grams of fat! Be smart and go for heart healthier unsaturated fats. That would mean opting for monounsaturated fats like olive oil and peanut butter, and polyunsaturated fats like fish. The saturated fats that come from animal products can build up cholesterol and start the artery clogging process even at your young age. Too much fat can slow you down especially if you have a high fat meal before practice or competition, so save those French fries for after the game! You do not want to restrict fat, but think about replacing higher fat versions with healthier choices:

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O A FITNESS DIET

•

Limit fried foods: Try baked or broiled items.

•

Choose leaner proteins: Try more chicken, fish, turkey, beans and egg whites. Limit red meat to 4 oz. two-three times per week.

•

Switch from whole milk dairy to low-fat or non-fat milk, yogurt and cheese; choose ice cream that is reduced in fat.

•

Cut back on added butter, margarine, mayonnaise and salad dressing or substitute lower fat or light versions of these.

It is all a balancing act of macronutrient intake. The bulk of your diet should come from complex carbohydrates like whole grain breads and cereals, vegetables and fruit; lean meats, poultry, fish, nuts, beans, egg whites (four whole eggs per week is the recommended amount); non-fat or low fat dairy, and healthy added fats. Choosing from all of these foods every day along with your sports drinks and lots of water is the optimal fitness diet!

here are no butts about it; strong glutes are a key component of athletic success! Lame puns aside for a moment, though, the muscles that make up the gluteal group (gluteus maximus, medius and minimus) really do play an integral role in your ability to perform at your best and avoid injury. Unfortunately, because young athletes tend to spend so much time overusing the muscles that act on the front of the hip joint, the glutes not only often go underutilized, but in many instances, effectively end up “shutting down”. When this happens, improvements in things like speed and power become virtually non existent and injury potential increases exponentially. So before you just head blindly into the weight room and possibly make matters worse, take a few minutes to assess whether or not your glutes are firing properly. By simply doing some of the self assessments featured below (as well as following up with any necessary corrective strengthening and stretching drills), you’ll quickly begin to realize just how important it is to keep these muscles functioning properly. Better still, before long you should see a noticeable difference in your performance on the field.

ASSESSMENTS Thomas Test: This simple test is an excellent way to see of your hip flexors and/ or quadriceps (as well as your iliotibial bands) are too tight. If any of them are, they can often inhibit optimal firing of the glutes. Stand near the edge of a bench, or table with your butt touching the edge. Next, lie back hugging both knees to your chest. Keeping one leg in contact with your chest, allow the other to extend away from your body. Let the leg drop as far as possible, without increasing the arch in your lower back.

•

You’re looking for your leg to drop down in line with, or slightly below your hip and your knee to bend less than 45 degrees, with everything in a straight line.

•

If your leg doesn’t drop down in line with your hip and your knee bends more than 45 degrees, your hip flexors are too tight.

•

If your leg does line up with your hip, but your knee bends less than 45 degrees, your quads are too tight.

•

If your leg externally rotates in any of the above positions, your ITB is too tight.

Cook hip lift: Here’s a great test developed by renowned physical therapist and movement specialist, Gray Cook. It’s a quick and easy way to assess if your glutes are working properly. Begin by lying on the ground and bending both knees about 90 degrees with your feet flat on the floor. Next, bend one knee and bring it towards your chest and place a tennis ball between your thigh and the lower portion of the rib cage. Hug the back of your knee to keep the ball in this position and press your other foot into the ground (by emphasizing pushing through the heel) to lift your hips and lower torso. If the Thomas test revealed that you had tight hip flexors, you may have trouble getting very high off the ground. Make sure that you do not attempt to get up higher than you’re able to by excessively arching your lower back. If you feel the drill in your glutes, that’s great! If you feel it only in your hamstrings, that’s a sign that your glutes are not firing properly and can indicate potential lower back problems down the road. If you only feel the drill in the front of your hip and thigh, your glutes are completely out to lunch and you’re a prime candidate for injury.

CORRECTIVE STRETCHING/ STRENGTHENING DRILLS Depending on how much your glute function is compromised, the following corrective exercises can go a long way towards helping eliminate any imbalances.

Stretch and mobilize the muscles that act on the front of the hip:

•

Foam roll TFL (tensor fasciae latae) and quadriceps: To roll the TFL, lie down on a foam roller, packing the meaty part of the front of your hip on the roller. Go back and forth slowly, 4-6 times, using your arms and lower body to control how much weight you give to the roller. To roll your quadriceps,

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position yourself face down on one end of the roller, with the top of your thigh on the roller and your forearms down in a plank position. Once ready, use your arms and other leg that’s off to the side, to move yourself from the bottom of your hip, down towards the back of the knee and back again. Try 4-6 slow repetitions. •

High kneeling hip flexor stretch: Get down into a high kneeling position with your back leg lined up directly behind your front leg (this will place your back hip into a slight internal rotation). Next, contract your core and glutes of the back leg to hold a posterior pelvic tilt, as you lean your weight forward onto your front leg. You should feel the stretch from the front of your right hip, down into your quadriceps. Hold for 30-60 seconds and then switch legs.

Strengthen the glutes:

•

Supine hip bridging: Lie on your back with your knees bent about 90 degrees and feet flat on the ground. Begin by bracing your core, as you push through your heels to lift your hips and lower torso off the ground. Once you’ve reached the point where your body forms a ramp from your shoulders to your knees, hold for a second, then lower and repeat. Try 1012 repetitions. For an added challenge, try the same drill one leg at a time with the other leg held up over your hips.

•

Clamshells: Lie on your side with your knees bent about 90 degrees, feet in line with your hips and a mini band positioned just above your knees. Keeping your feet, hips and shoulders stacked, lift your top knee as far away from your bottom one as possible, without leaning your hips back or separating your feet. Hold the top position for a second, then lower back down and repeat until you’ve done 12-15 repetitions per side.

•

Squats: Even though these do work the quadriceps and hamstrings as well, a properly done squat is one of the best glute exercises you can do. The key to performing a good squat is initiating the movement with a “hip break” (instead of just driving the knees forward) and keeping most of the weight on the heels and outside parts of the feet.

GLUTES MUSCLES

IN THE END While it’s easy to overlook the contribution of muscles you can’t see in the mirror, it’s important to understand what an integral role the glutes play in terms of optimizing athletic performance. Use yours for nothing more than a seat cushion and besides being unable to make any wholesale changes in speed and power, you may find yourself a frequent visitor to the disabled list. Bottom line; make sure you don’t ignore your bottom line!

To Protect “The ability to stay in attack mode is the most important skill an athlete can develop.”

he simple question you see in this title is one every athlete faces at some point during a match, and the answer to this question, will usually determine who wins and who loses. It makes no difference if you play soccer, lacrosse, golf, tennis, or wrestling. You will invariably face this key question at some point in every game. This choice usually emerges when the player senses he or she is closing in on a win. When they realize this they will often slow down and start to protect the lead. This is called ‘praying it in,” but no matter how many Hail Mary’s you recite when you start to protect the lead you are going down a losing path. Let’s cite a few examples of this problem. Lets say you are playing golf and you are even after nine holes. You begin to realize that you are about to qualify or win the match and that is the fatal error. The reality is you still have nine holes to play. You begin to play safe, swing softer, lag putts and do your best to avoid bogeys. And this produces mistakes every time. Or let’s take a soccer match. Your team is up 3-1 with 20 minutes to go. Your side begins to slow down play to kill time and to protect the lead. Your coach may even tell you to do this. Simultaneously, the other team has nothing to lose and starts to play more aggressively. Many games are lost this way. The story is the same in wrestling when the player has a lead with two minutes remaining and he starts to hold on and not make mistakes. He loses aggression and quickly loses the lead.

“Starting to play with caution is a sign of protecting the lead and will lead to poor shot making.”

HY DOES THIS HAPPEN? It is easy to see why and how this occurs. When you start to protect the lead you immediately lose aggression and positive focus. In golf, good play comes from attacking pins. In fencing, it is the same. Good play comes when you attack the opponent. But when you are about to close out a match while in the lead, players turn off the attack switch and turn on the protect switch. When you try to protect your lead you no longer focus on winning, but rather on not losing. This is certain death. When you unconsciously try to avoid mistakes you will start to make them more and more. It is almost like you are telling yourself to fail. When a batter is trying not to strike out, he may do so, but it is far better to just try to hit. Trying not to fail produces weak, tentative and cautious play and this will not lead to positive results.

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or Attack?

By Dr. Tom Ferraro

“Learn to keep on the attack by being aware of when you start to protect, and then switch back on the attack mode.”

HAT TO DO ABOUT THIS?

We see that protecting the lead is bad news and attacking is good news. So how do you adopt this strategy? Here is the answer so listen carefully and post this on your bedroom wall to read before every match. 1) Become acquainted with your mental and emotional state when you play well. Find out what are your emotions and the words you tend to say to yourself when playing well. When have you felt this way and performed this way in the past? Write down a word that encapsulates this.

“When an athlete tries not to make a mistake is when he or she will make one. If the batter is trying not to strike out, he will.”

he most important psychological state for a player is this confident attack mode. So, if you want to play to your full potential and with far greater consistency, post this article on your wall and memorize its content. Then follow through with the tips every match you play. If you make a mistake during play, or if you sense you are closing in on the win and are becoming protective, go back to your confident attack mode every time.

2) Become aware of the moment you start to protect the lead. This moment will usually be accompanied by tense feelings, worry and negative thoughts. It can also be triggered with your first mistake of the game. 3) Make a commitment to yourself before every game that the moment you sense you are starting to protect the lead you flip on the attack switch and go back to your basic attack mode. This is when you conjure up the feeling of confidence that you are familiar with from the past. Recall that feeling from the past and go back to it. It is like creating a bubble that surrounds you, where you play with aggression, positive thoughts and confidence.

PRINT OUT AN Abraham Lincoln High School

RAILSPITTERS Brooklyn Tech High School engineERS MASSAPEQUA HIGH SCHOOL LINCOLN FOOTBALL

CHIEFS

Becoming a THE ENGINEERS MASSAPEQUA HIGH SCHOOL

Powerhouse SEEK CITY

CHAMPIONSHIP E Story by Kevin Freiheit Photos by Kevin Sperandeo very football team starts the season with an ultimate goal.

been living up to their expectations, and have no intention of letting up. The

Story by Ryan McNamee // Photos by Anthony Hughes Most teams aim to go as far as Railsplitters are off to a perfect 6-0 they can and win the Championship. You can ask coaches before the season starts, and even during the year, and their goal will probably be to win every game.

They will give you the usual coach quotes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have to take it one game at a time,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to win every single game,â&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our focus is winning one week at a time.â&#x20AC;? For most teams, they fail to achieve their goal. All it takes is one loss, one bad game, or even one simple mistake, to end a season. But the boys at Lincoln High have

start, and they have been merciless on WKH ÂżHOG DQG RQ WKH VFRUHERDUG

MASSAPEQUA Chiefs Ranked First at Pre-season Conference 1 Story by Jaclynkelli Kronemberg Photos by Kevin Freiheit

SACHEM NORTH MASSAPEQUA FOOTBALL PREVIEW

In its six games this season, Lincoln has allowed a mere 39 points and more than 10 in a game just once. Lincoln has many players that can step up and bring down the opponent. Junior Alejandro Oregon, who has 31 tackles, and leads the Railsplittersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; defense. Senior Leroy Hancle has recorded 30 tackles, as well.

he Massapequa varsity football team enters the season with a number one preseason ranking during Conference 1 in Nassau County. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our expectations are the same every year,â&#x20AC;? said Massapequa varsity football coach Kevin Shippos, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want to win the Nassau County Championship and the Long Island Championship.â&#x20AC;?

On the pass rush, senior Thomas +ROOH\ OHDGV WKH WHDP ZLWK ÂżYH VDFNV When the Railsplitters donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to the quarterback, they have found ways to

Shippos is entering his third year as the head coach of the Massapequa varsity football team, The Chiefs. Last year, Massapequa lost to Farmingdale in the Nassau County semifinals, but they are looking to come back this year and go even farther. Nassau Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conference one is always tough, and there are a number of teams that can claim the title. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a lot of good teams in our conference,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;There isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t one stand out team and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what makes our Conference exciting to watch and coach in.â&#x20AC;?

BROOKLYN TECH HIGH SCHOOL

he Brooklyn Tech High School football team is FRPLQJ RII RI D FLW\ TXDUWHUÂżQDOV ÂżQLVK DQG WKH Engineers are looking to improve upon that win with a city championship. As always, they have to go through a JDXQWOHW RI D VFKHGXOH DV WKH\ QHHG WR IDFH RII DJDLQVW ELJ ULYDOV LQ )RUW +DPLOWRQ 7KRPDV -HIIHUVRQ &DPSXV DQG %R\V DQG *LUOV +LJK 6FKRRO 7KH (QJLQHHUV DUH JRLQJ WR KDYH WR EH VKDUS WKURXJKRXW WKH VHDVRQ WR FRPSHWH DQG DUH JRLQJ WR EH UHO\LQJ RQ D VOHZ RI QHZ VWDUWHUV RQ ERWK VLGHV RI WKH EDOO 7KLV KDVQÂśW GHWRXUHG &RDFK 0F.HQQDÂśV FRQÂżGHQFH LQ KLV WHDP DV KH VWDWHV Âł:H PDGH TXDUWHUÂżQDOV ODVW \HDU DQG (I) hope the experience will help us in close games. We expect to be competitive.â&#x20AC;?

RQ WKH URVWHU :LWK VL[ RI WKH JUDGXDWHV IURP ODVW \HDU PRYLQJ RQ WR SOD\ FROOHJH IRRWEDOO DQG WKUHH PRYLQJ RQWR GLYLVLRQ one programs, the Engineers lose a lot of athleticism as well. 6RPH RI WKHVH QRWDEOH GHSDUWXUHV DUH '% -DPHV *DOH ZKR LV QRZ SOD\LQJ IRU 3ULQFHWRQ 7( '( 7KRPDV 3ORQVNL ZKR LV QRZ SOD\LQJ IRU WKH :LOGFDWV DW 9LOODQRYD DQG :5 .\YDXQH %UDPPHU ZKR LV QRZ XS LQ WKH %URQ[ SOD\LQJ DW )RUGKDP

Farmingdale, Oceanside, Freeport, East Meadow and Baldwin are all looking to make it hard for Massapequa to claim the title. Massapequa has a few three year starters returning this season that will look to make an impact and get them back to the semifinals.

$V D WHDP /LQFROQ KDV IRUFHG ÂżYH interceptions and seven fumbles. While their defense has been rock solid, their offense PD\ EH HYHQ EHWWHU )RUFLQJ WXUQRYHUV KDV allowed more opportunities to get points on the board, and they have done just that, thanks to the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stellar offense. 7KH 5DLOVSOLWWHUV KDYH VFRUHG SRLQWV RQ WKH VHDVRQ WR WKHLU RSSRQHQWVÂś Lincolnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lowest point total in one game this season was 26, which they did twice. Other than that, they have put up at least 36 points a game. Senior quarterback Javon Moore has FRPSOHWHG RI SDVV DWWHPSWV WKLV season, piling up over 1,200 yards and 13 touchdowns. Moore has thrown as least two touchdowns in every game this season, with the exception of the one, against Tottenville. Senior runningback Antoine Holloman Jr. has played a big part in the offense as well. Holloman Jr. has rushed for 654 yards RQ DWWHPSWV DQG DQ DYHUDJH RI RYHU VHYHQ yards per carry. He has also found the end ]RQH WLPHV LQFOXGLQJ RQFH RQ D \DUG run.

MASSAPEQUA HIGH SCHOOL

The Engineers are going to be relying on key players WKLV VHDVRQ VXFK DV MXQLRU TXDUWHUEDFN (OLMDK 5XHGD VHQLRU :5 '( 'HRQ 0DVK DQG VHQLRU /% 2/ &KDZLW %XQGLWZRQJ 7KHLU SOD\ ZLOO EH FUXFLDO WRZDUGV WKH VXFFHVV RI %URRNO\Q Tech this season. The Engineers will have inexperience at some positions with the entrance of 17 new starters, %URRNO\Q 7HFK UHWXUQV ÂżYH VWDUWHUV DOO WRJHWKHU WKUHH FRPELQHG ZLWK ERWK VLGHV RI WKH EDOO 7KH WHDP ZLOO QHHG RQ GHIHQVH DQG WZR RQ RIIHQVH 7KLV ORVV RI SOD\HUV WR WKH VHQLRU OHDGHUVKLS RI FDSWDLQV &KDZLW %XQGLWZRQJ 3- JUDGXDWLRQ LV XQIRUWXQDWHO\ WKH QDWXUH RI KLJK VFKRRO IRRWEDOO /DQGHUV 2/ '/ DQG 7ULVWDQ %URZQ 5% 66 $FFRUGLQJ WR EXW QRQHWKHOHVV OHDYHV WKH (QJLQHHUV ZLWK D ORW RI KROHV WR ÂżOO &RDFK 0F.HQQD WKHVH SOD\HUV ZHUH FKRVHQ DV FDSWDLQV ÂłGXH

Senior Khendell Puryear has two interceptions and senior Jahsi Meade has an interception and two fumble recoveries.

Holloman Jr. does more than just run with the ball, he is part of a deeply talented receiving core, and has chipped in 10 catches for 165 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Senior receiver Malik Andrews has been the biggest target for Moore, though. Andrews has gained over 500 yards on 25 catches, and has scored ÂżYH WRXFKGRZQV LQFOXGLQJ D \DUG UHFHSWLRQ These are just a few of the biggest players on the Railsplittersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roster that have been putting up big numbers, but Lincoln has many others that have stepped up as well. This is an experienced team that is loaded with talent throughout the lineup, and they clearly have what it takes to win. In recent years, the Railsplitters have posted UHFRUGV RI DQG /LQFROQ KDV UHFRUGHG ZLQV RYHU WKH SDVW IRXU VHDVRQV FRPELQHG )URP WKURXJK WKH\ ZRQ MXVW WLPHV VR WKH\ are doing something right. Their program has made adjustments, and is now heading in the right direction and in full swing. The Railsplitters are a team to keep an eye on, as they possess depth, experience, determination and intimidation. Lincoln is aiming to go far this year, and they have what they need to accomplish that.

FLAMING

Football in At 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;0â&#x20AC;? and 185 lbs., senior wide receiver/linebacker Nick Balzone is a three year starter for Massapequa. Balzone is a captain for the Chiefs, and was awarded all county last year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nick is humble and a hard worker,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is an irreplaceable great player for us.â&#x20AC;?

Brianrunning Coleman Another three year returning Story starter,bysenior by Kevin back/safety Jack Korber is 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;6â&#x20AC;? 165Photos lbs. In addition, he Sperandeo also returns punts and kickoffs. Despite getting hurt last season, Sachem North Korber still made second team, All-Longhe Island. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jack is anFlaming Arrows football team enters theand 2013 campaign with high exciting player,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is a highbred player a tough loss in the can play either wide receiver orexpectations. running back.The He team makessuffered a 6XIIRON &RXQW\ &ODVV , VHPLÂżQDOV LQ IDOOLQJ lot of big plays for us.â&#x20AC;?

eventually to Long Island champion Floyd. The Flaming Arrows actually held a 7-0 lead in WKDW JDPH EHIRUH )OR\G UDWWOHG RII VWUDLJKW SRLQWV on its way to another Long Island title. With many players from last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team still in the ORFNHU URRP IRU 6DFKHP KHDG FRDFK 'DYLG )DOFR KDV high goals and expectations for 2013. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our expectations are always to win a county and /RQJ ,VODQG &KDPSLRQVKLS Â´ VDLG )DOFR ZKR LV HQWHULQJ KLV WK \HDU DV WKH )ODPLQJ $UURZV KHDG FRDFK â&#x20AC;&#x153;Leadership is always important and we have created many leaders on our team over the past year and look forward to ZDWFKLQJ WKHP OHDG RXU WHDP Â´

to leadership by example.â&#x20AC;?

able to make the correct calls to help guide the younger players The offense consists of many talented players. Junior on the defense. Meanwhile, PJ Landers will give Bunditwong quarterback, Elijah Rueda, at 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;1â&#x20AC;? 200 lbs, has the size and the ability to rush free up the middle while taking double teams DWKOHWLFLVP WR VOLQJ WKH EDOO HIIHFWLYHO\ DURXQG WKH ÂżHOG 7KH DQG SHUVRQDOO\ FDXVLQJ KDYRF LQ WKH EDFNÂżHOG question will be how well he will be able to go through his reads The bottom line is that the Brooklyn Tech Engineers will be as a junior at the helm of the offense. If his pre-snap reads are replacing a lot of players, and will need some of their successful correct, the sky is the limit for this kid on the high school level. younger players to step up. They can rely on the leadership Tristan Brown will be carrying a good portion of the load at of their seniors, and the guidance of Coach McKenna to get running back. At 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;10 180 lbs. of defensive back speed, Brown WKURXJK WKH VHDVRQ +RZHYHU WKHUH LV QR VKRUWDJH RI FRQÂżGHQFH has the ability to run both inside and outside of the tackles. or belief in the Engineer locker room. McKenna emphasizes has all the weapons to end up as Massapequa Senior receiver/defensive back Craig is as their team philosophy. During the At wide receiver, Deon Mash will give the wide Engineers size and skill, will, andBerge teamwork champions. They have veteran players that know andand weighs in over at 175 Berge is the kicker,had his team climb a mountain together physicality to run the ball to the6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;1â&#x20AC;?, outside to pass thelbs. off-season, McKenna how to win games. The Chiefs will start their punter blanket and a for three yearwho starter.to challenge â&#x20AC;&#x153;Craig ishis a teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great overall determination middle. He will also work as a security Rueda, and bring them season ongoal September 12 against Freeport. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This athlete,â&#x20AC;? is an will be able to throw jump balls to Mash. Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He has reliable togetherhands as a and team. He suggests, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe that no or outstanding receiver. On the defensive side, he hasif ayou have great will.â&#x20AC;? yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team task is impossible Brooklyn Techisisexperienced,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The The defense, like the offense will of cover corner.â&#x20AC;? nose forbe thereplacing ball and isa alotgood FRQÂżGHQW seniors cameDQG up with me from junior varsity as roster spots, but will have size and speed on the edge with \RXQJ DW VRPH SRVLWLRQV EXW LV DOVR DWKOHWLF well-coached. from their level At 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;10â&#x20AC;? andhave 175 steady lbs., three year starterDonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Nickexpect them to step back sophomores. If we can stay healthy and continue Deon Mash at the defensive end. They will also of playback, fromdefensive last year. They will be in the running for a PSAL Capuana seniorBunditwong that plays running leadership, and central control on defenseis from to work hard I expect big things from this team.â&#x20AC;? City Championship. back, andBunditwong returns punts Last year, at linebacker. Because of his experience, will and be kickoffs. Capuana had two interceptions that he returned for touchdowns. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nick has a low center of gravity making LW GLIÂżFXOW IRU GHIHQGHUV WR WDFNOH KLP Â´ 6KLSSRV VDLG Âł+H LV JUHDW LQ WKH RSHQ ÂżHOG DQG KDV WKH DELOLW\ WR change direction in a split second.â&#x20AC;? Captain Jake Fitzsimmons is a 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;11â&#x20AC;? and 220 lbs. three year returning starter. Fitzsimmons plays offensive tackle and linebacker. He was asked to ÂżOO LQ DV D PLGGOH OLQHEDFNHU WRZDUGV WKH HQG RI WKH season last year, and will be continuing to play that position this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jake is a leader by example,â&#x20AC;? said Shippos, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is smart and always knows where he has to be.â&#x20AC;? $QG ÂżQDOO\ WKHUH LV VHQLRU FDSWDLQ 5LFN /D5RFFR at 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;3â&#x20AC;? and 235 lbs. He is an offensive tackle and GHIHQVLYH HQG 7KLV LV /D5RFFRÂśV VHFRQG \HDU DV D VWDUWHU Âł5LFN KDV EHFRPH RQH RI WKH EHVW GHIHQVLYH players on the team and is a great offensive lineman,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He put on 25 lbs. of muscle in the offseason, and we are expecting big things from him this year.â&#x20AC;?

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NY ARTICLE! MASSAPEQUA HIGH SCHOOL

MAS SAPEQUA HIGH SCHOOL FARMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL CHIEFS MASSAPEQUA Chiefs Ranked First at CONNETQUOT HIGH dalers SCHOOL Pre-season Conference 1 THUNDERBIRDS THE FARMINGDALE DALERS Story by Jaclynkelli Kronemberg Photos by Kevin Freiheit

A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

CONNETQUOT

H HIGH SCHOOL ARROWS

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Floyd is at the top of the mountain and we are trying to get there,â&#x20AC;? said Falco, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will not give up in our pursuit of a championship. That pursuit is taking all of our thoughts and energy.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;As he goes, we go,â&#x20AC;? said Falco, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He looks good right now and we will have to keep an eye on his progress.â&#x20AC;? Sachem North is one of the favorites to

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ThunderbirdS aspire for the

long island championship

Story By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg / Photos By Morgan Harrison

receptions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tyler is athletic, has nice hands and runs great routes,â&#x20AC;? Hansen said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking forward to him being a big impact player this season.â&#x20AC;? Senior running back/ linebacker Marcus Gutierrez (5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;9â&#x20AC;? 180 lbs.) is another key player to watch for this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Marcus is a tough hard runner,â&#x20AC;? Hansen said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He will carry a lot of the load this year.â&#x20AC;? The offensive line features three seniors DJ Gallino (6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;2â&#x20AC;? 270 lbs.), Rob Dawson (6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;1â&#x20AC;? 270 lbs.) and Jimmy Oliver (5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;11â&#x20AC;? 250 lbs.). â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a solid offensive line,â&#x20AC;? Hansen said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;DJ, Rob and Jimmy are the anchors of the offensive line.â&#x20AC;? The defensive line features junior Sean Moore (6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;0â&#x20AC;? 250 lbs.), Gallino and Oliver. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our defensive line is physical and work hard.â&#x20AC;? Hansen said.

MASSAPEQUA HIGH SCHOOL

THUNDERBIRDS

Crossan rushed 10 times for 162 yards with three touchdowns in the season opening 35-6 victory over Sachem East, displaying the kind of talent that will be the catalyst for Sachem North in 2013.

Story and Photos by Kevin Sperandeo

â&#x20AC;&#x153; capture the Suffolk County Class I crown this season, with the other favorite being longtime foe Floyd. If Sachem North hopes to capture a county title, Falco knows that his team will most likely have to go through Floyd.

Every year our goal is to win the Long Island Championship.

Sachem North will be very reliant on its strong rushing attack led by Quarterback Trent Crossan. Crossan, who missed much of 2012 with a leg injury, is part RI ZKDW LV D WKUHH KHDGHG EDFNÂżHOG DORQJ with Malik Pierre and Kevin Bragglia.

MASSAPEQUA FOOTBALL PREVIEW

he Farmingdale High School Football team continues their tradition of excellence, UHPDLQLQJ XQGHIHDWHG LQ WKH ÂżUVW KDOI RI WKH 2013 season. The Dalers tradition for excellence UHĂ&#x20AC;HFWV WKHLU SDVW VXFFHVV )DUPLQJGDOH IRRWEDOO ZULWHV XS %LJ )RXU &KDPSLRQ \HDUV IRU WKH SDVW VHDVRQV DQG FRQIHUHQFH FKDPSLRQVKLSV VLQFH 7KH WHDP ZRQ D /RQJ ,VODQG &KDPSLRQVKLS

At 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;0â&#x20AC;? and 185 lbs., senior wide receiver/linebacker Nick Balzone is a three year starter for Massapequa. Balzone is a captain for the Chiefs, and was awarded all county last year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nick is humble and a hard worker,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is an irreplaceable great player for us.â&#x20AC;? Another three year returning starter, senior running back/safety Jack Korber is 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;6â&#x20AC;? 165 lbs. In addition, he also returns punts and kickoffs. Despite getting hurt last season, Korber still made second team, All-Long Island. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jack is an exciting player,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is a highbred player and can play either wide receiver or running back. He makes a lot of big plays for us.â&#x20AC;?

WKH Âż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

/DVW VHDVRQ )DUPLQJGDOH ZHQW DQG ZRQ WKH 1DVVDX &RXQW\ &RQIHUHQFH , &KDPSLRQVKLS DJDLQVW %DOGZLQ 7KH 'DOHUV ORVW WR :LOOLDP )OR\G IRU WKH /RQJ ,VODQG &KDPSLRQVKLS

+HDG &RDFK %XGG\ .UXPHQDFNHU KDV EHHQ OHDGLQJ WKH 'DOHUV WR YLFWRU\ VLQFH +H KDV EHHQ FRDFKLQJ IRU RYHU \HDUV KROGV RYHU ZLQV DQG LV RQH RI WKH PRVW UHFRJQL]HG KLJK VFKRRO IRRWEDOO FRDFKHV â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a lot of RQ kids /RQJ ,VODQG .UXPHQDFNHU LV NQRZQ that have the potential to D FRDFK ZKR WHDFKHV IXQGDPHQWDO IRU EHLQJ be real impact players this IRRWEDOO DQG SXVKHV KLV SOD\HUV WR DFKLHYH WKH season for us,â&#x20AC;? said Hansen, PRVW WKDW WKH\ FDQ :LWK D JRRG VWDUW IRU WKH â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a great team and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VHDVRQV WKH 'DOHUV DUH ZRUNLQJ WRZDUGV a pleasure to coach them.â&#x20AC;? DQRWKHU VXFFHVVIXO VHDVRQ $ VWURQJ UXQQLQJ DQG SDVVLQJ RIIHQVH KDV DFFRXQWHG IRU WRXFKGRZQV LQ WKUHH JDPHV 6HQLRU UXQQLQJ EDFN &XUWLV -HQNLQV DYHUDJHV \DUGV SHU FDUU\ VR IDU WKLV VHDVRQ +H UXVKHG IRU \DUGV DQG WRXFKGRZQV LQ

6HQLRU OLQHEDFNHU -RH /HH OHDGV WKH 'DOHUVÂś GHIHQVH LQ WDFNOHV ZLWK VROR WDFNOHV DQG DVVLVWHG 2Q WKH GHIHQVLYH OLQH 7KRPDV $PPLUDWL 6HQLRU GHIHQVLYH HQG KDV PDGH VROR WDFNOHV DQG DVVLVWHG ;DYLHU 6DQDEULD D VHQLRU FRUQHUEDFN PDGH VROR WDFNOHV DQG DVVLVWHG -XQLRU VDIHW\ 1LFN %XWOHU KDV UHFRUGHG LQWHUFHSWLRQV DQG WDFNOHV 7KH 'DOHUVÂś GHIHQVH KDV RQO\ OHW XS SRLQWV WR WKHLU RSSRQHQWV WKXV IDU LQ WKH VHDVRQ Senior wide receiver/defensive back Craig Berge is $IWHU D FRQIHUHQFH FKDPSLRQVKLS \HDU WKH SUHVVXUH 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;1â&#x20AC;?, and weighs in at 175 lbs. Berge is the kicker, LV RQ IRU WKH 'DOHUV )DUPLQJGDOH ZLOO EH SXW WR WKH punter and a three year starter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Craig is a great WHVW GXULQJ WKHLU QH[W JDPH SOD\LQJ FRQIHUHQFH ULYDOU\ athlete,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He has reliable hands and is an 0DVVDSHTXD RQ 2FWREHU UG %RWK WHDPV DUH FXUUHQWO\ outstanding receiver. On the defensive side, he has a XQGHIHDWHG DW nose for the ball and is a good cover corner.â&#x20AC;?

At 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;10â&#x20AC;? and 175 lbs., three year starter Nick Capuana is senior that plays running back, defensive back, and returns punts and kickoffs. Last year, Capuana had two interceptions that he returned for touchdowns. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nick has a low center of gravity making LW GLIÂżFXOW IRU GHIHQGHUV WR WDFNOH KLP Â´ 6KLSSRV VDLG Âł+H LV JUHDW LQ WKH RSHQ ÂżHOG DQG KDV WKH DELOLW\ WR change direction in a split second.â&#x20AC;?

Massapequa has all the weapons to end up as champions. They have veteran players that know how to win games. The Chiefs will start their season on September 12 against Freeport. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team is experienced,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The seniors came up with me from junior varsity as sophomores. If we can stay healthy and continue to work hard I expect big things from this team.â&#x20AC;?

Captain Jake Fitzsimmons is a 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;11â&#x20AC;? and 220 lbs. three year returning starter. Fitzsimmons plays offensive tackle and linebacker. He was asked to ÂżOO LQ DV D PLGGOH OLQHEDFNHU WRZDUGV WKH HQG RI WKH season last year, and will be continuing to play that position this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jake is a leader by example,â&#x20AC;? said Shippos, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is smart and always knows where he has to be.â&#x20AC;? $QG ÂżQDOO\ WKHUH LV VHQLRU FDSWDLQ 5LFN /D5RFFR at 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;3â&#x20AC;? and 235 lbs. He is an offensive tackle and GHIHQVLYH HQG 7KLV LV /D5RFFRÂśV VHFRQG \HDU DV D VWDUWHU Âł5LFN KDV EHFRPH RQH RI WKH EHVW GHIHQVLYH players on the team and is a great offensive lineman,â&#x20AC;? Shippos said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;He put on 25 lbs. of muscle in the offseason, and we are expecting big things from him this year.â&#x20AC;?

Connetquot takes their ÂżUVW VWHS WRZDUG WKH /RQJ Island Championship on September 11, 2013, when they open the season against Patchogue Medford.

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TEAM COACH

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NG HARBOR LACROSSE

COMMACK H

COUG

DILIGENT PREPARATION AT COMMACK Story & Photo By Kevin Sperandeo

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HIGH SCHOOL

GARS J

immy Montana has been coaching the boys lacrosse team at Commack High School since 2013. After a disappointing (4-11) season last year, the Cougars dug in and began preparation for a new season. “Our goal is to win. Ultimate goal is to learn what it takes to win consistently as a team and have our entire roster help create the culture that will allow that”, said Coach Montana. As a teen, Montana played lacrosse at Hicksville High School and then went on to play at Quinnipiac University. In the fall of 2006, Montana began coaching at Stony Brook University where he stayed for six seasons until the summer of 2012. Then, after coaching one summer with the Long Island Lizards, Coach Montana came to Commack. Having experience both playing and coaching here, Montana has been acclimated to the high level competition here on Long Island. Montana believes in teaching and helping players to create positive physical, mental and emotional habits to prepare them to be ready for anything. Montana stated that it is most important to him that his players, “create positive habits that will help them in whatever it is they choose to peruse in life.” Montana always expects correct and diligent preparation from his players.

With a new season about to be under way, the Cougars faced challenges. One of the biggest challenges early this year was the weather, as winter slowly turned to spring. Any new team, with a different mix of players and personalities will always face the challenge of developing a level of personal chemistry within the team. But, with everyone working towards a collective goal and everyone keeping focused, things started to come together for the cougars. Montana admits there were some questionable factors this season, having an overall young team using a new philosophy that’s only been installed into the program for one year. But, Montana was happy to have a good amount of returning starters from last season. Montana mentioned players, Jon Birke, John Elarde, Jordan Harnage, Lou Palumbo, CJ Trenkle, Kevin Snyder and Matt Mclain, for showing great leadership and ability. “The team had a great attitude and work ethic throughout the off season”, said Montana. The Cougars have been relentless with their pursuit of positive habits. Montana believes in a, “team first attitude and a culture of preparation.” “Physical fitness is very important for my style of coaching”, Montana states. Practice plans are

always changing for the Cougars. Montana prefers to adapt practice to what the team needs at the time. He explained, “We try to find our needs for improvement before our opponents can take advantage.” After spending most of the preseason indoors, due to the weather, the Cougars were excited to play their first games. The first two were non-league games against Holy Trinity and John Glenn High School. Montana recalls a tremendous start this season, “Kevin Snyder proved to be a huge asset at the faceoff X. John Birke definitely took a huge step forward. We have some weapons on offense Lou Palumbo, Tom Mangeri and Augie Contressa. Team defense was strong.” The first league game against North Babylon resulted in a 16-5 win. Montana recollections the team moral and energy being unbelievable, “The boys competed at an incredible level, Mike Paccione, Mike Ambrosino and the team defense and goalie Sean McNierney stepped up.” Looking forward to the rest of the season, Montana stated, “It’s a constant pursuit of positive habits. As long as I can keep the focus on the process and eliminate distraction as much as possible the boys bring their capacity to work.”

KINGS PARK H

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Working Hard Everyday

Kings Park

kings

We want to do the best we can do in our division. Head Coach Sally Ayres

HIGH SCHOOL he Kings Park girls’ varsity lacrosse team is looking forward to having a great season and making a run for the playoffs after narrowly missing the playoffs last season. They have already played three games and have an overall record of one win and two losses and a division record of one win and one loss.

lot of energy to the team and works hard. “Jenna comes up with key saves when we need her to,” said Ayres. “We are expecting big things from her this season.”

Senior defender Joelle Goldstein is in her fourth season on the team. “Joelle is a great leader and a great defender,” said Ayres. “She has a lot of height from volleyball and is fast “Our goal is to make it on the field.” to the playoffs,” said Kings Senior midfielder Park varsity girls lacrosse Shannon Mazza is in her head coach Sally Ayres. fourth year on varsity. “We want to do the best “Shannon has a very hard we can do in our division.” shot,” said Ayres. “She has Kings Park is in Division a good sense of the game Two of Suffolk County. and is a natural leader.” Division Two is a tough Senior Emily Santoli league with Mount Sinai, is a versatile player that Eastport South Manor, Sayville and Miller Place plays a variety of positions all fighting for the top spot. including attack, midfield Kings Park does not have and defense. Santoli is in an easy road ahead of them her fourth year on varsity but they can compete in and is one of the top scorers their division. “We have on the team. “Emily is the a talented, challenging full package,” said Ayres. division,” said Ayres. “We “She has a great move should be able to have a to the goal. Emily is a winning record and have a great leader and a good solid chance of making the defender.” playoffs.”

Ayres is entering her 14 season as the head coach. Ayres also went to school at Kings Park. Last season Kings Park graduated six seniors and this season they have a veteran team with six senior captains running the show. Senior goalie Jenna McGuire is in her second year on the team. McGuire brings a

Senior attack Casey Rote is in her fourth year on varsity. “Casey has a very good shot,” said Ayres. “She has a great finishing move and is very strong.” Rounding out the seniors is attack Tori Silvers. Silvers is versatile and can transition to midfielder and defense when they need her to.

“Tori is very good at feeding her teammates the ball,” said Ayres. Three sophomores that are looking to make an impact this season are Rachael Flagle, Kristin Frizol and Kayla Buell. All three were on the team last season. “They all have a year of experience and we are expecting great things on offense and defense from them,” said Ayres.

They all have a year of experience and we are e x p e c t i n g great things on offense and defense from them,

smen T

Head Coach Sally Ayres

Freshman Jill Winwood is an up and coming star, also looking to help Kings Park succeed. The rest of the team is made up of four freshman, one sophomore and three juniors. “We have a lot of unique personalities melding together and I’m looking forward to watching the team grow and become a cohesive unit,” said Ayres. Next up on the schedule is John Glenn on April 1, 2014. Kings Park is working toward making the playoffs and having a winning season. They have a tough road ahead of them but are determined to not get left out of the playoffs. The six seniors are ready to lead their team to a winning season. “The girls work hard every day and want to be successful,” said Ayres. “It is great coaching them. They have a great chemistry and work well together. I’m looking forward to a great season.”

SACHEM EAST

flaming

PITCHER PERFECT IN A TOUGH LEAGUE Story By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg Photos By Morgan Harrison

he young Sachem East softball team finished last season in third place in League 1 and in the top four of Suffolk County. This season they are still a young team with only losing two players from last season and only having a few seniors this season. This season the Sachem East softball team is looking to do better than last season.

“We want to do better than last season,” said Sachem East head softball coach Ralph Forman. “We have no pressure on us because we are a young team so no one expects us to do well. We have the ability to surprise some people.” Forman has been with the Sachem East softball program for eighteen years and has been the head coach for the last five years. The Sachem East softball team has made it to the semifinals

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SACHEM EAST SOFTBALL

of Suffolk County two times in program history They are in League 1 o Suffolk County, one of the toughest leagues on Long Island. The league ha 11 teams this year which means Sachem East wil play 20 league games thi season. “Getting through League 1 was a huge accomplishment last yea with a young team,” said Forman. “Our league i tough. It is very difficul to go undefeated and hard to win because there is a lot of parity. You have to be lucky and your pitching has to be right on.”

Sachem East will be thrown right into the fire with their first game on March 24, 2014 agains Commack, the defending League 1 champions. “We start with Commack,” said Forman, “Commack i outstanding. We are faced with a lot of competition this season in our league Longwood is also very good. Our pitching has to be right on and we have to stay healthy.”

Sachem East is made up of a few seniors and underclassmen. They are a young talented team and leading them is Senio captain pitcher Marissa Smith. Smith is going to Ithaca to play softball nex

HIGH SCHOOL

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SACHEM EAST SOFTBALL season. “Marissa did a great job in the playoffs for us last year,” said Forman. “She is very deceptive and has good breaking pitches. She is an outstanding pitcher.”

player junior, Marisa Genussa. Sophomore, Amanda Fitzgerald could move to third base or shortstop. Sophomore, Allie Laird played right field last year but could Another Senior is move to short stop and captain centerfielder senior Kaitlyn Tibbets is Samantha Maroney. trying to be the third base Maroney is the leadoff player. batter. Maroney was allSachem has yet to play county last year and plans on their field because it to play softball at C.W. isn’t playable yet due to the Post next year. “Samantha winter weather and cold. is an excellent outfielder,” They have only been able said Forman. “She runs to play on the grass so far. down fly ball and can bunt They are looking forward and slap. We are looking to the weather getting for her to be even better better and being able to get this year. She is the catalyst on their softball field. to get us going.” The Sachem East Junior first baseman, Marissa Wilson, is another impact player. Wilson started last year as a sophomore and was named all-league.

team has a long season ahead of them but they are determined to show everyone their skill and wish to go further than they did last season.

“Marissa is an outstanding player that has a lot of power,” said Forman. “She is the hardest hitter I have seen and she plays great defense. We expect her to hit more long e balls this year.” d The infield isn’t set yet, e d there are a few players or trying out for some a positions but, “We have a o solid infield this season,” xt said Forman. At second base is three year varsity

“We played exceptionally well in the County tournament last season and I think we will do well again this season,” said Forman. “I love this team they are a great group. This team is fun to coach. We just want to finish better than we did last year.”

SYOSSET HIG

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A YOUNG AND DETERMINED

SYOSSET Story By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg Photos by Adil Borluca

fter graduating only two seniors last year, the Syosset Softball team is moving to get back to the playoffs and hopefully have a successful season after falling short. Last year, Syosset lost in the quarterfinals in the Nassau County Conference1 B playoffs.

“I think we are going to be strong this season,” said Syosset softball head coach Richard Powell, “We are still a young team with only two seniors this year but we have a lot more experience because we only graduated two seniors last season. Our goal is to make it to the semifinals and take it from there.” Powell is entering his 18th year as the head coach. While under the helm Powell has taken Syosset to the semifinals of the playoffs four times. Entering this season Syosset is the top seed in Conference 1B and ranked number seven in Nassau County. “This team has good knowledge of every aspect of the game,” said

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Powell. “The pla positions and they l

This is Syosse Conference 1 B. D number one in the will be faced with t Long Beach and H the way for Syosset

Senior capt Zurek, was moved she was in seven played a significant ever since. Zurek w Baruch College n she had an era of and allowed 20 run all-conference last come a long way,” very competitive an confidence.”

Senior cap Valerie Moran wa last year. Moran pl at Rodger William season Moran scor 11 RBIs and a .340 “We are expecting Valerie this season, is an excellent hitt and a lot of speed.”

Backing th handful of talent Sophomore first or Molloy, is a three that was named allMolloy had a .340 and led the team in

“Sam is very t silent leader,” said

Freshman Hom, is a second Hom is our leado Jessica should be

SYOSSES SOFTBALL

GH SCHOOL

aves

ayers know all the love the game.”

et’s second year in Despite being ranked conference, Syosset tough competition in Hicksville. Leading t are two seniors.

tain pitcher, Danielle d up to varsity when nth grade and has t role in the program will play softball for next year. Last year .308, 38 strikeouts ns. Zurek was named year. “Danielle has said Powell. “She is nd her strength is her

ptain center fielder, as named all-league lans to play softball ms University. Last red seven runs, had 0 hitting percentage. g big things out of ,” said Powell. “She ter, has a strong arm ”

he seniors are a ted underclassmen. third baseman, Sam year varsity player -conference last year. 0 hitting percentage n RBIs last season.

talented and is our Powell.

year this year,” said Powell. “She has a strong arm, a lot of speed and is a power hitter.” Sophomore left fielder, Kylie Marlow, is in her second year on varsity. Marlow is batting in the second spot. “Kylie is a consistent hitter,” said Powell. “She is our best bunter and has a good short game. She has excellent range in the outfield and we are looking for big things from her this season.” Sophomore catcher Racheal Sisaind led the team in walks last season. “Racheal has a very quick release and is a good defensive catcher,” said Powell. Second baseman Julianna Ventracelli and first or third baseman Danielle Mascia are moving up from junior varsity looking to make an impact on the team right away. “Both girls will contribute to our success,” said Powell. Syosset is looking to another exciting year and want to come out on top. They are working hard to get further than they did last season and they have the talent to be successful in Nassau County Conference 1B. “It has been a pleasure getting to coach here,” said Powell. “Every year is different but the quality of good players is always consistent. The girls this season are great and extremely enthusiastic. They want to work hard and want to win. Their determination makes it easy to go out every day and work with them.”

shortstop, Jessica year varsity player. off batter. “I believe the freshman of the

SYOSSES SOFTBALL

STORY BY BRIAN COLEMAN

PHOTOS BY ADIL BORLUCA

READY TO REPEAT AS SUFFOLK LEAGUE V CHAMPIONS

DEER PARK That team was made up of a

In 2011 the Falcons went 1410 overall and 10-8 in Suffolk League 5 play, good enough for a spot in the Suffolk County playoff tournament. Unfortunately, that playoff appearance concluded with a nailbiting 5-4 defeat to Eastport-South Manor.

If Deer Park is going to build on last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success it will have to try and avoid the trend that has taken place in recent years, which has been to follow up a winning season with a losing one.

ollowing a season in which the Deer Park baseball team took major steps forward and reached the Suffolk County playoffs, the Falcons look to parlay that improvement and advance farther than the first round of the postseason under head coach Ryan Argenziano.

FALCONS

The opening two games of the series were never close as the

Building off the two victories and complying with the trend, Deer Park bounced back from the disappointing 2012 campaign to have a very nice 2013 season. From the start, in the opening three-game series against Huntington, it was evident that the Falcons were headed to a spring filled with winning baseball.

solid core of seniors, resulting in a lot of change over in 2012. With that, Deer Park took a step backwards in 2012, winning just eight of its 20 games to finish with an 8-12 record and short of the playoffs. Despite the tough season, the Falcons ended it on a high note by winning its final two games, both in blowout fashion, against Comsewogue.

After dismantling Huntington in the opening series, Deer Park continued its hot start as it took on Bellport. The Falcons captured the first two games of the series in relatively easy fashion, setting up what would turn out to be a fantastic third game in which the Falcon offense would be stifled.

In the opener at home, sophomore Mike Isola passed the offense in his ever varsity start by going 2-for-4 at the plate with two runs batted in. The star of the game, however, was starting pitcher Matt Porcaro who hurled a five-hit complete game victory, striking out nine hitters while not allowing a walk.

Deer Park offense exploded for 15 runs in each contest, while the pitching staff did its part in only allowing 6 runs in the entire series.

DEER PARK HIGH SCHOOL

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a o t p t s

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With Honce’s no-hitter and shutout still intact, Downs spoiled both of those with an RBI single that scored Theiss and gave Deer Park the walkoff victory. While Downs ended the game and Theiss ended the perfect game, the real hero of the game for the Falcons was starting pitcher Nick Ognibene. He matched Honce pitch for pitch, hurling a complete game

Bellport’s starting pitcher Evan Honce brought his A-game and completely shut down Deer Park for 6 2/3 innings. Honce was untouched, carrying a perfect game into an at-bat against Tyler Theiss with two outs in the bottom half of the seventh inning. Theiss worked out a walk to spoil the perfect game, and got himself into scoring position for John Downs.

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Matt Porcaro stole the show once again, nearly going the distance as he tossed 6 2/3 innings allowing three earned runs and striking out five hitters.

Deer Park would win six of its final nine regular season games following the defeat to Hauppauge, and earned itself the fifth seed in the Suffolk playoffs where it faced off with twelfthseeded Smithtown West.

They would extend that streak two more games by beating Hauppauge twice in early April, but the eight-game winning streak to open the season would come to an end on the road in the final game of the series as Hauppauge defeated the streaking Falcons 5-2.

three-hit shutout as Deer Park won its sixth consecutive game to start the season.

While Deer Park’s season came to an end earlier than it would have liked, the year was not a failure by any means. The

Deer Park’s offense failed them in that game and it fell 4-2 to be eliminated from the winner’s bracket of the Suffolk Class AA playoffs. The Falcons would go on to win one game, a 13-3 rout of Smithtown East, in the losers bracket, but the season would come to an end against top-seeded East Islip in the following round.

The offense was paced by Nick Sorge and Mike Isola, who each had a similar stat line of two hits and three runs batted in each in the 8-5 victory. The victory was the first in the playoffs for Deer Park in a number of years and set up a second round matchup with fourth-seeded Commack.

As we continue to get deeper into spring and the high-school baseball season, Deer Park will enter league play and have the opportunity to prove itself as the top club in Suffolk League V.

The starting pitching is the straw that stirs the drink for this team, and it has been consistent thus far. Led by senior catcher Tyler Theiss and loaded arms such as Ryan Korwan and Ryan Mallon, the pitching and defense will be the key to turning the season around.

However, the Falcons have sputtered in the early going of 2014, dropping its first five games as of April 8. In those losses the offense has been a non-factor, scoring just seven runs in those five contests.

As the Falcons seek to break the year-by-year trend that has plagued it in recent seasons, it brings back Mike Isola, Tyler Theiss, Ryan Korwan and Ryan Mallon. The squad entered the season with high expecations as many pegged them as the favorites to repeat as League V champions. They were ranked #1 in the preseason by MSG Varsity, and the talent is returning making a repeat league championship possible.

Falcons won nine more games than it did the year prior, and would be returning a number of key players for the 2014 season.

Story By Robert DeVita Photos By Bill Kelly

PROVES DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS

GARDEN CITY So far this season the Trojans have picked up several key victories over Syosset, Massapequa, Bronxville and St. Paul. The team has been successful this year but like any team they have hit a few bumps in the road against Smithtown West and Ridgefield, which have accounted for the team’s only losses on the year. “So far so good, as a staff we do not put a schedule together to go

This Trojans team had some high expectations coming into the season as they are coming off backto-back championship seasons. Despite the pressure, the Trojans have just played their game and done what they do best, win lacrosse games.

The Garden City High School boys’ lacrosse team has been a powerhouse for a number of years now. This season has been no different as they have proved that they are a force to be reckoned with once again.

trojans

Guys like Tim McDonagh, Cullen Minion, Thomas Wright, and Matt Borges have been able to lock down their side of the field. These four guys command the defensive side of the field and make it a hassle for the opposition to get anything going on offense what so ever.

to shut down the opposition on a game to game basis.

“We feel good about the defensive end; they really have been bailing us out. The defense has kept us in every game and has given us a chance”, said Coach Finnell That is the case for when discussing the this team, the Trojans play of his defense. play with a defense These four first mentality. “I lockdown defenders really think we are a have been causing defensive team first. havoc for offenses for Our defense has an a couple of years now. outstanding goals They are all savvy against average and veterans, big time we feel like with our players for Garden defensive group we City. McDonagh is can compete against a three-year varsity any team”, said Coach player, a three-year Finnell. They have a starter and has started number of outstanding at the two state defenders who have championships. “Very, made it their jobs very tough kid he’s

The Trojans are currently sitting at first place in their conference and have gotten to where they are due to their tremendous effort on defense. There’s a saying that goes for all sports and that is defense wins championships. If a team can make the effort to shut down the opposing offense on a regular basis thats a big advantage.

undefeated necessarily but rather to challenge the team throughout the season”, said Coach Stephen Finnell when commenting on the team’s success so far.

GARDEN CITY HIGH SCHOOL

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GARDEN CITY what always seem to find the back of the net when they need it most. They are led by senior attacker Cody George, who leads the team with 14 goals this season. “Cody is a 3 year starter and has played midfield and attack. He is the lone key guy coming back on offense that has really played a lot,

These guys make up a well balanced scoring attack, but their scoring attack would not be possible if it wasn’t for their defense. The Trojans defense has translated into offense and has created some great scoring opportunities. You really have to tip your cap to a group of unselfish young men

doing a very nice job, he’s very quick and been a good leader down on that end for us”, said Coach Finnell when discussing the play of one of his top Continuing on with scorers Cody George. the defensive trend, Some other guys the Trojans have an who have been able answer for offenses to contribute for the that break through Trojans offense are their line of defense. Kieran Byrnes, Luke His name is Danny McDaid, JP Basile Dolan, the goaltender and James Sullivan. who has done an Byrnes has scored 12 outstanding job for the goals on the season and team in his two years registered 10 assists; as a starter. Dolan gets McDaid is not far the job done; he’s one behind scoring 8 goals, of the best in the net. A with 11 assists. As for goaltender that can bail Basile he has scored 10 the rest of the defense goals and has notched out is essential to have. 4 assists. Sullivan Transitioning to has done it all for the the offensive side of Trojans this year he the ball, the Trojans has scored 5 goals, but have struggled a bit on is best known for his offense but no matter face-off expertise.

the heart and soul of our team. Three-year starter. Doing a super job, really it starts with those guys on the defensive end”, said Coach Finnell.

With that being said there is still plenty of lacrosse left to be played and a lot can change from now to the end of the season. One thing that can remain constant is the success of this team, as long as they are the same page a possible three-peat could be in the cards for the Garden City Trojans.

“I think each season is its own separate entity. The seniors from 2012 and 2013 have moved on so it is up to our 2014 class of seniors to lead us. To that end I think the chemistry has gotten better and better as the season has gone along”, said Coach Finnell.

Every great team needs to have a high level of chemistry in order to gel together. A team is like a welloiled machine if all the parts are working to their full potential that is when you will get the most out of it.

who have the defense first mentality.

Story By Brian Coleman Photos By Bill Kelly

eager to bounce back in 2014

Glen Cove

big red

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The offense was the main

“We need to be more fundamentally sound on offense,” said Tripp. “We let our defense down last year, by not being able to have positive possessions on the offensive side. We feel our defense can hold us in games, but the offense needs to do their job and put points on the board.”

The knowledge and experience with people that Tripp brings to the table each season is one reason why the Big Red are excited about what is to come in the 2014 season. He recognized the flaws in his team but also highlighted what his team did well in preparation for the upcoming year.

There is no better person to be at the helm of a team looking to make a quick turnaround than the Big Red head coach Steven Tripp. Tripp is in his 27th year as the coach at Glen Cove and has coached through generations of Glen Cove lacrosse players.

Despite the struggles last year, the season wasn’t a complete failure as it allowed many of the younger players to get playing time and become more comfortable at the varsity level. As a result, Glen Cove will look for a turnaround type season in 2014.

s soon as the curtains closed on the 2013 season, the Glen Cove Boys Lacrosse team wanted to look forward to the future. Last year was not a great one for the Big Red, as it finished with a record of just 4-11 and missed the playoffs.

Despite the struggles last year, Glen Cove is eager to get the 2014 season underway and improve on what it did in 2013. When asked what his team needs to do to not repeat its struggles from a year ago, head coach Tripp said:

After that victory, Glen Cove would be blown out in each of its final three games. It visited Great Neck North and hosted Bethpage and Plainedge to wrap up the season, and in those three contests, Glen Cove was outscored by a total of 45-11.

The Big Red lost seven of its final eight games, a disappointing end to the season that at one point did show some promise. The lone victory in the eight game run was at home against Lawrence. Glen Cove’s Blake Woods scored four goals and Ryan Perkins broke a 12-12 tie in the final minutes to secure the victory.

Early in the season, the Big Red had a record of 3-4 and seemed to be showing signs of making a playoff push. However, following a 16-12 victory at Wheatley where Chris Klimaszewski scored six goals, Glen Cove hit a midseason wall and really began to struggle.

culprit for the poor play last year. The Big Red failed to score five goals in 11 of its 13 games, putting a tremendous amount of pressure on its defense and goaltending to keep them in games. Unfortunately, the poor offensive possessions by Glen Cove led to turnovers and easy scoring opportunities on the other end for its opponents.

GLEN COVE HIGH SCHOOL

On the defensive side of the ball, Glen Cove will be returning its whole unit. Anchored by senior Eshen Wilson and junior Sean Peet, the Big Red defense will look

One of those seniors, Ryan Perkins, who scored the game-winning goal against Lawrence last season, is the returning leading scorer for the Big Red. With the offense in need of some spark, Perkins provides a big, strong runner who can go from coast to coast with the best of them.

“We do not have a large senior class with only 6 on the roster,” said Tripp. Because of that, we have many juniors and sophomores that saw action last year. We are confident that our returning players can get the job done.”

With only six seniors on the roster, it is imperative that the underclassmen mature very quickly and have breakout seasons this year. Tripp is confident that his players are capable of doing just that.

The team is comprised of primarily sophomores and juniors this season, and the hope is that the playing time and experience those players gained last season will translate to improved performance in this season.

While it seems like a simple answer, coach Tripp knows that his team just needs to put the losing mindset aside and learn from the mistakes it made last year.

“We certainly know what we do not want to do.”

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“Many of these kids I have seen in town since they were born. I went to school with a lot of the parents, and now I have sons of former players,” said Tripp. “We have never gauged the season on wins and losses on the field; we gauge it by the wins and losses in real life. That’s what I feel my job is as a teacher and coach. We want the kids to have a meaningful lacrosse career, but we want them also to realize that you only get 4 years to make a lifetime of memories.”

Tripp is a Glen Cove resident and graduate of Glen Cove High School, making the ability to work there even more special. He understands that playing high school sports is about more than just victories and scoreboards.

As the season approaches, Glen Cove is becoming more and more ready to make amends for the type of season it is following. However, for head coach Steven Tripp, who is in his 27th year at Glen Cove, he hopes his impact will go a little farther than just on the lacrosse field.

to have a major impact in Nassau Conference B2. With one of the top defenses in Nassau County, it gives them an opportunity to compete each and every game.

Glen Cove BOY’S LACROSSE

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Story By Robert DeVita Photos By Morgan Harison

looks to make their mark on the competition

JOHN GLENN

very young there needs to be some sort of leadership from and upperclassmen and the Knights get that from senior attacker Joe DiRaimo. DiRaimo has been a highly touted player for a number of years now, but unfortunately missed the last two seasons due to injury.

Another player who has made an impact from day one this season is junior midfielder TJ Tiernan. Tiernan does everything for this team on the field he can score, play solid defense, you name it, he does it. He is a player who leads by example and puts it all out there on the field every game. “He’s a work horse that kid is the heart and soul of our team. He’s only a Junior but he’s getting better and better every day, he’s taken the team on his shoulders” said Coach Lavey.

DiRaimo is a prolific scorer; he has racked up some big numbers so far this season. On the year he has tallied 30 goals which is the third most in all of Suffolk County. To go along with his 30 goals, he has been able to dish out 9 assists. DiRaimo has committed to Division II Bentley. “He’s a quality kid he comes from a great family, he deserves everything, accolades whatever he’s going to get because he’s a great player, great kid”, said Coach Lavey when asked about the play of Joe DiRaimo.

fact that he is back playing at such a high level right now is an amazing story.

DiRaimo missed last season due to a gruesome injury during an indoor game against Huntington where he Every coach’s dream is to Early on the Knights have fractured his right fibula and have a player like Tiernan and picked up a couple of huge dislocated his right ankle. The Coach Lavey has the pleasure

This team is made up of a tight niche of kids who have one common goal, winning games. They are a very young but extremely talented team. They aren’t the biggest group of guys but they sure do have heart. “This group is a hard working group, were not big physically but were pretty quick and athletic” said Coach Kevin Lavey when commenting on the play of his team.

wins, knocking off Babylon and Kings Park in a pair of tough matches. “Babylon is our rival we battle them in football every year so whenever that game comes it’s always a battle. They beat us in overtime last year, so it was nice to get a little revenge on them. We were down 6-1 at halftime, we came back to Coming into the year the win and beat them 9-8, so it Knights were ranked 11th was nice” said Coach Lavey. in the pre-season polls, but Wins like these can do a lot now are currently sitting in for a team it lifts their entire third place in the conference morale and gives them the with a (6-2, 4-1 League Play) confidence to go out there record. The reason they were and play their hearts out. ranked only 11th coming into Confidence can change the the season had a lot to do with entire dynamic of a team, the fact that they had a total being good has a lot to do with of 10 seniors graduate from talent but a team needs to have their roster. Which was half a high level of confidence in their team, so this season was order to be great. looked as one to rebuild. With the team being

he 2014 lacrosse season is well under way and there is a particular team from Long Island that has taken the competition by storm. The John Glenn Knights who play in Suffolk Division II have really demonstrated some fantastic play to kick off the season.

KNIGHTS

JOHN GLENN HIGH SCHOOL

This season has been a surprise for the Knights one that was once looked upon as a year to rebuild has turned into a legitimate chance to make a run into the postseason. “I’m telling you we can shock some people. If we play our A game we are very hard to beat” said Coach Lavey. If they can continue to play at such a high level it’ll be a fun spring for the boys from John Glenn High School.

The Knights face a tough road ahead in the coming weeks as they square off with top teams such as Comsewogue, Miller Place, and Huntington. In order to be the best you got to beat the best and that’s what the Knights have to do in the coming weeks, they must knock off the top teams in their conference and keep the ball rolling.

There is a plethora of talent on this team they aren’t just a one man show, their roster is very deep as they have a number of players who can get the job done. “Different guys are stepping up and taking, big roles which is nice. I don’t have one main weapon; I have a whole bunch of little weapons” said Coach Lavey.

Orkiszewski recently put together a huge game where he tallied six assists against Center Moriches in a 15-7 win for the Knights. Choinski has scored multiple goals in four of the team’s eight games this season and Tufano had a career day of his own against Center Moriches where he registered four goals and an assist.

The Knights are a team that plays extremely well together and have a nicely balanced scoring attack. Other guys such as Steven Orkiszewski, Matt Choinski and Matt Tufano have played pivotal roles in the Knights success thus far.

of having this outstanding talent back for one more year. Tiernan has verbally committed to Binghamton.

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JOHN GLENN

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