UA_LI_SPRING_III_2014 by UA MEDIA

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Dear Readers, We at Ultimate Athlete Magazine would like to take a moment to congratulate the class of 2014 for all their hard work on and off the field. As another season comes to a close we’ll take a look back at some of the highlights that this spring season has brought. The Manhasset Indians led by Julia Glynn won their first Long Island Championship as the girl’s number one lacrosse team in 2014. Glynn had four goals and three assists in the Indians first state title since 2003. Over at St. Dominic High School the boys varsity baseball team finished tied for first during the regular season. They made quite a run for the Championship until they lost to St. John the Baptist (SJB). SJB went onto to win back to back championships. After a dominating regular season where the East Meadow Lady Jets finished 12-1; the lady Jets were able to keep their stellar season going winning the Class AA softball championship against Liverpool. This is the Lady Jets first state championship to date. And finally, congratulations to the Kellenberg’s girls’ softball team for winning another state championship. Since winning their first Championship in 2012 the Firebirds were able to put two more championships under their belt, while being led by Krista King. King has committed to Adelphi University.

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

What an exciting season and what a way to wrap things up than by congratulating all those who participated in the 2014 season. Again congratulations, and see you next season! 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. III_ 2014 6

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FEATURES

PG 8

LONGWOOD

PG 14

NORTHPORT

PG 20

SMITHTOWN EAST

PG 26

SMITHTOWN WEST

PG 32

ST. DOMINIC

PG 38

SYOSSET

PG 44

WARDMELVILLE

PG 50

SPORT NUTRITION

PG 58

SPORT TRAINING

PG 62

SPORT PSYCHOLOGY

Softball

Girls’ Lacrosse

Boys’ Lacrosse

Boys’ Lacrosse Baseball

Boys’ Lacrosse Girls’ Lacrosse

The Perils Of Running On Empty Multi-tasking Your Muscles Emotional Disorders In Athletes

The Longwood Lions Leap To Top Five Of Suffolk League 1 BY LISA H O L AH AN

he Longwood High School Softball team has had a tremendously successful spring season so far and the team plans to continue crushing their competition as they keep reaching to make their way to the top. The team currently stands in fourth out of the top five teams in the Suffolk League I. They are following closely behind Connetquot High School in first, Commack in second, and Sachem East High School in third. However, the girls have the potential to be a first place team, and win it all if they remain persistent and keep their overall victorious momentum going. In fact, their head coach Alicia Smith who is also a physical education teacher at the school, has led the Longwood Softball team to two league championships. Coach Smith also helped the girls previously score a trip to the Suffolk County Finals, which would

mark the first time in the school’s history. The Longwood Softball team otherwise known as the “Lions” currently has a total of 13 wins and 5 losses in the Suffolk Conference and an overall total of 14 wins and 5 Losses during regular season games. The spring season began at the end of March when the Lions gained their first win of the season over Northport High School. The team of green and white dominated Northport and shutout the opposing team completely, resulting in an end score of 7-0. After starting the season off with a win, the team continued on to play against Connetquot High School, where they fell short to Connetquot by one run. The game ended 5-4 and Connetquot gave the Lions their first recorded loss of the season, and that concluded the month of March. However, after the team lost against Connetquot, they proceeded

onward with a determination to win. The Lions motivation caused the team to proceed to win throughout the season, and starting the beginning of April, the softball team held a five game winning streak. April 1st was the start of the Lions winning streak and not only did their winning streak last five games but the first two of the five were complete shutouts. Longwood began their streak when they played against Brentwood High School, leaving the opposing school in the dust 8-0. Their next game was verse Sachem North High School, and Longwood managed to score six runs without letting Sachem North score, ending the game 6-0. After their back to back shutout games, the Longwood girls were ready to take on Sachem East High School. The Longwood team scored a four run lead over Sachem East and the final score was 9-5.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF LONGWOOD ATHLETICS

Longwood

Longwood Softball

The Lions were clearly on a path of success and they did not plan on slowing down anytime soon, which really showed when they played Floyd High School. The Longwood Lions stood proudly on April 9th when they played against Floyd, scoring a whopping ten run lead over the rival team. The Lions were able to take home a win of 13-3, and the game proved to be one of their most incredible games of the season, but that was only just a glimpse of how talented the Longwood girls really are. By the time the team went on to play against Ward Melville High School, they were fired up and ready to dominate the diamond. They did exactly that when they scored an impressive nine run lead over Ward Melville, ending the game with a score of 11-2. After what looked like an unstoppable five game winning streak, the Lions sadly took their second loss of the season when they played against Commack High School. The Longwood Lions fell short by six runs and the final score was 7-1. The Longwood girls did not take this minor hindrance as defeat but rather; they took the game as a learning experience. The team not only redeemed themselves but they continued to progress and prove that they are not a team to mess with.

In mid-April the team began another winning streak and they kicked it off by versing Patchogue-Medford High School. The Longwood girls were able to score a five run lead against a two run effort by Patchogue-Medford and the game ended 7-2. The Lions then went on to play against Lindenhurst High School where they gained their fourth shutout game of the season resulting in a 7-0 win. By the end of April, Longwood continued to put the pressure on rival teams by giving everything they’ve got into these games and displaying that they are a team without limits. The girls went on to play Sachem North High School for the second time, whom they had previously shutout earlier this season. Longwood came incredibly close to repeating history with another closeout game but this time around Sachem North was able to land a run. Even so, Longwood still vanquished the competition by scoring an eleven run effort and ending the game 11-1. After their win against Sachem North, the team had to play against Connetquot High School, the school that the Lions previously lost to at the beginning of the season. However, when they played Connetquot for the second time, the Lions were able to take home a win of 9-8. Their next two

opponents were Brentwood and Northport High School, and the Longwood Lions were able to win both games, conquering both teams. Against Brentwood High School the Lions won 7-2, and when the team versed Northport High School they won 2-1. Overall, the Lions won six games in a row starting mid-April to the beginning of May. So far this month, the Lions have been on a rollercoaster of highs and lows, winning and losing games. The team lost to Sachem East High School the second time around falling short, 13-7. However, they were able to win their next two games against Floyd and Ward Melville High School. Beating both schools for the second time, Floyd resulted in an 8-5 win and the Lions faced Ward Melville with a remarkable 10-3 win. Recently, the Lions were up against Commack and PatchogueMedford High School and they suffered losses to both schools 13-7 and 4-1. After an abundance of losses as of recent, we hope that the Longwood Lions can bounce back and try to regain the drive that they had earlier this season. No matter what happens during the rest of the season, the Lions should be proud of how far they’ve come, and the teams’ stellar performance out on the diamond.

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NORTHPORT TIGERS LOOK TO ROAR IN 2014 POST SEASON STORY BY ROBERT DEVITA | PHOTOS BY KEVIN SPERADEO

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season, and has stepped up her level of play, for the season she has scored team high 37 goals and had 5 assists. When a star player goes down with injury there needs to be other players that step up to the plate to fill that role, thankfully for the Tigers Labuskes has done that. Another player who has been amazing all year long for the Tigers is Vinchenza Patrone. Patrone has been another weapon on the offensive attack for the Tigers scoring 16 goals. These two players were key to the Tigers success this season.

he 2014 regular season is in the books and the Northport Tigers varsity girls lacrosse team finds themselves sitting in third place, with a first round bye in the postseason. The Tigers have finished the regular season with a (10-6) overall record and a (10-4) record in Suffolk Division I play.

has made her mark from day one, she’s very young but she can play at a high level despite her youth. “There’s one kid who’s really stepped up her game and she’s an 8th grader and she starts and she scores two or three goals a game now, she is going to be a great one”, said Coach Carol Rose.

Coming into the year the Tigers were projected to finish fourth within the conference, which was not far off from where they ultimately finished. This season the Tigers felt the wrath of the injury bug. Their top player and one of the best players in all of Suffolk County Allie Pavinelli, has suffered from nagging knee and hamstring injuries.

As a whole this team is very young, believe it or not they have only four seniors on the entire roster. The fact that they are playing at such a highly level speaks volumes to their development as a team.

Pavinelli made her way back this season and put up some fine numbers of her own scoring 22 goals and 10 assists. She has not been at 100%, but while she was in the lineup she put it all out there on the field.

The Tigers did not dwell on the fact that they lost one of their impact players for a substantial period of time. They fought through it and other players stepped up to fill the void of Pavinelli’s absence. Gabbi Labuskes has really made her mark A nice story for the Tigers has on the rest of the competition this been 8th grader Emerson Cabrera season. Labuskes had a fantastic who is a starter on this team. She

They were able to play at a high level without one of their best players. “Knowing that they can play without one of the better players in the county definitely has to build confidence in a team. They are very young, we only have four seniors that are playing so being that they are that young it’s definitely a confidence builder for them and they need that”, said Coach Rose. Every team needs confidence but for a young team it

overcome adversity”, said Coach Rose when discussing some big moments throughout the season. Winning games of this magnitude can lift an entire team, it can give them confidence to go on and do great things. If the Tigers can go on any sort of run throughout the postseason, they can look back at these games as the ones that were huge for the team. Moving forward the Tigers must play the style of lacrosse that has got them this far. They first must make a conscious effort to take care of the ball. Turnovers can be a team’s downfall so ball is essential if the team is going to be successful. The Tigers have proved to be a tight unit, they collectively have come together to play at a high level, which sprung them into the postseason. Their play has everything to do with the team’s chemistry, which Coach Rose describes as the best aspect of the team, “This year is probably our team chemistry, they’re really close, they enjoy playing together which is so important for girls.” Over the course of the season good teams are going to have to win games that they necessarily shouldn’t win. There needs to be a few victories that they can look back on at the end of the year and say that win propelled our team. The Tigers had a few of those type of wins this season, “Two of our key victories were Hauppauge which was a one point game, and Smithtown West I think we won by four, and that was without Allie. It just showed the team [that we’re] able to work together and

in critical situations”, said Coach Rose on what needs to be done heading into the postseason. If the Tigers can play clean lacrosse, meaning limit the amount of turnovers, they sure will be a handful for whomever they meet in the postseason. They have a scoring attack that can score with the best of them. Now it’s just a matter of securing the ball, not forcing the issue and let the game flow. With the postseason looming you can bet that they will be preparing day in and day out in order to be ready for their next opponent. The first round bye can be used as a time to rest up and try to get healthy, but also to breakdown their next security must be at an all-time high opponents. This team has what especially in the postseason. many lack and that is heart. With “We have been stressing that being said the Tigers should be discipline, poise and patience a team to watch out for in the 2014 and we have some difficulty with postseason. those terms. We need to be more patient, not throw the ball away. Not turnover the ball, we need to learn to take care of the ball so our emphasis is taking care of the ball WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

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SMITHTOWN EAST MAKING NOISE IN SUFFOLK BOYS LACROSSE SCENE Story by Brian Coleman | Photos by Kevin Sperandeo

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he Smithtown East Bulls finished its 2013 campaign with a Suffolk County Class A semifinal loss to Ward Melville, falling short of an opportunity to play for a county championship.

gear up for the Class A playoffs. Under head coach Jason Lambert, Smithtown East is armed with a young, talented core that makes them a viable contender for the county championship and beyond.

After putting together a fantastic regular season, going 14-4 (11-3 in Suffolk A), the Bulls looked poised to make a deep run. It cruised past Riverhead 12-4 and West Islip 12-5 in the first two rounds, setting up a matchup with top-seeded and undefeated Ward Melville.

The young Bulls really improved with every game last season, and the work ethic of many of the young players provided a look to what could be in 2014. As a sophomore last season, attacker Brian Willetts had a monstrous season, burying 52 goals while dishing out 11 assists. The University of North Carolina commit found the back of the net six times in a quarterfinal win over West Islip, but still found the need to get better after the game.

The Smithtown East offense couldn’t get much going on the afternoon and managed to score just six goals in the contest, as the Patriots won 14-6, and would go on to win not only the county championship, but capture the state championship as well. With last season now in the rearview mirror, the Bulls have rebounded in 2014, and look like a team on a mission, as they

“He was out there with a bucket in the parking lot,” Lambert told InsideLacrosse.com. “He was taking more shots and dodging more. I haven’t had a kid do that. Not after a quarterfinal, after scoring six goals. Never.”

The 6’3, 200 pound junior is one of the more intimidating players in the county, and possesses one of the most lethal shots at the high-school level. At a lacrosse showcase before the season, the outstanding attacker had his shot clocked at over 100 miles per hour, nearly tying the record set by professionals in the Major League Lacrosse. “I’ve never heard of anyone else doing it quite honestly on a high school team,” said Lambert, who is in his 12th season as head coach at Smithtown East. “For a guy to approach 90[mph] would be impressive.” Willetts is just one member of the young core that has Smithtown East’s boys lacrosse program on the path to sustained success. Dan Rooney, Gerard Arceri, and John Daniggelis also help make up the exceptional underclassman on the Bulls roster. The Bulls dropped its opener this season at Rocky Point, but

quickly got things on track with an eight-game winning streak that put the rest of the county on notice. The streak was part of a stretch that saw Smithtown East reel off 11 wins in 12 games to jump to the top of the Class A standings. The highlight game of the streak came on May 1st against crosstown rival Smithtown West, as the two teams battled for position in the Suffolk County standings. It was a matchup between young and old, as Smithtown West boasted a number of impact seniors against East’s young guns. The game was crucial in dealing with adversity, as Smithtown East was outplayed for a lot of the match. Smithtown East trailed 8-4 late in the third quarter, as the young Bulls struggled with ball security, and committed a number of errors and turnovers. After getting a huge goal before the third ended, East battled back in the fourth to even up the score. With the score notched at 10, the young Bulls delivered a final blow, as Daniggelis found freshman Bobby Burns flashing to the net, hit him with a perfect pass, and Burns found the back of

the net to give East the 11-10 lead. Goalkeeper Billy McEnroe made one of his 13 saves as time expired to secure the victory for Smithtown East, and deliver West its first loss of the season. The win was a major stepping stone for the youthful Bulls who, despite some sloppy turnovers, stayed together and battled back for a huge comeback win. “This is the best group of young talent that I’ve ever coached,” said Lambert after the game. “They all stepped up big yesterday and have been stepping up all year. All of the young guys that we have help add depth and they are a tremendous reason for our success.” The key to the victory was at the faceoff circle, and the dominance of sophomore Gerard Arceri, who has already committed to play his college lacrosse at Penn State. Arceri won 19 of the 23 face-offs on the afternoon, allowing Smithtown East to control possession and make up for some of the careless errors. “Gerard has been fantastic all year for us,” praised Lambert. “We always feel that we have a chance

in any game if he is taking the faceoffs for us. His contributions to our team and program are invaluable.” Since that victory, the Bulls have won three of four games to finish its regular season, and concluded with an overall record of 13-3. It’s final regular season game was a thrilling overtime victory over Northport, whom it will meet in the first round of the Suffolk Class A playoffs. With a couple of victories, Smithtown East will be playing for the Suffolk County championship, something it fell just short of last season. The combination of exuberant young talent, and veteran leaders such as senior Joe Saggese, and junior captain John Daniggelis, makes the Bulls a legitimate threat for this season’s playoffs. Either way, Smithtown East has an arsenal of young talent, which includes a number of Division I commits who are still in their sophomore seasons. The Bulls have established a program that will be a contender for the next several years in the Long Island lacrosse landscape.

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SMITHTOWN EAST BOYS’ LACROSSE

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WEST BULLS

E BAR FOR EXCELLENCE IN SUFFOLK COUNTY Story By Robert DeVita | Photos By Kevin Speradeo

he Smithtown West lacrosse team has wrapped up another successful season as they have stormed through their competition on their way to the top seed in the Suffolk Division I conference. The Bulls have been a powerhouse from day one this season, proving to be a complete team in all aspects of the game. This season has been one to remember thus far for the Bulls, but there is a lot of work to be done if they want to reach their ultimate goal of winning a championship. Despite an impeccable record the Bulls have not had an easy go of it. Since they are the top team in the conference every one of their opponents brought their A game to play them. The Bulls finished with a (15-1) overall record and a (13-1) conference record, which is amazing. Their lone blemish came against rival Smithtown East where they lost a heartbreaker 1110, after having a four-goal

lead. Despite that game the Bulls have been flawless, they could’ve easily gone undefeated this season but they came a bit short in the Smithtown East game.

a total of 93 points. Keenan has scored a team high 42 goals and has dished out 51 assists, truly a remarkable season.

Over the course of the season the Bulls have been able to get it done on both sides of the ball. They have a prolific scoring attack. They don’t just have one or two guys that can beat you, they have multiple guys who can put the ball in the net and create for the team. When there are a number of scoring threats on a team, it makes it so much harder for the defense to prepare, and come up with a game plan to shut the offense down.

Zawadski has had a phenomenal year of his own, much like Keenan, Zawadski can break down the defense, get right to the net, and score at a frequent rate. On the year, Zawadski has tallied 40 goals of his own. “He’s taken it to a whole new level, in my opinion he’s one of the top if not the top midfielder in Suffolk County. He’s playing at a different level right now”, said Coach Bobby Moltisanti Jr, when discussing the play of his star midfielder.

That is the case here with the Bulls, they have guys such as attacker Ryan Keenan and midfielder Christian Zawadski, who have been two of the best scoring threats in Suffolk County. Keenan is an explosive attacker, and his numbers prove it, as he is the number two scoring leader in all of Suffolk County with

Matt Heldberg has been another guy who has been a huge contributor all season long; he has finished the season with 27 goals and 10 assists. Alex DiSalvo, Jimmy Caddigan, and Sean Adler each have put up some solid numbers this year as well. All have scored double figures in goals, making this Bulls scoring attack

extremely dangerous. In order to have an offensive attack like the Bulls it all has to start with defense. There needs to be a conscious effort made on the defensive end that limits opposing teams, and sets up the scoring attack. “We’ve been averaging somewhere around four goals a game on our defense. That’s been a bright spot for us this season, and my Assistant Coach, who actually played for me and my dad back in Oceanside, does a great job with those kids,” Coach Moltisanti Jr, stated on the play of his defense. Defense is what separates the good teams from the great teams. The defense that has been played by the Bulls has separated them from the rest of the pack. Their four starting defenders all are Division I commits, which is extremely impressive to say the least. Defenders Kyle Mathie, JJ Foley, Nick Albanese, and Logan Greco have been the guys that have anchored the Bulls tenacious defense. “Those four guys are all low polls, they are all shutdown defenders, and all have excellent stick skills so we’re very efficient in the clearing game. Actually just the other day, within the past

two days, three of our four polls have actually put up points on offense. So they’re a threat in the clearing game, they’re a threat in transition. We keep them in the play and allow them to go play some offense in transition [to] try and push the ball, and that’s a nice luxury we have with those four players”, said Coach Moltisanti Jr. The Bulls clearly have proved through the regular season that they are a force to be reckoned with. They need to translate the success that they have enjoyed throughout the regular season into the postseason if they want to make a run at a championship. This team has the makeup to win it all. This is a highly talented bunch, it is not often that a coach can say that the majority of his starters are Division I commits, but Coach Moltisanti Jr, can proudly say that. He has been able to develop a plethora of talent over the years, which has made this program so successful. Ryan Keenan is going to Penn-State, Christian Zawadski will be attending Maryland, Logan Greco is going to Virginia, Kyle Mathie will be going to the University of North Carolina, JJ Foley will be attending Lehigh, goaltender

Matt Smidt is going to Ohio State, and Nick Albanese will be at Sacred Heart. These guys will be playing for some top-notch programs in the country and this pays testimony to the job Bobby Moltisanti Jr. has done as Head Coach. Before these guys can begin the next chapter of their lives, they must capture what they have set their eyes on since training camp, and that is a championship. They must go out there and play their game, handle their business, and the rest will work out on its own. “We always tell the kids… lets worry about ourselves and take care of our own house and that’s been our theme and our motto with the boys. We control what we can control, so make sure that you’re taking care of your responsibilities, make sure you’re prepared both mentally and physically, and let the chips fall where they may”, Coach Moltisanti Jr. reinforcing the teams motto. That is exactly what the team has done all season long and must do heading into the playoffs. This team is as good as it gets, all the pieces of the puzzle are in place, now it is time for the Bulls to go out there and bring home a championship.

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SMITHTOWN WEST

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I enjoyed my time at St. Dominic’s and getting to come back here and coach it’s great, I love it.

said Tranchina

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t. Dominic’s got off to a great start this season going 12-0 and finished the season with a record of 14-4. They tied for first place in the league and made it to the semifinals of the playoffs where they lost to St. John the Baptist. Coming into the season St. Dominic’s was a young team with three of their seniors starting the season injured. “We tied for first two years in a row,” said St. Dominic’s head coach Chris Tranchina. “We are a pretty young team and this was not what I expected coming into the season. We got off to a great start and little by little they became more and more confident. We strive to keep the tradition we established of being a premier team in the Catholic league.” Tranchina went to St. Dominic’s and played baseball for the Bay Hawks. Tranchina has been a part of the coaching

staff for 18 years, 17 as the coaches in our league have been assistant and this was his first around a long time and are great coaches.” season as the head coach. St. Dominic’s is the smallest “I enjoyed my time at St. Dominic’s and getting to come school in the CHSAA and back here and coach it’s great,” were ranked number one in Newsday’s big 10 this season. said Tranchina. “I love it.” “Being the smallest school Last season the Bay Hawks finished first in the league and we have to work harder and lost in the finals to St. John the these boys are working hard every day,” said Tranchina. Baptist. CHSAA baseball has one “St. John’s is our biggest rival,” said Tranchina. “The last major difference and that is seven or eight years we’ve meet that they only use wood bats no them in the semifinals or finals.” aluminum allowed. This causes St. Dominic’s is in the lower scoring and makes the Catholic High School Athletic games more exciting.

Last season St. Dominic’s Association. Also in that league are Chaminade, St. Anthony’s, graduated 16 seniors and this Holy Trinity, and Kellenberg year they are graduating 10 seniors with eight of them among others. “We have the toughest moving on to play baseball in league around,” said Trachina. college. They are a young team “Our league stands out because that always has the same goal every team has at least three and that is to finish in the top quality pitchers so you never three in their league. Leading have an easy game. Most of the the way this season was senior

minic’s continues to tradition of being remier team in the atholic High School thletic Association Story By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg | Photos By Bill Kelly

“

We are looking forward to a great season next year said Tranchina

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captain Brady Renner. Renner is a pitcher and will be going to George Washington University next year to play baseball. Renner won pitcher of the year this season. He was 5-0 on the mound, had one save and an ERA of 0.2. Renner struck out 56 players in 32 innings.

leader,” said Tranchina. “He Baptist and won three games. is also one of the top defensive Young will be a player to watch out for in the next couple of years. players around.”

Also helping out this season was junior shortstop/pitcher Reiss Knehr. Knehr led the league in homeruns having four and he also had three wins on the mound. Knehr is returning next “Brady did not give up a run year and after he graduates he until our last league game,” said will move on to play for Fordham Tranchina. “Whenever he was on University. the mound we were guaranteed a “Reiss also plays great win. He dominated this year. We defense,” said Tranchina. “He could always count on him.” will be the ace of our pitching Another impact player this season was senior captain outfielder Mark Flynn. Flynn entered the season with a broken wrist. Despite missing half the season with an injury Flynn led the team in runs scored. Flynn will be playing baseball for Columbia University next year. “Mark

our

emotional

“Kyle followed Brady around and gained more and more confidence as the season went on,” said Tranchina. “Kyle will be coming back next season and I’m excited to watch him grow as a player.”

Next season St. Dominic’s is returning six starters and bringing back two rotational pitchers. They are a young team that finished tied for first. They are looking to staff next season. Reiss is a great keep that number one spot for the next few seasons with the talent athlete.” Also returning next season they have returning. “We are looking forward to is sophomore pitcher Kyle Young. Young is 6’8” and left a great season next year,” said handed. This was Young’s first Tranchina. “It’s great getting to year on varsity after playing coach here. This is something I for junior varsity last season. will do until it is not fun for me As a sophomore Young threw a anymore. I love watching the no hitter against St. John’s the boys get better.”

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It’s a pleasure to coach these kids because they want to work hard and be successful, Coach Catabria

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fter losing 17 kids to graduation last season, Syosset wasn’t expecting to be as successful as they were this year because they were a young team. Syosset made it to the Nassau County championship game against Massapequa. Unfortunately, Syosset came up short to the eventual state champion. Syosset finished the season with a record of 14 wins and 4 losses.

in this conference is that there are about seven great teams; whereas in the other conference only the top half is good.

Calabria entered his 15 season as the head coach this season. Last season he led Syosset to the semifinals where they lost to Port Washington. This season they improved as a team and got further than they expected to. The goals laid out at the beginning of every season are to find their way into the County championship game, and to play together as a team.

as a team. This team had a group of kids that excelled playing together with the same goal to be successful. On defense, senior long pole midfielder Liam Blohem led the way. Blohem was a four year starter that is moving on to play lacrosse for Ohio State next season.

“I believe we have the toughest conference in the country,” said Calabria. “These are the most competitive teams in the country. We never have a break in league play…you have to come prepared because it is a battle until the end. In conference games you tend to win by “We had a really phenomenal season,” said only one goal. They are always close games. Syosset boys’ varsity head coach John Calabria. There are seven hard core teams and getting “We were a very young team this season. The to play at this level with this competition is a kids over achieved and got better and better as tremendous accomplishment.” the season went on. I didn’t think we would Syosset will be graduating only six players make it to the County championship, but the with basically their whole team returning kids worked hard and never gave up. It was a next season. This year, Syosset was able to be pleasant surprise.” successful because the players played together

“Liam is a great defender,” said Calabria. “We always relied on him to defend the opponent’s best offensive player.”

“This season they accomplished both Syosset’s attack was led by three players. goals,” said Calabria. “They played together Senior Anthony Carchitta was a three year as a team and by the end of the year they were starter. Carchitta tallied 10 assists in Syosset’s a family.” quarterfinal playoff game. Syosset is in the tough Class A conference “Anthony bounced between attack and in Nassau County. Their biggest competition midfielder,” said Calabria. “He was the core has become Massapequa, but Farmingdale and of our offense. Anthony was a well-balanced Hicksville are also major rivals. The difference player that brought a lot to our team.”

BOYS’ LACROSSE TEAM HAS HIGH ONS GOING INTO NEXT YEAR Story By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg | Photos By Bill Kelly

Junior attack Alex Concannon was in his “Lucas is a dodging threat from up top,” fourth year on the team. Concannon was on said Calabria. “He does a great job distributing the team as an eighth grader. Concannon was to the attack. He brings a lot to the team.” the second leading scorer of this team. When Junior midfielder Nick Hatzetrakos rounds Concannon graduates he will move on to play out the midfielders. lacrosse at John Hopkins University. “Nick is a tremendous dodger from the right “Alex always drew the opponent’s number side of the cage,” said Calabria. one defender opening up the other two attack Next season, Syosset’s expectations will players,” said Calabria. “He worked well with Anthony to create opportunities for our be high since they made it to the County championship this season and will have offense.” basically their whole starting core returning The third attack was sophomore Mac next season. Syosset buys into the fact they Okeefe. Okeefe was the leading scorer with 72 don’t have one stand out player and have to goals this season. work as a team to be successful. Syosset is “Mac is a tremendous finisher,” said returning a talented group of players that have Calabria. “He was able to find the right spot the experience to go deep into the playoffs. This and get the ball in the back of the net. This is a team to watch out for in the next couple of season Anthony, Alex and Mac bought into years and will be on top of the Nassau County unselfishness giving them the opportunity to Class A conference. play together and create big plays.” “It’s a pleasure to coach these kids because In the midfield Syosset had four key components that created opportunities and allowed Syosset to attack from all over the field. Sophomore defensive midfielder Michael Elardo earned the rare accomplishment of being named most valuable player of the team. Elardo averaged 10-15 ground balls a game. Junior offensive midfielder Michael Hatzopoulos is a lefty that scored 19 goals this season. Sophomore midfielder Lucas Cotler is another lefty. Cotler has verbally committed to Yale University.

they want to work hard and be successful,” said Calabria. “I’m looking forward to the future. Our expectations are going to be high next year because of the success we had this season. The kids understand and know they have to put in work and work together as a team to be successful. I’m looking forward to watching them reach their full potential as a team. This season was great.”

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THE PATRIOTS ARE THE ONES TO WATCH FOR Story By Lisa Holahan

WARDMELVILLE GIRLS’ LACROSSE

he Ward Melville Girls lacrosse team has been consistently dominating the Suffolk lacrosse scene and this year they stand proudly in the top five of their division. The girls have been on an impressive winning streak since the beginning of April and have racked in a total of 7 wins and 3 losses. It comes as no surprise that these girls are going full force this season, especially when we look back on their several previous years of success. This all should be credited to their amazing coach, Kerri Kilkenny, and of course, the talented team of girls known as the “Patriots.” The Ward Melville Girls are no stranger to being at the top of their league and they are looking to not only remain on top, but to go all the way this year for the Suffolk County Championships. The Patriots kicked off the

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spring season winning their first game against Longwood High School, which ended with a score of 18-11. Just when the girls began to pave a path to victory, they slightly stumbled along the way. Their next two games resulted in two back to back losses for the Ward Melville Girls. The first of those two games took place during the end of March where the girls played Northport High School and took a loss of 135. The second loss the girls suffered from was against Sachem East High School, where they just fell short by one goal and the game ended at 12-11. Even though the very beginning of the season started a bit shaky, the Ward Melville Girls treated their losses as minor setbacks and were motivated to set the team into full gear. The girls continued to persevere and made a tremendous come back. April

2nd is a date for Suffolk County to remember because that is the day the Patriots picked up a win and started their fantastic winning streak. On April 2nd they versed Whitman High School and came back strong with a win of 16-5. After finding their niche, the team began to prove themselves like the valuable players they always were. They continued on to play Yorktown High School and managed to score another win with an end score of 14-13. The Patriots proudly flaunted their green and gold uniforms while playing Floyd High School, when they scored their biggest win yet of the season. They scored a whopping 15 goals to a mere 2 from the opposing team, showing the world that they are hot and ready to go…all the way that is. Continuing on into mid-April,

the Patriots were still fired up about their newfound winning streak and wanted to keep the momentum going. They successfully achieved that goal by winning the next three games straight. The Patriots were on a six game winning streak since the beginning of April. After crushing Floyd High School, the girls continued to conquer, and this time it was against Commack High School. The Patriots beat Commack High School with a ten-point lead resulting in a final score of 18-8. The team then took another win home over East Islip High School, winning 13-12. They scored an additionally impressive win over Smithtown East High School that ended with an eight-point lead with a final score of 15-7. Recently, their powerful winning

streak came to an end when they played West Islip High School. West Islip High School is currently an undefeated team with 10 wins under their belt, making them number one in the Suffolk Division I. However, the Patriots did not go down without a fight and fell just short by three goals, which resulted in a final score of 9-12. Their next two games will be at the end of April and the beginning of May. They will be versing Middle County High School and Hauppauge High School and they will have more than a fighting chance at both of these schools. There is no reason the Ward Melville Girls should be counted out this season. In fact they are constantly a team to watch out for. Two of the star players from the team were recently acknowledged in MSG Varsity’s Top 100 LI Girls Lacrosse Players for 2014. Kelsey Catalano who is a senior from the lacrosse team was noted for her “great speed in the midfield, fluid stick skills and her strong lefty shot that makes her effective on attack.” Alex Vignona who is a junior from the team was praised for “having excellent field sense and vision” and

is the “offensive facilitator” for the Patriots. In fact, every single person on the team contributes in a way that is needed for the teams’ overall success. A talented team is always in need of some sort of guidance and that is what Coach Kilkenny consistently offers. Starting as the Patriots coach in 2011, Kilkenny has kept the girls always in top ten standing. A major highlight for the team was in 2012 when the girls reached a soaring high of 17 wins and only 2 losses. This put them in the number two standing for the Suffolk Division I. Even just last year, the girls still remained on top by making it into third of the top three Suffolk teams. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that with a combination of the Patriots skill, determination and knowledgeable coach, these girls have a formula of success. They are always striving to be on top and have the abilities to get there, which is exactly why you should always keep an eye out for the Ward Melville Girls.

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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

back 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

“

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. where they belong. Following two for a completely opposite

“

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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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8.5x11 Framed Cover CONNETQUOT HIGH SCHOOL THUNDERBIRDS

CONNETQUOT HIGH SCHOOL THUNDERBIRDS

CONNETQUOT â&#x20AC;&#x153;

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

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

THUNDERBIRDS

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ThunderbirdS aspire for the

long island championship

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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oo tired to grab something to eat before your morning practice? Too rushed to eat before your afternoon game? Not fueling your body before workouts can result in a sluggish performance! In the mor ning your body is in a fasting state. Your liver glycogen (storage of carbohydrate that regulates your blood sugar) is in very low supply. Low blood sugar can make you feel dizzy and faintnot a great recipe for peak performance. By afternoon our liver glycogen is usually filled up with our morning meals, so now you need to worry about your supply of glycogen stored i n you r muscles. Muscle glycogen supplies energy throughout exercise and can become depleted after exercising continuously for more than 90 minutes. Most high school and college athletes have at least 2-hour

practices. Working out on a quarter tank of glycogen or lower may lead to an empty tank of energy, just when the practice drills start getting intense! Your muscles will not have the energy it needs to perform and you will feel weak and slow- not something you want to feel or what your coach expects from you. Fueling up for practice or competition requires eating some form of carbohydrate about a half an hour before starting time.

Pre-performance snacks include: •

•

Pretzels, crackers, or dry cereal with raisins; pre-pack in

a snack bag.

•

Plain bagel (can add a small

•

Sports drink (Gatorade®, Powerade®, or Vitamin Water®).

amount of butter, cream cheese or peanut butter, but not too much as this slows digestion) or a peanut butter and jelly sandwich (again go light on the p.b.).

Pack these snacks ahead or keep a supply

Cereal bar – choose one with in your backpack so you will always be mostly carbohydrate, lower in fiber, with just a small amount of protein; save the high protein bar for after practice. Too much protein and fat before exercise can be harder to digest.

energized to perform your best in practice and competition.

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Do more work in less time with hybrid training

t’s tougher than ever to be a student athlete these days. As if trying to maintain good grades, keep up with your team’s practice schedule and have at least some form of a social life weren’t enough, you’re also expected to stay in decent shape. Trouble is, who’s got time to put in long, arduous workouts in the gym when you’re being pulled in so many different directions? If only there was a way to work more muscle, in less time and address all of the areas you need to strengthen to become a better athlete. Luckily, there is! Enter hybrid exercises; lifts that incorporate multiple movement patterns to provide the ultimate athletic training stimulus! Unlike more traditional exercises that focus on specific body segments, often through a single plane of motion, hybrid lifts pose a much greater challenge to bio-motor skills such as balance, coordination and spatial awareness. Meaning that they require you

to develop a greater sense of the way your body moves through space- a key skill to improve regardless of what sport you play. They’re also incredibly time efficient and offer a terrific way to increase workout intensity. About the only downside when training with hybrids is that you’ll be limited to using only as much weight as you can handle for the weakest part of the lift. For example, if you’re doing a combination squat and overhead press, you can only use as much as you can safely push up overhead with good form. Needless to say, this may not be enough load to completely fatigue your legs. However, despite not being an effective tool for increasing maximal strength, hybrids still have plenty to offer the busy student athlete that’s looking to improve their game.

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Try the following exercises as either paired supersets (where you perform one exercise after the other with no rest until both are completed, then rest for 60-90 seconds), or as a grueling circuit, by doing all six in a row and then resting for 90-120 seconds before going around for a second time. Either way your bound to get a great workout that will give you a whole new understanding for the way your body was designed to move.

Squat to Row Areas trained: Lower body, with an emphasis on the posterior chain (glutes, hamstrings and spinal erectors working together), upper back and arms. Execution: Stand facing a low cable pulley with your feet spread about shoulder’s width apart, holding on to a rope handle with your arms extended towards the pulley. Begin by sitting your hips back as you descend into a squat, keeping your arms extended out in front of you. Once your thighs are parallel to the ground, push back up with your legs as you simultaneously use your upper back and arms to pull the weight towards your torso. In the top position your legs should be completely extended, with your arms bent about 90 degrees and your elbows just past your torso. Hold for a second then lower back down and repeat until you’ve done 10-12 repetitions.

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Side Plank with Band Press Areas Trained: Core and lateral hips, along with chest, shoulders and triceps. Execution: Secure a resistance band to a sturdy object and position your body several feet in front of it. Begin by grabbing the band with your right hand and then turning away from the anchoring point. Next, set up in a side plank position, using your left arm as the support. Bridge up off the ground and with the right hand held just in front of your chest, hold the side plank position and press the band out in front of you until your arm is fully extended. Hold that position for a second before returning your arm to the start position and repeating until you’ve completed 8-10 reps- making sure to stay up in the plank position the entire time.

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Unilateral Romanian Deadlift & Reverse Fly Areas Trained: Posterior Chain and upper back. Also helps develop balance and coordination. Execution: Stand balancing on one leg with your knee slightly bent, holding a pair of light dumbbells at your sides. Keeping your torso upright and core engaged, hinge at the hips by driving your glutes back and leaning forward at the waist- without bending your support knee any more. As you’re doing so, slowly work the dumbbells up in a wide, arcing motion out to the sides of your body by pinching your shoulder blades together. In the finish position your entire torso, along with the non working leg should be parallel to the ground, with your arms held out perpendicular to your body with just a slight bend in your elbows. Hold for a second, then lower and repeat the sequence with the opposite leg. Continue until you’ve done a total of 10-12 repetitions.

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Bulgarian Split Squat with unilateral overhead press Areas trained: Entire lower body with an emphasis on improving flexibility through the back hip and torso. Shoulders and triceps as well. Stand with your back to a bench positioned about 2 1/2 to 3 feet behind you. Begin by holding a dumbbell in your right hand and then reach back behind you and place your right instep on the bench. Now balancing mainly on your left leg, lift the dumbbell up until its positioned just above your shoulder. Once there, begin to descend into a squat by lowering your back knee and loading most of your weight onto the heel of your front foot (allowing the front heel to rise off the ground and/ or settling your weight mainly on the ball of your foot will increase knee strain). As you’re doing this, press the weight up overhead until your arm forms a straight line, right next to your ear. Pause for a second at the bottom and then press back up as you lower the dumbbell to the start position. Repeat until you’ve done 8-10 repetitions and then switch sides.

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Pull-up with knee tuck Areas trained: Upper back, arms and core. Execution: Grab hold of a pull-up bar with a pronated (palms facing away from you) grip. Next, lift your legs up off the ground and hold them in a semi bent position. Begin by pulling yourself up towards the bar with your chest out to emphasize the use of your upper back. Once your chin is just above the bar, hold there and use your core to lift your knees up towards your chest. Once you’ve gotten your legs as high as they’ll go, lower them back down and then lower yourself to the starting position. Repeat the sequence until you’ve completed 10-12 repetitions.

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Medicine Ball Woodchop to rotary lunge Areas trained: Core and lower body. Also helps train deceleration strength for improved change of direction mechanics. Begin by holding a medicine ball with your arms outstretched over your left shoulder and your feet about shoulder’s width apart. Begin by using your core to “chop” your arms down across your body towards your right knee. As you’re doing this, pivot your feet and drop your hips into a lunge. In the finish position, you’ll be completely facing to your right, with the ball just outside your right knee and your arms held out across your body. Slowly return to the start position and repeat until you’ve done 8-10 repetitions, then switch sides.

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ULTIMATE ATHLETE MAGAZINE.COM 54

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EMOTIONAL DI IN ATHLE STORY BY DR. TOM FERRARO

ith competitive sports comes an immense amount of stress, which can sometimes result in an athlete to suffer from emotional problems. Because their lifestyles are so glamorized, this common occurrence may be one of the best-kept secrets in sports. There are certain types of personalities that are drawn to the sporting world, many of w hich being more susceptible to emotional disorders than others. There are three major emotional domains (personality, addictive, and psychological) that tend to trouble athletes and coaches alike.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

ISORDERS ETES

PERSONALITY DISORDERS There are three types of personality problems seen in athletes: •

Narcissism: These players feel that they are entitled to everything they see and rarely hear the word no. Some develop narcissism, or what we call “acquired narcissism.” When they become famous, they can develop a grandiose sense of self and feel that they are above all rules. This often results in them having a toxic impact upon their teammates and the people they come into contact with.

•

Sociopathy: It is a well-known fact that some professional athletes are sociopathic–they break the law and wind up with a mug shot that we see in the papers. These incidents always have the potential to destroy a season for the player and possibly, his team.

•

Obsessive Compulsive Personality: These compulsive over-workers are usually the coach’s favorite until their obsessive nature produces injury, burnout or depression. These three areas – symptoms, addictions and personality disorders – are common and they produce considerable stress on coaches and teams. If a coach sees that a player is displaying these symptoms, one should take the necessary steps towards providing them with help. While some can be easily treated with medication, others are more difficult to solve. When looking at the high-pressured lifestyle that comes along with the world of sports, it is no surprise that many athletes and coaches suffer with a variety of psychological issues. Without a proper diagnosis and treatment, players and coaches will continue suffering from these disorders which could ultimately damage their careers. All of the conditions stated above are issues that should be addressed by physicians, therapists, or clinical psychologists.

“Some athletes acquire a form of narcissism thanks to the amount of adulation they receive. They begin to feel special and entitled to everything they want.”

“Steroid abuse is merely one of many forms of drug addictions that athletes can suffer with.”

“Athletes often suffer in silence with a variety of emotional disorders.”

ADDICTIVE DISORDERS

PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS

There are a vast number of addictive disorders that athletes tend to suffer from:

Athletes often suffer from psychological symptoms before, during or after games due to the stressful nature of sports. They include:

•

Steroid abuse: The use of steroids by athletes is an issue that makes headlines nearly every week. These performance-enhancing drugs are a favorite of body builders. While steroids add muscle, they have huge and very dangerous side effects.

•

Pain killers: Thanks to the number of injuries athletes are faced with, they are often introduced to painkillers early on in their careers. With prolonged use of pharmaceutical drugs comes eventual addiction.

•

Alcohol Abuse: Athletes and coaches often use alcohol to settle down after games or as a sleep aid, but this can lead to overuse in some and even DWI’s.When looking at the high-pressured lifestyle that comes along with the world of sports, it is no surprise that many athletes and coaches suffer with a variety of psychological issues. Without a proper diagnosis and treatment, players and coaches will continue suffering from these disorders which could ultimately damage their careers. All of the conditions stated above are issues that should be addressed by physicians, therapists, or clinical psychologists.

•

Anxiety: Many athletes experience overwhelming anxiety and panic before games, which can result in vomiting, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, stomach cramps and dizziness.

•

Depression: Some athletes who are in a prolonged slump or who feel they are not getting enough playing time may become depressed. Symptoms of depression i n clude wanting to quit, sleep loss, shame, a loss of appetite and withdrawal. Some may even become suicidal.

•

Anger: Many athletes have a slow buildup of anger. This oftentimes results in an explosion of anger--commonly diagnosed as Intermittent Explosive Disorder.

•

Eating disorders: This common problem affects gymnasts, figure skaters, soccer players, jockeys and wrestlers, all of whom must deal with weight loss every day.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

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;?

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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;?

1(800)680-3213

1(800)680-3213 1(800)680-3213 1(800)680-3213

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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

*655,;8<6;

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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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

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.

STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN

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.

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.

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.

PHOTOS BY KEVIN SPERANDEO

The East Meadow Lady Jets Soar High Toward Victory

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EAST MEADOW HIGH SCHOOL

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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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

S TO RY BY B RIAN CO LE M AN | PH OTO S BY KEV IN SP E RAN DE O | M ORGA N H A R R I S O N

Hills West Pitching Has Them Dominating Suffolk Competition

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HALF HOLLOW HILLS WEST H.S.

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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.

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

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.

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

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

“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.”

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.

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.

“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.”

S TORY BY BRIAN COLE MAN | PH OTOS BY BILL KELLY

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

“Our defense and goalie were outstanding,” said Manhasset head coach Bill Cherry.

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.

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.

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.

MANHASSET DEFENSE HAS INDIANS THINKING COUNTIES

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MANHASSET HIGH SCHOOL

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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

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.

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.”

“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

“I think it is going to be a great game. Lynbrook’s very talented and very well-coached.”

“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.

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.

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.

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 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.

“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.”

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.

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.

farther away.

de s ig ne d by w in-k ye che o ng

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.

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.

STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN | PHOTOS BY BILL KELLY

The Manhasset Indians Protect Their Spot on Top

INDIANS

MANHASSET HIGH SCHOOL

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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.

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.

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.

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

an undefeated team in conference games with an overall record of 10-0.

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.

with a final score of 15-5.

| STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN | PHOTOS BY ADIL BORLUCA |

The Massapequa Chiefs Chase Another Championship Win 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 “Chiefs” 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

chiefs

MASSAPEQUA HIGH SCHOOL

MASSAPEQUA BOYS’ LACROSSE

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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

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.

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 u p 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.

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

D E SIGNE D BY WIN-K Y E C H E O NG

ST. ANTHONY’S

FRIA

The Friars

Are Coming Out Swingin

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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S HIGH SCHOOL

ARS

STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN PHOTOS BY KEVIN SPERANDEO

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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.

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

S TORY BY B RIA N COLEMA N TORY BYBYB RIAN PSHOTOS KEVINCOLEMAN SP ERA NDEO PHOTOS BY KEVIN SP ERA NDEO

dominant pitching has st. john the baptist thinking repeat

O F

P R

COUGARS

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST H.S.

O O

While While aa number number of of key key seniors seniors would would not not be be back back for for this this year, year, aa young young core corewith withan anexplosive explosivepitching pitchingstaff staffmade madethe theCougars Cougarsthe thefavorite favoriteto torepeat repeat as as NSCHSAA NSCHSAAchampions champions by by the the majority majority of of people people before before the the season. season. The The team team isis led led by by aa number number of of juniors juniors who who got got aa taste taste of of the the varsity varsity level level and and aa championship championship as as sophomores sophomores aa year year ago, ago, and and have have begun begun to to play play its its best best baseball down the stretch as it prepares for another title run. baseball down the stretch as it prepares for another title run.

The The6’0 6’0junior juniorwas wasfeatured featuredas asone oneof ofthe thetop top100 100players playerson onLong LongIsland Island coming coming into into the the season, season, and and lived lived up up to to the the billing billing in in his his season season debut, debut, hurling hurling aa complete complete game game while while allowing allowing no no earned earned runs runs and and striking striking out out seven seven hitters hitters in in the the 4-1 4-1 Cougar Cougar victory. victory.

The The Cougars Cougars raced raced out out of of the the gate gate to to begin begin the the season, season, winning winning its its first first five five games games to to start start the the season. season. In In the the season season opener, opener, on onApril April fool’s fool’s Day, Day, St. St. John the Baptist got a fantastic pitching performance from Andrew Mundy. John the Baptist got a fantastic pitching performance from Andrew Mundy.

Up Up to to this this point, point, 2014 2014 has has been been aa rollercoaster rollercoaster ride ride for for the the defending defending champions. champions.Alternating Alternating winning winning and and losing losing streaks, streaks, the the Cougars Cougars have have been been able to keep pace because of its lights out pitching which has St. able to keep pace because of its lights out pitching which has St. John John the the Baptist Baptist hot hot at at the the right right time. time.

Led Led by by head head coach coach John John Habyan, Habyan, aa former former professional professional baseball baseball player, player, St. St. John John the the Baptist Baptist carries carries aa professional professional and and business-like business-like approach approach to to the the game, game, which which isis demonstrated demonstrated by by its its hard-work hard-work and and sustained sustained success success as as aa program. Thus, the school from West Islip is poised to defend its CHSSA program. Thus, the school from West Islip is poised to defend its CHSSA crown crown and and complete complete its its season-long season-long goal. goal.

P R

As As good good as as the the pitching pitching was, was, the the offense offense did did its its part part as as well. well. In In the the final final game game of of the the streak streak against against Holy Holy Trinity, Trinity, the the Cougars Cougars busted busted out out for for 11 11 runs runs in in aa seven seven run run victory. victory. Lagravinese Lagravinese knocked knocked four four hits hits and and drove drove in in three three runs, runs, while while Tom TomArcher Archer and and Tom Tom Colombo Colombo each each had had three three hits. hits.

Over Over the the next next five five games, games, the the St. St. John John the the Baptist Baptist pitching pitching would would throw throw four four shutouts shutouts and and allowing allowing one one run run in in the the other other game. game. As As part part of of aa seven seven game game winning winning streak, streak, itit would would get get shutouts shutouts from from Pat Pat Besch, Besch, Pete Pete McQuade, McQuade, Noah Noah Lorenzo, Lorenzo, and and two two from from right-handed right-handed ace ace Mundy. Mundy.

The The Cougars Cougars would would win win four four straight straight games games following following the the season season opening opening victory, victory, but but then then followed followed itit up up by by dropping dropping three three straight straight games games to to fall fall to to 5-3 5-3 overall. overall. In In that that three three game game losing losing streak, streak, the the offense offense was was only only able to scrounge out four runs. It was a minor blip on the radar, as able to scrounge out four runs. It was a minor blip on the radar, as the the pitching pitching staff staff would would put put together together one one of of the the most most dominating dominating stretches stretches any any team team has has had had this this season season over over the the next next few few games. games.

While While itit was was only only one one victory, victory, the the opener opener illustrated illustrated everything everything the the team team saw saw in in itit coming coming into into the the year. year. An An outstanding outstanding pitching pitching performance performance complemented complemented by by timely timely hitting, hitting, as as Ryan Ryan Dalton Dalton and and Pat Pat Lagravenese Lagravenese each each drove drove home home two two runs runs to to pace pace the the offense. offense.

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While While the the team team isis young, young, itit has has aa number number of of starters starters who who were were aa part part of of the the CHSAA CHSAA title title team team aa year year ago. ago. IfIf the the pitching pitching staff staff maintains maintains its its dominance, most notably from ace Andrew Mundy, St. John the Baptist dominance, most notably from ace Andrew Mundy, St. John the Baptist isis aa force force to to be be reckoned reckoned with with in in the the catholic catholic high high school school baseball baseball scene. scene.

ItItisisalways alwaysimportant importantto tobuild buildmomentum momentumat atthe theright righttime timeof ofthe theseason, season, and and isis what what St. St. John John the the Baptist Baptist has has done. done. In In its its final final two two regular regular season season games against St. Anthony’s, the Cougars won 1-0 and 4-0, respectively, games against St. Anthony’s, the Cougars won 1-0 and 4-0, respectively, to to go go into into playoff playoff action action with with the the wheels wheels in in motion. motion.

The The experienced experienced Cougars Cougars are are now now preparing preparing for for the the postseason postseason and and aa shot shot at at defending defending its its CHSAA CHSAA throne. throne. With With the the offense offense coming coming together together at at the right time, and the pitching being consistently dominant all season, the right time, and the pitching being consistently dominant all season, the the young young Cougars Cougars are are gearing gearing up up for for the the postseason. postseason.

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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

“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.”

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.

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.

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.

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.

P H OTO S BY MO RGA N H A R R I SO N

“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.”

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

girls scored goals, while five different girls all dished out assists, leading to a 14-8 victory on Middle Country’s field.

S TO RY BY B R I A N CO LEMA N

WEST ISLIP GIRLS’ LACROSSE SUCCESS IS HERE TO STAY

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“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

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.

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

“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 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.

will really be tested.”

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