East baseball newa 04 09 2015

2015 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS PREVIEW April 2, 2015 201

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April 2, 2015 — 3

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Spring Sports Preview

TEAM INDEX

Baldwin Bruins ................................ 6 Calhoun Colts (Bellmore-Merrick) ... 8 Carey Seahawks (Franklin Square) 10 Clarke Rams (Westbury) .............. 12 East Meadow Jets ........................ 14 East Rockaway Rocks................... 16 Elmont Spartans .......................... 18 Hewlett Bulldogs .......................... 22 Kennedy Cougars (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 24 Lawrence Golden Tornadoes ......... 26 Long Beach Marines...................... 27 Lynbrook Owls .............................. 28 MacArthur Generals ..................... 30 Malverne Mules ............................ 31 Mepham Pirates (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 32 Oceanside Sailors ........................ 34 Seaford Vikings ............................ 36 Sewanhaka Indians (Floral Park)... 38 South Side Cyclones (Rockville Centre) ......................... 39 Valley Stream Central Eagles ........ 40 Valley Stream North Spartans ...... 42 Valley Stream South Falcons ........ 43 Wantagh Warriors ......................... 44 West Hempstead Rams ................ 46

A speci

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Publishers CLIFFORD RICHNER STUART RICHNER Executive Editor JOHN C. O’CONNELL Section Editor TONY BELLISSIMO Editorial Designer JEFFREY A. NEGRIN Production Manager KAREN MENGEL Production Assistant SHEAUWEI PIDD Art Director CRAIG CARDONE Photo Editor CHRISTINA DALY Photo Editing CHRISTINA DALY Vice President of Sales RHONDA GLICKMAN Page Editors JEFF BESSEN SCOTT BRINTON BRIAN CROCE Contributing Sportswriters TONY BELLISSIMO ANDREW MCCLURE STEVE SINISKI ANDREW COEN ANDREW HACKMACK

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East Meadow High School Softball - 2014 New York State Class AA champs

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

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April 2, 2015 — 5

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

BALDWIN Bruins armed with strong pitching

H

BY STEVE SINISKI

aving depth in a pitching rotation is always good. When that depth is experienced, too, it’s like hitting a home run from the pitcher’s mound. Baldwin has the good fortune of returning three starters from a team that advanced to last season’s Nassau County Class AA playoffs and dropped—you guessed it—a 2-1 pitcher’s duel to Plainedge in the first round.

Senior lefty Nikko Arellano is back as the ace of the staff, where he shows good command of his pitches, including a nasty curveball.

Following him in the rotation will be junior right-handers Jeffrey Dominguez and Bayyan Ngala-El. While Dominguez can bring the heat with his fastball, Ngala-El offers a nice change of pace behind him in the rotation because he can nibble at the strike zone with his control and hit the corners. Sophomore Stephen Scheinman is also in the discussion, because he’s got a good fastball with movement, while junior Brandon Hoskyns is battling for innings after logging some innings on the mound last season.

“They’re all leaders out there,” coach Frank Esposito said of his pitchers. “They work hard in practice and they always come prepared.

Catcher Antonio Diaz is already a varsity veteran with two seasons under his belt, and the pitchers welcome the return of his strong arm and quick feet behind the plate to keep baserunners honest.

Arellano slots in at first on the days he doesn’t pitch with sophomore Freddie Lucas back at second.

When Dominguez isn’t racking up strikeouts or inducing outs on the mound, 6 — April 2, 2015

regular time in right. The Bruins will trout out strongarmed senior Lucas Sullivan in rightfield.

When Baldwin swings the bats, it will look to the speedy Sullivan and Hoskyns as tablesetters for a heart of the order that will include a number of power bats led

by Dominguez, Allerano and Ngala-El. “I think there’s enough leadership that played last season that we have a well-rounded group,” Esposito said.

Lady Bruins ready to make noise The Lady Bruins are shaping up to be the type of team few opponents will want to face on the softball field.

Not only does Baldwin return its ace in the circle— senior Melanie Sadowski— but its lineup packs punch from the leadoff spot right down to the No. 9 hitter. “I don’t think there’s many teams that can hit the way we hit,” coach Tom Llewellyn n said.

Senior Jade Aponte, now entering her fifth year on the team, is a returning AllCounty Honorable Mention shortstop that hasn’t missed a game since making the team in eighth grade. As smooth as she is defensively, it’s her ability to produce in big spots—and at the plate— that truly make an impact.

Among her 12 extra base hits last season were five homers, five doubles and a pair of triples. Following Aponte in the order is senior third baseman Sophia Nicholas, who will help set the table for the big bats in the heart of the order.

All-Conference centerfielder Alex Burns, only a freshman, returns after smacking eight home runs, including a game-winning three-run shot to knock off Calhoun in the first round of last season’s Class AA playoffs. Sophomore right fielder Montia Moon is

es off a five and comes ampaign. homer campaign. ding out the Rounding he lineup will rest of the er power hitbe another ter, seniorr Sara Heuser, es to first base who moves sing down fly after chasing he outfield balls in the on, and a pair last season, rs—Raquel of seniors—Raquel ez and Allie Rodriguez Palmer—who —who were battling for time at second he spring. base in the aylor Krucher Junior Taylor g to left after is moving me at first seeing time ght field durand in right irst two varsity ing her first campaigns, ns, and junior a Davis is also Christina vying for time in the outnior Taylor Samuel field. Senior

Sophia Nicholas

Schedule BASEBALL March 30 31

Massapequa @ Massapequa

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

April 9 Freeport MATT M GUILFOYLE GUI LFOYLE 13 @ Freeport 14 16 20 21 27 28 30

Syosset @ Syosset Farmingdale @ Farmingdale Hicksville @ Hicksville Hicksville

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Nikko Arellano is the designated hitter.

When Sadowski’s on the mound, she keeps free passes to a minimum—just 1.2 walks per game—and has worked with her new catcher, sophomore Nicole Vanyi all offseason. Freshman Yanique Spencer may also log innings in the circle.

Baldwin is ranked atop the newly designed 10-team Conference AA-2, ahead of Farmingdale and Valley Stream Central.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 11 12 13

@ Oceanside Oceanside @ Oceanside @ East Meadow East Meadow @ East Meadow

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 24 26 28 31

Farmingdale @ Uniondale V.S. Central @ Westbury

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 7 9 11 15 16 20 22 24 27 29

Port Washington 4:45 p.m. @ Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

Herricks 12:00 p.m. @ Elmont 4:30 p.m.

Freeport 4:30 p.m. @ Farmingdale 4:30 p.m.

Uniondale 4:30 p.m. @ V.S. Central 4:30 p.m.

Westbury 4:30 p.m. @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m.

May 1 4 6 8

Hempstead @ Herricks Elmont @ Freeport

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Victoria Lodi

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April 2, 2015 — 7

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

CALHOUN Veterans expected to lead Colts Donato and senior catcher Joe Grossane, who slides behind the plate after playing first last season. “I think we rmed with a staff of could do a lot of damage with experienced juniors on the bats if we stay consisthe mound and more tent,” Canestro said. “I think than a half-dozen seniors we have the potential to score returning in the field, Cala lot of runs.” houn is well-stocked for battle Playing in Conference in Nassau Class AA baseball. AA-IV, the Colts will battle The returning veterans against some of the top teams helped lead the Colts to the in Nassau County, includsecond round of the postseaing district-rival Mepham son where they was knocked three times and twice against out in a best-of-three series.

MacArthur, a perennial title New coach Art Canestro takes contender. over the helm after serving Lady Colts continue as an assistant under former leap in competition longtime leader Joe Corea and expects a seamless transiThe arrow continues to tion in 2015. point up for a Calhoun softLeading the Colts on the ball program that will now mound will be junior Dylan be playing in Conference I Hughes, who posted an where some of the best teams impressive 5-1 mark as an in New York State currently underclassman, helping the reside. “It’s great to see how team advance to the second far the program has come round of the playoffs. While and for the girls to see their Hughes has a sneaky fastball, hard work paying off,” coach it’s his changeup and curve Jason Boland said. “We’re in that truly keep hitters offthe same conference as two balance. He’ll be followed in [recent] state winners.” the rotation by junior Rob Junior Nicole Imhof, Backus, who also logged some already a three-time Alltime as a sophomore, and County honoree, returns junior lefty Jake Gargiulo. to the circle and has the While Backus has a strong type of internal drive and curve and changeup, Gargiulo determination that matches changes his speeds well. an impressive—and still Calhoun returns a pair developing—physical ability. of versatile outfielders in She’ll continue firing pitches seniors Luke Scoggins and at senior catcher Joanna Bonny Bianco, each of whom Marmo, one of three seniors can play right or center. who provide a big bat but Regardless of where they more importantly big-time stand in the outfield, they will leadership. “She’s a throwboth act as tablesetters at the back catcher who’s down top of the batting order with in the dirt, calling out plays Bianco slated to hit leadoff. and cheering everyone on,” Hughes will play shortstop Boland said. on the days he doesn’t pitch, The Lady Colts strength up while senior Dan Donato, a the middle also includes the returning All-County hondouble play combination of oree, could be the team’s most senior second baseman Ally versatile player and one of its Abene and senior shortstop best hitters. He can play third, Lauren Trimarco now in its left field and catcher. fifth season of teaming up.

Following Bianco and “When they’re running drills Scoggins in the order will be in practice or even fielding

A

BY STEVE SINISKI

8 — April 2, 2015

grounders the younger girls are watching them,” Boland said. “They know every play, every situation.”

Senior All-Division honoree Kristina Barry is back at the hot corner after stepping up as one of the team’s biggest surprises last season. Sophomore Jordan Walley, a classic power hitting first baseman rounds out Calhoun’s veteran infield.

The only outfield spot locked down heading into the spring was centerfield, patrolled by freshman Jen Imhof. Moving over after a season starting in right field,, Imhoff is the team’s quickestt and best fielding outfielder n and aggressive chasing down fly balls. “It’s really where d. games are won,” Boland said.

“When your infield defense, catcher and centerfielder aree strong it’s nice to see. These positions are so important forr our game.

Dan Donato

Schedule BASEBALL April 6 7 9 13 14 16 20 21 27 28 30

MacArthur 10:30 a.m. @ MacArthur 10:30 a.m.

Port Washington 10:30 a.m. @ Port Washington 4:45 p.m.

V.S. Central 4:30 p.m.

V.S. Central 4:30 p.m.

Plainview-JFK 4:15 p.m. @ Plainview 4:30 p.m.

Long Beach 4:45 p.m. @ Long Beach 4:30 p.m.

Long Beach 4:45 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

@ Herricks Herricks @ Herricks @ Mepham Mepham @ Mepham

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March Nicole Imhof

The lineup has Abene and Imhof at the top with Nicole Imhof, fresh off a .500 season o at the plate, Trimarco, Marmo and Walley generating power and producing runs.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

24 26 28 31

Mepham Oceanside @ Long Beach Hicksville

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 7 9 11 14 16 20 22 24 27 29

@ Plainview-JFK East Meadow @ Massapequa MacArthur @ Syosset @ Mepham @ Oceanside Long Beach @ Hicksville Plainview-JFK

10:00 a.m.

10:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 1 4 6 8

@ East Meadow Massapequa @ MacArthur Syosset

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 2, 2015 — 9

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

CAREY Tough conference awaits Seahawks baseman Rob Kelly and right fielder John Heyer are expected to do big things in the middle of the order. All ike Farina takes over three will also see time on the as Carey’s baseball mound. coach, replacing The Seahawks are deep the highly successful Marc behind the plate with seniors Hedquist. The latter had a Mike Castel and Chris Stewinning percentage of .650 vens, and junior T.J. Toscano. over his eight years at the Each will see time at catcher. helm, and led the Seahawks Luke Spano, Matt Kurta, to the state semifinals in 2011. and James Molloy are vying Carey will have stiff competi- for time in the outfield. Farition in a conference composed na hopes to have junior Mike of Garden City, Bellmore Catanese back from an injury JFK, New Hyde Park, Jericho, at some point.

Wantagh, and Sewanhaka.

Unfinished business Farina, who served as for Lady Seahawks varsity assistant for the past eight years, likes the team’s When the 2014 softball makeup. “Our strength is season began, the mantra going to be in our athleticism at Carey was for the team to and depth,” he said. “We have go from good to great. The guys who hit the weight room Lady Seahawks had spent the pretty hard. They understand previous decade as bridestheir roles, and want to conmaids, and were looking for tribute in any way, whether more. They didn’t disappoint. it’s laying down a bunt or Carey went 21-3 and captured stealing a base.” the Nassau County Class A Senior second baseman championship.

John Cimiluca, who hit .419 A couple weeks after and had a .549 on-base percapturing the county crown, centage, will be one of the Carey suffered a stunning 5-44 main cogs in the batting order defeat to Sayville in the Long from the two-hole. If junior Island title game. The bitter center fielder Jake Safuto loss has led to a new theme can make things happen and for 2015 — “Finish it.” The reach base from the leadoff Lady Seahawks didn’t lose spot, the Seahawks will be in anyone to graduation, so it business. will not be a surprise if they Senior Mike Rutigliano o find themselves in position to (3-1, 3.57 ERA in 2014) takes take the next step come June.. over at the top of the rotaCoach Anthony Turco tion. Rutigliano pounds the loves his team’s approach. zone, and mixes in a curve “Their presence, energy, and and change to go along with motivation has been terrific,”” his fastball. Senior Joe NicoTurco said. “They have the letti pitched well in limited bull’s-eye on their back; they innings. He’ll likely be the know it, and they embrace it. number two starter. Senior We should be real tough. We shortstop Ryan Hensley could have a good mix of power and earn the third spot in the rota- speed, and we’re deep at multion. Nicoletti may also see tiple positions.” time at short.

Senior Jenna Turato Junior first baseman returns in the circle for Carey.

Anthony Catapano hit .349 Turato, who was MVP of the and knocked in a team-high Nassau Class A playoffs, was 20 runs. He’ll be a tough out virtually untouchable in the for opposing pitchers. Third postseason last spring. Senior

M

BY ANDREW MCCLURE

10 — April 2, 2015

battery mate Julia Caiazzo returns at catcher. Junior Daniela Viti will also see time behind the plate.

Versatile senior Alyssa oth Petrancosta can play both infield and outfield. ne-two Carey has a potent one-two nded punch, a pair of left-handed hitters at the top of the order that will give opponentss fits. der BriSophomore center fielder anna Pinto and junior second heimer baseman Amanda Ulzheimer d, both have blazing speed, o hit power, and the ability to for average.

They’ll be setting thee h table for left fielder Ruth cca Rodriguez, junior Rebecca Vilchez, and senior firstt baseman Samantha Romanello. Vilchez’s y ability to pitch, and play first base, and all three outfield positions gives Turco flexibility when making out his lineup.

Brianna Pinto

Schedule BASEBALL March 30 31

Sewanhaka @ Sewanhaka

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April

MATT GUILFOYLE 1 Sewanhaka 7 8 9 13 14 16 27 28

Jericho @ Jericho @ Jericho @ N.H. Park @ N.H. Park @ N.H. Park @ Garden City @ Garden City

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Wantagh @ Wantagh Wantagh Kennedy @ Kennedy Kennedy

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March Mike Rutigliano The Lady Seahawks are strong up the middle with senior Mikayla Morfesi at shortstop. Sophomore Jaclyn Rodriguez takes over at third base. Sophomore Megan McCormack will also contribute.

Carey is ranked No. 1 in the newly designed Conference AB-I.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

23 25 27 30

Island Trees @ Bethpage Clarke @ Mineola

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 8 10 13 15 17 21 23 25 28 30

@ N.H. Park @ Glen Cove Division @ Garden City Seaford @ Island Trees Bethpage @ Clarke Mineola N.H. Park Glen Cove

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 @ Division 7 Garden City 9@ Seaford

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

Photos by John Heckman

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April 2, 2015 — 11

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

CLARKE Rams backed by veteran core

C

BY STEVE SINISKI

larke baseball has become synonymous with the word success.

Coming off their 16th regular-season conference title in the last 17 seasons, the Rams have also won seven Nassau County crowns in the last 14 years. The program returns five starters from last season’s run to the semifinals of the Class A playoffs and 14 seniors in all.

“We play Island Trees, Seaford, Mineola and it’s still going to be a tough league,” coach Tom Abruscato said of Conference A-V alignment.

“The kids have been great and worked extremely hard during the offseason.”

Always able to paint corners and keep batters honest with his control, senior Hasan Deljanin is back on the mound with another weapon in his pitching arsenal—more power. “He’s gotten stronger and bulked up,” Abruscato said. “He’s improved his fastball into the mid-80s. He’s always had great command, now he’s got it at a higher velocity.”

Senior Steve Pabon, recently cleared to play after suffering injuries during the offseason, could push Deljanin for the role of Clarke’s ace on the staff. Senior Ray Winans is also back and eyeing a spot in the rotation along with seniors Nick Courtney and Rami Masani. Sophomore Matt Boyko could also push for innings on the mound.

Plenty of experience returns in the outfield with senior John Dellolio back in center, flanked by classmate Tyler Constantine in left. Last season’s right fielder, senior Joe Roche, is moving back to his natural position at catcher. “He’s a great catcher,” Abruscato said. “We’re not 12 — April 2, 2015

going to miss a beat.”

On the infield, Pabon is back at shortstop with Courtney and senior John Zaino battling for time as the other half of the Rams’ double-play combination at second base.

Constantine is slated to bat leadoff with Roche, a well-balanced hitter with some power locked into the all-important No. 3 hole. “I think we have more power than last year,” Abruscato said. “But we’re going to [play] more hit-andrun type ball and make things happen instead of sitting back and waiting.”

Lady Rams bats to provide support The Lady Rams came within one game of the Nassau County Class A softball finals last season, and the bulk of the team is back for another run at the title with a new coach in the dugout.

Rachel Barry takes over as coach, and she has quite a cupboard full of talent starting in the circle where junior Sarah Cornell, already a three-time All-County pitcherr is back for her fourth varsity season. When it comes to Cornell’s accomplishments, the numbers are nothing short of eye-popping. In 392 career innings, she has piled up 732 strikeouts, including three-games with at least 20—and six no-hitters. Last season alone, she posted a 1.04 earned run average with 216 strikeouts in 124 innings.

“She’s powerful and she’s very focused,” Barry said.

Senior Selena Ruiz is back k to catch for Cornell, and the veteran also provides a strong lefty bat out of the No. 2 hole in the lineup. Junior Brooke Scherer is back and will handle the first base duties, while sophomore Kirstin Cox, a returning All-County Honorable Mention, is back at short. Senior Lauren Reilly is locked in at third, and sopho-

more Sabrina Caputo uto is set to track flyballs in n left field.

“We’re strong up the middle,” Barry y said. “Having our pitcher and catcher [back] is our key, but returning an outfielder and [the returning] infielders is a huge strength.”

After falling 3-1 in the deciding game of the semifinals last season, Clarke’s lineup is primed to pound out hits and runs in support off Cornell. Cox and Ruiz are set at the top of thee batting order, and getting ting on base would mean an plenty of opportuninins for ties to drive in runs the power bats behind hind them. Cornell and d vy Caputo bring heavy bats to the middle of the order.

Joe Roche

Schedule BASEBALL March 23 24 26 30 31

Island Trees @ Island Trees Island Trees @ Friends Academy Friends Academy

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1AT MATT MA M TTT @ GUILFOYLE GUI UFriends ILLFFOYL OYAcademy OY LE LE 13 14 16 20 21 23 27 28 30

V.S. South @ V.S. South V.S. South @ Locust Valley Locust Valley @ Locust Valley Mineola @ Mineola Mineola

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 4 5 7

@ Seaford Seaford @ Seaford

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 25 27 30

@ Garden City Island Trees @ Carey @ N.H. Park

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

April Sarah Cornell “We’re a combination of everything right now,” Barry said, noting the fleet feet at the top of the order. “We have speed and smart base runnerss with the middle of the lineup [able to] push runs across.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

1 8 9 13 15 17 21 23 25 28 30

Division @ Seaford Bethpage @ Mineola Glen Cove Garden City @ Island Trees Carey N.H. Park @ Division Seaford

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May 5 7 9

@ Bethpage Mineola @ Glen Cove

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

Photos by John Heckman

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 2, 2015 — 13

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

EAST MEADOW Jets rely on experienced arms

E

BY STEVE SINISKI

ast Meadow went from a young, unknown team to Nassau Class AA semifinalists in the span of just two months last season.

And with the bulk of that roster, including the entire starting rotation back, perhaps the Jets can go even higher in 2015. The biggest change is in the dugout, where Ken Sicoli has retired after 40 years with the program. The reins have been handed over to John Marciante, not only an assistant under Sicoli for the last nine years but a player on East Meadow’s 1991 county championship team.

The rotation, led by senior Brian Kavanagh, a two-time All-County honoree, also boasts senior Luis Cuello and junior Joey Minucci, none of whom had an ERA above 3.00 last season. In fact, among their highlights were a no-hitter by Kavanagh, 51 strikeouts in 53 innings pitched by Cuello and a masterful nine inning masterpiece by Minucci in Game 1 of the quarterfinals against second-seeded MacArthur, a game ultimately won by the Jets in 13 innings. They will be throwing to senior catcher Chris Mackay. “It’s a luxury having these starting pitchers throwing six or seven innings because we haven’t had to go deep into the bullpen.”

But when Marciante does decide to make the call for a pitching change, he’s got experience in senior Brett Bennett, a hard-thrower who struck out 14 in 12 innings of work.

The right side of the infield is anchored by junior veterans Zach Fritz at third and Frank Ippolito at short, both entering their third varsity campaign. Senior Matthew Laudonio boomed 14 — April 2, 2015

the game-winning homer to put an exclamation mark on Minucci’s gem, and he’s back at first sharing time with junior Matt Mascia. Second base will be handled by junior Marcus Kabigting and at times senior Ryan Bergmann, who’s developed into a valuable utility player.

Kavanagh, Cuello and Minucci will all play in the outfield on days they aren’t pitching with the Jets banking on a crop of juniors filling in the open spots.

Kaylee Erath iss also hoping to carvee out me some playing time at catcher. Senior or Nicole Gogh is looking to step into the starting lineup at first ng time base after logging hile East as a backup, while ns an Meadow returns uble outstanding double on play combination no matter how ut. camp shakes out.

Returning Alle, League honoree, senior Kristen New look for Lundquist, is defending state back at second base, and Fritz champs was mulling East Meadow’s enjoyed over his the type of recent run on the options softball field some programs at shortdon’t enjoy over the course of stop. He decades. The defending New could slide York State champions have All-County senior Crista Sannot only won consecutive NasAntonio from third, or utilize sau County Class AA titles sophomore Gianna Azzato but also advanced to the State at short. Freshman Emily finals in the last two years Shurina would handle the hott and the county finals the last corner if SanAntonio slides five seasons in a row. But over and could also see time there will be a new look to the in the outfield. team this spring across the diamond. “We have a lot of young kids but I think we’re going to be very competitive,”” coach Stu Fritz said. “The [new players] have an opportunity to shine and they’re running with it.”

There’s competition around the field, and it starts in the circle, where senior pitcher Ashley Smith was battling for time with sophomore Kelsey Leonard f fand freshman Christina Loeffler. Behind the plate, East Brian Kavanagh Meadow had another trio of strong candidates battling forr time, including junior JesTracking down fly balls sica Laird, who played well in centerfield will be speedy in several starts as an injury sophomore Jessica Marsala replacement last season. with classmate Rachel Travis Junior Mabel Christoforatos and junior Kelli Hosey in the has a big bat and two years of mix for time at the corner out experience at the junior varfield spots. Senior Allyson sity level, while sophomore Clark has developed into a HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

Crista SanAntonio

utility player that can play almost anywhere on the field.

Schedule BASEBALL April 6 Farmingdale 7 @ Farmingdale 9 Syosset MATT GUILFOYLE 13 Syosset 14 Freeport 16 @ Freeeport 20 Massapequa 21 @ Massapequa 27 Oceanside 28 @ Oceanside 30 Oceanside

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

@ Hicksville Hicksville @ Hicksville Baldwin @ Baldwin Baldwin

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 24 26 28 31

@ Oceanside @ Massapequa MacArthur @ Syosset

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

April 7 9 11 14 16 20 22 24 27 29

Mepham @ Calhoun Long Beach @ Hicksville Plainview-JFK Oceanside Massapequa @ MacArthur Syosset @ Mepham

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May 1 4 6 8

Calhoun @ Long Beach Hicksville @ Plainview-JFK

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

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April 2, 2015 — 15

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

EAST ROCKAWAY Rocks k depending d on hard work

E

BY ANDREW MCCLURE

ast Rockaway didn’t have the overall record it was hoping for in 2014, but found a way to earn a berth in the Class B baseball playoffs, and even took a game from eventual county champion Wheatley in the three-game semifinal round series.

The Rocks spent a lot of time in the gym and batting cage during the offseason in hopes that they’ll again be one of the top four teams in a competitive league that comprises Wheatley, Cold Spring Harbor, Carle Place, Oyster Bay, and Malverne. The top four finishers will compete in the playoffs.

James Hickey, in his third year as East Rockaway’s coach, likes what he has seen thus far. “Team chemistry is one of the keys,” Hickey said.

“We put in a lot of hard work as a group over the winter. It’s a tight-knit team. Hopefully, all of the time they put in to prepare for the season will pay off.”

Senior Matt Breidenbach takes over at the top of the pitching staff for the Rocks.

Breidenbach, in his third year with the varsity, has improved his mechanics, and appears to be set to anchor the staff. When he’s not on the hill, he does a solid job patrolling center field.

Hickey believes his team will be strong up the middle with the gloves. Juniors Ryan Kelly and Mike DelGais not only handle starting pitching duties but also comprise a solid middle infield, with Kelly at second base and DelGais at short.

Kelly is a baseball junkie, who had double-digit RBI totals at a sophomore. Delgais, who has been playing with the varsity since his 16 — April 2, 2015

freshman year, has terrific athleticism. Senior Ray Cerasoli and junior Robinson Rivas are battling for time at the hot corner.

Key returnees, sophomore Chris Deptulski and senior Chris Amabile, handle corner outfield roles. Also returning is junior catcher Jake Barth.

Senior Sammy Dey and junior Mike Acampora will both see time at first base.

Junior Jorge Hazim gives the Rocks depth at multiple positions.

Depth to help Lady Rocks Low numbers have left the East Rockaway softball program without a junior varsity team for the first time in program history. While some young athletes will lose valuable playing time at the JV level, others will have the opportunity to play at a high level while providing the varsity with much-needed depth.

Coach Joe Lores is optimistic. “It would be better if everyone was playing more, but this will give us more flexibility,” Lores said.

“There will be some growing pains. Right now, we’re trying to figure out who we are.

So far, I like what I see. Having the younger girls here is going to make us a stronger team.”

Two of East Rockaway’s key returnees are juniors Erica Acampora and Caitlin O’Mara. Acampora is solid at the plate, and gets to just about every ball hit her way in center field. O’Mara, who is likely the team’s strongest hitter, will make the move from the outfield to shortstop. Each will occupy slots in the meat of the order.

The Lady Rocks, seeded third in the nine-team Conference AB-III, have more depth in the circle than they’ve had in the past. Sophomore Corinne Haab, who pitched

every inning for the varsity as a freshman, will be joined der by eighth-grader s. When Emily Chelius. g, the other will one is pitching, se. Junior Kelly play third base. ill also see time McLafferty will in the circle. dney O’Connor Junior Sydney st base. Freshreturns at first onnelly is pushman Sarah Donnelly g time there as ing for playing well. Junior Marisa Felbinger will take over at catcher, ore Jessica with sophomore ing for time Loyer also vying ate. Lores said behind the plate. oth have the he believes both dle catching ability to handle duties.

Sophomoree Diana Locoteta will makee the transifield to second tion from outfield uld form a nice base, and should tandem with O’Mara up the middle.

Chris Amabile

Schedule BASEBALL April 13 14 16 20 21 23 27 28 30

Wheatley @ Wheatley Wheatley @ Malverne Malverne @ Malverne C.S. Harbor @ C.S. Harbor C.S. Harbor

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Oyster Bay @ Oyster Bay Oyster Bay @ Carle Place Carle Place @ Carle Place

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March Erica Acampora Fleet-footed freshman Rachel Graves should wreak havoc on the base paths.

Graves will play right field, while junior Michelle Sheridan will be in left. Senior Brianna Holmes could also contribute at the position and provide depth.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

23 25 27 30

@ West Hempstead Manhasset @ Roslyn V.S. North

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 8 13 15 21 22 23 25 28 30

@ South Side V.S. South Carle Place @ Sewanhaka @ Manhasset West Hempstead Roslyn @ V.S. North South Side @ V.S. South

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 6 9

@ Carle Place Sewanhaka

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

Photos by Peter Frutkoff

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 2, 2015 — 17

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

ELMONT Young Spartans look to improve

A

BY ANDREW MCCLURE

fter a tough season in Conference AA-3 in 2014, Elmont returns to the Nassau Countywide Conference with a young team, and a new coach. The Spartans should fare well in a league composed of Great Neck South, West Hempstead, Roosevelt, Westbury, Uniondale, and Hempstead.

Coach Ed McCormack, who is assisted by Dave Spinnato, takes over after four years leading the junior high team, and another four at the junior varsity level. “We have a very young team, but the guys are hard-working and dedicated,” McCormack said. “We’ve been working out at 6:00 am on Fridays since November. I expect us to be very competitive.”

Hard-throwing senior Felipe Mejia will anchor the Elmont rotation. The threeyear veteran, who is one of the team’s captains, features a myriad of pitches that he can throw for strikes. When Mejia isn’t on the mound, he’ll play first or third base.

Sophomore Steven Girdhari, a player with outstanding baseball IQ, will follow Mejia in the rotation. Girdhari, who will be the team’s starting shortstop, will hit third for the Spartans. McCormack expects big things from Girdhari. Freshman southpaw William Cook will be the team’s third starter, and will likely occupy one of the top two slots in the batting order.

Freshman Damien Rubio and sophomore Jacob Rodriguez are both battling for time at second base. Senior Natesh Mohado worked hard in the offseason to earn a starting outfield role. Senior captain Naveen Karunagaran will see time at first base.

18 — April 2, 2015

Hard-hitting senior Mohammad Lateef will bat cleanup and play third base for the Spartans. Lateef will see time at shortstop, and will ill also serve as Elmont’s closer. r.

Junior captain Eddy Peguero will handle the catching duties, and hit in the he middle of the order. McCormack likes the improvements ts Peguero has made defensively ly.

Fleet-footed sophomore Aaron Ruthman will wreak havoc when he gets on base. on Ruthman and junior Brandon Evans will both man outfield d positions.

The Spartans will play three-game sets against each h s. of their six conference rivals.

Lady Spartans hoping to build a winner Elmont softball returns lititttle from a team that amassed d just five wins in 2014. With conference foes such as Farmingdale, Baldwin, Herricks, and Port Washington, there is no doubt that there will be growing pains and some tough afternoons.

However, there are reasons for optimism on the diamond. With a slew of young, athletic players, coach John Squillace is excited about thee present and future of his pro-gram.

“I’m very enthused with what we have now, and expect to be even more enthused over the next few years,” Squillace said. “We should be very competitive with most of the teams in the conference.

I’d like to think we can be right there with the top teams in a few years.”

Paloma Velez will handle most of the pitching duties for the Lady Spartans, who play each of their nine conference opponents twice apiece.

Velez, who pitched and played the hot corner as a junior,

will be counted on to lead the way for Elmont. With a combination of power and speed, Velez will be one of the main cogs in the middle of the batting order.

Junior Amy Vidal takes over behind the plate. Vidal has a strong throwing arm, and is motivated to improve.

Squillace believes Vidal could be the strongest hitter in the lineup. Expect Velez and Vidal to be top RBI producers for Elmont.

Setting the table for the big bats will be Akemi Shard.

The 8th grade shortstop is an intelligent player who handles the bat extremely well. Shard’s ability to bunt, slap, and run should enable her to be on base a lot.

Paloma Velez

Schedule BASEBALL April 6 Westbury 10:30 a.m.

7 @ Westbury 10:30 a.m.

9 Westbury 10:30 a.m.

13 @ Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

15 Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

MATT GUILFOYLE 16 @ Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

20 Uniondale 4:30 p.m.

21 @ Uniondale 4:30 p.m.

23 Uniondale 4:30 p.m.

28 West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

29 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

30 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Felipe Mejia

Sophomore Kiera Holland will form a solid onetwo punch with Shard. The speedy Holland is a terrific contact hitter. With Holland att third base, the Lady Spartans should be strong on the left side of the infield. d Senior Josie Rodriguez and sophomore Denise Pryor havee locked up outfield positions.

Senior Noel Dixon will contribute. Squillace is high on sophomores Christina Fanos and Nyah Breleur, and eighth-grader Giovanna Faison.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

Roosevelt @ Roosevelt Roosevelt @ G.N. South G.N. South @ G.N. South

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 24 25 28 31

V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m.

Herricks 10:00 a.m. @ Freeport 4:30 p.m.

April 7 9 11 15 16 20 22 24 27 29

Uniondale @ Westbury Hempstead Baldwin @ Farmingdale @ V.S. Central Port Washington @ Herricks Freeport @ Uniondale

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

2:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 1 4 6 8

Westbury @ Hempstead @ Baldwin Farmingdale

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Victoria Lodi

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 2, 2015 — 21

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

HEWLETT Bulldogs are armed and dangerous

H

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

ewlett cranked things up a notch at the right time last spring and sent two teams home from the Nassau Class A baseball playoffs before suffering a tough one-run, extra-inning eliminating loss to North Shore. The Bulldogs won 10 games overall, but dropped six in a row heading into the postseason.

“We’ve got an experienced team that’s still kind of young,” coach Andy DeBernardo said. “We’ve got a large junior class and a deep pitching staff. We should be better, but the conference is extremely tough.”

The Bulldogs compete in Conference AB-2 along with defending county champion Division, Plainedge, Manhasset, South Side, Roslyn and Great Neck North. The competition will face a Hewlett staff headed by junior Aaron Kadosh and backed by junior closer Rosario Mariano.

Kadosh is a smart hurler with three pitches, including a nasty slider, the coach said. He was 5-3 with a 3.05 ERA and 36 strikeouts in 36 innings. “He knows how to attack,” DeBernardo said of Kadosh, who will also play third base and hit fifth.

Junior Andrew Genovese can use better run support than he received in 2014 when he earned one win and one save. Joining the rotation is junior Maui Mawhinney, a transfer from Lawrence.

He’s a crafty lefty who’ll also bat in a run-producing spot.

Mariano will be counted upon in the seventh inning, where his knuckler is sure to keep hitters off-balance.

Senior David Bouzaglou returns flashing signals from behind the plate and batted .370 a year ago. Anchoring the 22 — April 2, 2015

offense is junior Mike Curiel, an All-County award winner who batted a robust .495 with five homers and 27 RBIs. He’ll play third base and outfield.

“He’s a feared hitter and a tremendous three-sport athlete,” DeBernardo said.

Senior Mike Agurkis returns at first base after committing just two errors in 20 games, and senior Brad Perlzwig returns in center field. Junior Josh Pincus (second base) and sophomore Jesse Metz comprise the middle of the infield. Genovese and freshman Chris Rodriguez, a catching prospect, bolster the outfield.

and Jamie Goldberg in left, are solid defensively and .300 hitters at the dish. Maloney hit .347 out of the leadoff adoff spot and swiped 15 bases, ases, while Goldberg drovee in some clutch runs and hit .300 300 in the No. 5 slot.

Junior Ricki Sperry, rry, the backup pitcher who will get some starting assignments nments along the way, will work ork in right field or second base.

Sophomore Julia Bromley, omley, up from JV, is another er n the option in right and in pitching circle.

Pitching, defense lead Lady Bulldogs A year after struggling to find consistency and finishing just below the .500 mark, the Lady Bulldogs are hoping to generate more runs against a familiar group of conference foes.

“We’re pretty balanced and I think we’ll be able to put more runs on the board,” coach Vinnie Lospinuso said. “We’ve got pitching and defense. We’re still young, butt we should be able to compete for the conference title.”

Hewlett’s roster features four seniors entering their third years on varsity.

Pitcher Margaret Feldman is looking to follow strong campaigns on the volleyball and basketball courts with a big spring, Lospinuso said.

“She’s determined to do well,” he said. “She’s consistently around the plate and trusts the defense behind her.”

Val Elefante is a key weapon in the batter’s box. She was Honorable Mention All-County in 2014 after smacking six homers and driving in 27 runs with a .377 average. She’ll hit in the clean-up spot. “She’s probably our most dangerous hitter,” Lospinuso said. Elysha Maloney in center field,

Aaron Kadosh

Schedule BASEBALL March 30 @ Roslyn MATT GUILFOYLE 31 Roslyn

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April Margaret Feldman A pair of freshmen en will start, including returning catcher Lauren Dori. “She does a good job blocking and can throw out runners,” Lospinuso said. Depending on how some dominoes fall, Harper Manus will play short-stop or third base. Sophomoree Dana Feldman moves from the outfield to the infield, where she’ll contribute at shortstop or second base.

Sophomore Jessica Silberger brings varsity experience to third base.

The Lady Bulldogs will face AB-IV rivals Lawrence, Lynbrook, Malverne, North Shore, Great Neck North, Friends Academy, Roosevelt and Great Neck South twice apiece.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

1 6 7 9 13 14 16 20 21 23 27 28 30

@ Roslyn @ South Side South Side @ South Side Manhasset @ Manhasset Manhasset Division @ Division Division G.N. North @ G.N. North G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 11 12 13

@ Plainedge Plainedge @ Plainedge

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 25 27 30

@ G.N. South Friends Aca. @ Roosevelt @ Hewlett

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 8 10 13 15 17 20 21 23 30

Malverne Lynbrook @ North Shore @ G.N. North G.N. South @ Lawrence @ Friends Aca. Roosevelt @ Malverne

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 7 9

@ Lynbrook North Shore G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

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2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

KENNEDY Rising Cougars driven by experience

K

BY STEVE SINISKI

ennedy turned quite a few heads by advancing to the semifinals of the Nassau County Class A baseball playoffs last season, but one has to wonder if that team merely scratched the surface of what it could accomplish.

The Cougars return almost entirely intact and the entire pitching staff returns after acting as the backbone during the run to a regular season conference crown and the recent playoff success.

“We return basically the whole team,” coach Eric Passman said. “We look real strong on paper. We won the conference by one game but many games could have gone either way.”

It’s on paper that some of the numbers truly jump out, including those of junior All-County pitcher Michael Schwartz. He was a perfect 3-0 with a 0.76 ERA and will again be joined in the rotation by senior Justin Stybel, an All-County honoree two seasons ago. Junior Eric Gossert won a playoff game last season and senior Joe Correo, who missed all of last season due to injury, provides another arm Passman can call upon. Senior lefty Wyatt Carney and junior righty Jonah Zeitlin are available in relief.

Both catchers, senior John Hulkhower and junior Reid Oreste, return along with power hitting first baseman Georgie Savas, a junior who’s glove is as big as his bat.

Kennedy’s strength up the middle comes in the form of senior second baseman Frankie Gagliano, and he’ll team up with a new partner at short with senior Nick Field and junior Greg Goller both vying for time. A pair 24 — April 2, 2015

of juniors, Tyler Griffith and Peter Cuttita are battling for time at the hot corner. When Schwartz isn’t on the mound, he’ll be tracking down fly balls in centerfield where he’ll be flanked by senior All-Conference returnee Eric Pauly and junior Nick Lisi.

The lineup is long on power with not only Savas and Hulkhower but also a pair of designated hitters, senior Kelvin Pabon and Jerry Korkymellis. “We’re more [built] for power than speed but we do have good baserunners,” Passman said.

Lady Cougars an experienced bunch Kennedy has plenty of new faces on the softball field and even in the dugout, where Dean Zenie takes over as the team’s coach. The Lady y Cougars roster is loaded with talented freshman and a handful of returning juniors who will be providing experi-ence in key spots.

“Most of the [younger] girls are going to be playing right from the get-go,” Zenie said.

Junior Sydney Yormack returns to the circle as Kennedy’s top pitcher, but the hard thrower who can throw six different pitches will get support from a pair of freshmen throughout the campaign. Amanda Maffucci, a lefty, instantly gives a different look out of the bullpen, while Danielle Polirer is also going to log some innings.

“We have as many as three games a week, and when it’s cold early in the season we don’t need to burn anyone out,” Zenie said.

The defense is strong up the middle with the doubleplay combo of junior Samantha Klein at second base and junior shortstop Samantha Simon both returning. Azaria Vargas is slated to step in at third base, while Polirer will

be the regular first baseeman. More experience returns behind the platee with juniors Samantha Berger and Paige Freidman man me. once again vying for time.

Anchoring the outfield is junior Cora Travaglionee in center with freshman Kaitlyn Judd taking over in right ht and Maffucci handling left.

The lineup has a littlee bit of everything from the top on down where Maffucci wields her contact bat in the leadoff adoff spot. While Maffucci is a strong bunter and left-handed handed slap hitter, Klein has thee pering fect type of compact swing out the No. 2 hole.

Sydney Yormack

Schedule

BASEBALL March 30

@ New Hyde Park

31 MATT MA M ATT New GUILFOYLE GUI UILFOYLE U UI IHyde LFO Park LF

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April

Jon Hulkower

1 6 7 9 13 14 16 20 21 23

@ New Hyde Park Wantagh @ Wantagh Wantagh @ Jericho Jericho @ Jericho Sewanhaka @ Sewanhaka Sewanhaka

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May Simon, who’s developed into one of the Lady Cougars’ leaders, provides power as thee No. 3 hitter. She’s protected by y Travaglione, a power-hitting, left-handed cleanup hitter.

Polirer is likely to follow as the No. 5 hitter, while the combination of Berger and Friedman follows in the sixth spot with Yormack, Vargas and Judd coming up in the bottom third of the order.

The Lady Cougars are seeded fifth in the newly designed Conference AB-II, which includes Plainedge and d Floral Park.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 11 12 13

Garden City @ Garden City Garden City @ Carey Carey @ Carey

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 25 27

Jericho Locust Valley @ Oyster Bay

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 8 10 13 15 17 21 23 28 30

@ C.S. Harbor Wheatley @ Plainedge Wantagh Floral Park @ Jericho @ Locust Valley Oyster Bay C.S. Harbor @ Wheatley

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 7 9

Plainedge @ Wantagh @ Floral Park

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

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2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

LAWRENCE Golden Tornadoes aim to compete

T

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

he numbers are down but optimism is up for Lawrence, which will rely on its pitching to remain competitive against a similarly looking Conference A-III that includes county runnerup North Shore.

“We’ve exhausted everything we can do in a gym, but every team is in the same boat,” coach Dennis Leonard said two weeks into practice.

“We’re eager to get going and compete. We have our share of seniors along with an influx of 12 freshmen in the program, including a few on varsity.”

Only three full-time starters return for the Golden Tornadoes, who take the field with heavy hearts this spring following the passing of JV coach Bob Carberry in December.

Senior James Notarnicola will be a key on the mound, behind the plate and at the dish, Leonard said. “He’s got a huge load to carry, especially at catcher,” he said. “He’s our No. 2 pitcher and No. 3 batter. He’s got a good command of the strike zone and gap power.”

Heading the rotation is senior Rich Gauthier, who’s around the plate and has great movement. He also handles the bat well and projects as the team’s No. 2 hitter.

“He’ll play somewhere in the infield on non-pitching days,” Leonard noted.

The last starting spot is up in the air, but not without candidates. Senior southpaw Chris Klein mixes pitches well and has two seasons of varsity experience under his belt. He can also play first base or center field, or contribute on the mound in relief.

Seniors Ryan Bae and Justin Kim are both hard-throwing 26 — April 2, 2015

right-handers and in the mix to start, relieve, and play on the left side of the infield.

Junior Vinny Amoroso and freshman Carlos Duran can also throw.

Senior Mario Borriello is back on the diamond after a two-year absence and has hit well in the cage, Leonard said.

He’ll likely start in the outfield. Junior Chris Rincon’s ability to play outfield, first base and pitch is a plus, and freshman Joe Amoroso is a talented young catcher.

Lady Golden Tornadoes on the rise Lawrence’s softball program has taken a considerable turn for the better in Tom Frawley’s short tenure as coach. Interest has spiked to the point where it has more than enough athletes to field a JV team for the first time since 2010.

“We’ve made tremendous progress,” Frawley said. “We have eight returning varsity players, which gives us a nicee core. We’re up to 31 kids in the program and it’s great to have the JV up and running.””

The Lady Golden Tornadoes registered seven wins last spring and will face Conference AB-IV rivals Mal-verne, Hewlett, North Shore, Lynbrook, Great Neck North,, Friends Academy, Great Neck South, and Roosevelt twice apiece this season.

“We’re blessed with depth and versatility,” Frawley said.

Senior pitcher Emily DiNardi has been a fixture in the program and enters her second year as a captain. “She’s an outstanding leader and a very competitive athlete,” Frawley said. “She’s got a good fastball, change, and curve, and she’s always around the plate.”

DiNardi is also a weapon at the plate and remains in the leadoff spot. Junior Gabby

Jan returns as DiNardi’s battery mate and will hit somewhere in thee der. middle of the order. que “Gabby’s technique improved a lot,” Frawley said. as expeThe infield has ners. rience at the corners.

Senior Brianna Curra ase and returns at first base ty bat brings a solid lefty to the No. 2 spot, while astriner senior Maxine Kastriner wields a strong glove at third. Candidatess to start clude up the middle include iela sophomore Graciela p, and Cruz at shortstop, a Notarsophomore Kayla nicola at second base.

The latter could also land ith sophin center field, with omore Danielle Portillo, who can handle third or econd. the outfield, at second.

James Notarnicola

Schedule BASEBALL

April 6

@ Floral Park

7 Park MATT MA M TTT Floral GUILFOYLE GUFloral 9AT @ Park 13 14 16 20 21 23 27 28 30

Glen Cove @ Glen Cove Glen Cove @ Lynbrook Lynbrook @ Lynbrook V.S. North @ V.S. North V.S. North

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Emily DiNardi Senior Stephanie Sedhom, who could give Jan a breatherr behind the plate, is a power bat and corner outfielder.

Senior Amaiya Wilks brings speed to the outfield and offense, and junior Natalie Kenny serves as the backup pitcher and designated hitter.

Sophomores Kiara Stephens and Erika Kirchner bolster the depth in the outfield and infield.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

@ North Shore North Shore @ North Shore Bethpage @ Bethpage Bethpage

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 25 27 30

Malverne @ Roosevelt North Shore @ Hewlett

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 8 10 13 17 20 21 23 28 30

G.N. North @ Lynbrook G.N. South @ Friends Aca. @ Malverne Hewlett Roosevelt @ North Shore @ G.N. North Lynbrook

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

11:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 7

@ G.N. South Friends Aca.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

LONG BEACH Marines banking on leadership

I

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

n search of its third straight appearance in the Nassau Class AA baseball playoffs, Long Beach is leaning heavily on a strong senior group to lead the way this spring.

“It’s the most experienced roster we’ve had in five years,” Marines coach Jason Zizza said. “We have 10 seniors who played regularly last season. It’s a hard-working bunch and they’re thirsty to win. We’ve got some tough crossover games, and our conference isn’t any easier.”

Zizza said he’s looking for the Marines to break out of the gate as well as they did in 2014 when they won six of their first eight. They’ll play three-game sets against Conference AA-4 rivals Calhoun, Mepham and Herricks, and home-and-home crossover series’ against MacArthur, Valley Stream Central, Plainview and Port Washington.

Long Beach’s starting rotation is experienced and talented, led by senior Conor Lieberman. He had three wins and a 2.20 ERA last spring. Senior Andrew Klang, who like Lieberman keeps hitters off-balance by changing speeds, earned two victories with a 2.00 ERA and 31 strikeouts. They’ll be followed by hard-throwing junior Justin Rodriguez, who dominated at the JV level with seven wins and earned a promotion to varsity late in the campaign.

“Pitching is going to be a strength,” said Zizza, who plans to use starting shortstop Amarali Kahn as the closer.

Kahn, a senior, earned All-Conference honors and ranked among the team leaders in average (.333), hits (24) TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

and RBIs (16.) Rodriguez will handle the hot corner on nonpitching days. Senior Eric Zeppa (.366 average) was the primary catcher a year ago but will also see time at first and third, with senior Tim Brosnan getting work behind the plate. Injuries limited Brosnan, who hit .480, to 10 games last season. Senior Stephen Richards returns to second base after missing 2014.

Klang and fellow seniors Andrew Luisi and Michael Bitetto comprise the starting outfield. Luisi and Bitetto cover lots of real estate in center and right, respectively, Zizza said, and can do damage on the bases.

Lady Marines bring lots of potential All eyes will be on the Larsons—Kelsey and Tonianne— as the Lady Marines aim to compete in the new-look Conference AA-1 after finishing 8-12 overall, including a split of playoff games, in 2014.

Senior shortstop Kelsey Larson, coming off an AllState campaign, could make school history. “We’ve never had a four-time All-County player,” coach Carmine Verdee said. “If Kelsey does what she’s always done, she’ll be the first.” Larson batted .435 with six homers and 24 RBIs on the way to earning a third straight All-County award.

“The ball jumps off her bat, d and she has a strong arm and range,” Verde said.

Tonianne Larson, a sophomore, takes over in the pitching circle after serving as Long Beach’s starting center fielder last season. She threw four non-league games, winning three. “Taking over full-time is going to be a challenge, but she’s a hard thrower with a better command of her pitches,” Verde said. “The key is going to be staying ahead of hitters.”

hman catcher MerFreshman agan returns after edith Fagan g all 20 games behind starting e. “She did a nice the plate. rde said. Sophomore job,” Verde a Angst is up from JV Amanda and willl compete for playing time. dition to Kelsey, the In addition infield defense also returns senior Marissa Scandole nd base. “She’s a at second strong defensive player pray hitter,” and a spray aid. At first Verde said. nior Rachel base, senior Brennerr takes over ending most after spending of last year as the ted hitter. A designated enner came up lefty, Brenner he dish with a big at the rage and 18 .370 average reshman RBIs. Freshman Paulina Cardona kely starter at third is the likely er seeing action in base after ozen games. Senior a half-dozen Alexis Farina can contribute at either corner spot.

Kelsey Larson

Schedule BASEBALL April 6 7 9 13 14 16 20 21 27 28 30

V.S. Central 10:30 a.m. @ V.S. Central 10:30 a.m.

MacArthur 10:30 a.m. @ MacArthur 4:45 p.m.

Plainview 4:30 p.m. @ Plainview 4:45 p.m.

Port Washington 4:45 p.m. @ Port Washington 4:45 p.m. @ Calhoun 4:45 p.m.

Calhoun 4:30 p.m. @ Calhoun 4:45 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Mepham @ Mepham Mepham Herricks @ Herricks Herricks

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

SOFTBALL March Amarali Kahn

24 26 28 31

Syosset @ Mepham Calhoun Oceanside

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

April The outfield is minus Tonianne but boasts plenty off depth. Junior Kirsthie Rodriguez is a returning starter who can play right or left.

Eighth-grader Grace Rosenberg’s speed makes her a candidate in center, and seniors Jen Hurst, Emma Rovitz, Lily Hornung, and Laneisha McNair are also in the mix.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

7 9 11 14 16 20 22 24 27 29

@ Hicksville Plainview @ East Meadow Massapequa @ MacArthur @ Syosset Mepham @ Calhoun @ Oceanside Hicksville

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

1 4 6 8

@ Plainview East Meadow @ Massapequa MacArthur

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Photos by Peter Frutkoff

April 2, 2015 — 27

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

LYNBROOK Owls field an interesting mix ix

Y

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

oung in a lot of areas, the Owls will lean heavily on three returning starters to show the way in the early going. The team won 13 games last spring, including a playoff upset victory over Mineola.

“If we limit the kinds of mistakes a young team makes, we can win our share of games,” coach Al Marrazzo said. “Pitching is a question mark, but we’ve got some candidates. We have talented young players who haven’t competed at this level, so we’ll see how it goes.”

Seniors Luke Aprile, Nick Roepken and Frank Candreva are Lynbrook’s bread-andbutter and start at shortstop, catcher, and center field, respectively.

Aprile, who is headed to Hofstra, comes off an All-County campaign. He hit .429 with 31 stolen bases and 12 RBIs. “He can change the dynamic of a game with his speed,” Marrazzo said of his likely leadoff batter. “He always has the green light.”

Roepken ripped the cover off the ball last year, compiling a .476 average with 29 RBIs on the way to earning All-County honors. He’ll be back behind the plate twice a week and serve as the Owls’ No. 3 starter in the rotation.

“He’s an absolute beast with the bat, but we also need some innings out of him,” Marrazzo said.

Candreva is another important piece to the puzzle since he’s equally solid offensively (.350 average) and defensively. He was named All-League in 2014 and heads a deep outfield that includes sophomore Tommy Sullivan and juniors Brad Cooper and Tony Neal.

Of the starting pitching 28 — April 2, 2015

candidates, sophomore Dom Sinopoli could also see action as an outfielder. Sinopoli, junior Tyler Garnett and seniors Mike Mallon and Dylan Barrison will get an opportunity to be part of the rotation. Mallon, Barrison and senior Ryan Coughlin could all play first, as could sophomore Justin Baeynes, who will be Mr. Utility, Marrazzo said.

Sophomore Nick Tuzzio has big upside, the coach noted, and will work at second base along with junior Justin Tucker. Senior James Hall is ultra-reliable at third.

Infield to lead Lady Owls The Lady Owls are unveiling a new pitcher and outfield, but coach Pete Toscano is expecting them to compete for the conference top spot like last season when they finished runner-up to Valley Stream South.

“We’re comfortable in this conference,” he said. “We’re up against a lot of the teams we faced last year. We’ve got an experienced infield and a young pitcher who’s already g shown nothing is really going to rattle her.”

Freshman pitcher Julianne Graepel makes the steep jump from the Junior High level to the varsity circle, and she brings four different offerings and good command, Toscano said.

“She’s still developing but has all the tools,” he said.

“She has the mental toughness it takes to be a successful pitcher. She’s also a linedrive hitter.”

Graepel’s transition has been made easier by the presence of junior catcher Liz DiCarmine, the team’s clean-up hitter. The battery works together in travel ball, Toscano said, and has good chemistry.

Last year’s pitcher, junior

mily Gagliardo, Emily is part of a rebuilt utfield that outfield ncludes senior includes omina RileyRomina uarez, who Suarez, moved rom from econd second ase, base, nd and

junior Claire Reilly, who comes off a strong year for the JV. The infield is Lynbrook’s biggest strength, and should be again next spring since none of the starters will graduate. Junior shortstop Kacie Curran excels with the glove and bat, Toscano said.

“She’s a five-tool player,” he said. “She’s great defensively and hits for both power and average.”

Luke Aprile

both Ostroff and Pipia into the lineup, one as the designated hitter.

The Lady Owls face Malverne, Hewlett, North Shore, Great Neck North, Friends Academy, Great Neck South, Lawrence and Roosevelt twice apiece.

Schedule BASEBALL March 30 V.S. North MATT GUILFOYLE 31

@ V.S. North

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 6 7 9 13 14 16 20 21 23 27 28 30

@ V.S. North @ Bethpage Bethpage Bethpage Floral Park @ Floral Park Floral Park Lawrence @ Lawrence Lawrence Glen Cove @ Glen Cove Glen Cove

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 11 12 13

Kacie Curran Curran is the likely No. 2 batter and will be followed by junior Georgia Krendel, who at 6-foot is a nice target at first base. Junior Katherinee Cusack brings a strong arm and a good deal of experience to third base, while freshmen Lindsay Ostroff and Olivia d Pipia will see action at second base in place of Riley-Suarez.

Toscano said he plans to get

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

@ North Shore North Shore @ North Shore

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 27 30

@ G.N. North @ G.N. South Friends Aca.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m

April 1 8 10 13 15 17 23 25 28 30

@ Roosevelt Lawrence @ Hewlett Malverne North Shore G.N. North G.N. South @ Friends Aca. Roosevelt @ Lawrence

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 7 9

Hewlett @ Malverne @ North Shore

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

758997

April 2, 2015 — 29

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

MacARTHUR Newcomers to help lead Generals Jared Wolfe was one of the top hitters on JV last season and will likely fill one of the infield spots. Wolfe’s classacArthur graduated mate Justin Norcini is also key talent from last expected to contribute on varyear’s 16-6 baseball sity after playing third base team and began practice with and pitcher on JV a year ago. plenty of competition for mulCostello expects Masstiple open positions. apequa and East Meadow to The Generals return just be tough contenders in Class three everyday starters from AA, but the Generals are a team that reached the Nasshooting high. sau Class AA quarterfinals “We can win the county before falling to East Meadow, championship,” he said. but also brings in players “From day one we have made from an undefeated JV ready that our goal.” to take their game up a level.

Lady Generals in “There is very strong competition,” said MacArthur head wide-open race coach Steve Costello. “We The 2014 MacArthur have a lot of open positions.” softball season ended in The biggest graduation heartbreak, but seven startloss for MacArthur was pitch- ers return looking to create a er Adam Heidenfelder, who is happier ending. pitching at Hofstra. Looking The Lady Generals went to fill Heidenfelder’s No. 1 8-7 in the regular season spot is senior Nick Mannabefore falling to Massapequa rino, who went 5-1 with a 0.83 6-5 in the Nassau County earned run average in 2014.

Class AA quarterfinals with “He’s an ace,” said Costello the winning run on second of the Concordia Collegen base. With six seniors back in bound Mannarino. “We will the fold, including four startbuild our staff around him.” h ers, coach Bobby Fehrenbach Senior Jack Wall is slated o sees MacArthur being able to to be the No. 2 starter after make a run in a conference coming out of the bullpen as expected to be wide open. a junior. Sophomore Bobby “There is no dominant Lewis is in line to be No. 3 fol- pitcher in Class AA,” said lowing a freshman campaign Fehrenbach. “It’s anybody’s where he toed the rubber on game.” both varsity and JV. Senior pitcher Nicolette Among MacArthur’s Moustouka anchors MacArreturning field players is thur’s senior class and will bee junior catcher Vin Martino, o Generals ace. Moustouka also who earned All-Conference played center field and third honors last year. Senior base last year in addition to Brandon Kustak also returns being a pitching option. The for his third year starting in third-year starter will contincenter field and Brian Perez ue her career at Mount Saint helps patrol the middle field Mary College next year. at second base for his final Moustouka’s senior expeyear of high school baseball. rience on the mound is balAnother senior Costello is anced by rising freshman Jeslooking to add some offensive sica Budrewicz, who shined juice in 2015 is first baseman on the Salk Middle School Ryan Cunningham, who was team last year. Senior catcher injured at the start of last Amanda Rommel, who was year, but was batting third by starting catcher on JV as a the end of the season. Junior sophomore, will help lead the

M

BY ANDREW COEN

30 — April 2, 2015

ing pitching staff after sitting out last year. nt, Senior Sarah Dumont, d or who can play right field ome first base, smacked a home run last season againstt man Calhoun. Second baseman elder Kayci Haller and left fielder Jen Masessa are also ers. returning senior starters. ng Fehrenbach is looking rom for continued strides from sophomore Shannon Myles, who started at an third base as a freshman last year and has been on varsity since eighth p grade. Junior shortstop ps Jessica Lombardo helps lead the middle infield and o also adds some power to the lineup coming off a three-home run sophomore campaign. Juniorr Gabby DeNunzio is slated to start at first base.

Nicolette Moustouka

Schedule BASEBALL April 6 @ Calhoun 10:30 a.m.

7 Calhoun 10:30 a.m.

9 @ Long Beach 10:30 a.m.

13 Long Beach 4:45 p.m.

MATT GUILFOYLE GU UIILLF U FO OYLE 14 @ Herricks 4:30 p.m.

16 Herricks 4:45 p.m.

20 @ Mepham 4:30 p.m.

21 Mepham 4:30 p.m.

27 Port Washington 4:30 p.m.

28 @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m.

30 Port Washington 4:45 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Nick Mannarino Fehrenbach expects many A contending teams in Class AA including Oceanside, Long Beach, East Meadow, Massapequa, Syosset and Hicksville. He said team chemistry is very strong and that will help the Lady Generals with their march through the regular season and potential playoff run.

“They are a pleasure to work with,” Fehrenbach said.

“They are great kids.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

@ Plainview Plainview @ Plainview V.S. Central @ V.S. Central V.S. Central

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 24 26 28 31

@ Hicksville Plainview @ East Meadow Massapequa

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:15 p.m.

April 7 9 11 14 16 20 22 24 27 29

@ Oceanside @ Syosset Mepham @ Calhoun Long Beach Hicksville @ Plainview East Meadow @ Massapequa Oceanside

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 1 4 6 8

Syosset @ Mepham Calhoun @ Long Beach

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

MALVERNE Chemistry an asset for Mules

A

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

fter spending four years running Hempstead’s varsity program and another five leading Malverne’s JV, Joe Dunn takes over as the Mules’ varsity coach and inherits a tight-knit group.

“I coached all of these kids when they were in seventh and eighth grade,” Dunn said.

“They’re good friends off the field and have experience on the field. I think we’ll be improved even though the schedule is tough.”

With the exception of one spot in the pitching rotation, which could be handled by committee, and an outfield role, Dunn said Malverne’s lineup is set. The Mules will play three-game sets against Carle Place, East Rockaway, Oyster Bay, Wheatey and Cold Spring Harbor.

Senior Steven Berry will lead the staff and batting order. Dunn said he features a fastball in the 80s and continues to develop a change-up.

“He has good control and keeps the ball down,” Dunn said. On non-throwing days, Berry, who sets the table from the leadoff spot, will be at shortstop and third base.

Junior Mark Mendez or senior Brendan O’Reilly will follow Berry in the batting order. Mendez, a fourth-year member of the varsity who batted .300 a year ago, can play shortstop, third base, left field and pitch. “He’s got a really good arm,” Dunn said of Mendez. O’Reilly is a speedy outfielder who worked hard on his swing during the offseason.

Senior Kyle Richard is the Mules’ biggest offensive weapon. He hit close to .400 last spring and brings power and speed. He’ll play third or first, and bat in a run-producTO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

ing spot. “Kyle’s a great athlete,” Dunn said. Senior Zach Lonardo has a solid glove at first and can drive a ball, and junior Ramzees Kennedy is up from the JV and has quick hands at second base.

Senior catcher Wyatt Michaels is a three-year starter with tremendous defensive skills. Freshman Alex Berry, a varsity returnee, will take the mound in the first or second game of each series and has great location for a young hurler, Dunn said.

Seniors set tone for Lady Mules A senior-laden Malverne softball team has high hopes for 2015 after compiling an 8-4 record in conference games a year ago. Its chances of challenging for the new-look Conference AB-IV top spot rest heavily on the arm of senior Sydney Witowski, a fixture in the pitching circle for the Lady Mules since 2011.

“We’ve got a lot of returning players and they know the fundamentals of the game,” coach Jennifer Gibbons said. “It’s a large senior o group, but we’re also going to need some young players to contribute if we’re going to challenge for first place.”

Gibbons said Witowski is seeking a big finish to her high school career. She earned All-Conference honors in 2014, and in addition to shutting down opponents she’s also one of Malverne’s best hitters. “Sydney’s confidence has grown each year,” Gibbons said. “She’s added more pitches and throws hard. Hopefully we can help her go out on a high note.”

Witowski isn’t the only senior with thoughts of winning. Kym Danns, who is likely to start at shortstop, is quick and has a strong arm.

Michelle Kratz will handle third base and is a key to the lineup as the No. 2 batter

nd in front of Witowski and behind another senior, Courtney Moore. The rts speedy Moore, who starts y can at second base, not only o has beat out a bunt but also ourtsome pop in the bat. “Courtck,” ney’s unbelievably quick,” ok Gibbons said. “We’ll look for her to get the offensee started.”

The infield also features sophomore Chris-ntina Sangeniti, the cleanup batter and primary first baseman. Sangeniti is also the backup pitcher and will give Witowski a break at times, Gibbons noted.

Eighth-grader Alex Delligati returns at catcher and continues to show a lot of progress, the coach uracy said. Her throwing accuracy at is a is improved, and her bat livia weapon. Sophomore Olivia rtstop Quaranto can play shortstop and second base.

Kyle Richard

Schedule BASEBALL

MATT GUILFOYLE

April

13 14 16 20 21 23 27 28 30

@ Carle Place Carle Place @ Carle Place East Rockaway @ East Rockaway East Rockaway @ Oyster Bay Oyster Bay @ Oyster Bay

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Wheatley @ Wheatley Wheatley C.S. Harbor @ C.S. Harbor C.S. Harbor

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

SOFTBALL March Sydney Witowski

23 25 30

@ Lawrence G.N. South Roosevelt

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April The outfield is deep with seniors Faith Adeyeye and Michelle Abiola, and sophomores Michela Fibleul and Anna Nosworthy. The latter is the team’s only left-handed hitter.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

1 8 10 13 15 17 21 25 28 30

North Shore @ Hewlett G.N. North @ Lynbrook @ Friends Aca. Lawrence @ G.N. South @ Roosevelt @ North Shore Hewlett

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 7 9

@ G.N. North Lynbrook Friends Aca.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

April 2, 2015 — 31

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

MEPHAM Pirates revamp off big season

M

BY STEVE SINISKI

epham pulled no punches last season, in fact, the Pirates dished out plenty of punishment on the diamond en route to a 15-1 mark in conference play and the No. 1 overall seed in the Class AA baseball playoff tournament.

But the Pirates will have a slightly different look this spring as they replace seven senior starters from a team that fell in the quarterfinals of the playoffs. “We’re very excited,” coach Bill Murphy said. “This is a team-oriented group and they look to win as a team. They realize to be successful and make the jump they have to work as a team to get it done.”

Providing a jump at the top of the lineup is senior center fielder John Breden, who hit a healthy .429 out of the leadoff spot and also led Mepham with 14 stolen bases in 14 attempts. “We return 12 seniors who had playing time and the core group of veterans has experience,” Murphy said.

Following Breeden’s lead will be senior Seamus Kirby, a returning All-League first basemen, and pair of returning catchers—seniors Brandon Kiefer and Joe Bellairs—who both are also able to handle the hot corner when they aren’t behind the dish.

Senior Tom Muraca is back to man one of the middle infield slots after hitting better than .400. The middle of the lineup will be anchored by a pair of returning senior designated hitters, Jimmy Kearney, a lefty with gap power, and Christian Bennett, who has pop from the right side.

“Last year we had a lot of power hitters this year we’re more contact and speed,” Murphy said.

32 — April 2, 2015

The outfield is rounded out by senior Bobby Appel, juniors Zach Egland and Ryan Connolly and sophomore Brian Porricielli, already entering his second varsity season.

The pitching staff has some new faces battling for time in the starting rotation, including senior righthanders Jake Frenchman and Sal Monello and senior lefties Chenzo Worgul and Tom White. Monello and White bring some heat, while Frenchman, a third-year varsity player, and Worgul have great movement on their pitches.

Lady Pirates are strong up the middle The Lady Pirates are looking to extend their string of back-to-back appearances in the semifinal round of the Nassau County Class AA softball playoffs with a mostly veteran roster. “They’ve been there and played in pressure games,” coach Mike Muscara said. “They know what they’re expected to do [at the varsity level] and every day iss a good, challenging game.”

The strength of the team lies up the middle, where it returns senior center fielder Katie Grodski, an All-County y Honorable Mention, who willl set the tone at the top of the order and on defense. “Katie covers a lot of ground,” Muscara said. “She’s got a good arm and good speed. She’s a good hitter that can also steall bases.

Senior shortstop Ashley Boscarino is one of the anchors up the middle of the infield. At second base, Mepham welcomes back senior Alexa Morris, a threeyear starter and All-Conference honoree, while Nicole Moccio, also a three-year starter and All-Conference honoree, returns at first

base. “Our defense is very good and we’re strong up the middle,” Muscara said.

The biggest change for the Lady Pirates comes in the circle, where senior Alexa Boscarino rino takes over as the acee of fter the pitching staff. After helping lead the JV team to an undefeated campaign mpaign arino as a freshman, Boscarino waited behind one of the best pitchers in Nassau sau County for two seasons and nd was perfect in three decisions sions as a sophomore. Now, Boscarino gets her chance at the he varsity level. “She’s not overpowerrpowery fast and ing but she’s sneaky hits her spots,” Muscara cara said. rti, Senior Nicole Aliberti, another of Mepham’s m’s threeyear varsity players and All-Conference honorees, is back behind the plate and willl provide a steadying influence for Boscarino and a solid bat in the lineup.

Katie Grodski

Schedule BASEBALL April 6 7

Plainview @ Plainview

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m. @ V.S. Central 4:30 p.m.

Port Washington 4:45 p.m. @ Port Washington 4:45 p.m.

MacArthur 4:30 p.m. @ MacArthur 4:45 p.m.

Herricks 4:45 p.m. @ Herricks 4:30 p.m.

Herricks 4:45 p.m.

MATT GUILFOYLE 9 V.S. Central 13 14 16 20 21 27 28 30

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

@ Long Beach Long Beach @ Long Beach Calhoun @ Calhoun Calhoun

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 24 26 28 31

@ Calhoun Long Beach @ Hicksville Plainview

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

April John Breeden “It [always comes down] to timely hitting and good defense,” said Muscara, whose team is seeded sixth.

“We’re not a power hitting team, but we never were. We have to hit as a team. If we hit, I think we’ll be alright.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

7 11 14 16 17 20 22 24 27 29

@ East Meadow @ MacArthur Syosset @ Oceanside Massapequa Calhoun @ Long Beach Hicksville @ Plainview East Meadow

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May 1 4 6 8

@ Massapequa MacArthur @ Syosset Oceanside

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

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April 2, 2015 — 33

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

OCEANSIDE Pitching puzzle a key for Sailors

O

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

ceanside brushed off a .500 regular season to reach the Nassau Class AA baseball championship series last spring. However, the Sailors, who allowed four runs in five playoff victories, lost nine players, including six members of the pitching staff.

“We’re experienced defensively and I’ve got a good idea of where kids will fit in the lineup,” coach Mike Postilio said. “The key element is getting the pitching to come together. Replacing a whole staff is difficult.”

Junior shortstop Kyle Martin, the Conference I Player of the Year in 2014, appears likely to join the starting rotation. Martin, also an AllCounty selection, batted .425 with five homers and 24 RBIs. “He’s a five-tool player that’s going to lead the way for us,” Postilio said. “He’s got size, power, speed and a great arm.

He’s probably going to pitch once a week.”

Including returning senior catcher John Condon, the infield remains intact with the exception of second base where either junior Brandy Diaz could move from right field, or junior Mike Pagona will land. The experience behind the plate of Condon, an All-League selection with a .347 batting average, is a plus, Postilio said. “John has gotten better defensively every year,” the coach noted. “We’ll try to give him a break here and there. He’s also a spray hitter with a great eye.”

Senior Morgan McCarthy returns at third base and figures to bat in the middle of the order. He had 12 RBIs a year ago. Senior Mike Siklas takes over at first full-time after playing a utility role last season while batting .292.

34 — April 2, 2015

Junior Jake Spielberg will also contribute.

The outfield revolves around junior Nick Vlahakis in center. He’s strong defensively and will help set the offensive table from the leadoff or No. 2 spot, Postilio said.

Senior Brian DiDominica works in left.

Senior southpaws Paul Corr and Matt Ferraro are vying for starting jobs on the mound. Both feature a good fastball and change-up.

Pagona, junior Chris Macca, sophomore Max Jennings and freshman Dylan Judd are additional arms.

High hopes for topseeded Lady Sailors In search of their first county softball championship since 2008, the Lady Sailors are the preseason No. 1 after going 17-7 and finishing Classs AA runners-up to eventual w state champion East Meadow last spring.

“It’s a good pressure for us,” Oceanside coach Joe Supple said of the top seed.

“We had a great run last yearr o and the girls are willing to do whatever it takes to get back to the finals and win it this time.”

For the Lady Sailors, it all starts at the top of the order with senior shortstop Claire McNamara, who can put her-self in rare company with a fourth consecutive All-County season. In 2014, she batted .444 with 34 runs scored and 27 knocked in. “Claire has potential to be in the running for Nassau Player of the Year honors,” Supple said. “She’s just a tremendous all-around player.”

Senior Megan McNamara, Claire’s twin sister, also comes off an All-County campaign after two All-Conference selections. Megan, the No. 2 or 3 hitter and starting center fielder, hit .436 with 27 runs and 24 RBIs. “She’s

got great bat control and chases down everything in the outfield,” Supple said.

Occasionally, Megan could see time behind the plate to give junior catcher Grace Bandini, who was injured most of last season, a breather. Bandini is a terrific receiver and hits well to the opposite field.

Junior Taylor Eisen returns at second base and flashes a reliable glove and arm, Supple said.

She’s expected to provide pop in the middle of the lineup. Junior Samantha Colten takes over at third base, and whoever’s not pitching between junior Elizabeth Campo and sophomore Sabrina Seeger is likely to be at first.

Kyle Martin

Schedule BASEBALL April 6 7

Freeport @ Freeport

MATT GUILFOYLE GUIL GUILFOY FOYLLE 9 Farmingdale 13 14 16 20 21 27 28 30

@ Farmingdale Massapequa @ Massapequa Syosset @ Syosset @ East Meadow East Meadow @ East Meadow

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Megan McNamara Campo earned All-Conference honors last spring and works down in the zone well. She features a fastball, drop and change-up. Seeger has “outstanding potential,” Supple said, and got a taste of varsity a year ago.

In addition to Megan McNamara, seniors Priscilla Perez and Brittany Teman bring starting experience to the outfield. Junior Risa Zucker adds speed and defense to the position.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 11 12 13

Baldwin @ Baldwin Baldwin @ Hicksville Hicksville @ Hicksville

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 24 26 28 31

East Meadow @ Calhoun Massapequa @ Long Beach

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 7 9 11 14 16 17 20 22 24 27 29

MacArthur @ Hicksville Syosset @ Plainview Mepham Hicksville @ East Meadow Calhoun @ Massapequa Long Beach @ MacArthur

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 4 6 8

@ Syosset Plainview @ Mepham

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Victoria Lodi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

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For more information on the Center for Advanced Orthopedics, the Shoulder Center, or the Long Island Joint Replacement Institute, call 1-877-SOUTH-NASSAU or visit www.southnassau.org.

April 2, 2015 — 35

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

SEAFORD Strong pitching to lead Vikings

S

BY ANDREW COEN

eaford baseball is christening a new grass infield surface for the 2015 season, but the return of an experienced senior battery will give the Vikings a familiar look.

Pitcher Lucas Hall and catcher Jake Doyle anchor a team looking to take the next step after falling in Class A semifinals the last two seasons. The college baseballbound duo, which will be lining up surrounded by a new grass field installed by The Landtech Group, have also set the example for the program in the classroom with Hall slated to pitch at Columbia and Doyle committed to play for Vassar.

“They handle the expectations very well,” coach Mike Milano said. “They have gotten better and better over four years.”

Senior 6-5 pitcher Mike Scully also helps bolster Seaford’s strong pitching staff after winning four games last year. Milano also has high hopes for 6-1 junior lefty Matt Pugliese, who excelled at the JV level in 2014.

Seaford graduated some key hitters from last year’s 14-11 team that fell to Division in the Class A semifinals.

The Vikings’ offense will get a boost however from Doyle, who hit a home run in a 10-6 win against rival Plainedge in the second round of the playoffs. Junior shortstop Keith McHugh also returns as starting shortshop after playing second base last season.

Milano is excited about the athletic ability of sophomore Andrew Cain, who can play outfield, third base and pitcher in addition to excelling with the bat. Junior Mike Perez shined on JV before coming up for the playoff run 36 — April 2, 2015

last year and in line to start at second base or center field.

Seaford competes in Conference A-IV this season with Island Trees, Mineola, Clarke, Locust Valley, Friends and Valley Stream South. Milano said if his team can make the 16-team Class A playoffs, solid pitching could set up the Vikings for another championship run.

“This conference is a bear when you reach the playoffs,” he said. “We’re hoping for another deep run.”

Lady Vikings poised for title run After winning the Conference A-II regular season title last year, Seaford softball moves to the top division in 2015 and appears poised to challenge for its first county championship since 2011.

Seaford earned its 12th straight playoff appearance last year and reached the Class A quarterfinals before falling 7-6 to eventual county runner-up Island Trees.

“We expect to be in the hunt at the end of the season,” said coach Rob Perpall, who has led the Lady Vikingss to three county titles and a Long Island championship in 2005. “We’re in a league y where we could beat anybody and lose to anybody.”

Seaford returns two ace pitchers from last year’s 12-8 team in sophomore Sophie Dandola and junior Ashley Casazza. Dandola has already verbally committed to play collegiate softball at Hofstra, while Casazza, an All-County selection as a sophomore, is planning to pitch for Division II power LIU Post. The tandem could make runs difficult to come by for opponents.

“I have a good one-two punch between Ashley and Sophie,” said Perpall of his college-bound pitchers.

ney Senior catcher Brittney Lazar will help lead the Lady Vikings’ pitching n staff in her third season starting behind the plate. Lazar joins right fielder Dakota Sccondiono and infielder Nicole Castagna as three seniors providing eam. leadership for a young team.

Seaford also returns some offensive punch looking to provide run support for Casaor zza and Dandola in junior shortstop Erin Russell, who lades earned All-County accolades imely last season with many timely hits. Russell is joined in the middle infield by junior le second baseman Danielle ng DiNapoli. Other returning junior starters include first di, baseman Amelia Cariddi, exa Jessica Fischetti and Alexa DiCapuo.

Sophie Dandola

Schedule

BASEBALL March 30 31

@ Island Trees Island Trees

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1

@ Island Trees

7 9 20 21 23 27 28 30

@ Mineola Mineola @ V.S. South V.S. South @ V.S. South Locust Valley @ Locust Valley Locust Valley

MATT GUILFOYLE 6 Mineola

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Lucas Hall Perpall said he has plenty n of depth going into the season which will be key going up against some of the top teams in the county in Conference A-1, including defending champion Carey. Perpall is also expecting contributions d from junior Jenna Norris and Alana Lazar.

“We have outstanding m kids,” said Perpall. “The team is really working hard.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

Clarke @ Clarke Clarke @ Friends Aca. Friends Aca. @ Friends Aca.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 25 27 30

@ Bethpage Mineola @ Glen Cove Garden City

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 8 10 13 15 17 21 23 24 28 30

@ Island Trees Clarke @ New Hyde Park Division @ Carey Bethpage @ Mineola Glen Cove @ Garden City Island Trees @ Clarke

4:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May 5 7 9

New Hyde Park @ Division Carey

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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Massapequa Park. NY 11762 Email: KCass@EXITpremiersells.com HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 2, 2015 — 37

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

SEWANHAKA Indians aim to for turnaround

S

BY ANDREW MCCLURE

truggles on defense made for a long spring for Sewanhaka baseball in 2014. Things won’t get easier for the Indians. Sewanhaka moves up to Conference A-I where it will face Carey, Bellmore JFK, New Hyde Park, Jericho, Wantagh, and Garden City.

Coach Mike Ryan knows his team can’t afford to give away outs. “We gave up way too many runs last year,” Ryan said. “We gave some of the stronger teams all they could handle, but errors ended up hurting us. I fully expect to be better than we were a year ago.”

Senior southpaw Mike Parasconda will hit leadoff and be one of Ryan’s top two pitchers. Parasconda, who will play center field when he’s not on the mound, is a fastball/curveball pitcher with lively hard stuff. When he gets on base, he generally steals at will.

Keeping things in the family, junior Nick Parasconda will also take the mound each week for the Indians. The younger of the two brothers throws hard and mixes in good breaking stuff. Nick Parasconda’s ability to play shortstop, first base, and the outfield provides Ryan with versatility. He’ll likely hit third for the Indians.

Juniors Vincent Gennarelli and Braveen Persuad, and senior Joe Morreale are battling for the third spot in the rotation. All three will see time on the mound. Persaud and Morreale will both see time at third base, while Gennarelli will play first base.

Junior catcher Niko Rullo returns for his third year with the varsity. Rullo, who hit .320 as a sophomore, is a solid defensive catcher with a 38 — April 2, 2015

strong arm. Ryan will pencil Rullo in at the clean-up spot.

The middle infield is comprised of senior second baseman Vincent Cangelosi and Nick Parasconda at shortstop. Sophomore Christopher Zunno will see plenty of time at short as well. Junior Vincent Balletta will play first base, catcher and DH. Senior left fielder Carlos Payano is a heady player who will likely hit second in the order. Junior Zack Reifschneider can play just about anywhere on the field.

usively hits exclusively from the left side. She can slap and hit horwith authority to all hen fields. When she he gets on, the ed fleet-footed leadoff hitter is a menace on the base paths.

Lady Indians going in right direction

Freshman Taylor Senhat is a big part of the present and future. Senhat will play shortstop and fill a spot in the middle of the order. Senior Jill Filippi has a terrific glove at the hot corner. Filippi should be a great fit behind Herrera in the batting order.

Senior catcher Amanda Mangru returns behind the plate. Mangru calls a good

After a rather difficult season, Sewanhaka softball coach Deirdre Kelly is hopeful that things are on the upswing. A starting pitcher with a year’s varsity experience, some key returnees, and strong numbers throughout the program are all reasons for optimism.

Sewanhaka expects to be much improved in Nassau Conference AB-III. Carle Place, West Hempstead, and o Valley Stream South figure to be among the stronger opponents it’ll face twice apiece.

While players come and go, Kelly knows that there aree a few constants in softball. “Itt always comes down to pitching and defense,” Kelly said.

“That never changes. We definitely need to be steadier n than we were last year. When we got good pitching, last sea-son, the defense didn’t help the cause.”

Sophomore pitcher Ally Rullo returns in the circle for Sewanhaka. Rullo progressed nicely as the year went along, and she should be stronger in her second year as the team’s top pitcher. Rullo hits left handed, and has pop.

Junior center fielder Jancarla Herrera is back for her fourth year with the varsity.

Herrera, a natural righty, now

Niko Rullo

Schedule

BASEBALL March 30

@ Carey

31 Carey MATT GUILFOYLE

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

April 1 6 7 9 20 21 23 27 28 30

@ Carey New Hyde Park @ New Hyde Park New Hyde Park @ Kennedy Kennedy @ Kennedy Wantagh @ Wantagh Wantagh

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

JanCarla Herrera game, and has a strong arm.

The Lady Indians will count on senior second baseman Melissa Corona’s bat for offensive production. Junior first baseman Kim Velsor rounds out the infield.

Senior Crystal Robasson handles left field duties, whilee juniors Samantha Soricelli and Jillian Dailey are vying for time in the outfield.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

Jericho @ Jericho Jericho @ Garden City Garden City @ Garden City

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 27 30

@ Manhasset @ V.S. North West Hempstead

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 8 10 13 15 17 23 25 28 30

@ V.S. South 4:30 p.m.

Roslyn 4:30 p.m. @ Carle Place 10:00 a.m.

South Side 4:30 p.m.

East Rockaway 4:30 p.m.

Manhasset 4:30 p.m.

V.S. North 4:30 p.m. @ West Hempstead 10:00 a.m.

V.S. South 4:30 p.m. @ Roslyn 4:30 p.m.

May 5 7 9

Carle Place @ South Side @ East Rockaway

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Peter Frutkoff

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

SOUTH SIDE Cyclones eager for playoff return batted almost .400 over the final nine games last season and will hit clean-up and start at third base. Avgerinos issing the Nassau is leading the depth chart Class A baseball play- at second, while senior Tom offs last spring didn’t Barbieri and junior Mike sit well with the Cyclones, Angelis may split time at first who are eager to get back on and designated hitter. the diamond following an 8-11 Smith is looking for the campaign. outfield to get a boost from “We have some work to do the return of junior Kyle because we’re in a very tough Shutkind, who was injured in conference, but we’ve got an 2014. Senior Vinny Frankini experienced pitching staff returns, and juniors Condon and good chemistry,” coach and Harrison Kravis are up Tom Smith said. “Talent-wise, from JV. we’re a playoff team.”

While nothing’s autoNew era for matic, South Side’s chances of reaching the win column Lady Cyclones when senior All-County ace With many years of JV Andrew Misiaszek tows the coaching experience under rubber will be quite high. her belt, Kristen Aksionoff In 2014, the lefty was lightstakes over the Lady Cyclones’ out with 62 strikeouts in 37 varsity this spring and inherinnings and compiled a 4-1 its a squad returning a handrecord with a 1.10 ERA. He ful of starters from last year’s allowed only 13 hits—all playoff team. singles. Misiaszek will take “It’s exciting,” she said. the mound for Northeastern “I’ve had the pleasure of next season. “His slider is coaching a lot of these girls devastating and his fastball is before.” consistently in the upper 80s,” Aksionoff kept 18 on the Smith said. roster, partly because South Senior Sal Miranda is a Side won’t be fielding a JV hard-throwing righthander team for 2015. “The girls will who will be part of the startbe able to grow together,” shee ing rotation after serving as said. “They’re all working a reliever during an injury hard. Hopefully we can get plagued 2014. “If he can give the JV back up and running us five innings every week, next year.” it’ll be big,” said Smith, who For the first time since expects senior Hayden Park 2010, the Lady Cyclones or junior TJ Avgerinos to be won’t have Sam Maselli in the No. 3 starter, and for Bren- the pitching circle. Freshdan Condon to also log some man Emma Wagner takes the innings. reigns and will benefit from Smith plans to use starting working with assistant coach shortstop Andy Pena in the Kelly Jansen, a former standcloser’s role. Pena, a senior, out at Molloy College. “We’ve is a switch-hitter who can set already seen growth in Emma the offensive table. Senior Joe over the first two weeks of Barrett returns behind the practice,” Aksionoff said. plate and has a strong com“She’s a focused athlete.” mand of the staff. He brings a Wagner also has one of the powerful lefty bat and erased top receivers in the county 43 percent of runners trying to work with. Senior catcher to steal.

Lia Stamile is a strong twoSenior Tom Mormondo way player who last spring

M

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

n earned Honorable Mention All-County honors. “Lia’s an absolute leader and one of es the hardest-working athletes off I’ve been around,” Aksionoff said.

Junior center fielder at Kaitlin Benincasa has great range and will set the tone at or the top of the lineup. Junior Victoria Boldis starts at first and brings speed to thee h offense, and junior Hannah Festa anchors the infield att shortstop.

Senior Katherine Scott returns at third, where freshman Stephanie Masotti could see action.

Seniors Sarah Buckley and Allison DeNicola, as well as sophomore Madelyn Ajello, are vying for time at second base.

Junior Emily LaCava and sophomore Erin Dooney will contribute in the outfield.

Lia Stamile

Schedule BASEBALL March 30 31

G.N. North @ G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April MATT GUILFOYLE 1 6 7 9 13 14 16 27 28 30

G.N. North Hewlett @ Hewlett Hewlett @ Roslyn Roslyn @ Roslyn @ Plainedge Plainedge @ Plainedge

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Andrew Miziaszek

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 25

Also new to the program is a full turf field—except for the batters’ boxes—with home plate facing the school unlike the previous setup.

“It’s beautiful,” Askionoff said.

South Side will play homeand-home against Conference AB-III rivals Carle Place, East Rockaway, Sewanhaka, Manhasset, West Hempstead, Roslyn, Valley Stream North, and Valley Stream South.

Manhasset @ Manhasset Manhasset @ Division Division @ Division

@ Roslyn V.S. North

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

April 1 6 8 10 13 15 17 21 25 28 30

East Rockaway 4:30 p.m.

V.S. South 11:00 a.m. @ Carle Place 10:00 a.m.

Manhasset 11:00 a.m. @ Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m. @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

Roslyn 4:30 p.m. @ V.S. North 4:30 p.m. @ V.S. South 1:30 p.m. @ East Rockaway 4:30 p.m.

Carle Place 5:00 p.m.

May 5 7 9

@ Manhasset Sewanhaka West Hempstead

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

Photos by Victoria Lodi

April 2, 2015 — 39

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

V.S. CENTRAL Eagles have playoff thoughts

W

BY ANDREW HACKMACK

hile the buzz will be around Vito Friscia, a core of seniors is expected to lead the Valley Stream Central baseball team to the playoffs this year.

Friscia, a standout catcher, is being looked at by Major League teams and coach Frank Alesia expects to see scouts at Central’s games.

“He’s pretty much the centerpiece,” Alesia said. “He’s going to be the heart of lineup.”

After moving behind the plate three years ago, Alesia said Friscia has become the top catcher on Long Island, cutting down the running game and working well with his pitchers.

Friscia will bat third in the lineup, and first baseman Mike Ciullo will be the cleanup hitter. Alesia said that the power-hitting Ciullo was the MVP of last year’s team.

Elijah Tavarez will be the regular shortstop and likely leadoff hitter. If he gets on base often, he will create a lot of RBI opportunities for Ciullo and Friscia.

Cain Ruiz, who finished strong after battling injuries early last year, will man second base and bring his gapto-gap bat the lineup. Contact hitter Tom Logan moves to center field to replace Joe Picillo, who tore is ACL during football season.

Picillo will be relegated to pitching in the first month of the season, and will likely be used in relief.

Senior Dan Egan is expected to be the ace of the staff. The big-framed pitcher has an awkward motion that deceives hitter. Tavarez follows in the rotation, with juniors Logan, Will DeLuca and Justin Crisostano vying for the third spot.

40 — April 2, 2015

This year’s motto for the Eagles is “Baseball is not our problem.” The talent is there, Alesia says. The key to success is jelling.

Alesia said this is one of the most balanced teams he has ever coached with a solid lineup, good pitching and a strong bench. “I think we’ve got a little piece of everything that we need,” he said. “I’ve got a little depth.”

This will also be the 25th and final season for assistant coach Tony Lombardo.

Seniors to carry Lady Eagles When Central softball coach Artie Riccio writes out his lineup card, there will be six seniors listed. It’s one the most veteran teams he’s coached in his 14 years leading the Lady Eagles.

Much of the team’s success will rest on the arm of Tiffany Longarzo, who is expected to pitch a majority of innings. In the offseason, she added a screwball to her repertoire. “I think she’s going to have more strikeoutss this year,” Riccio said.

Longarzo also hits for power and average, and will bat third. Fastball and changeup pitcher Kimberly Contreras will also see some time on the mound, but will mostly play outfield.

Senior Amanda Picillo will be behind the plate, and her good arm will help deter base stealers. She brings her highaverage bat the lineup, and calls a good game, Riccio said.

Randi Ruderman, the shortstop, is the captain of the infield. With her ability to make contact, she will hit second in the order. Jasmine Garden moved to third base last year, and Riccio said she does anything to help the team. “She can play,” he said.

“She’s got a good arm, a good stick.”

Kayla Dietrich, who has

great speed and m, a great arm, according to ll patrol center Riccio, will field. ing out the likely Rounding re juniors Jennifer starters are Dignam, Alyssa Picillo and hnasen. Dignam will Laura Johnasen. be in left field, with Picillo, er sister of the the younger cher, at second team’s catcher, nasen will work base. Johnasen se. at first base. ggest strength The biggest m its hitting of the team prowess, according to the coach. “Every batt,” he said. ter can hit,” hink I have “I don’t think ot in my a weak spot lineup.”

Elijah Tavarez

Schedule BASEBALL April 6 7

@ Long Beach Long Beach

Mepham MATT MA M A9TT TT @ GUILFOYLE GU UI ILF LFO OYYLLEE 13 14 16 20 21 27 28 30

Mepham @ Calhoun Calhoun @ Herricks Herricks Plainview @ Plainview Plainview

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May Tiffany Longarzo

Several underclassmen will round out the bench, and they will use the season as a learning opportunity to step into key roles next year.

A playoff berth is the goal for the Lady Eagles, who are seeded fifth in Conference A-II. Riccio said the team has a very competitive schedule, and the toughest opponents will be Baldwin, Farmingdale and Herricks.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 11 12 13

@ Port Washington Port Washington @ Port Washington @ MacArthur MacArthur @ MacArthur

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 24 26 28 31

@ Elmont 4:30 p.m.

Farmingdale 4:30 p.m. @ Baldwin 10:00 a.m. @ Port Washington 4:45 p.m.

April 7 9 11 14 16 20 22 24 27 29

Herricks @ Freeport Uniondale @ Westbury Hempstead Elmont @ Farmingdale Baldwin Port Washington @ Herricks

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 1 4 6 8

Freeport @ Uniondale Westbury @ Hempstead

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

516.377.1801 VALBROOK BASEBALL CAMPS ARE COMING TO MERRICK

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 2, 2015 — 41

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

V.S. NORTH Spartans have bigger plans

T

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

he Spartans are looking to take care of some unfinished business in the Nassau Class A baseball tournament. They made a deep run in 2013 but were unable to win a playoff game last spring after notching a dozen regular-season victories.

“We’ve got a lot of returning players and a strong senior class,” coach Phil Sanfilippo said. “We want to get back to the playoffs and make some noise. We’re coming off a nice season that didn’t end on a great note.”

Valley Stream North competes in Conference AB-3 along with last year’s Class A runner-up North Shore, Floral Park, Lynbrook, Bethpage, Glen Cove and Lawrence. “We didn’t play any of those teams last season,” Sanfilippo said.

“I’m expecting all competitive games.”

The return to health of senior pitcher Julio Lizardo is an important item for North.

He went 3-0 on the mound in 2014 but was limited down the stretch by elbow soreness.

“He’s an ace and looks good to go,” Sanfilippo said. “He threw some gems last year.”

Lizardo will also start at second base.

Senior TJ Magno is the offensive sparkplug and another member of the starting rotation. He mostly served as the starting third baseman and closer last spring.

He batted .444 and earned All-County honors. “He’s a complete two-way player and one of the fastest kids in the county,” Sanfilippo said.

When Magno pitches, senior Mike McGreevy can handle the hot corner.

Sophomores John Calouri and Nick Cassatelli will each get some innings and one 42 — April 2, 2015

should emerge as the No. 3 starter, the coach said. They will also contribute with the bat.

The outfield is solid with junior power hitter Matt Cosme (.417 average, teamleading 17 RBIs), who earned All-Conference honors, and senior speedsters Brian Carroll and Vin Boccia.

Senior Joe Ruscillo has good hands at first base, and senior Pat McGreevy anchors the infield from shortstop and is a line-drive hitter. Behind the plate, senior Mike Challice is a tremendous defender who can erase runners on the base paths.

Lady Spartans set lofty goals A year after missing the Nassau Class A softball playoffs, Valley Stream North’s outlook to return to the postseason is a good one with all but three players returning.

“The goal is to win the conference; that’s what we’re focusing on,” coach Dave Aguado said. “We have higher expectations with the experience we’re bringing back. We’re working as much h as we can on offense because last year we struggled to score at times.”

Sophomore Sam Estupinian had no trouble getting thee bat going in 2014, finishing with a .400 average on the way to earning All-Conference honors. She’s a switch-hitting shortstop who can hit for power and boasts a strong throwing arm. “She’s consistent from both sides of the plate,” Aguado said.

Senior Kalee Naraine, the leadoff hitter, enters her third year on varsity. She worked about 60 percent of the innings in the pitching circle last spring and may do so again. When she’s not throwing strikes, Naraine will be in left field. “She’s very fast on the bases,” Aguado said.

Sophomore Kelly Kroez is North’ss other pitcher, having handled the other er 40 percent of thee workload, Aguado do said. She also plays ays third base and iss a hard, accurate thrower. hrower.

Kroez batted .3500 last season.

The return off junior eehan catcher Tara Meehan is a key, Aguado said.

“She’s a great vocal ocal lleader and excellent at blocking the ball and stopping runners from stealing,” Aguado said.

Sam Estupinian

Schedule BASEBALL March 30 @ Lynbrook MATT GUILFOYLE 31 Lynbrook

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April

TJ Magno

1 6 7 9 13 14 16 20 21 23 27 28 30

@ Lynbrook North Shore @ North Shore North Shore Bethpage @ Bethpage Bethpage @ Floral Park Floral Park @ Floral Park @ Lawrence Lawrence @ Lawrence

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May Selina Patti, a junior, is a steady offensive and defensive contributor slated to bat in the No. 2 hole. Freshman Laila Brosman is likely to start at first base and hit in the middle of the order, and she’s also capable of giving Meehan a breather behind the plate.

In the outfield, senior Tori Dugan is a returning starter in right, and junior Danielle Iorlano takes over in center.

The revamped county alignment has the Lady Spartans in the nine-team Conference AB-III.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7

@ Glen Cove Glen Cove @ Glen Cove

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 23 25 27 30

Carle Place @ South Side Sewanhaka @ East Rockaway

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 8 10 15 18 21 23 25 28 30

West Hempstead @ Manhasset @ Roslyn V.S. South @ Carle Place South Side @ Sewanhaka East Rockaway @ West Hempstead Manhasset

4:30 p.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 9

Roslyn @ V.S. South

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

Photos by Victoria Lodi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2015 HERALD High School Baseball aseball / Softball Preview

V.S. SOUTH Falcons seek return to playoffs

C

BY TONY BELLISSIMO

oming off a nine-win season, including an elimination playoff game victory over its crosstown rival, Valley Stream South has its work cut out in a competitive Conference AB-4 that includes Clarke, Island Trees, Seaford, Mineola, Locust Valley, and Friends Academy.

“It should be a balanced conference,” Falcons coach Ken Ward said. “We’re going up against a lot of good teams, but we’re confident in our chances to finish in the top three and get back to the playoffs.”

An experienced starting pitching staff should help South’s chances. Senior Tyler Gil is the ace, coming off a 3-3 campaign, and a five-tool player. “He can run, hit and throw,” Ward said. “He’s a hard-throwing kid and mixes in the curve.” Gil, who also patrols center field, batted .355 with 11 stolen bases and 10 RBIs. Louis Dono worked 27 innings and struck out 17 batters as a freshman last season. He also batted .350 and plays catcher and first base.

“He’s an excellent hitter and throws pretty hard,” Ward said.

Junior Brian Donnelly features a curve and a strong breaking ball, and is expected to throw more than the 14 innings he worked in 2014.

He also plays first base and batted .339 and knocked in 11 runs. “He can do some damage on the mound and at the plate,” Ward said. The ace of the JV staff last spring, sophomore Michael Charles could be a spot starter or lead the bullpen. He’ll start at second base when he’s not towing the rubber.

Sophomore Chris Hess TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

ht most of the time last caught season on and will be behind the plate for the majority of games es again. The infield is anchored hored by senior shortstop ino Sorbara, a .300-plus Marino leadoff off hitter. Senior Garrett Pagonas onas is a steady at the hot er. corner.

The he outfield has the speedy Gil flanked lanked by senior James non (.333, three homers, Cannon 16 RBIs) BIs) in right and senior an Stokes in left. Gil, CanStefan non and Donnelly are likely to comprise the meat of the order.

ing probable No. 3 and 4 hitters Katie Shields (third base) and Victoria Martucciello (first), respectively. Shields, a junior, is a tremendous all-around athlete and two-way player, Adrahtas

said, while Martucciello, also a junior, is primed to emerge as a power hitter.

Senior Jen Schooch returns at second base and not only handles all the routine plays in the field, she’s a key to the offense with speed and a good eye at the plate. At shortstop, either Taylor Santiago, coming off a strong year at the JV

Tyler Gil

Lady Falcons ready for new challenge After peaking at the perfect time last season and mcapturing a conference championship, the Lady Falcons will look to hold their own against a new group of foes that includes neighboring Valley Stream North, South Side and Carle Place.

“We’re excited for the challenge,” coach Demetri Adrahtas said. “A lot of it will come down to pitching, as it usually does. It took us a while to hit stride last year, but we played really well over the last three weeks.”

A two-time All-County selection, junior Brianna Schippell enters her second year as the starting pitcher after a switch from shortstop.

She’s batted over .500 in each of the past two seasons to lead the offense. “Pitcher is not her natural position, but it’s where we need her most and she had four no-hitters last year to show you what kind of athlete she is,” Adrahtas said.

“Brianna can overpower a lot of hitters, and her control is improving.”

Three of four starters return to the infield, includ-

Schedule

BASEBALL March 30 31

@ Mineola Mineola

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April

MATT GUILFOYLE 1 6 7 9 13 14 16 20 21 23

Kayla Shields level, or junior Lindsay Cook, an outfielder returning to varsity, will get the nod.

Schippell’s battery mate is junior Mannali Inniss, who got a few starts at catcher last spring and wields a solid bat.

Spearheading the outfield is senior Kayla Shields in left. She’s a fourth-year varsity performer who can hit for power and makes highlight-reel grabs, Adrahtas said. “She’s fun to watch,” he noted. Junior Melanie d Morales covers lots of ground in center, and senior Christina Brea brings experience to right.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

@ Mineola Locust Valley @ Locust Valley Locust Valley @ Clarke Clarke @ Clarke Seaford @ Seaford Seaford

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May 4 5 7 11 12 13

Friends Aca. @ Friends Aca. Friends Aca. @ Island Trees Island Trees @ Island Trees

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 25 27

Roslyn Carle Place

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 6 8 10 13 15 21 23 25 28 30

Sewanhaka @ South Side @ East Rockaway West Hempstead @ Manhasset @ V.S. North @ Roslyn @ Carle Place South Side @ Sewanhaka East Rockaway

4:30 p.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 7 9

@ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

Manhasset 4:30 p.m.

V.S. North 10:00 a.m.

Photos by John Heckman

April 2, 2015 — 43

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

WANTAGH Young Warriors aiming high

D

BY ANDREW COEN

espite graduating eight seniors, Wantagh baseball fought through a challenging 2014 schedule to reach the playoffs. The Warriors are still young, but the program’s longtime head coach Keith Sachs is still aiming high.

“We try to win a county championship every year no matter how much experience we have back,” said Sachs, whose team went 9-11 overall last year and fell in the second round of the Class A playoffs.

“We want to be in the mix.”

Wantagh returns two starting pitchers from last year’s playoff team, senior Jimmy Murphy and junior Will O’Brien. Murphy struck out nine batters in a fourhitter during a 4-0 shutout against Jericho last season and O’Brien tossed six shutout innings in a 5-0 triumph against Carey. “We’re counting on them tremendously,” said Sachs of his two top starting pitchers.

Also expected to add pitching depth are seniors Andrew Semler and Diego Pastrana.

Helping to lead the pitching staff is junior catcher Corey Sachs, who showed improvement in his fielding and hitting as a sophomore.

Senior center fielder Gehrig Montoro anchors Wantagh’s offense after driving in some key runs last year as the Warriors’ lone returning starter from a 2013 team that went 19-2. Montoro, whose first name is in honor of New York Yankees legend Lou Gehrig, will be counted on to make things happen at the plate and the bases. In addition to his hitting ability, Montoro is also a threat to steal.

“He is lighting fast,” said Sachs of Montoro. “Hopefully 44 — April 2, 2015

he will be carrying the team.”

Sachs is also hoping for offensive production from Aniello Infante and O’Brien, who both will see time at third base. Seniors Anthony Testa and Mike Paradiso also add punch in the lineup and can play multiple positions.

“We don’t return a bunch but we have a lot of talent,” said Sachs, who led Wantagh to a state championship in 1998 and Long Island title in 2010. “If we play fundamentally sound we should be in great shape.”

Lady Warriors seek a repeat The Wantagh softball team’s roster is short on depth, but has big determination for another conference title.

For the second straight year, Wantagh entered the preseason with the prospect of not having enough players to field separate varsity and junior varsity teams.

New coach Jacqueline Bellairs said the younger playerss last year benefited from prac-ticing with the upperclassul men on varsity and is hopeful that will pay dividends.

The Lady Warriors rebounded from graduating eight seniors to win the Conference AB-II regular season title before falling to Island Trees in the first round of the playoffs. “They are a growing team,” Bellairs said. “We have high hopes.”

Seniors Kristen Wilson (left field), Olivia MacGregor (second base), Catherine Norbury (first base) and Emily Fillizola (right field) have stepped up as leaders.

Bellairs has seen strides from the four veterans since first becoming JV coach when they were freshmen.

“I’ve seen huge growth from them on and off the field,” said Bellairs, who was a standout softball player at

ayed colMepham and played lphi. “They legiately at Adelphi. ng.” don’t stop working.” er Julie Van Junior catcher O’Linda returnss after serving ophomore seaas captain her sophomore son. In addition to handling ff, O’Linda the pitching staff, ive weapon is also an offensive er as baseas a leadoff hitter stealing threat. “She ery takes charge every rs day,” said Bellairs of O’Linda. “Shee d leads on the field and keeps all thee girls in check.”

Sophomore Haley Monahan will be Wantagh’s ace pitcher and improved during the off-

Julie Van O’Linda “We want to grow as a team,” she said. “We want to build from where we are.”

Schedule BASEBALL

April

MATT GUILFOYLE 6 @ Kennedy 7 9 13 14 16 20 21 23 27 28 30

Kennedy @ Kennedy Garden City @ Garden City Garden City Jericho @ Jericho Jericho @ Sewanhaka Sewanhaka @ Sewanhaka

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May Gehrig Montoro season, according to Bellairs.

The second starting pitcher is freshman Felisa Bronzino, who played for the Wantagh Middle School team last year.

Sophomore shortstop Erika Estro helps anchor the middlee of the infield.

The Lady Warriors will compete in a challenging Con-ference A-II with Plainedge, Floral Park, Locust Valley, Jericho, Bellmore-JFK, Oyster Bay, Wheatley and Cold Spring Harbor. Bellairs said making playoffs will be challenging, but is attainable if team shows improvement.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 11 12 13

@ Carey Carey @ Carey N.H. Park @ N.H. Park N.H. Park

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 25 27 30

C.S. Harbor Floral Park @ Plainedge

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

April 1 8 10 13 15 21 23 25 28 30

Jericho @ Locust Valley Oyster Bay @ Kennedy @ Wheatley @ C.S. Harbor Floral Park Plainedge @ Jericho Locust Valley

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 7 9

@ Oyster Bay Kennedy Wheatley

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

759647

April 2, 2015 — 45

2015 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

WEST HEMPSTEAD Rams build off solid season

W

BY ANDREW MCCLURE

est Hempstead flourished in the Nassau Countywide baseball conference in 2014, finishing atop the league with a record of 15-3, before falling to Uniondale in the conference championship game. With the Rams having lost six seniors and most of their pitching, a relatively inexperienced team will take the field in 2015.

Coach Bill Cloghessy feels the success his team had a year ago has increased interest. “We had 31 come out for the program, which is more than the norm,” Cloughessy said. “Having success definitely brings more guys out.

It’s probably a stretch to think we could duplicate what we did last year on the field, but we’ll be competitive.”

Cloghessy will lean heavily on Ryan Sandberg. The junior shortstop has a terrific glove, excellent baseball IQ, and a combination of power and contact at the plate. After limited time on the mound as a sophomore, Sandberg will now serve as ace of the pitching staff. Cloghessy sees him batting either second or third.

Following Sandberg in the rotation will be Matt Arasmo.

As a freshman, Arasmo had some strong outings, and even tossed a no-hitter against Westbury. When he’s not pitching, the versatile sophomore can basically play any of the other eight positions.

Arasmo figures to bat leadoff for the Rams.

The battle for the third spot in the rotation is ongoing. Senior Tristan Vega is one of the guys in the mix.

Vega has a live arm, and is working on his control. He’ll see time at third base and in the outfield.

Senior Tyler Montick and sophomore Kyle Suffa are 46 — April 2, 2015

both capable behind the plate.

Montick will likely see time on the mound as well. Suffa has some pop in his bat, and figures to occupy a spot in the middle of the order.

Senior Bobby Smith will more than likely get the nod at first base. Despite not playing the past few years, Cloghessy is hopeful that Smith be a solid addition.

The Rams will tangle with Hempstead, Westbury, Uniondale, Elmont, Great Neck South and Roosevelt.

Versatile Lady Rams should be tough West Hempstead comes off a solid softball season that saw the Lady Rams finish 13-5, 11-5 in league play. With a slew of returnees, including both of its pitchers, West Hempstead will be a team to be reckoned with in Conference AB-III, which includes South Side, Carle Place, East Rockaway, Manhasset, Sewanhaka, Roslyn, Valley Stream North and Valley Stream South.

Coach Chris Van Kovics iss d optimistic about his team and the makeup of the program.

“Our numbers are real good, and we have more freshman in the program than we’ve had in a long time,” Van Kovics said. “Having two pitchers who are almost always around the plate is a big plus. The blueprint is the same as always; pitching and defense.”

Senior pitcher Briana White doesn’t blow people away, but she’s usually in the zone, and mixes up her pitches well. When White, an AllConference honoree in 2014, isn’t in the circle, she’ll see time at first base. Hard-throwing junior Amanda Malone worked hard in the offseason and has improved her drop, screwball and changeup. The duo complement one another well, and should keep hitters

off-balance. einJunior Emily Weind stein returns behind ms. the plate for the Rams. g, Weinstein’s framing, king throwing, and blocking d, and are much improved, etting she has knack for getting g on base and making things happen at thee d plate. Weinstein and hy senior Ellen Murphy he will likely occupy the top two spots in the order. Murphy can play both middle infield positions, and the outfield.

Versatility is tead’s one of West Hempstead’s ore Maria strengths. Sophomore enelope Graci and senior Penelope Sanchez can play multiple positions, enabling Van Kovics to get creative with the ma Shanlineup. Junior Emma ley’s ability to drivee the ball should make her a fixture in rder. the middle of the order.

Ryan Sandberg

Schedule

BASEBALL March 30 31

@ Uniondale Uniondale

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April

MATT TTTT GUILFOYLE GUI UILF ILF LFOY FO OYYLLEE 1 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

@ Uniondale Roosevelt @ Roosevelt Roosevelt G.N. South @ G.N. South @ G.N. South @ Elmont Elmont Elmont

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 6 7 11 12 13

Westbury @ Westbury Westbury Hempstead @ Hempstead Hempstead

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March Briana White man Senior first baseman Nicole Fodera has a solid bat.

She’ll also see time in the outfield. Van Kovics will need to find a spot in the order for junior Caitlin Rossi. Senior outfielder Emily Galvam will contribute for the Lady Rams..

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

23 25 27 30

East Rockaway @ Carle Place Manhasset @ Sewanhaka

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 1 10 13 15 21 22 23 25 28

@ V.S. North @ V.S. South Roslyn South Side Carle Place @ East Rockaway @ Manhasset Sewanhaka V.S. North

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 5 7 9

V.S. South @ Roslyn @ South Side

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 2, 2015 — 47

Orlin & Cohen’s Team Of Subspecialists Help You Get Back On The Field Fast.

Orlin & Cohen is Long Island’s leading orthopedic practice. Our subspecialty focus means that athletes – and all patients – get the very best care from nationally renowned orthopedists who specialize exclusively in your area of concern: shoulder, neck and back, elbow, knee, foot and ankle, and more.

Our board-certified, fellowship-trained team features some of the country’s top Sports Medicine subspecialists for expert care of all baseball and other sports-related injuries.

Available by appointment six days a week, we offer the most advanced orthopedic treatment with comprehensive diagnostic services, including the latest in digital X-ray and MRI technology, and our physical therapy and rehabilitation programs will help relieve your pain fast.

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL PREVIEW

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