Case Matheis Darien

Hayley SpraggLauralton Hall

Taylor BargmannFairfield Warde

Mike OdenwaelderWamogo

SPRING 2011

Barbara SullivanGarden City

Isabella CorraoFarmingdale

Jake ThomasCalhoun

Myles JonesWalt Whitman

SPRING 2011

Chris CarrollWestwood

Ralph D’AgostinoImmaculata

Emily DamstromPingry

Ashley DeYoungIndian Hills

SPRING 2011

Matt DulgarianTuxedo

Lindsay ScottYorktown

Jack NearBronxville

Kayla HillJames Madison

SPRING 2011

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Welcome to the final edition of MSG Varsity The Magazine for the 2010-11high school year! After a long, cold winter, spring is finally in the air!

Throughout this issue you'll find previews and rankings for many of thespring sports, including baseball, softball, boys and girls lacrosse and more.

You can also read about MSG Varsity’s new live web streaming, MascotDash to the Desk, and some of our most heartfelt stories from the pastseveral months. In addition, this issue features stories written by studentswho are participating in our new ‘Project J’ journalism initiative. Theseyoung writers—and many of their classmates—have worked very hard overthe past weeks and deserve to be congratulated.

So please enjoy this edition of MSG Varsity The Magazine, and let us knowwhat you think! You can always email us any comments you have atmagazine@msgvarsity.com.

Sincerely,

Theresa ChillianisGeneral Manager, MSG Varsity

Editor-in-ChiefBrett Topel

Art DirectorJohn Tomaselli

Senior WritersKevin Devaney Jr., Brian Fitzsimmons,

Gregg Sarra

Contributing WritersLauren Brill, Lou Brogno, Isaac Cass,

Cody Derespina, Stephen Haynes, Bob Herzog,Mike Gavin, Jared Greenberg, Jason Kahn, John Malone, Pat O’Keefe, Tara Petrolino, Tony Pinciaro, Mike Quick, Jesse Quinlan,

Shawna Ryan, Ellie Seifert

PhotographersFrank LoCascio, Mike Stobe

Copy EditorIan Bross

ContributorsLarry Goldman, Bill McGlone,

Stephen O’Keefe, Jefferson Wilson

Ad DesignJames Grasso, Gregory Heim

PrinterPrinting Spectrum

Cover Photo by Mike Stobe

General Manager Theresa Chillianis

Senior Vice President & Executive Producer Michael Lardner

Vice President-MarketingPhilip Summers

Vice President-Public RelationsJennifer McIntosh

Vice President-High School PartnershipsJennifer Ostrager

Vice President-Digital PlatformsJonathan McCarthy

Vice President-FinanceDara Romano

Vice President-Programming OperationsSean Kennedy

To contact MSG Varsity, email us at:magazine@msgvarsity.com

Photo: Brian Stanton

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7 Watch Live Games OnlineMSG Varsity has launched Afternoon Livecast, which will stream live games on MSGVarsity.com.

8 Tri-State Baseball and SoftballCheck out MSG Varsity’s region-by-region breakdown of the baseball and softball scenesthroughout the region.

28 A New Era For Tri-State LacrosseJared Greenberg takes a look at how last year’s talented players have been replaced by a new group.

30 Success For Ridgewood Starts at TopTara Petrolino takes a look at Ridgewood’s girlslacrosse program in New Jersey.

32 Tri-State Boys and Girls LacrosseCheck out MSG Varsity’s region-by-region breakdown of the lacrosse scene.

44 Fan FavoritesWe asked you to tell us your favorite spring/summersnack, as well as what you’ll miss about high school.

46 The Outback Empire ChallengeThis season, Boomer Esiason’s charity football game,which pits Long Island all-stars against NYC all-stars,will be broadcast live on MSG Varsity.

48 A Look BackShawna Ryan takes a look at some of the most memorable stories from High School SportsDesk.

50 Project JStudent journalists who participate in MSG Varsity’sjournalism program have their work displayed.

54 Photo CentralCheck out photos from your region!

66 A Quick ColumnMSG Varsity’s Mike Quick looks at how the BrienMcMahon boys lacrosse coach has done more thanwin games.

ContentsCCoonntteennttss

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THE CHALLENGEAs the school year winds down, so too does The Challenge, MSG Varsity’s popular academic quiz show. What began with 184 high schools from throughout the tri-state, has been narroweddown to the best of the best. “As we get into later matches the scoresget close,”said Gabe Block of Staples (CT). “Teams will have come-backs and that will be pretty exciting.” With prize money and schoolpride on the line, be sure to tune in Sunday through Friday at 5:30 p.m.on Channel 14 to see who will be crowned this year’s champion.

PHOTOS, PHOTOS, PHOTOS!Don’t forget to say cheese! Whether it’s student-submitted photos orpictures taken by MSG Varsity photographers, this spring expect to see thousands of new photos on MSGVarsity.com. The cameras will be flashing around the tri-state area, covering a varietyof sports and activities at your school. Be sure to log on to MSGVarsity.com today to view photos of you and your friends!

By Lauren Brill

As we move into spring with our sights set directly on summer, MSG Varsity continues todeliver the most comprehensive coverage of high

school sports and activities throughout the tri-state.

MASCOT DASH Does your school have what it takes to make the Dash?Once again, MSG Varsity will bring you Mascot Dash, anonline contest in which schools submit photos of theirmascots and then “race” other schools, winning heats byamassing the most votes. The five-week race will con-clude with an exciting final dash! The school that has thespeed and endurance to dash all the way to the desk willbe awarded with the grand prize of a custom-made mas-cot costume.

AFTERNOON LIVECASTBeing at work just got a little more interesting. Startingthis spring, MSG Varsity will bring to you Afternoon Livecast—streaming games LIVE on MSGVarsity.comTuesdays through Fridays. Optimum subscribers can go to www.msgvarsity.com/livecast to see a list of thescheduled games. All of these afternoon contests will in-clude play-by-play announcers, providing an enhancedviewing experience.

MSG Varsity Springs AheadMascot Dash Returns; Live Web Streaming Launches

Hawthorne High School in New Jerseywon the 2010 Mascot Dash.Photo: Jon Smith

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8

Long Island Baseball

The baseball programs at Calhoun and Lindenhurstmade a big splash in 2010. Calhoun slugged its way tothe Nassau Class AA championship with a junior-laden team and a host of clutch hitters. Lindenhurst

did the same in Suffolk to capture the Class AA title and set up anunlikely Long Island championship game.

It could be more of the same in 2011. Calhoun has alreadycashed in on last year’s success as three Colts signed letters ofintent to play Division I college baseball.

“I would say we’d be the favorite this season,” said Calhouncoach Joe Correa. “We’ll still have our work cut out for us. We cer-tainly have a lot of talent and the boys are really excited about theopportunity to defend the crown.”

Right-handed pitcher Joe Christopher will head to St. John’sUniversity, but not before he tries to lead the Colts to the LongIsland championship. Christopher, one of Long Island’s top pitch-ers, has been gunned at 88 mph and that’s grabbed the attentionof Major League scouts.

Catcher Jake Thomas, signed with Binghamton, swings thebat as well as anyone. Thomas slammed seven home runs anddrove in 35 runs last year. He leads an offense that includes Siena-bound outfielder Dan Sullivan. With eight starters returning, Cal-houn should be a heavy favorite to defend the crown.

For complete Long Island baseball coverage, including updated team rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

Calhoun, Lindy Are Teams to Beat By Gregg Sarra

Lindenhurst, the defending state Class AA champion,returns a bevy of talent, including lefty Rich Vrana, who is headed to Marist. Vrana was 9-0 and almost unhittable in 2010, when he finished with an ERA of 0.89. The Bulldogswere 27-1 and were nearly the first Suffolk team in 30 years tofinish undefeated.

Bulldogs Head Coach Mike Canobbio will also have theluxury of a senior-laden squad this year led by shortstop SteveSkon (George Washington University, for football) and out-fielder Mike Roehrig. They will try and duplicate last year’sSuffolk title run, their first since 1963.

In the Class A, Shoreham-Wading River is loaded with tal-ent. The Wildcats have Hartford-bound pitcher Dan Sperruzzi,an all-state selection with a 7-1 record and a 1.41 ERA. He leadsa senior triumvirate of impressive college signings. OutfielderMatt Kneisel, who batted .411 with 28 RBIs, is going toLeMoyne; And third baseman Ryan McAlary, who had fivehome runs and 35 RBIs is headed to Cortland State.

Holy Trinity won the NSCHSAA championship for the first time since 2003 by sweeping St. John the Baptist in thebest-of-three finals. The Titans will try to defend the title in aleague that will see parity in 2011. Kellenberg, St. Dominicand Chaminade and St. John the Baptist, will all be in themix this season.

Breaking it down:

Calhoun’s Jake ThomasPhoto: Mike Stobe

9

Jim Bulva Mineola Sr. Pitcher

The all-Nassau selection batted .418 and had 11 extra base hits. Hehad 44 strikeouts in 33 innings. He will attend New York Tech.

Joe Christopher Calhoun Sr. Pitcher

The hard-throwing righthander was 5-1 with an ERA of 2.91, and 45strikeouts in as many innings. His fastball has been clocked at 88mph. He will attend St. John’s University.

John Daddino Carey Sr. Pitcher

The MSG Varsity Tri-State football selection makes his mark on thediamond. Returning after labrum surgery, LI’s hardest thrower —clocked between 88-91 mph—will attract Major League scouts.

Alex Falconi St. Mary’s Sr. Catcher

The Seton Hall-bound senior is an all-CHSAA selection. Falconi is asweet swinger with .315 average in the wood bat league.

Anthony Gatto Smithtown West Sr. Outfield

A two-time all-Suffolk selection, Gatto earned the Suffolk League IV MVP in 2009 as a sophomore. He will attendUMBC.

Michael Hewson Sayville Sr. Outfield

Hewson won the Blue Chip Prospects Silver Slugger Award given to Suffolk’s best hitter after he set school records with13 home runs, 52 RBIs, 40 hits, and a .591 regular season average. He had four multiple-homer games and hit safely in 19of 23 games.

Alex Indelicato Smithtown East Sr. Outfield

An all-Suffolk selection, Indelicato hit .380 and had an ERA of 2.14 for Suffolk League III champions. He hit two homeruns in the Dominican Republic tournament.

Dan Sperruzzi Shoreham-Wading River Sr. Pitcher

Speruzzi is an all-state selection with a 7-1 record with a 1.41 ERA with 55 strikeouts. He will attend Hartford.

Jake Thomas Calhoun Sr. Catcher

The Binghamton-bound, lefty swinging catcher, batted .493 with seven homers and 35 RBIs as the Colts earned theNassau Class AA title. He earned the Cody Award as playoff MVP in Nassau.

Rich Vrana Lindenhurst Sr. Pitcher

Vrana, an all-Long Island selection, led Lindy to a state Class AA title. The lefty finished with a 9-0 record and a 0.89ERA. He will attend Marist.

For complete coverage of Long Island baseball action, log on to MSGVarsity.com! Compiled by Gregg Sarra

(alphabetical)

Carey’sJohn Daddino

Photo: James A. Escher/Newsday

10

Long Island Softball

Suffolk: Class A is a virtual yearlong pitchersduel between standouts Catherine Havens(Eastport-South Manor), Lindsay Taylor (KingsPark) and Nicole Ehlinger (Hauppauge).

ESM took the Suffolk title last year, but brag-ging rights are only as good as that day’shottest starting pitcher. Sparkplug shortstopSandy Hawthorne (.387 average, 24 runs) is keyfor Hauppauge.

Cali Lavey had a .458 OBP for Shoreham-Wad-ing River in 2010. Tiana Giuliano is back afterher clutch hits helped power Babylon to the Suf-folk Class B title. Michiko McGivney returnswith a potent stick for Class C’s Port Jefferson.

Nassau: Coming off its first Class AA Nassaucounty championship since 1994, East Meadowreturns centerfielder Samantha Miller, first base-man Jamie Laird and up-and-coming sophomoreDanielle Cutuli.

Runner-up MacArthur is led by All-LongIsland second-teamer’s pitcher Kristen Brownand shortstop Jena Cozza. Farmingdale couldbe the favorite behind All-Long Island pitcherIsabella Corrao and shortstop Kat Zabielski.

In Class A, Floral Park seeks its third straightLong Island Championship and has the ace inplace with Samantha Giovanniello.

Plainedge has an ace of its own in MichelleDaubman, who struck out 20 in the Class Afinals. Seaford is a perennial contender led byAll-Long Island sophomore Lindsay Mon-temarano, who tied for a county-high eighthome runs last season, and shortstop VictoriaWink.

Defending Long Island Class B championOyster Bay is a young team anchored by short-stop Joshlyn Grant. Carle Place has experi-enced battery-mates in pitcher Ashley Cole andcatcher Leanne Iannucci.

Moving up a class is East Rockaway, theClass C county champion, which is led by shortstop Kerrianne Vulpis and first basemanLindsey Dinowitz. Class C runner-up FriendsAcademy features a high-powered offense ledby catcher Correy Denihan and Paige Elgarten,the team’s ace.

CHSAA: Pitcher Erin Caputo and second base-man Allie Cain return to CHSAA champ St. John the Baptist. Standout rightfielder RyanQuick moves behind the plate this year. Runnerup St. Anthony’s boasts a strong youth corefronted by pitcher Michelle Carbone and returnsall but one starter. Senior captain Marilyn Free-man hit .411 and was all-league in CHSAA.

For complete Long Island softball coverage, including full games and highlights, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614.

Breaking it down:

Bay Shore Ready to MakeAnother RunBy Cody Derespina and Mike Gavin

Suffolk Class AA State Champion Bay Shore once again finds itselfpoised to make a deep postseason run. Hurler Taylor McGowanreturns after a 10-0 year in 2010, as does Courtney Syrett (.398, 10stolen bases) and Nicole Marzillo (.361, four homers).

In addition, Arianna LaPuma (.479 average, 21 RBIs) provides thump for Cen-tereach while Marisa Motisi hit .425 for West Islip last year. All-division pitcherCourtney Blake (9-0, 2.25 ERA) leads East Islip, along with all-division utilityplayer Lindsay Zenk, who hit .394.

Commack and Riverhead are perennial contenders, and Whitman made it toGame 3 of the Suffolk finals last year.

Farmingdale’s Isabella CorraoPhoto: Mike Stobe

11

For complete coverage of Long Island softball action, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

Michelle Carbone St. Anthony’s So. Pitcher

Carbone went 16-3 with an ERA of 0.96 on the way to being namedPitcher of the Year in the CHSAA. She had 116 strikeouts and 21 walksin 135 innings, hit .469 and led the team in RBIs with 29.

Isabella Corrao Farmingdale Sr. Pitcher

A three-time all-Long Island selection, Corrao had an ERA of 0.86, 251strikeouts, pitched two no-hitters and four one-hitters while leadingFarmingdale to the Class AA semifinals. She also batted .415 withtwo homers, a .652 OBP, and walked five times in the semifinal.

Michelle Daubman Plainedge Sr. Pitcher/Shortstop

Daubman hit .506 with three homers, 18 stolen bases and a .740 slug-ging percentage. She was 15-6 with an ERA of 0.74 and 211 strikeouts.

Nicole Ehlinger Hauppauge Sr. Pitcher

Ehlinger was 12-3 with an ERA of 0.78 and 0.82 WHIP, striking out 170batters in 107 innings. She had eight shutouts on her way to an all-state selection.

Samantha Giovanniello Floral Park Jr. Pitcher

She went 20-5, including 18 shutouts, with an ERA of 0.54 and 328 strikeouts (106 in the playoffs), while leading herteam to the state Class A semifinals in 2010. She also hit .561 with five homers, 28 RBIs, 23 runs and 10 stolen bases.

Catherine Havens Eastport-South Manor Sr. Pitcher

Havens pitched 120 innings, striking out 160 and walking 25, on her way to a 13-5 record and 0.68 ERA while leadingESM to the Suffolk Class A title. She also hit .458 with 23 runs scored as the leadoff hitter.

Michiko McGivney Port Jefferson Jr. First Base/Pitcher

After going 7-2 with a no-hitter, three shutouts and 58 strikeouts in the first half of the season, McGivney hurt her shoul-der and moved to first base. Her offense never declined, however, as she had 44 hits in 58 at-bats (.758), scored 39 runs,had 22 RBIs and walked 20 times.

Taylor McGowan Bay Shore Sr. Pitcher/Second Base

McGowan went 10-0 in the circle with an ERA of 0.12, striking out 104 and walking just four. She hit .409 with 37RBIs as part of a potent Bay Shore offense that ended up taking the state Class AA title.

Lindsay Montemarano Seaford So. Third Base

Montemarano hit .600 with a .651 OBP, 22 RBIs, 26 runs and tied for the county lead with eight homers. She helped leadthe Vikings to the Class A semifinals and is regarded by several coaches as a defensive whiz.

Lindsay Taylor Kings Park Sr. Pitcher

Taylor had no-hit stuff nearly every time she took the circle, and often that’s how it played out. She tossed three perfectgames, five other no-hitters and 15 shutouts on her way to a 22-3 record.

Compiled by Cody Derespina and Mike Gavin

(alphabetical)

Hauppauge’s Nicole EhlingerPhoto: J. Conrad Williams Jr./

Newsday

12

New Jersey Baseball

Welcome to the Year of the Pitcher in theGarden State.

While several teams used the longballand a relentless offense to carve their

way to a sectional championship in 2010, the blue-print to achieve glory on the baseball diamond willbe a bit different this season.

If you look up and down the list of teams destinedto make a deep playoff run, they all have one thingin common: an ace on the mound.

For complete New Jersey baseball coverage, including updated team rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

The Year of the Pitcher in NJBy Brian Fitzsimmons

Manalapan will likely be the team to beat inthe Shore Conference thanks to Notre Dame-bound righthander Kyle Rubbinaccio. Mean-while, West Essex will ride big-game hurler DanGautieri en route to its quest toward a secondstraight Group 2 title, and Westwood hopessouthpaw Chris Carroll dazzles enough oppos-ing hitters to make the Cardinals a legitimateforce in talent-laden Bergen County.

With long-time coach Frank Salvano at thehelm, the St. Joseph Regional Green Knightsare always in the mix. Don Bosco has a lot ofpunch up north, too.

Poised to improve upon its 25-6 campaign ayear ago, Delbarton will be a tough team onceagain, as ace Nick Donatiello looks to furtherimpress scouts all across the nation. Don’t handthe Non-Public A ring to the Green Wave justyet, though, because Seton Hall Prep and stal-wart pitcher Jon Norwood will be just as armed.

Potential sleepers such as Middlesex, St.Joseph (Metuchen), South Plainfield, Walland Steinert all enjoyed successful campaignsin 2010 and return a bevy of pitchers giftedenough to match any opposing ace any day.

Randolph, fresh off its Group 4 champi-onship run, finished as the top team in MSG Var-sity’s final baseball poll of the 2010 season. TheRams will be the first to admit pitching winsgames. Especially this year.

Perhaps lock-down pitching is the only wayany team will stop South Plainfield and itsslugger Brandon Downes. The team has plentyof potential to come out on top of Group 3. TheVirginia-bound outfielder proved his worth byrecording a .484 average, 15 home runs and 49RBIs. His stock will soar as he takes over as thestate’s top offensive player, following the grad-uation of Jackson’s Bryan Soloman.

Breaking it down:

Westwood’s Chris CarrollPhoto: Mike Stobe

13

Brandon Downes South Plainfield Sr. Outfield

The Virginia-bound outfielder smacked 15 homers, drove in andscored 49 runs, while batting .484 last season. What can he do for anencore?

Alex DeBellis Pope John Sr. Catcher

DeBellis batted .507 and recorded six home runs and 32 RBIs. TheUConn-bound catcher also stole 24 bases in 2010.

Chris Carroll Westwood Sr. Pitcher

The lefthander had his coming-out party in the Bergen County tournament last season, and is likely to improve on his stellar 7-1record.

Kyle Rubbinaccio Manalapan Sr. Pitcher

Rubbinaccio, a Notre Dame commit, is easily the most dominant hurler in South Jersey, recording a 9-0 record and1.29 ERA last year.

Nick Donatiello Delbarton Sr. Pitcher

Donatiello is arguably the most dominant pitcher in the state and hascaught the eye of scouts around the country.

Dan Gautieri West Essex Jr. Pitcher

Gautieri is a big-game pitcher, as he proved by tossing a gem in the Group 2 title game. Expect big things in 2011.

Zach Gray Morristown-Beard Jr. Infield

Gray was the main reason for Morristown-Beard’s dream run to the Non-Public B final last season.

John Norwood Seton Hall Prep Sr. Outfield/Pitcher

Every season, the powerhouse Pirates possess a standout player. Norwood, a force at the plate and on the mound,certainly is it.

Ryan Kirman Red Bank Catholic Sr. Shortstop

UConn signed a very slick shortstop in Kirman, who is a game-changer in the Shore Conference.

Patrick Kivlon Butler Sr. Pitcher/First Base

The 6-foot-3 lefthander anchored a strong campaign by the Bulldogs last season, a feat he is sure to repeat.

For complete coverage of New Jersey baseball action, log on to MSGVarsity.com! Compiled by Brian Fitzsimmons

West Essex’sDan GautieriPhoto: David Kline

(alphabetical)

14

New Jersey Softball

Look out for Hunterdon Central,South Plainfield, Bishop Ahr, and J.P.Stevens in the Central Jersey area. Ifthose potential playoff warriors are toexecute, though, they will have to gothrough Edison.

The Greater Middlesex powerhouse isarmed and dangerous, confident that itsace pitcher, Valerie Cassell, has enoughjuice in her arm to pitch through the latedays of spring. As a sophomore, thehurler recorded a 14-8 record, 200 strike-outs in 148 innings and eight shutouts.

South Jersey possesses two star-studded squads with the formidable line-ups and a history of success. St. JohnVianney returns ace pitcher and staroffensive player Jen Retzer, who recorded270 strikeouts in the circle and added a.393 average at the plate. With their starback for a senior campaign, improving onlast season’s 29-3 mark is attainable—even in the wake of stalwart infielderKasey Bulman’s graduation.

The real team to watch down South isthe one boasting the best dynamic duo inthe Garden State. Middletown South,fresh off capturing its second straightGroup 3 championship, returns JuliaKuhn—a 14-1 pitcher and a shortstopboasting a .593 average—and center-fielder Jackie Bates, a tremendous athletewho batted .422 and drove in 42 runs lastseason.

In addition, Red Bank Catholic, JacksonLiberty, Toms River East, Wall andManasquan should make some noisedown South, much like in 2010.

Breaking it down:

NJ Softball HasThree-of-a-KindBy Brian Fitzsimmons

The queens of last season’s soft-ball diamond are poised for repeatruns.

Indian Hills, St. John Vianneyand Middletown South—the three finalists inMSG Varsity’s last softball poll in 2010—allpossess enough tools to replicate theirastounding success from just a year ago.

Despite the graduation of star pitcher KatieEnright, catcher Ashley DeYoung returns tolead Indian Hills. The Braves set a new staterecord with 33 overall wins.

Immaculate Heart Academy, ParamusCatholic, Pascack Valley, Pequannock andRidgewood all return a bevy of starters andshould go deep in North Jersey playoffs.

Indian Hills’ Ashley DeYoung

Photo: Mike Stobe

For complete New Jersey softball coverage, including updated team rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

15

For complete coverage of New Jersey softball action, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

Jen RetzerPhoto: Anthony

Payne

Courtney Yard Hunterdon Central Sr. Pitcher

Yard recorded 207 strikeouts, 21 shutouts and posted an ERA of 0.61. The righthander also batted .433 with 13 doublesand four home runs last season.

Jen Retzer St. John Vianney Sr. Pitcher

Retzer was a strikeout machine last season, whiffing 270 batters. She was a force at the dish, too, producing a battingaverage of .393.

Ashley DeYoung Indian Hills Jr. Catcher

DeYoung batted .403 and drove in 31 during the 2010 campaign. Her true value came defensively, however, as she threw out seven of 13 runners.

Julia Kuhn Middletown South Sr. Shortstop/Pitcher

Kuhn went 14-1 as a pitcher, and recorded a .583 average, 44 runs and 38 RBIs.

Jackie Bates Middletown South Sr. Center Fielder

Bates batted .422 with 12 doubles, 42 runs and 33 RBIs last season,setting the stage for an even bigger 2011.

Caitlin O'Connor Morris Knolls Sr. Pitcher

With 339 strikeouts last campaign, O’Connor established herself as a true force in the pitcher’s circle. She also tallied 50hits and a .476 average at the plate.

Brittany Ksiezopolski Hillsborough Sr. Pitcher

Ksiezopolski notched a 1.08 ERA and 140 strikeouts last season.

Valerie Cassell Edison Jr. Pitcher

Cassel does it all for Edison. She had 200 strikeouts and an ERAof 0.71 as a pitcher to complement her .523 batting average and29 RBIs.

Erin Trippi Paramus Catholic Sr. Catcher

Trippi serves as the heart of the Paladins. She is coming off a stellar campaign in which she hit .550 with 29 RBIs.

Kristen Mattia Nutley Sr. Left Fielder

Mattia, who batted .495, showed off her speed with nine doubles, four triples and 20 stolen bases last year.

Compiled by Brian Fitzsimmons

(alphabetical)

16

Westchester/Hudson Valley Baseball

For the Lakeland baseballprogram, there exists onlyone goal, and it’s the sameeach season.

“I’ve been here for 40 years,” Hornetscoach Dennis Robinson said. “Our goalis always to be the last team playing.”

Lakeland played as long as any teamin school history last season, capturingthe Section 1 Class A championshipand reaching the state final four.

The Hornets expect to play a little bitlonger this spring, the way Valhalla andKennedy did a year ago. Valhalla cap-tured the Class C state title. Kennedywas beaten in the B championship.

With an elite core of seniors—led bypitchers Jonathan de Marte and JoeArena, and first baseman Dave Judisky—Lakeland shouldn’t sufferfrom losing eight position players froma 23-5 squad.

“Our comment to our guys is always‘It’s your turn,’” Robinson said. “Wehad some juniors last year that couldhave started on many of the teams we played. But there was a senior infront of them. Now it’s their turn to takethe torch.”

The transition will be eased by deMarte, a University of Richmond-boundsenior and the region’s top player. As ajunior, de Marte hit .466 with 32 RBIsand went 11-2 with a 0.93 ERA and 105strikeouts in 83 innings.

For complete Westchester/Hudson Valley baseball coverage, including updated team rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

Lakeland Looking For More By Kevin Devaney Jr.

Class AA: The surprise team of last seasoncame out of AA in Section 1 with NorthRockland winning the title as a No. 12seed. Wardy Polanco leads a group aimingto repeat. Mamaroneck, with Scott Haganand Dean Chiapparelli, and Ketcham enterthe season as the favorites. In Section 9,Valley Central is a heavy favorite to repeatand return to the state final four.

Class A: In Section 1, Lakeland enters theyear a heavy favorite after reaching the

Class A state semifinals last season. PearlRiver and Harrison lead a deep pool ofcontenders. Cornwall also brings back adeep lineup and is in search of a fourthstraight Section 9 crown.

Class B: Valhalla returns the core of lastyear’s Class C state title squad, led bypitcher Tom Longo and Jordan Holtz. Mov-ing up in conference means getting pastKennedy, the defending champs and statefinalists. Hastings and Dobbs Ferry figure

to vie for the title. The title is up for grabsin Section 9 with Spackenkill and High-land will be in the mix.

Class C: With Valhalla and Keio movingup in class, the title is wide open in Sec-tion 1. Tuckahoe and Haldane now stepinto the mix as the top two teams. PinePlains, the defending champs, and S.S.Seward are top contenders in Section 9.

Breaking it down:

Lakeland’s Joe Arena

Photo: Isaac Cass

17

For complete coverage of Westchester and Hudson Valley baseball, log on to MSGVarsity.com! Compiled by Kevin Devaney Jr.

Matt DulgarianPhoto: Mike Stobe

Jonathan de Marte Lakeland Sr. Pitcher/Outfield

De Marte, who has signed with University of Richmond, hit .466 with32 RBIs for the Section 1 Class A champions. The MSG VarsityRegional Player of the Year went 11-2 as a pitcher with an ERA of 0.93.

Mark DeMilio Valhalla Sr. Shortstop

DeMilio was the catalyst for the Class C state champions. He hit.464 with 16 RBIs and 26 stolen bases. His postseason included thegame-winning hit in the Section 1 final, and key late-game hits inthe state playoffs.

Matt Dulgarian Tuxedo Sr. Outfield

Dulgarian made quite a splash in his first season in the startinglineup. Dulgarian hit .464 with 33 RBIs as Tuxedo captured an OCIAADivision championship.

Scott Glowaczewski S.S. Seward Sr. Pitcher

The righthander was among Section 9’s top pitchers last season,throwing a no-hitter two days before a torn ACL ended his season.Glowaczewski looks to improve on last year’s numbers of a 1.53 ERAand 25 strikeouts in 18.1 innings.

Scott Hagan Mamaroneck Sr. 1B/OF/Pitcher

The versatile Hagan looks to build on the eye-popping numbers heposted last season. A preseason All-American, Hagan hit .441, drovein 26 runs and scored 33 for the Tigers (18-5).

David Judisky Lakeland Sr. First Base

Judisky is coming off a stellar junior season where he hit .500 with eight homers and 33 RBIs. Judisky hit four of hishome runs in the postseason, including two in a 4-1 semifinal win over Brewster.

Seth Lamando Ketcham Jr. Pitcher/Third Base

Lamando had a breakout sophomore season, emerging as an all-state selection and earning Dutchess County Pitcher ofthe Year honors. He went 3-0 as a pitcher, striking out 24 in 21 innings.

Andres Larramendi Greeley Jr. Catcher

The power-hitting Larramendi is the area’s top backstop and one of the region’s most promising talents. Last season hebroke out, delivering six homers, 25 RBIs, 22 runs and a posting a .379 average.

Wardy Polanco North Rockland Jr. Shortstop

The silky-smooth Polanco is a magician with the glove and hit .348 at the plate with 21 runs, 29 RBIs and 16 steals.Polanco was a catalyst at the top of the lineup for North Rockland, which won the Section 1 Class AA title last season.

Chris Rave Minisink Valley Sr. Catcher

Rave is Section 9’s biggest power threat. Last season he hit six home runs, drove in 27, and finished with a .456 averageand earned all-state honors in Class AA for the second year in a row.

(alphabetical)

18

Westchester/Hudson Valley Softball

Section 1: Last year’s championsincluded North Rockland (Class AA),Dobbs Ferry (Class B) and Valhalla(Class C). North Rockland and DobbsFerry advanced to the state final four, butlost in the semis. All of those teams figureto be in the mix in 2011.

Section 9: Rhinebeck (Class C) and Liv-ingston Manor (Class D) were the statechampions, and should be ready foranother run. Highland (Class B), Corn-wall (Class A) and Valley Central (ClassAA) also won sectional titles.

Breaking it down:

Pearl River Keeping ItsPromise By Tony Pinciaro

During a bus ride home froma post-season game in 2008,the freshman quartet of KatieO’Flynn, Jamie DeGennaro,

Gemma Mahoney, and Katie Goldrickmade a promise to Pearl River softballcoach Mike Carlacci.

”We told him we were going to winsectionals every year for him,” O’Flynnrecalled.

The foursome has been instrumentalin making good on this promise the last two years, punctuating it by win-ning the 2010 New York State PublicHigh School Athletic Association Class Asoftball title.

Pearl River became the first RocklandCounty school to win a state softballchampionship. In addition, it has been tothree consecutive state final fours, takingit one step further each year. In 2008,

when O’Flynn, DeGennaro, Mahoneyand Goldrick were freshmen, Pearl Riverlost in the state semifinals. In 2009, FloralPark defeated Pearl River in the stateClass A final.

Last year, Pearl River exacted revengeon Floral Park, dethroning the 2009 statechampions on a DeGennaro two-run dou-ble in the sixth inning of a 2-0 win. It fol-lowed with a 7-0 domination of Pittsfordin the final, finishing with a 24-3 record.

O’Flynn, who will attend Oneonta andplay softball next year, and her class-mates are looking to win a fourth con-secutive sectional title and repeat as state champions. Considering theteam has six seniors returning—and theexperience they have from playing inthree final fours—it is possible PearlRiver can become a two-time statechamp.

Pearl River’s Katie O’Flynnand Gemma Mahoney

Photo: Nick Camia

For complete Westchester/Hudson Valley softball coverage, including updated team rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

19

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Brianna RiveraPhoto: Nick Camia

Compiled by Kevin Devaney Jr.

Samantha Alonzo R.C. Ketcham Sr. Infield/Outfield

Alonzo is Ketcham’s initiator on offense when gets on base. Her ter-rific speed and running ability can create problems for the opposition.

Diane Caruso Minisink Valley Jr. Shortstop

Caruso is her team’s best all-around player. The shortstop is a left-handed hitting power source who bats in the three hole. When run-ners are in scoring position, Caruso brings them home.

Taylor Corretjer North Rockland Sr. Shortstop/Pitcher

Corretjer is an outstanding all-around player. She is a slick fielder, andoffensively is the Red Raiders’ creator from the lead-off spot. Corretjer will hit for power to the gaps. She can also dial up the velocity when pitching.

Danielle DeStaso Clarkstown North Sr. Pitcher

DeStaso does it all for the Rams. Not only is she one of Section 1’sfinest pitchers (176 strikeouts last year), but she was selected to theClass AA all-state fifth team. In addition, the senior swings the batwith authority (.544 batting average, 28 RBIs). She will attend SetonHall next year.

Janine Lalli Eastchester Sr. Pitcher/Shortstop

The Marist-bound senior can bring the heat in the circle and is an excellent shortstop.

Gemma Mahoney Pearl River Sr. Shortstop

Mahoney is Pearl River’s offensive catalyst, who has outstanding speed and is an excellent slap-hitter. Defensively, thesure-handed Mahoney possesses vast range and has a strong arm.

Katie O’Flynn Pearl River Sr. Pitcher

O’Flynn returns for her third year as the Pirates No. 1 wind-miller. O Flynn, who went 18-3 with a 0.67 earned run aver-age last year, was a Class A second-team all-state pick.

Taylor Pirone Ursuline Sr. Pitcher

The Fordham-bound senior is the Koalas No. 1 pitcher (14-4, 157 strikeouts) and top offensive weapon. Pirone putsthe aluminum on the ball and when she does, it travels (five home runs, 38 RBIs, .440 average).

Brianna Rivera North Rockland Sr. Catcher

The senior is the best all-around catcher in Section 1. Rivera calls an excellent game and is terrific defensively, able toconsistently thwart opposing base runners who attempt to steal. Rivera is also an intimidating hitter who will takethe ball to all fields.

Lauren Sputo White Plains Sr. Pitcher

The senior pitcher has been the Tigers’ No. 1 since joining varsity her freshman year. A Class AA second-team all-stateselection, Sputo possesses an excellent fastball.

(alphabetical)

20

Connecticut Baseball

In his first stint as Norwalk HighSchool baseball coach, Pete Tucciguided the Bears to two FCIACtitles and a pair of trips to the state finals.

More than a decade later, Tucci is back tolead the Bears, who, as usual, have a lineuploaded with talent.

Norwalk is one of several contenders takingaim at the FCIAC crown now belonging toFairfield-Ludlowe, which put the finishingtouches on its first league championship witha victory over Greenwich in last season’sfinals.

“The expectations are always high here but all I ask is that our guys play hard andsmart every game,” said Tucci, who takesover for Angelo Bruno, who resigned last June after 154 wins and two FCIAC titles. “Ithink one of my jobs will be to keep our play-ers grounded.”

For complete Connecticut baseball coverage, including updated team rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

FCIAC Up For Grabs By Jesse Quinlan

St. Joseph, Westhill and Staples, whichwon consecutive league crowns in 2008and 2009, are three other teams to watchin the FCIAC, which featured 10 DivisionI-bound pitchers a year ago.

“It’s always competitive in this leaguebut it’s rare that you have a year like wedid last season,” said Greenwich coachMike Mora. “I think 2004 was the last time.It was such a senior-dominated, pitching-oriented league. You had to scratch andclaw your way through it.”

In the SCC, Amity Regional is comingoff a 20-0 regular season and features sen-ior third baseman Mark Esposito, who isranked as the No. 3 third baseman in thenation by one baseball scouting service.

Foran and Law also reached the statequarterfinals, and Fairfield Prep isanother team out of the SCC that won atleast 12 regular season games a year ago.

In the SWC, Weston won 14 games andthe Patriot Division, and will have highhopes in 2011. So will Torrington, whichwon 13 games out of the NVL beforereaching the second round of the Class Ltournament.

Breaking it down:

Wamogo’s Mike OdenwaelderPhoto: Mike Stobe

21

James Cooksey Norwalk Sr. Pitcher/DH

Named first-team all-FCIAC as a utility player, Cooksey went 6-1 onthe mound last year and also delivered at the plate with a .318 battingaverage. He will play at Sacred Heart University.

Kevin Daniele Norwalk Sr. Catcher

The all-FCIAC Central Division selection led the Bears with a .471 batting average, a slugging percentage of .794, and 25 RBIs.

Mark Esposito Amity Sr. Third Base/Pitcher

A three-year starter who batted .390 as a junior, Esposito has signedto play at Marshall University, where he will pitch and play third base.Older brother Jason was a seventh-round draft pick by the KansasCity Royals in 2008.

Rob Gau Staples Sr. Pitcher

The lefthander went 4-1 for the Wreckers on his way to all-FCIAC West honors. He will play football and baseball atTrinity College.

Ted Gravel Wamogo Sr. Catcher

Gravel was among the state leaders in slugging percentage (.727), on-base percentage (.557), batting average (.470)and runs scored (27). He was also named first-team all-Berkshire League.

Spencer Jacoby Norwalk Sr. Centerfield

The talented outfielder was chosen first-team all-FCIAC after batting .413 with three home runs and eight doubles. Hecould be headed to UConn to continue his playing career.

Tyler Matakevich St. Joseph Sr. First Base

Picked to both the all-state and all-FCIAC teams, Matakevich totaled 32 RBIs and 29 hits, including five home runs, to goalong with a .718 slugging percentage.

Ed Michaud Foran Sr. Third Base

Michaud was among the best in the state last year with a .541 batting average and .865 slugging percentage.

Mike Odenwaelder Wamogo Sr. Pitcher/Shortstop/Outfield

Odenwaelder won six of his team’s seven games and pitched to a 2.57 ERA with 72 strikeouts. The senior, an all-statesoccer and basketball player, also batted .406, scored 27 runs and drove in 21 last season.

Dan Warren Fairfield Warde Jr. Third Base

Named first-team all-FCIAC as a sophomore, Warren is coming off a year in which he batted .361, and had 18 RBIs andnine doubles.

For complete coverage of Connecticut baseball, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

(alphabetical)

Staples’ Rob GauPhoto: Pamela Moss

22

Connecticut Softball

In Class L, Fairfield Warde advanced toits first semifinal ever last year, and returnssome key talent, including Stacey DiLeo andKatlyn McCarthy. The Mustangs’ seasonended against Waterford, the defendingstate champions.

Westhill won the Class LL state champi-onship with only two seniors, and barelymissed winning its third consecutive FCIACchampionship. Without star pitcher, JenJoseph, Westhill will try and regain its champi-onship form behind a now veteran team. Trum-bull, also a program of note, knocked Westhilloff in the FCIAC title game, but the Eagles willneed to replace their star pitcher as well.

Platt Tech has won three consecutive Con-stitution State Conference titles and will be ledby one of the state’s best catchers in AlyssaDonovan. She is absolutely a player to watch.

The FCIAC was strong in the pitching circlelast year, but with the graduation of many sen-ior starters, offense will be at the forefront.While a new class of pitchers hone their skills.New Canaan will be a team to watch for, witha lineup boasting a number of seniors who areready for next season. Darien, always solid,will try to build on its 14-4 FCIAC record froma season ago.

In the SWC, there is some excellent individ-ual talent led by Notre Dame-Fairfield’sNicole Negron, a multi-sport athlete and starshortstop. Also, be on the lookout for super-sophomore Katherine Fischer. She put up eye-popping stats at Weston in her freshman sea-son, hitting .515 with eight doubles, seventriples, and four homeruns.

Breaking it down:

Rivalries Bloom on DiamondBy John Malone

Lauralton Hall and St. Joseph have combined to win three of the last fourClass M state championships, havingmet one another in the state playoffs

three times in that time span. Certainly, a bit of arivalry is budding.

Expect the two powerhouses to meet somewhereagain, as both teams return an eye-popping amountof talent including their pitchers, Micki Keltos (St. Joseph) and Hayley Spragg (Lauralton Hall).

Lauralton Hall’s Hayley SpraggPhoto: Mike Stobe

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log on to MSGVarsity.com!

23

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Westhill’s Brittany HornPhoto: Nick Camia

Rachel Booth Foran Sr. Catcher

Booth, who was named all-state, hit .524 as a junior, but may havebeen even more impressive defensively. She picked off 19 base-run-ners during the season, including seven in one game.

Abby Casey Lauralton Hall Sr. Outfield

A strong defensive player, Casey was the leader in the outfield forLauralton Hall. She was one of eight underclassman starters for theClass M runners-up, and all-state in 2010.

Stacey DiLeo Fairfield Warde Sr. Shortstop

An all-state selection for Warde last season, DiLeo helped her teamreach the Class L semifinals for the first time. She will look to sustainthat level for the Mustangs as a senior.

Alyssa Donovan Platt Tech Jr. Catcher

Another young, all-state catcher, Donovan has a cannon for an arm.She has unusual speed for a catcher, legging out a few triples in 2010.A captain as a sophomore, she has the potential to be great.

Brittany Horn Westhill Sr. Second Base

The middle infielder was a first team all-FCIAC player for state champion Westhill. She will lead as a senior in 2011.

Micki Keltos St. Joseph Sr. Pitcher

Keltos went 16-4 as the starter for St. Joseph and won the Class M state title despite suffering an illness during theplayoff run. She’s 51-14 in her career, and hit .490 as a junior last season.

Nicole Negron Notre Dame-Fairfield Sr. Shortstop

The multi-sport athlete was all-state as a junior. Though the team had its struggles, Negron sparkled for the Lancers.With her leading the way, ND will be looking for greater success this season.

Ashley Peel St. Joseph Jr. Catcher

Peel was named to the Class M all-state team for a talented Cadets squad. As a sophomore, she hit .405 with five home-runs, and 21 runs batted in.

Hayley Spragg Lauralton Hall Jr. Pitcher

Spragg pitched her team into the Class M state championship game with 194 strikeouts and an ERA of 0.86. She was 21-5on the season during her sophomore year.

Sarah Wesley Trumbull Sr. Catcher

Another excellent catcher, Wesley was a key reason for Trumbull’s run to the FCIAC championship.

(alphabetical)

24

New York City Baseball

This may be the most talented collection ofteams throughout New York City in years. Thedefending PSAL champs, Tottenville, returnspractically its entire roster.

Meanwhile, James Monroe, Xaverian, Fordham Prep,George Washington and Grand Street are all reloaded.

Not everyone is so fortunate, though. Lehman, the run-ners-up in the PSAL, will have some holes to fill after los-ing its ace pitcher and top hitter. It does, however, haveAndy Ramos, one of the top players in New York City.

Poly Prep, who fell short in last year's Ivy League final,graduated three seniors from its starting infield and oneof the top pitchers in the city.

While some teams lack the experience that other teamshave this year, it’s hard to overlook the large number offuture draft prospects and college players in the area.

In fact, the City boasts one of the top players in thestate in Elvin Soto from Xaverian.

For complete New York City baseball coverage, including updated team rankings, log on to MSGVarsity.com!

NYC Boasts Talented RosterBy Jason Kahn

The CHSAA ‘AA’ looks to be the city’s toughestleague this year. No team has a lock on making thechampionship game. Xavier returns a strongnucleus. Fordham Prep could have the best Seniorclass around. St. Raymond’s legendary baseballcoach Ron Patnosh retired, but the man taking over,Marc DeLuca, was the assistant for the past six sea-sons. Therefore, the Ravens team shouldn’t be runmuch differently. St. Joseph’s by the Sea’s champi-onship 2010 season was no fluke, and they’ll be justas dangerous this year. Xaverian, Mount St. Michaeland Archbishop Molloy, among others, should be inthe mix, as well.

In the CHSAA ‘B’ Division, Monsignor Scanlanappears to be the favorite, but St. John’s Prep willonce again contend for the city crown.

The PSAL ‘A’ will be a little more crowded thanusual this season. Riverdale-Kingsbridge Acad-emy and Gregorio Luperon, both teams in last sea-son’s ‘B’ title game, move up. James Monroe,typically one of the country’s best teams, was upsetin the 2010 playoffs. Coach Mike Turo should havethe Eagles returning to form. Other teams to watchout for are: Tottenville, Grand Street, George Wash-ington and Morris. Brooklyn Studio seems to havea solid grasp on the PSAL ‘B’. The school shouldcapture the division title and find itself in the finals.Taft appears to be Brooklyn Studio’s biggest threat.

Can Collegiate make it back-to-back Ivy Leaguetitles? Poly Prep, Fieldston and Riverdale Countryare the teams most likely to stop them.

Breaking it down:

Lehman’s Andy RamosPhoto: Frank LoCascio

25

For complete coverage of NYC baseball action, log on to MSGVarsity.com! Compiled by Jason Kahn

Xaverian’sElvin Soto

Photo: DominickRicciardi

Sal Annunziata Fordham Prep Sr. First Base

The Bronx native hit .409 with four home runs and 25 RBIs last year.Annunziata is bound for Seton Hall.

Franciel Campusano Fort Hamilton Sr. Pitcher

The flame-throwing lefty threw two consecutive no-hitters (threetotal), one of which came in a losing effort. Campusano had a sub-1.00ERA with 66 strikeouts in 44 innings.

Jose Cuas Grand Street Campus Jr. Shortstop

College coaches and scouts alike were enamored by Cuas last year,when he hit .531 with three home runs and 20 RBIs. The clean-up hit-ter showed off his speed, too, stealing 18 bases.

Marcus Hernandez Poly Prep Sr. Catcher

Hernandez was one of the most reliable catchers in the Ivy League,helping the Blue Devils reach the championship game. The Bucknell-bound senior hit .373.

Williams Jerez Grand Street Campus So. Centerfield

If Jerez continues to improve after an impressive freshman season, he'll be one of the top prospects in the city. The leftyhit .492 with five home runs, 21 RBIs, and stole 24 bases.

Nick Morton Packer Collegiate Jr. Shortstop

Selected as a Pre-Season Under Armour All American, the switch-hitting Morton has played on the Varsity since eighthgrade. The junior hit .404 last season, earning a spot on Rawlings Top Prospects Team.

James Norwood All Hallows Sr. Pitcher

Headed to St. Louis University next year, Norwood has big league scouts showing some serious interest. He should bethe scariest pitcher that any batter has to face in the city.

Andy Ramos Herbert H. Lehman Sr. Catcher

There aren’t many more reliable players than Ramos. He's a major reason why Lehman made it to the PSAL champi-onship game last year, as he batted .643 with three home runs and 31 RBIs.

Elvin Soto Xaverian Sr. Catcher

The switch-hitting, cannon-armed catcher played with Team USA's 18-and-under squad last summer. The Pittsburghsignee hit .338 with five home runs as a junior.

Pedro Taveras John F. Kennedy Sr. Centerfield

Taveras should lead JFK this season—just as he did last year—in batting average, hits, doubles, RBIs and home runs(tops in the PSAL with five).

(alphabetical)

26

New York City Softball

With LaGuardia’s move to the PSAL ‘A’, there’s notone team that has a stranglehold on the ‘B’. LabMuseum’s impressive run to the finals as the No. 7 seedmay give it a slight edge coming in, but there’s a bevy ofteams that could make a similar run. Keep an eye on theQueens High School of Teaching, Telecommunicationand Brooklyn Studio, all three of which are highly expe-rienced squads.

One of the best teams in the state comes from theCHSAA ‘A’ Division. It looks like St. Joseph’s by the Seais primed for another trip to states. The Lady Vikingswere hit hard by graduation, but are still a very deepteam. Archbishop Molloy and St. Francis Prep appearto be their toughest competition. In the ‘B’, Bishop Fordis the favorite to win it again. But St. Saviour will defi-nitely give the Lady Falcons a challenge.

If there’s one thing anyone has learned in the past fiveyears in the Ivy League, never pick against Poly Prepwhen it comes to softball. The Lady Blue Devils will tryfor six league titles in a row this season, but teams likeHorace Mann and Fieldston unleashed some extremelytalented players in 2010.

Breaking it down:

Plenty of NYC Teamsin the HuntBy Jason Kahn

Every league in New York City had some sort ofhistorical feat occur last season. James Madisonbecame the first team to beat Tottenville for thePSAL championship in seven years; St. Joseph’s

by the Sea completed an undefeated season culminating ina CHSAA state title; Poly Prep won its fifth straight IvyLeague crown.

This season could be just as exciting. Madison’s triumph in the PSAL ‘A’ sent shockwaves

throughout the league. It may have, in fact, raised the bar.Staten Island is once again loaded with talent. Susan Wag-ner, Port Richmond and New Dorp could strip Tottenvillefrom its seemingly never-ending grasp on the division.

Although Madison returns New York City’s top player inKayla Hill, they lose a ton of power in that lineup from lastyear. Caitlyn Ganley, Brittany O’Brien, and Nikki Panaro—who hit the game-tying home run in the ninth inning of last year’s championship game—are all gone. It shouldn’tprevent them from winning the division, but it could hurtcome playoff time. Benjamin Cardozo, Riverdale-Kings-bridge Academy and Bayside should contend once again,but don’t be surprised if Cinderella teams start joining thetitle hunt.

James Madison’s Kayla HillPhoto: Mike Stobe

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27

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Zanovia PiercePhoto: Frank LoCascio

Compiled by Jason Kahn

Becky Ganley James Madison Sr. Left Field

Ganley's sliding catch clinched the PSAL title for James Madison. Theschool's Valedictorian hit .500 with 23 RBIs during the regular season.

Gina Gerone James Madison Jr. Shortstop

Gerone led the PSAL 'A' in RBIs with 38 in 2010 as a sophomore. Withseveral seniors gone from that historic championship team, expectGerone's production to rise.

Chyanne Gilliam New Dorp Jr. Outfield

As a sophomore, in her first year playing varsity, there was no bet-ter leadoff hitter in New York City. The speedster led the PSAL 'A'with 37 steals and hit .625.

Kayla Hill James Madison Sr. Pitcher

Hill's heroics and stellar pitching performance in the PSAL city titlegame lifted James Madison to victory. The ace didn't give up a singlerun during the regular season, finishing with 71 strikeouts. At theplate, she drove in 18 runs while batting .543.

Jackie Kelly St. Joseph's by the Sea Sr. Third Base

Kelly hit .581 last year— and .500 in the playoffs—for a team that went undefeated and captured the CHSAA state title.She's also got a great glove at the corner, registering only two errors her career.

Danielle Locke Susan E. Wagner Sr. Centerfield

The four-year varsity player has one of the best gloves in the outfield. She also is one of the most patient hitters at theplate with a .450 average.

Victoria McFarland Tottenville Sr. Centerfield

McFarland is the biggest bat returning in the PSAL. She hit .686 during the regular season and drove in 29 runs.

Nicole Palase Tottenville Sr. Pitcher

The ace on last year's Tottenville team that finished as the runner-up in the PSAL city final, Palase had a 15-0 record witha sub-1.00 ERA and 102 strikeouts. Her offense is just as good, as she hit .532 with eight home runs and 40 RBIs.

Maria Palmeri Archbishop Molloy Jr. Pitcher

Hands down the most versatile player in the CHSAA, Palmieri played multiple positions, including pitcher, where shestruck out 78 batters. She was also one of the team's top hitters with a .478 average.

Zanovia Pierce Riverdale-Kingsbridge Academy Jr. Pitcher

Pierce whiffed 91 batters last year. She started in nearly every single game for the Lady Tigers, leading them to thePSAL quarterfinals.

(alphabetical)

28

Tri-State Lacrosse

A New Era of Tri-State LAX Begins By Jared Greenberg

Gone are the names that were synonymous with tri-statelacrosse for the past four years.The likes of Nick Galasso (West

Islip, LI), Tom Schreiber (St. Anthony’s, LI),Kevin Interlicchio (Yorktown, WC), BrendanRotanz (Fairfield Prep, CT) and John Muti(Mountain Lakes, NJ) have all graduated.

Enter a new crop of senior stars, such asMike Daniello (John Jay Cross River, WC),Myles Jones (Walt Whitman, LI), Kyle Turri(West Islip, LI), John Barney (Delbarton,NJ) and Joe Costigan (New Canaan, CT).These are just some of the names thatheadline the Class of 2011. And newnames could result in new champions, po-tentially jumpstarting new dynasties.

In addition to the graduation of somany blue-chip recruits, a changing ofthe guard may occur this spring becauseof realignment.

In New York, Class B deserves your un-divided attention. Traditional power play-ers—such as Rye and Manhasset—movedup from Class C, while Yorktown wentfrom “A” to “B.” In Westchester/HudsonValley, Section 1’s Class B is loaded. York-town, Rye, Somers, and, of course, the de-fending champs, John Jay-Cross River allhave a legitimate chance to win a sectionand state title.

On Long Island, the oldest running ri-valry in the country just got a whole lot

more intense. The 120th edition of theWoodstick Classic between Manhassettand Garden City will now be a leaguegame, serving as a potential preview of theNassau County final.

Last year, both teams qualified for thestate championship game (Mahassett wonClass C), but this year only one can reachthe Long Island final. The re-organizationof classes also affects programs such asCold Spring Harbor, which hasn’t moved.Manhasset has defeated Cold Spring Har-bor in the Nassau Class C playoffs, each ofthe last two seasons.

Since 1997, West Islip and WardMelville have accounted for seven New

York State, Class A championships. North-port (2001) was the only other Long Islandschool to win a large school state title dur-ing that time.

West Islip and Ward Melville have setthe bar for schools not only on Long Island,but the entire tri-state. Its league in SuffolkCounty—the toughest and deepest in thetri-state—is as wide open as it’s beensince the mid 1990s, as a result of the grad-uation of top-notch talent.

What does all this mean? This campaignhas the potential to be the year future stu-dent-athletes look back upon when schoolssuch as Smithtown West and Sachem Northkicked off a major championship run.

A current explosion in the popularity ofcollege lacrosse has made more scholar-ship dollars available to tri-state stu-dent-athletes than ever before.

In 2005, St. John’s University revivedits program, while Jacksonville Univer-sity and the University of Denver havealso added the sport. In the spring of2013, Marquette University will play itsfirst game and it will be coached bySachem North alum, Joe Amplo.

The trickle-down effect is alreadytaking place here at home. With more

college roster spots available, student-athletes in our hotbed of lacrosse arereaping the benefits.

Someone who may have been a Divi-sion II player 10 years ago may now findthemselves competing for a starting jobat a Division I school. Moreover, someformerly considered non-scholarship Di-vision III student-athletes, may nowhave the opportunity to have some oftheir tuition paid by a Divison II program.

As the sport grows, so too do the op-portunities for student-athletes.

Impact of College Expansion

Jared Greenberg is co-anchor of MSG Varsity’s High School SportsDesk, which airs live each weeknight.

The stakes will now be higher when Garden Citytakes on Manhasset in the Woodstick Classic,LIVE on MSG Varsity on Saturday, April 30th.

WEEKDAYS 6AM - 10AM

MSG.com

TUNE IN SO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU’RE TALKING ABOUTNEW YORK’S BEST SPORTS TALK IS NOW ON MSG NETWORK

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30

Tri-State Lacrosse

Ridgewood’s Success Starts at the TopBy Tara Petrolino

Tara Petrolino is the host of MSG Varsity’s High SchoolJournal and co-host of Don McPherson’s Training for Life.

Last June, the Ridgewood girlslacrosse team won the Tourna-ment of Champions and wascrowned the No. 1 team in New

Jersey. It was the first state title for theschool and its coach, Karla Mixon.

But Mixon’s road to prominence didn’tstart in the Garden State.

The Downingtown, Pennsylvania, nativeplayed lacrosse at Temple University, whereshe was coached by Kim Sloan Green, thefirst African-American head coach in thehistory of women’s intercollegiate lacrosse.

Sloan Green, now a Professor Emeritus atTemple, didn’t just want her players to pro-duce on the field, she also wanted them tocontribute in meaningful ways off of the turf,and suggested Mixon join the NationalYouth Sports Program. With the NYSP andthe National Science Foundation, Mixonwas able to help kids from inner-cityPhiladelphia through her two loves —teach-ing and coaching.

Sixteen years later, Mixon has followedher dream from Philly to Paterson to Ridge-wood, teaching middle schoolers by day,and coaching future Division I stars by night.

Since taking over Ridgewood’s varsitylacrosse program in 2001, Mixon’s teamshave been named six-time BCWCA cham-pions; six-time NNJILL Stars DivisionChampions; three-time NJSIAA SectionalChampions; and earned 2010 BCWCA Teamof the Year honors, to go with the school’sfirst state crown.

Mixon feels very blessed for the players

she’s had the privilege of coaching: play-ers who understand respect; players whogive 110-percent every day; players whohave personified passion, grit and perse-verance every time they have stepped onthe field.

The 2010 season was the pinnacle of that. But it’s 2011, and last year’s seven sen-iors, six of whom are playing in college now,are gone.

A new team with a new identity is in themaking. But Mixon is confident this year’ssquad will pick up the reins. After all, Ridge-wood returns goalie Isabel Sippel—a three-year starter who had seven saves in lastJune’s final bout—and five seniors, all ofwhom signed with Division I programs onNational Signing Day.

Jess Miller (Richmond), Lindsay Wiener(Boston University), Samantha Giordano(Georgetown), Taylor Pedersen (Vermont),and Sally Jentis (Miami) will be looked uponto lead way and fill some very big shoes.

They have tasted victory at its purestform, and will seek to do it again.

Mixon has raised the bar high. This year’sschedule features some of the best teams inthe region including Garden City (LI),Bridgewater-Raritan (NJ), Mountain Lakes(NJ), Shawnee (NJ), St. Anthony’s (LI), andyes, Moorestown (NJ)—the perennial

power who had won 10-straight TOC’s be-fore the Maroon turned the tide last year.

The Ridgewood head coach looks back onlast year’s run and calls it magical, recallingthe parents, teachers, friends, and yes, evenher own grandmother (wheelchair and all)who sat under the hot June sun to watchhistory be made.

So, can they do it again? One thing is for sure, Ridgewood support-

ers are a strong force and can only help theMaroon’s quest to repeat.

The Five Seniors: (from left) Sally Jentis, Taylor Pedersen, Jess Miller, Lindsay Wienerand Samantha Giordano. Photos by Kate Brindisi.

Jess MillerSally Jentis

MGS_AD-Clearview-03-11.indd 1 3/11/2011 3:08:45 PM

32

Long Island Boys Lacrosse

For boys lacrosse power-houses West Islip and Man-hasset, three-peats might betoo much to expect in 2011.

The Lions, who have won the lasttwo state Class A titles and four of thelast five, must replace the nation’s No. 1 recruit, attack Nicky Galasso,who finished his scholastic career withan even 500 points and now starts forthe University of North Carolina.

The Indians won the last two stateClass C titles and feature superb de-fenseman Bobby Duvnjak, the nation’stop-rated junior recruit. But Manhassetmoves up to Class B, which means itwill have to contend with talent-richGarden City. The Trojans are led by theHarvard-bound senior defense tandemof Stephen Jahelka and Brian Fischer,junior attack Devin Dwyer and seniormiddie Tom Gordon. Comsewogue andShoreham-Wading River are the best ofthe Suffolk Bs.

Whitman’s Myles JonesPhoto: Mike Stobe

Powerhouses to be Put tothe TestBy Bob Herzog

West Islip won’t concede its crown easily and is still the No. 1 seed in SuffolkClass A, led by Duke-bound goalie Kyle Turri, defenseman Kyle Carrick, attack DrewFederico and middie Mike Sagl.

Experienced Sachem North already had Massachusetts-bound midfielder MikeAndreassi and added a big-time scorer in Hicksville transfer Brandon Gamblin, theleading scorer in the Empire State Games for the gold-medal winning Long Islandscholastic boys. Smithtown West has an elite attack with Duke-bound senior KyleKeenan and junior James Pannell, likely going to Virginia. Senior attack Will Mazzoneleads perennial contender Ward Melville. Farmingdale, led by defenseman J.J. Os-trander, heads Nassau’s A list.

In Class C, Manhasset’s exit opens the express lane for Cold Spring Harbor.And don’t forget CHSAA powers St. Anthony’s and Chaminade. The Friars are

ranked No. 4 nationally, even without Tom Schreiber, now excelling at Princeton,and the Flyers are ranked No. 6 after graduating D-I defensemen Michael Ehrhardt(Maryland) John Urbank (Georgetown). Middie Joe Locascio (Maryland) and de-fenseman Greg Danseglio (Virginia) are big-time college prospects. So is Chaminadeattack Matt Kavanagh (Notre Dame).

Breaking it down

1 Bobby Duvnjak Manhasset Jr. Defense

The first-team all-Long Island selection and All-Ameri-can anchored a state championship-winning defensethat allowed only 4.4 goals per game.

2 Brian Fischer Garden City Sr. Defense

Partners-in-crime on the football field in the Trojans'backfield, Fischer and Garden City teammate StephenJahelka team up again to stop opposing offenses. Theywill also team up next year at Harvard.

3 Stephen Jahelka Garden City Sr. Defense

The hard-hitting returning All-American, a first-time all-Long Island selection, and captain of defense that al-lowed 4.7 goals per game.

4 Myles Jones Whitman Sr. Midfield

The stick looks small in the hands of this 6-foot-5, 225-pound second-team all-Long Island selection andmember of Empire State Games team. He is headedto Duke next year.

5 Matt Kavanagh Chaminade Sr. Attack

The shifty attack scored 41 goals with 26 assists forthe CHSAA finalists last season and scooped up 47ground balls. Will attend Notre Dame in the fall.

6 Kyle Keenan Smithtown West Sr. Attack

This Duke-bound senior is a second-team all-Long Is-land choice. He can both finish and distribute. Hescored five points in ESG gold-medal victory.

7 Joe Locascio St. Anthony’s Sr. Midfield

A hard shooter with smarts, he is headed to Marylandthis fall. He scored a game-tying goal with 24 secondsleft in the Catholic final, before Chaminade won in OT.

8 James Panell Smithtown West Jr. Attack/Midfield

He took a terrific first step last season with 69 pointsfor the Bulls and excelled in ESG.

9 Mike Pellegrino Connetquot Sr. Defense

The returning all-Long Island first-teamer can score intransition, and can lock down on defense, drawing thetoughest one-on-one assignments. He will attendJohns Hopkins.

10J.J. Ostrander Farmingdale Sr. Defense

The returning second-team all-Long Island selection isthe top defender for the defending Nassau Class Achamps and bound for Towson State.

For complete coverage of Long Island boys lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

Compiled by Bob Herzog and Chris Mascaro

(alphabetical)

33

Long Island Girls Lacrosse

There are some things that you can count on every year in high school sports.And one of them is the Garden City girls lacrosse team. The Trojans are alwaysin the mix for the Nassau crown and the feeder system continues to reload aprogram that consistently wins and has become the benchmark for all girls

lacrosse teams.Garden City coach Diane Chapman will once again have some of Long Island’s top

guns at her disposal as the Trojans make another run at the Nassau Class B title. The Tro-jans have won five straight state Class B titles and 11 in their illustrious history.

They were 21-0 last year and return a host of talent, including senior attack CarolineTarzian, who had 84 goals and 124 points. Senior midfielders Mikaela Rix and Barbara Sul-livan are the backbone to another deep Garden City powerhouse.

Bay Shore won the Suffolk Class AA title with upset wins over West Islip andNorthport in 2010. The Marauders will have their hands full with a Northport teamthat returns senior midfielder Shannon Gilroy, who is known as “the Franchise” andled the region with 97 goals and 33 assists. The two-time All-American and sopho-more attack Courtney Fortunato looks to get Northport back on top.

Farmingdale returns senior attack Jamie Leone and senior midfielder Kelly McPartland to a Dalers team looking for state recognition.

The CHSAA will be all about St. Anthony’s, which is looking for its fourth-straighttitle behind high-scoring senior midfielder Kerrin Maurer.

Breaking it down

Garden City’s Barbara SullivanPhoto: Mike Stobe

Garden City Leading the WayBy Gregg Sarra

1 Courtney Fortunato Northport So. Midfield

An excellent defender who handles the ball well, she sticks to her opponent and knows when to double-team.

2 Shannon Gilroy Northport Sr. Midfield

An All-American and Long Island Player of the Year,she scored 97 goals and added 33 assists.

3 Danielle Jaycox St. John the Baptist Sr. Midfield

She has 182 career goals and 54 assists as an all-CHSAA player. She had a breakout year as a juniorwith 96 goals. She is committed to Adelphi.

4 Halle Majorana Manhasset Sr. Attack

She had 52 goals and 32 assists for the Nassau ClassC champions.

5 Kelly McPartland Farmingdale Sr. Midfield

She helped lead the Dalers to a second consecutivestate Class A championship.

6 Kerrin Maurer St. Anthony's Sr. Midfield

The CHSAA Player of the Year scored 59 goals andled St. Anthony's to a third straight Nassau-Suffolk titledespite recovering from a broken ankle and pelvis suf-fered in a car accident during basketball season.

7 Mikaila Rix Garden City Sr. Midfield

She had 15 goals and three assists in the Trojans'final three playoff games and totaled 62 goals and 21assists for the year.

8 Paula Schmidt Wantagh Sr. Attack

A dual threat on offense, she racked up 55 goals and46 assists last season, including 11 goals and 10 as-sists in three playoff games.

9 Barbara Sullivan Garden City Jr. Midfield

She was named state tournament MVP after a four-goal, three-assist performance in the final, helping earnthe Trojans another state Class B title. Sullivan will playlacrosse for Notre Dame.

10Caroline Tarzian Garden City Sr. Attack

Last season, she had 124 points, including 84 goals,leading Garden City to its fifth straight state Class B title.

For complete coverage of Long Island girls lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

Compiled by Gregg Sarra and Stephen Haynes

(alphabetical)

34

New Jersey Boys Lacrosse

For years, programs such as Delbarton, Mountain Lakes and Ridgewood dom-inated the high school lacrosse landscape. However, in the case of the GreenWave, we saw their record run of eight-straight state titles snapped.

Rising programs like St. Joseph (Metuchen) and Summit now are perennialchampionship threats. Both squads share the starter record for victories in a season at23, and Summit—which has now won two straight Tournament of Champions crowns—has set the record for consecutive victories at 45, breaking the previous mark held byRidgewood in the early 1990s.

Summit captured its 45th straight win by knocking off St. Joseph in the Tournamentof Champions final and will carry the record setting stream into the 2011 campaign.

Immaculata’s Ralph D’Agostino

Photo: Mike Stobe

The New Kids on the Block By Lou Brogno

Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Morris County again appears to be thehotbed of New Jersey lacrosse with legendary programs like Delbarton, MountainLakes, and Kinnelon trying to fend off surging competitors, namely Madison (17-5),Morristown (15-3) and Chatham (11-7).

Closing the talent gap at a rapid pace is Somerset County, where three top 10teams—Bridgewater-Raritan, Immaculata and Ridge—combined for nearly 50 winsin 2010.

Finally, there is a new kid on the block in Bergen County. Annual powers Ridge-wood, Bergen Catholic, Don Bosco Prep and Ramapo have had to make room forthe high-flying Thunderbirds at Mahwah, which finished 17-1 and claimed its firstcounty title in program history.

Breaking it down

1 Kevin Albert Immaculata Sr. Defense

New Jersey’s best lock-down defender anchored theSpartans’ successful run last season, and the Rutgers-bound Albert will prove his worth once again.

2 Ralph D’AgostinoImmaculata Sr. Midfield

D’Agostino, an All-American selection bound forSyracuse, will spark another run at the NJSIAA Non-Public B title.

3 Vinny Fuschetto New Providence Sr. Midfield

Fuschetto led the state with 70 goals as a junior andwill likely propel his team to become a playoff con-tender this season.

4 Mark Glicini Mahwah Sr. Attack

Glicini, who notched 65 goals and 101 points lastyear, is the cornerstone of his rising squad.

5 Ed Lubowicki St. Joseph (Metuchen) Jr. Attack

Lubowicki is one of the fiercest offensive players in theGarden State. He tallied 62 goals and 75 assists lastseason.

6 Colin McLinden Madison Sr. Midfield

The Dodgers finished fifth in the state in 2010, thanksin part to McLinden’s 25-goal, 55-assist output.

7 Nicholas Pontrello St. Augustine Prep Sr. Attack

Pontrello is considered one of the Garden State’smost prolific facilitators, having recorded 61 assists in2010.

8 Alex Rohrbach West Windsor South Sr. Midfield

Rohrbach does it all for his team, scoring 54 goals andassisting on 57 others last season.

9 Joe Sandford Princeton Jr. Attack

An explosive attacker, Sandford scored 58 goals andtallied 30 assists for a Princeton team destined to be-come a top 25 threat in 2011.

10 John Sherlock River Dell Sr. Attack

Sherlock registered 68 goals and 36 assists in 2010.The senior is poised to help the Golden Hawks reachnew heights in Group 1.

For complete coverage of New Jersey boys lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

Compiled by Brian Fitzsimmons

(alphabetical)

35

New Jersey Girls Lacrosse

A changing of the guard is rapidly taking place in the New Jersey girls lacrosseuniverse.

In 2010 Ridgewood finally captured its first-ever Tournament of Championstitle. Now entering her 11th season at the helm, veteran head coach Karla

Mixon has an excellent chance to make it two in a row.The Maroons will enter the 2011 campaign with a 21-game winning streak and feel, now

that New Jersey power Moorestown's 10-year state title reign has ended, a new era isabout to begin. Moorestown's legendary 228-game winning streak was snapped in theSouth Jersey championship game.

There is little question that Moorestown will once again make a run at the statetitle, but Ridgewood's returning talent level puts the Maroons in the elite categoryas well. Senior Jess Miller, who scored four first half goals in the Tournament ofChampions final, and Sally Jentis will lead a potent Ridgewood attack.

Other teams to watch out for in 2011 include reigning Somerset County championBridgewater-Raritan and Morris County powers, Chatham and Mendham.

Down the Shore, teams like Rumson and Manasquan will have to contend withToms River North's Tatum Coffey. After finishing third in the state scoring race ayear ago, Coffey, a 102-goal scorer in 2010, returns for her senior season.

Breaking it down

Pingry’s Emily Damstrom

Photo: Mike Stobe

Ridgewood Looks to RepeatBy Lou Brogno

1 Tatum Coffey Toms River North Sr. Attack

The Shore Conference’s best player registered awhopping 102 goals and 79 assists as a junior lastseason.

2 Emily Damstrom Pingry Jr. Attack

The Big Blue’s leading scorer is a sure bet to crackthe first team all-state list.

3 Emily Doyle Immaculate Heart Academy Jr. Midfield

Doyle notched 62 goals and 32 assists in 2010 for theperennially contending Blue Eagles.

4 Kelly Fenton Bridgewater-Raritan Sr. Attack

New Jersey’s most dynamic offensive player scored100 goals and added 23 assists last season. With214 career tallies, 300 is well within reach.

5 Lucy Ferguson Montclair Sr. Goalie

The William and Mary-bound senior is widely recognizedas one of the top goaltenders in the entire country.

6 Nicole Graziano Mendham Sr. Midfield

Graziano is a ferocious competitor who netted 90goals and assisted on 27 others last season.

7 Sally Jentis Ridgewood Sr. Midfield

Jentis was a stalwart for the Maroons last campaign,recording 42 goals on 65 shots, as well as a team-high63 draws.

8 Chrissy Lushefski Rumson Sr. Midfield

One the state’s best all-around players is signed to at-tend Dartmouth next year.

9 Kate Martino Summit Jr. Midfield

As a sophomore, Martino produced 48 goals and 21assists. Expect the Summit standout to take the nextstep toward stardom.

10Jess Miller Ridgewood Sr. Attack

Miller can score in bunches. That was evident whenshe netted four goals in the first half of the Tournamentof Champions final.

For complete coverage of New Jersey girls lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

Compiled by Brian Fitzsimmons

(alphabetical)

36

Westchester/Hudson Valley Boys Lacrosse

Section 1Yorktown's move down to Class B is good news for Lakeland/Panas, Mahopac, Suffern

and the rest of the Class A landscape. Lakeland/Panas—which upset Yorktown in last year's sectional title game—returns three

key pieces in Rob Caffrey, Conor Prunty and Chris Monteferante. Look for the Rebels to stave off upset-minded Mahopac in the finals. Class B: Both Rye and Yorktown have joined Class B, making it the most competitive di-

vision in Section 1. Defending champ John Jay-CR, which returns a herd of experiencedplayers, has a ton of pressure to not only repeat, but also win the program's first-ever statetitle. Of course, Yorktown, Rye and Somers might have something to say about it. Realisti-cally, the Huskers have the best shot at dethroning the Indians.

Class C: For the first time in years, Putnam Valley and Rye won't meet in the sectional fi-nals. With the Garnets now in Class B, Put Valley will have an easier path to its third straightcrown. Look for the Tigers to be challenged by Bronxville, Byram Hills and Pleasantville.

Section 9In Class A, Warwick lost standouts Mike Grace and Byron Quinn, leaving the sectional

title up for grabs. Warwick, Pine Bush and Minisink Valley will all be in the hunt. Class B: As the only two Class B teams in Section 9, there isn't much drama along the

way. Saugerties has won four straight championship games over Wallkill, including lastyear's 12-11 thriller.

Class C: Red Hook knocked off James I. O'Neill in last year's Class C title game and islooking for its fourth straight sectional title.

Bronxville’s Jack Near

Photo: Mike Stobe

Lakeland/Panas Leads the Pack By Isaac Cass

1 Robert Caffrey Lakeland/Panas Sr. Attack

The Providence-bound scoring sensation buried ateam-high 63 goals and was named all-section.

2 Kevin Christopher Putnam Valley Sr. Midfield

The all-section senior is one of the best at dodgingfrom up top and can burn teams in transition. He com-piled 56 points (38G, 18A) in 2009-10 to carry PutValley to its second straight Class C sectional title.

3 Mike Daniello John Jay-Cross River Sr. Attack/Mid

The four-year varsity player will look to become JohnJay-CR's first two-time All-American since Chris Bock-let. Daniello, who notched a team-high 72 points (42G,30A) last year, is committed to join Johns Hopkins.

4 Justin Mabus Yorktown Sr. Midfield

Thte Towson-bound senior totaled 26 points last sea-son on an even 13 goals and 13 assists to earn all-section honors. Look for a breakout year from Mabus.

5 Jack Near Bronxville Sr. Midfield

The wildly athletic two-sport star helped the Broncosto the NYS Class C football title this past fall. Near,who will play lacrosse at Notre Dame, racked up 59points (41G, 18A) last year as a junior.

6 Conor Prunty Lakeland/Panas Sr. Midfield

Named All-American as a junior last season after to-taling 82 points (45G, 37A), Prunty will play his col-lege ball at Siena.

7 Ty Schuldt Yorktown Sr. Midfield

The Hartford-bound senior became a faceoff specialistdown the stretch last season. He also led all Huskermiddies with 34 points (23G, 11A) and was namedall-section.

8 Eddie Schurr Somers Sr. Defense

Section 1's best defenseman is a technical masterwho added muscle in the offseason. He earned all-section in 2009-10 and is inked to play at JohnsHopkins.

9 Cameron Stephens Fox Lane Sr. Goalie

Section 1's best netminder is bound for Ohio StateUniversity. The 6-foot-5 Stephens was named all-sec-tion in 2009-10.

10Forrest Walter John Jay-Cross River Sr. Midfield

The Colgate-bound middie had a breakout 2010 sea-son with 47 points (33 goals, 14 assists) and wasnamed all-section.

For complete coverage of Westchester and Hudson Valley lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

(alphabetical)

37

Westchester/Hudson Valley Girls Lacrosse

Yorktown’s Lindsay ScottPhoto: Mike Stobe

1 Casey Bocklet John Jay-Cross River Sr. Attack

The Northwestern-bound standout amassed a school-record 105 goals last season as a junior and earnedAll-American honors.

2 Anna Jeszeck Lakeland/Panas Sr. Midfield

The all-section talent totaled 69 points (36G, 33A) lastyear as a junior and netted a hat-trick in the Rebels'shocking upset win over perennial power West Gene-see in the state semifinals.

3 Sammy Jo Tracy Fox Lane Jr. Midfield

The All-American midfielder totaled 106 points (75G,31A) in 2009-10 to form a deadly duo with teammateLindsay Toppe.

4 Eric McCabe Nyack Sr. Midfield

Named all-section last year as a junior, McCabe returnsto lead the three-time defending Class C champions.

5 Meg McNally Suffern Sr. Midfield/Defense/Attack

The versatile all-section player returns for her final sea-son with the Mounties.

6 Taylor Moore North Rockland Sr. Attack/Midfield

The Towson-bound All-American set a school recordwith 81 goals last year as a junior.

7 Jenn Peters Minisink Valley So. Attack

The rising star racked up 117 points (94A, 23A) lastyear as a freshman.

8 Lindsay Scott Yorktown Sr. Midfield

The University of North Carolina-bound midfielder to-taled a team-high 89 points (72G, 17A) last year toearn All-American honors.

9 Sarah Scott Yorktown Sr. Midfield

The versatile Scott seamlessly transitioned to midfieldfrom defense last season and totaled 41 points(32goals, nine assists). Scott will play at North Car-olina with her twin sister Lindsay.

10Lindsay Toppe Fox Lane Sr. Attack

The All-American scoring machine set a New YorkState record with an eye-popping 132 goals lastyear as a junior. Toppe will play at Cornell Universitynext year.

For complete coverage of Westchester and Hudson Valley lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

Section 1Once again, Lakeland/Panas and Suffern are expected to duke it out in Class A come

May. The two teams have met in the sectional finals 10 of the last 11 years, with L/P winningseven of them, including the last four straight.

Class B: Fox Lane is coming off a landmark season for the program, dethroning Yorktownand making a tremendous run through the state tournament that ended with a loss to Gar-den City (Section 8) in the finals.

With All-Americans Lindsay Toppe and Sammy Jo Tracy both returning, the Foxes will beheavy favorites to repeat as sectional champs, and should also seriously contend for thestate title.

Class C: Nyack—which is in search of its third straight sectional title—will be challengedat the top by Rye and Edgemont.

Section 9Kingston has ruled Class A in Section 9 with an iron fist, winning eight of the past nine

sectional titles. Minisink Valley, which fell to Kingston in last year's sectional finals, willlook to reverse the trend.

Class B: Saugerties stands as the only Class B team in Section 9.Class C: James I. O'Neill has won nine straight titles, however, it also lost four-year

standouts Rebecca Meese and Caroline Cannon. Burke Catholic, which fell in last year'ssectional title game, is the best bet to end O’Neill’s reign of dominance.

Dominant Teams Continueto Lead the Way By Isaac Cass

(alphabetical)

38

Connecticut Boys Lacrosse

Any talk about lacrosse in the state of Connecticut must start with Darien.The Blue Wave have won six-straight state championships, and return pos-sibly their best team ever. There’s even talk about Darien being the best teamin Connecticut history.

The Blue Wave have 14 Division I-committed players including Case Matheis, a juniorheading to Duke University.

Despite winning the state title last year, however, Darien failed to secure the FCIACchampionship. That title went to Greenwich, and the Cardinals return talented playersin Adam Sands, David Dickson, and others like sophomore Alex Moeser.

Darien’s Case MatheisPhoto: Mike Stobe

It Begins and Ends With DarienBy John Malone

Challengers for the FCIAC championship will be the slew of usual suspects in-cluding Wilton, Ridgefield and New Canaan. The middle of the FCIAC is quickly im-proving, though, with teams like Staples, St. Joseph, Brien McMahon and FairfieldLudlowe. Arriving a year early, Norwalk may be a team to watch.

St. Joseph will contend for the Class S championship, but is looking to move intothe top of the FCIAC as well. Led by high-scoring midfielder Pat Corcoran and two-sport star L.J. Hunt, the Cadets will be solid. Staples had one of its best seasons in2010, and will look to build on that this year.

New Canaan will try and take down its top rival in Darien behind Joe Costigan,a very athletic middie, and J.J. Granito, a top-tier goalie. Ridgefield has a stronggroup of seniors led by Matt Shannon (North Carolina) on defense and Aidan Scottwith the attack. Wilton has the top senior attacker in the FCIAC in Mike Francia,and one of the top goalies in Sam Somers.

Outside the FCIAC, St. Joseph, will be challenged in Class S by Weston. Westonhas a star in Kip McMahon and a good one between the pipes in Alex Peryigne.Fairfield Prep loses some leadership from last season, but this year’s new core isyoung and talented. They will contend in the SWC and Class L. Brunswick, off theradar sometimes due to their non-affiliation with the FCIAC and CIAC, is a greatprogram. Behind Conrad Oberbeck, a phenomenal scorer, Brunswick competes withsome of the best prep schools in the northeast.

Breaking it down

1 Pat Corcoran St. Joseph Sr. Midfield

An incredible scorer, especially for a midfielder, Corcoran put home 56 goals last year, and recorded30 assists to top it off.

2 Joe Costigan New Canaan Sr. Midfield

Costigan, another football and lacrosse star, will playlacrosse at the next level for North Carolina. He tallied58 points from the midfield last year and was namedan All-American.

3 Mike Francia Wilton Sr. Attack

An All-American last season, Francia already has 225career points. With nearly as many assists as goals,Francia is one of the best passers you’ll see aroundthe net. He’s heading to Villanova.

4 Case MatheisDarien Jr. Attack

One of the best players in the country in his class,Matheis, a junior, is already committed to Duke Univer-sity. Matheis scored nine goals in the state champi-onship game last spring to go along with five assists.

5 Kip McMahon Weston Sr. Defense

A star on the football field, McMahon is a four-yearstarter on the lacrosse field as well.

6 Conrad Oberbeck Brunswick Sr. Attack

When Oberbeck scored 50 goals as a sophomore, heset a school record. Then, he scored 56 goals last sea-son, and broke his own record. Oberbeck excels atgetting into scoring position without the ball and fin-ishes in a flash. He is committed to Yale.

7 Kip Orban Staples Sr. Midfield

As a strong, well-rounded midfielder who can score,Orban led Staples to one of its best seasons.

8 Eric Parnon Darien Sr. Defense

Parnon is the main cog in the Blue Wave’s defensethis season. With a cast full of college commits, theDarien defense expects to be something special.

9 Adam Sands Greenwich Sr. Defense

Sands was an integral part in Greenwich’s Cinderellarun to the FCIAC title last spring. He is blessed withthe size to smother most attackmen and speed to keepup with them.

10 J.P. Walsh Darien Sr. Midfield

Walsh is a physical presence wherever he is in themidfield. More of a defensive middie in 2010, Walshis expected to move into the offensive end of the fielda lot more in 2011.

For complete coverage of Connecticut lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

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Connecticut Girls Lacrosse

When it comes to FAA girlslacrosse championships, Green-wich Academy has the marketcornered.

The Gators have captured the regularseason title every year since the leaguewas formed in 1985, and have also won theFAA tournament 26 out of 27 times—the ex-ception coming in 2003 when cross-townrival Convent of the Sacred Heart reignedsupreme.

A perennial New England Prep Schoolpowerhouse, GA has also finished No. 1 inthe regional rankings several times over theyears.

Despite saying goodbye to another tal-ented senior class, the Gators aren’t aboutto let graduation get in the way of doingwhat they do best: rearranging their ever-expanding trophy case.

“The kids strive to be good,” said coachAngela Tammaro, who has amassed more than 600 wins at GA in both fieldhockey and lacrosse. “Our success is due totheir hard work. The goal is to play as well as we can, and win as many games aswe can.”

In the CIAC’s premier league, the FCIAC, four teams have done plenty of winningas well.

Not only have Darien, Wilton, New Canaan and Greenwich combined to winevery FCIAC title since 1993, they’ve also met in the finals of the state’s Division Itournament every year since 2000.

“Graduation takes its toll on everyone so it will be interesting to see how eachteam develops,” said New Canaan coach Kristin Wood, who guided her team to itsfirst Division I championship last year courtesy of a thrilling 10-9 victory over Green-wich.

While New Canaan and Greenwich are seen as the favorites this season, of coursedon’t count out defending FCIAC champ Wilton or Darien, which had its three-yearrun as state champs come to an end.

“We’ve lost 19 starters the past two years so there’s an opportunity for kids withno experience to step in and play,” Blue Wave coach Lisa Lindley said. “We’ve addedmore New York teams to the schedule and it’s an extremely difficult one, but hope-fully in the end, we’re in the mix.”

Breaking it down

Fairfield Warde’s Taylor BargmannPhoto: Mike Stobe

Greenwich Academy Keeps onRollingBy Jesse Quinlan

1 Taylor Bargmann Fairfield Warde Sr. Midfield

The high-scoring middie was named all-FCIAC lastseason.

2 Claire Feeney Greenwich Jr. Attack

Feeney scored a game-high five goals in last year’s Di-vision I state final en route to all-FCIAC honors. Totaled71 goals and 13 assists as a sophomore.

3 Lauren Freeland New Canaan Sr. Midfield

A strong defender, Freeland will continue her careerat UMass.

4 Hannah Hutchins Weston Sr. Midfield

Hutchins averaged over three points per game lastseason with team-highs of 34 goals and 21 assists.

5 Maddie Kratz Wilton Sr. Goalie

Made 10 saves in Wilton’s FCIAC championship vic-tory over New Canaan. Has signed to play at Vander-bilt University.

6 Deven Machette McMahon Sr. Midfield

Machette racked up the goals on her way to a first-team All-FCIAC selection.

7 Sarah Mannelly New Canaan Jr. Midfield

Another first-team all-FCIAC choice, Mannelly scored43 goals and also led the Division I state champs incaused turnovers and draw controls.

8 Amy McNeil Amity Sr. Midfield

McNeil was among the state leaders with 100 pointslast season.

9 Clare McLaughlin Barlow Sr. Attack/Midfield

McLaughlin totaled 58 points and 53 groundballs asa junior.

10Kathryn Stack Greenwich Academy Sr. Defense

An excellent defender who handles the ball well, Stack sticks to her opponent and knows when to dou-ble-team.

For complete coverage of Connecticut lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

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New York City Boys Lacrosse

The PSAL, CHSAA and Ivy lacrosse leagues all continue to grow. Four All-Americans were selected from New York City last year, and that number shouldrise as all four players return.

One of those players, Artur Zych, could be on the city’s best team in Midwood. The Hornets have a huge senior class and didn’t graduate anybody from lastyear’s roster.

Horace Mann’s Matthew FoxPhoto: Frank LoCascio

Boys LAX is on the RiseBy Jason Kahn

Christopher Columbus, the reigning PSAL champ, loses just about every keyplayer from that team. Tottenville and New Dorp are the most likely PSAL squadsto knock Midwood off the map. It seems the PSAL ‘B’ will be a three-way race in2011. Curtis should be a force, however Long Island City beat the Warriors when itcounted to take the ‘B’ Division title. Lehman, meanwhile, handed Curtis its onlyloss of the regular season.

Fordham Prep’s transition into a new ‘AA’ league, featuring Long Island schools,may have turned out for the best. The Rams proved they could hang with some ofthe toughest competition in the state. Mount St. Michael, St. Francis Prep, Xaverianand St. Joseph’s by the Sea should see improvement against ‘A’ schools from LongIsland, as well.

Fieldston and Riverdale Country’s losses in the first ever Independent Schoolstournament should make both teams stronger going into this season. Poly Prep mayhave lost stud midfielder Brady Williams, but they have several players who couldreplace him. The road to the title begins.

Breaking it down

1 Jason Chen Benjamin N. Cardozo Sr. Midfield

Chen scored 32 goals and 16 assists for a middle-of-the-pack Cardozo team during the regular season, butthe All-American’s six playoff goals carried the Judgesinto the semifinals.

2 Lewis Escano Herbert H. Lehman Sr. Midfield

Escano’s unselfish play may have taken away from hisscoring last year—he had 19 goals—but he should takeon more of a leadership role now that he’s a senior.

3 Christopher Fiore New Dorp Jr. Goalie

The All-American netminder faced more shots thanany goalie in the PSAL, but still had a save percent-age of .830.

4 Matthew Fox Horace Mann Sr. Attack

An All-American selection last year, he scored 60goals and dished out 23 assists.

5 Theo Kalogerakis Poly Prep Sr. Defense

Opponents had a tough time trying to get aroundKalogerakis when he was a junior and it shouldn’t getany easier for them this time around.

6 Blake Koch Midwood Sr. Midfield

Look for Koch—24 goals, 16 assists in 2010—to formNew York City’s fiercest one-two punch with teammateArtur Zych.

7 Christopher Smith Fordham Prep Sr. Midfield

The two-time captain led Fordham Prep in goals with41 and promises to add to that number this season.

8 Christopher Sullivan, Fordham Prep Sr. Attack

After receiving backup minutes as a sophomore, Sul-livan broke out as a junior scoring 28 goals and rackingup 22 assists.

9 Christopher Summo Hebert H. Lehman Sr. Attack

The runaway PSAL leader in assists with 49, while net-ting 23 goals.

10Artur Zych Midwood Sr. Attack

Zych was also selected to the All-American team afterscoring 31 goals with 21 assists.

For complete coverage of NYC boys lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

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New York City Girls Lacrosse

Riverdale Country Day School made history last year, winning its first everplayoff game in the NYSAISAA tournament, as coach Carol Pouliot led ayoung Lady Falcons team to a share of the Ivy League title and a 16-3 record.

They have the players to take it at least one step further this season. MiaHopper has led the team in scoring the past two years and she’ll be teamed with herstandout freshman sister, Madeline, who will probably take over the team’s scoringcrown after Mia graduates this year. In all, Riverdale has only three seniors from lastyear’s team returning in 2011.

The Lady Falcons will have to cautious, however, of other skilled teams.

Poly Prep lost by a goal to Riverdale in the first round of the state tournament andthe Lady Blue Devils will provide the toughest obstacle for Riverdale this season.

The PSAL ‘A’ will have three teams fighting for a banner in 2011: Beach Channel,Tottenville and Midwood. Beach Channel is the two-time defending champ, butloses key players from that team.

If it can shore up its defense, the title could be Tottenville’s. Midwood will havea ton of upperclassmen on this year’s team, which could be a factor when the play-offs roll around.

However, if Beach Channel’s youth proves it can step up in big moments thisseason, the Lady Dolphins have a good shot at a three-peat.

Breaking it down

From left: Madeline Hopper, Zoe Loveman and Mia HopperPhoto: Frank LoCascio

Riverdale Country DayBack For More By Jason Kahn

1 Sydney Bryant Fieldston So. Goalie

Coach Sara Gorman says Bryant gets better by theday, and yet, she’s only a sophomore.

2 Mallory Cardillo Tottenville Sr. Defense

No one in the PSAL can lock down an entire offensivefront like Cardillo.

3 Jessica Dahldorf Poly Prep Sr. Midfield

Dahldorf’s speed and decision-making is second-to-none and she’ll be the main reason why Poly contendsfor an Ivy League crown.

4 Seung Gee Kim Stuyvesant Sr. Attack

Kim’s maturation on the field showed in 2010 as sheadded to her 10 goals from her sophomore year with29.

5 Madeline Hopper Riverdale Country Fr. Attack

She came in as a reserve as an eighth grader, but her38 goals earned her a starting spot, working in tan-dem with her sister, Mia.

6 Mia Hopper Riverdale Country Sr. Midfield

The team’s leading scorer the past two seasons, it’shard to find anyone in the city who can top her 71goals last year.

7 Megan Kane Tottenville Sr. Attack

There isn’t a more balanced player than Kane as shefound the back of the net 36 times while dishing out39 assists.

8 Zoe Loveman Riverdale Country Sr. Midfield

The three-sport athlete was key to Riverdale’s successlast season, adding 20 goals and nine assists.

9 Taylor O’Gara Curtis Jr. Midfield

O’Gara’s team-leading 26 goals as a sophomorecould only mean PSAL teams are going to have theirhands full the next two years.

10Katie Zambelli Fieldston Sr. Attack

One of the top goal scorers from last year’s squad,Zambelli should lead the attack and take over the bulkof the scoring for Fieldston.

For complete coverage of NYC girls lacrosse, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to Channel 614!

(alphabetical)

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TRACK & Field

Throughout this past winter sea-son, track and field athletes havedemonstrated their speed and

power. Now that the temperatures arewarming up, you can expect the outdoortrack competition to heat up, as well.

NEW JERSEY

BOYS: New Jersey claims one of the bestmale track and field athletes in the nation.After shot putter Nick Vena of Morristownwon his fourth straight Meet of Champi-ons, many now consider him the greatestshot putter the state has ever seen.

GIRLS: In the Garden State, all eyes are onsprinter and junior Olympic silver medalistMyasia Jacobs. “She is a once in a lifetimetalent,” Paramus Catholic sprint coachDustin Thomas explained. “I look at her asthe future face of track and field in Amer-ica. She is on that pace.”

Tri-State Track Scene Heats UpBy Lauren Brill

Paramus Catholic’s Myasia JacobsPhoto: Mike Stobe

WESTCHESTER/HUDSON VALLEY

BOYS: Yorktown’s Carter Humphrey wasthe Section 1 repeat winner in the 600mthis past indoor season and Yorktowncoach Keith Smith believes he will havecontinued success this spring. One of hisbiggest competitors will be New Rochellejunior Temi Bajulaiye. Distance runner Vic-tor Palumbo of Eastchester and runnerZaid Al-Doori of Harrison are also amongthe best.

GIRLS: Suffern’s Sarah Bowens is rankedone of the best in New York state in thelong jump. Bowens is expected to be dom-inant in both long jump and triple jumpthis spring. In Westchester, Mamaroneckjunior Anima Banks and up-and-comingtrack star of Bronxville, Mary Cain, had im-pressive winter seasons and are expectedto continue to set the bar in various run-ning events this spring.

CONNECTICUT

BOYS: Kevin Keller of Darien is coming offa solid indoor season. He runs the 200mand 400m in the spring and also does thelong jump and the triple jump. His biggestcompetitor will be runner Raphael Ray ofStaples.

GIRLS: Crowned state champion in the1000m in the indoor season and last year’sCIAC C L Champion in the 800m, Danburysenior Megan Keane is expected to con-tinue to excel this spring. For field events,pole vaulter Lexie Schachne of Staplesowns the school record, and is the currentFCIAC champion.

LONG ISLAND

BOYS: “Both Nassau and Suffolk countiesare seeing an upswing,” said veteran Gar-den City Boys Track Coach Bob Busch,whose squad will be led by hurdlers MikeTrabold and Alfred Russo. Other bignames on the island include Westbury’srecord-setting distance runner OwenSkeete and Elmont sprinter Jaquan Smith.

GIRLS: North Shore claimed the Class Acounty title last spring and this past in-door season. They are led by an excep-tional group of distance runners thatinclude: Samanatha Nadel, Jessica Dono-hue, Elizabeth Caldwell and Briana Nerud.In the Catholic league, St. Anthony’s OliciaWilliams broke a 23-year-old CHSAA staterecord in the 1000m and will run the 800m,4x4 and 4x8 this spring. “Her talent levelis just unbelievable,” St. Anthony’s coachOliver said.

NEW YORK CITY

Medgar Evers’ roster of athletes includesnot only some of the best runners in thestate, but in the country. This winterAndre Jordan gained the national lead in the 300 and the school’s relay team isalso one of the fastest in the nation. On thegirls side, this spring, Medgar Evers’Kadecia Baird and Sandrae Fargiharsonare expected to build on their successfulindoor seasons.

ARE YOU READY FOR...

Watch your classmatescompete in this fast-paced game of Q & A.

WEEKNIGHTS AT 5:30PM

iO TV Channels 14 and 614

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44

Spring is here!What snack do you reach for to cool off?

FAN FAVORITES

Nicolette C. Immaculate Heart Academy (NJ)

My favorite spring/summer snack is definitely watermelon because it keeps me refreshed and it's in season. Julianne T. Bethpage (LI)

Watermelon!

Melieluck G. White Plains (WEST)

Taro-flavored bubble tea is the way to goduring the spring and summer! It’s a thirstquencher, plus it’s delicious. I get it atAsian Temptation in White Plains.

Agron B. Yorktown (WEST)

I love cherry italian ices from thegrocery store.

SENIOR SENDOFF: What will you miss most about high school?

Rich L. Deer Park (LI)

My friends and wrestling.

Danny R. Bridge Academy (CT)

I will miss my friends, especially at BridgeAcademy because we have all been together since eighth grade.

Andrew G. Union City (NJ)

Hanging out with friends, teachers, being inthe school band and going to lunch.

Erin C. Villa Walsh Academy (NJ)

I will miss the opportunity to study, play soccer, run track, sing, debate against, volunteer and just support the many youngwomen I call my friends.

Cherelle M. Kolbe Cathedral (CT)

I'll miss playing basketball and all the goodtimes I had with my teammates and thememories that we had.

Joe W. Spring Valley (HV)

I will miss all the high school sports and activities that I participated in.

Jennifer L. Stissing Mountain (HV)

The Friday night football games and the basketball games

Joe P. Westhampton Beach (LI)

I will miss seeing the people that I've sharedmost of my life with so far.

Taylor W. Harborfields (LI)

Wolfie's Frozen Custard in Northport is AMAZING! They have so many flavors that you can mix and match.

Geramy R. Mount St. Michael (NYC)

PB & J sandwiches from the from Mount St. Michael Cafeteria.

Mia O. Freehold Township (NJ)

Soft vanilla ice cream from Jersey Freeze in Freehold, N.J. It’s just a stone's throw from Bruce Springsteen's old stomping grounds!

Jesse P. Half Hollow Hills East (LI)

Chocolate shakes from Baskin Robbins.

Carly S. Somers (WEST)

My favorite spring/summer snack is anice-cold pear! The brown kind though, I don’t like the green.

Rock Star Guests. Rock Star Host.

CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTINGSFor more information,

visit fuse.tv/hoppus

© 2011 Fuse Networks LLC. Fuse is a registered trademark of Fuse Networks LLC. All rights reserved.

#hoppus

46

Empire Challenge to Air Live on MSG Varsity By Gregg Sarra

Michael Pellegrino burst ontothe high school football sceneas a sophomore at ConnetquotHigh School on Long Island in

2008. He dazzled opponents, coaches, andhis teammates with an ability to scorefrom anywhere on the field.

His three-year varsity career included aLong Island Class I championship, twoAll-Suffolk awards and the ultimate dis-tinction: he earned the Hansen Award pre-sented to Suffolk County’s top player inthe fall.

Pellegrino, a gifted open field runnerwith great vision, accepted a full scholarshipto attend Johns Hopkins to play men’slacrosse. But before heading down to Bal-timore, he’ll play his final high school foot-ball in the 16th-annual Outback SteakhouseEmpire Challenge.

From Empire Challenge to the NFL

2001Willie Colon

Cardinal Hayes/Pittsburgh Steelers Leon Williams

Canarsie/Dallas CowboysJames Wyche

Roosevelt/St. Louis Rams Steve Gregory

Curtis/San Diego Chargers

2002Stephen Bowen

HHH West/Dallas Cowboys

2004Rich Ohrnberge

East Meadow/New England Patriots

2005Jovan Belcher

West Babylon/Kansas City ChiefsP.J. Hill

Poly Prep/New Orleans SaintsDarrel Young

Amityville/Washington Redskins

the five boroughs of New York City againstthe best seniors from Long Island, benefitsthe Boomer Esiason Foundation in its effortsto find a cure for cystic fibrosis. The gamebegan as the Heroes Bowl in 1996, whenNassau County took on Suffolk County.

“Boomer had the vision to introducethe game to the city and it exploded fromthere,” said Sachem Athletic Director PeterBlieberg, who serves as the game coordi-nator for the Empire Challenge. “It’s anend-of-the-school-year-event that continuesto capture the imagination of the highschool sports fan. And the games, for themost part, have been excellent.”

The game—which also serves as afundraiser to the Gunnar H. Esiason Endowment Scholarship Fund at HofstraUniversity, as well as local youth footballprograms—has grown in popularity.

In 2010, New York City came back towin, 15-10, in the game’s final moments.That win drew the City, which has wonthree of the last four games, to within 6-5 in the all-time series. Long Island won31-14 in 2009. The games are usuallyvery competitive and there have beenfour one-point games—with each teamwinning two.

Perhaps the greatest game came in2007 when the City outscored Long Island,35-27.

“Boomer loves the scoring,” Bliebergsaid. “There’s nothing like a wide open,air-it-out contest. It gets the crowd goingand raises the level of excitement.”

For more information on the Empire Challenge, including updated rosters, log on to www.empirechallenge.com

Pellegrino is one of the top 50 seniorsfrom Long Island who line up across fromNew York City all-stars on June 21 atHofstra University’s Shuart Stadium. Thisseason, for the first time, the game will bebroadcast LIVE at 7:30 p.m. on MSG Varsity,iO-Channel 14.

“Everyone wants to play in the EmpireChallenge,” Pellegrino said. “It’s the lasttime some of us get to put on the helmetand pads. And the Empire Challenge isthe biggest stage. We also get the oppor-tunity to play with some of our close friendsand opponents for a great cause.”

The Empire Challenge, an all-star ex-travaganza that pits the top seniors from

Connetquot’s Michael

PellegrinoPhoto: Joseph D. Sullivan/

Newsday

Gunnar Esiasonplayed in the 2009 game.

Photo: Patrick E. McCarthy/Newsday

iO TV Channel 14iO TV Channel 14

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SOBHY TAKES SQUASHTO THE NEXT LEVELShe is only 17-years-old, but Amanda Sobhy has

been around the world and back—Brazil, GuatemalaGermany, India, New Zealand, just to name a few re-cent international visits.

It seems like a lot of traveling for a high school sen-ior to do, but if you want to be a world champion, thefrequent-flyer miles come with the territory.

Sobhy may be a regular teen at North Shore HighSchool on Long Island during class time, but un-known to many of her peers, she's also a world cham-pion squash player.

“'You play with a vegetable,' is what I usually hear,”Sobhy said, laughing.

In 2010, she was not only the youngest personever to reach the finals of the U.S. Squash Open, butshe was also the first American ever to win a WorldOpen title, taking home the juniors crown.

Sobhy is helping to educate those in our tri-statearea with her accomplishments: five national titlessince 2006, ranked No. 1 in the U.S. as of November,and the youngest person to win four WISPA(Women’s International Squash Professional Asso-ciation) titles.

While keeping up with schoolwork is a challenge,Sobhy seems to have mastered it as much as she'smastered the squash court.

Next year, Sobhy will attend Harvard Universityand play on its squash team.

One of the great things about workingon a show like High School SportsDesk,is the opportunity we have to report onso many different types of stories. And

this past winter was a great example of how muchvariety we actually have on the Desk.

Each week that I sit down to write my companionpiece to the sideline story we air on the Desk, I amconstantly taken aback by all of the amazing youngmale and female student-athletes we have here inthe tri-state.

Here are three stories that really stood out for me.Be sure to log on to MSGVarsity.com for more onthese, and other stories.

Reflecting on Some Special MomentsImpactful stories from the winter By Shawna Ryan

Shawna Ryan is co-anchor of MSG Varsity’s High School SportsDesk, which airs live each weeknight.

YOUR SCHOOL, YOUR STORIES

MACARI GETS THE CALLKevin Macari caught our attention long ago. His jaw-dropping performances for New Canaan

brought the Rams to their fifth-straight state final.In our Connecticut Football Season Wrap-Up Special, Mike Quick and our analysts called

Macari a clear-cut Division I wide receiver. His numbers this past season speak for themselves:60 receptions, 1,259 receiving yards, 20 touchdowns.

“In my 30 years at New Canaan, I’ve had great athletes and receivers but I’ve never had onethat dominates a game the way he does,” says head coach Lou Marinelli.

But when I recently asked Macari to describe his recruiting experience thus far, his answerwasn’t as glaringly positive as the reviews of his performance on the gridiron.

“It’s definitely been a little wearing... and also kind of bittersweet,” said Macari.To the surprise of many, Macari says he has not received any D-I offers from the schools he

originally hoped to hear from, including Rutgers, UConn, Minnesota and Syracuse.Sometimes you have to make sure you’re not drinking the Kool-Aid. Yes, getting an offer from

a D-1 program is impressive. You know what else is impressive? A good education, along withthe opportunity to continue your athletic career.

Here at MSG Varsity we areall about highlighting our studentathletes, but sometimes we haveto make sure to not get caughtup in the “black and white” wayof seeing the recruiting process.Everyone has their own path, andthere are many routes to thesame goal.

So here’s to Macari and hisjourney, which will continue nextseason at Georgetown Univer-sity. After playing the chessgame of recruiting, Macari endedup where he says he fits best.

MEDGAR EVERS DASHES TO SUCCESS“We live in Brooklyn!” says coach Nicole Martial. “Crown Heights Brooklyn!”No doubt, the track and field athletes at Medgar Evers are proud of where they come from. And they have good reason. Medgar Evers has been one of the top track schools in the PSAL. But what's interesting is that when you ask the students and faculty what they're most proud of, they

don't talk about wins, they talk about facing hardships head-on. “It shows you can overcome adversity,” says coach Martial. “If you work hard and you're consistent,

you'll always be successful.” So what's all the adversity? Medgar Evers—built in 2001—doesn’t have a gym. “We have a facility shaped like an ‘L,’ and one side of the ‘L’ we use as a track,” said athletic director

Kiesha Lewis. “It's in the basement, so it's actually cement and doesn't even have tile. The kids practicethere, and we also usethe stairs to work out anddo conditioning.”

Doesn't seem like theprime space to create awinning team, but that'sexactly what MedgarEvers track and field pro-gram has done.

“We don't use it as anexcuse,” says coachSaun Dietz. “We work sohard and that's why wehave a winning team.”

For more on these feature stories, log on to MSGVarsity.com

49

By Lauren Brill

Don’t let your eyes fool you—Mepham High School sen-ior Daniel Santos stands tall at 4-foot-2. But it is when he

is just inches off the ice that he is at his best.Born with Femoral Hypoplasia, Santos has short femurs and uses

crutches to get around. Surprising even himself, however, Santosis one the country’s most talented hockey players.

Nine years ago, he discovered sled hockey, which is the sport ofhockey played on sleds as opposed to skates, specifically designedfor handicapped athletes.

“I didn’t think I could really play hockey,” Santos said. “I love itbecause it gives me the chance to play hockey like everybody else.”

Daniel plays on three different teams, including a local club teamcalled the Long Island Rough Riders, a team associated with theNew York Rangers and the U.S. Junior National Team, consistingof the best youth players in the country.

“That has been such an honor to play on an international levelwhere I represent my country,” Santos said. “It’s my biggest ac-complishment so far.”

Santos’ athletic prowess is evident once he hits the ice. “I have a pretty good level of speed and a good hockey sense of

where to be on the ice,” he said. While already considered one of the nation’s best sled hockey

players, Santos strives to improve. The determined forward has hissights set on making the Men’s U.S. National Team and ultimatelywinning a gold medal in the Paralympics. Many believe he haswhat it takes realize his dream.

“He has no fear, my son,” Daniel’s father Richard Santos said.“He is the shortest player on the teams he plays on, but he has thebiggest heart out there.”

Santos Not Short on Talent, or Heart

For the Crowleys, It Was Jingle All the Way

For more on these feature stories, log on to MSGVarsity.com or tune to MSG Varsity Interactive–Channel 614.

Mepham senior is one of the best sled hockey players in the nation

By Lauren Brill

Around the holidays, New Yorkradio station Z100’s Jingle Ball

concert is the hottest ticket in town. Croton-Harmon junior Jeffrey Crowley

and his brothers—Croton-Harmon alumsBrian and Travis—called the station inces-santly in an attempt to win tickets to theevent.

Musicians themselves, the brothers alsoentered a contest through Z100 calledHometown Heroes, which awarded the win-ner the opportunity to play at Jingle Ball’spreshow at the Hammerstein Ballroom.

“We thought ‘Oh, that would be cool butthat would never happen,’” Jeffrey saidabout entering the contest.

Growing up in a musical family, the threebrothers started their own group about

two years ago. They began posting videosof cover songs and originals on YouTubeand developed a steady following.

With the help of their fans, the Crowleybrothers amassed more votes for the

Hometown Hero contest than the popula-tion of their hometown of Croton, N.Y.

When they were announced as thewinner, Jeffrey and his brothers were indisbelief.

“It’s still unreal to me,” Jeffrey said. “Iam still waiting for someone to pinch meto wake me up.”

The Crowleys played in front of a bois-terous crowd, along with other well-knownacts including Sean Kingston, Travi McCoyand Flo Rida.

“I wouldn’t say I was nervous, I wasmore anxious,” Jeffrey said. “When we goton the stage all that went away. It was justabout performing and giving it your all.”

So what’s next for the trio? “Anywhere upwards from where we are

would be amazing,” Jeffrey said. “We cango as far as our music takes us.”

From left: Jeffrey, Travis and Brian

Daniel Santos

50

BTM Opens ‘The Munchies’ Snack StopBy Dayshawna Lawrence

Have you ever had the munchies in school and don’t want to wait until after school toget some snacks?

Thanks to Ms. Maureen Del Sole’s Entrepreneurship known as the BTM Munchies,students at JFK-Paterson (NJ) may purchase all the snacks available at the cornerstore, such as water, juice, and sugar-free, healthy food. Formally named the Entrepre-neurship, because it’s a class project, the store teaches students how to run a business.

Not only does the store help students learn how to stock inventory, record sales, andconsider what merchandise to buy, but it also provides an opportunity for the studentsto raise money to offset the cost of field trips, graduation, awards and make a donationto the Future Business Leaders of America.

The Munchies debuted the first week of November on the third floor in the BTM wing,Room 331 across from 339. Students can purchase snacks Monday through Friday,during non-lunch periods. The store is staffed only by the BTM Entrepreneurship classbecause it is the students’ project and they are receiving credit for their work.

To read this complete story, log on to msgvarsity.com/jfkpatersonSpecial thanks to Project J advisor Carlos Rios

In January, MSG Varsity launched Project J, a pilot journalism program, which in-cludes schools from throughout the tri-state.

After receving more than 100 articles in the first two months, we have selectedsome of the students to be featured right here in MSG Varsity The Magazine. Con-gratulations to all of the students on these pages and to everyone taking part inProject J!

For more information on Project J, email us at: journalism@msgvarsity.com

MSG VARSITY’S NEW STUDENTJOURNALISM PROGRAM

Immaculata Blends Fashion and FundraisingBy Kerry Hannan

What does fashion couture have to do with cutting edge technology? At Immaculata(NJ), the two go hand-in-hand.

Over the past year, Immaculata High School has made several technology upgradesthrough the funds raised through the Spartan Club’s Annual Fashion Show. The high schoolhas purchased a portable laptop computer lab, which allows students to have interactiveexperiences in the classroom.

Immaculata has also purchased several Smart Boards and Computers on Wheels(COWS) with from fashion show funding. One of the school’s three computer labs receivednew hardware. Technology that was previously in the lab, is now being used by teachers intheir classrooms. The Annual Fashion Show is the school’s only source of funding for tech-nology upgrades. Last year, the Fashion Show raised more than $67,000.

With an army of Immaculata volunteers behind it, the student-powered fashion show helpsraise thousands of dollars for the school each year. The senior models are the “stars” of theFashion Show. Students wear fashionable sportswear, casual wear and evening wear fromlocal vendors. While sporting such fashionable clothing, students are also helping Immac-ulata in a major fundraising effort.

To read this complete story, log on to msgvarsity.com/immaculataSpecial thanks to Project J advisor Terry Kuboski

Rose is Clarkstown North’sIron Man

By Adam Marks, Brendan Cahill & Aaron KwongOne thing is clear about Zack Rose—he is

fast.Rose has the Clarkstown North’s (HV) stee-

plechase record and next year’s cross-countrycaptain is willing to endure extraordinary amountsof pain just to shed a few seconds. He workedamazingly hard during the captains’ practices inthe summer, and his hard work paid off, settingpersonal records during the cross-country season.

Rose’s weakness? He only has one lung.Before becoming a track star, Rose competed

as a football player freshman year. During thatseason, however, one of his lungs collapsed.

Now, Rose has stopped playing football and iscompeting in track.

“After going through my injury, I have come torealize that no obstacle can stand in the way ofhard work and dedication,” Rose said.

To read this complete story, log on to msgvarsity.com/clarkstownnorthSpecial thanks to Project J advisor

David Kaminski

YOUR SCHOOL, YOUR STORIES

Immaculata’s Matt Styczynski shows off oneof the new Smart Boards.

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Thompston Reaches MilestoneBy Michael Wallace

The Spackenkill Spartans girls basketball team suffered ahard-fought defeat at the hands of the Rhinebeck Hawks.

The loss, however, was not the real story. Spartans’ star for-ward Cat Thompson scored her 1,000th-career point, makingher only the second girl—and seventh player—to do so in Spack-enkill (HV) history.

It was appropriate that she reached the milestone on Senior Night. Coming into the game with 999 points, Thomp-son was fouled with 5:58 left in the first quarter. After missing the first foul show, Thompson drained the second,prompting a stoppage in the game while she was honored onthe court.

“At first I was really nervous [at the foul line],” Thompson saidafter the game. “Obviously I missed my first free-throw, butonce it was over I was just ready to play [the game].”

Thompson followed up her historic foul shot with a three-pointer en route to 12 first-half points that kept the Spartansin the game against the hot-shooting Hawks. Thompson fin-ished with a game-high 27 points.

To read this complete story, log on tomsgvarsity.com/spackenkill

Special thanks to Project J advisor Jenn Fahy

Lenape Valley’s World of Science By Michelle Griffin

Recently, Lenape Valley (NJ) anatomy classes have been learningabout the human body.

After studying in depth the school has allowed them to perform dissec-tions on provided subject animals. This was a great way to allow studentsto take a step deeper into really understanding the anatomy of the body.

Many students believe this will change their opinion on certain sciencesand overall influence their interests in a very positive direction. The dissec-tions will be done over a period of time to allow the students to study eachsystem of the body, and understand their actions and points of origin.

Lenape is giving great opportunities to students interested in the sciencedepartment. This is absolutely vital to any students who wish to pursue acareer in the medical field.

To read this complete story, log on to msgvarsity.com/lenapeSpecial thanks to Project J advisor Doug Reynolds

Making a DifferenceBy Ryan Towey

Brittany Berman, a senior at West Essex (NJ), remembers her eight sum-mers at camp. Each year, she and other campers were encouraged to swimlaps to raise money for an organization called Project Morry, a non-profit youthdevelopment program that incorporates four weeks of summer camp andyear round counseling for underprivileged children.

“I wanted to do more than just swim laps,” said Berman. “I wanted to dosomething that would change someone’s life for the better.”

Berman valued her own camping experience so highly that she wantednothing more than to provide the same experience to other children. So shebegan by contacting the director of Project Morry, and her first encounterwas with a girl named Maddie, who lived in an inner city. They have now beenpen pals for the past three years.

This truly gave Berman a clear picture of what she needed to do; she wasgoing to give Maddie, as well as other students, as much as she could tomake camp even more spectacular. To help her realize hopes and dreamsthat would last all year.

“The next step was to raise awareness in the community,” said Berman.“My goal was to create something that would keep Project Morry’s name cir-culating throughout my school.”

To read this complete story, log on to msgvarsity.com/westessexSpecial thanks to Project J advisor Linda Grancagnolo

Brothers Sign on to Attend Molloy By Patrick McCormack

Holy Trinity seniors Lance and Lanier Mason have an-nounced that they have both signed on to attend Molloy Col-lege and compete for the track and field program.

Both are excited about knowing where they’ll be spendingthe next four seasons.

“I chose Molloy because it not only presents me with achance to compete in the sport I love, but the faculty andcoaching staff really stood out to me,” Lance said.

Holy Trinity jumping coach Justin Renna feels Lance andLanier will thrive at the next level.

“Lance and Lanier are two are the finest young men I haveever coached,” Renna said. “They are hard workers and dedi-cated students. I am excited that they found a program like Mol-loy where they will be able excel at the NCAA level.”

To read this complete story, log on tomsgvarsity.com/holytrinity

Special thanks to Project J advisor Ann-Marie Hoher

To read more stories, log on to your school page at MSGVarsity.com.For more information on Project J, email us at:

journalism@msgvarsity.com

West Essex’s Brittany Bermanwith Project Moorie DirectorHolly Stein.

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Mascot Challenge?Jared Cotter with ‘fans’ of Centereach and Deer Park

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High Tech appears on The Challenge

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St Mary’s (LI) graduate and Johns Hop-kins University lacrosse coach DavePietramala said this about a University ofAlbany freshman defenseman making hiscollege debut: “He’s big, he’s strong, he’sathletic and he runs well.” But justthree years earlier, Michael Banks’speed, size and running abilitycould do nothing for him.

Banks was entering his sopho-more year at Brien McMahon HighSchool—a time when kids werejust finding a way from one class tothe next—he was finding a wayinto lockup twice in one week.

His third strike in seven dayswould begin to change his life for-ever.

Not even old enough to apply fora driver’s license, he was sent tobegin a two-year sentence at theManson Youth Institute, a highsecurity facility for male offendersin Cheshire, Connecticut. When therod-iron gate popped closed, thiswas now real—23-hour lockdownin the first week.

If he was going to change, it hadto start now. And it did. MichaelBanks—a model prisoner—had hissentence reduced to four and a halfmonths.

By the next fall he was back atBrien McMahon and would meetsomeone in the hallways thatwould turn this boy into a man.Someone who would help changehis life.

Mike Epstein might just be thebest lacrosse player ever from thecity of Norwalk. The man who oncestarred for McMahon’s cross-town rival—Norwalk High School in the 1980’s—isnow in charge of the Senators program.

Day in and day out, his student athletesbang heads with some of the nation’s toplacrosse programs, such as Darien, NewCanaan and Wilton. But to survive in the

FCIAC, coaches need athletes. That fall, Epstein reached out to Banks

and convinced the troubled young man toput a stick in his hand. The chiseled 6-foot-3, 200-pounder never played the

sport of lacrosse, but Epstein saw some-thing. Before he had gotten into trouble,Banks had starred on the freshman foot-ball team, so coaches knew he hadathletic promise.

You have to have thick skin to play forEpstein. Nothing but your best is accept-able to the coach, because that’s all he

ever gives his players in return. Epstein is a no-nonsense guy, but

would this work? Michael Banks had fourand a half months of ‘in-your-face’ atCheshire. But Banks bought in to

Epstein’s philosphy, and wouldeven start a couple of games at theend of his sophomore year as along-pole defender for the Senators.

By the end of his junior year,Banks was one of the top players ina league that produces some of thebest lacrosse players in the nation.

The discipline Epstein preachesis not limited to the field of play, butin the classroom as well. In thebeginning, he would watch Banks’every move. By the time he was fin-ishing his senior year, Epsteinwould entrust Banks to watch hisyoung children.

The first time I met MichaelBanks was his senior season on theeve of the FCIAC quarterfinals. Ashe walked off Jack CasagrandeField, he was carrying a bag withcleats, sticks and sweats—a lot dif-ferent than the baggage he carriedjust a few years earlier.

This was a bag full of memoriesof a beautiful three-year run with acoach who took a chance on thiskid. As Banks stopped to say good-bye to me, there were tears in hiseyes. A championship dream hadjust been squashed against Wiltonin the first round of the playoffs.

And it was the same story forEpstein: once again no champi-onship to put on his brilliant

resume. But is it fair to judge this coach onvictories? When Michael Banks receivedhis diploma, he did so as an honor studentand an All-American lacrosse player. Youtell me if coach Epstein did his job or not.

So too did Michael Banks—from lockup,to one of the country’s best lock-downdefenders for the past four years.

A Quick Column By Mike Quick

The lacrosse coach who saved Michael Banks

Mike Quick is the host of A Quick :60, which airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m.

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