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Mercury All-Area: Boys Lacrosse Teams First Team Attack: Brian Fehr, Perkiomen Valley Attack: Jarrod Marenger, Spring-Ford Attack: Peyton Gensler, Spring-Ford Midfield: Nick Moccia, Boyertown Midfield: Max Nice, Perkiomen Valley Midfield: Ryan Rosenblum, Spring-Ford Faceoff/Short-Stick Specialist: Matt Brock, Perkiomen Valley Long-Stick Midfield: Kyle Mason, Spring-Ford Defense: Jake Bildstein, Pope John Paul II Defense: Dean Costalas, Spring-Ford Defense: Remy Sell, Perkiomen Valley Goalie: Cole Metzger, Boyertown Second Team Attack: Richie Marshall, Perkiomen Valley Attack: Brady McFalls, Boyertown Attack: Kyle Donovan, Pope John Paul II Midfield: Nick Steele, Perkiomen Valley Midfield: Kyle Decerio, Spring-Ford Midfield: Stanley Kolimago, Methacton Faceoff/Short-Stick Specialist: Skylar Wallace, Boyertown Long-Stick Midfield: Connor Donovan, Perkiomen Valley Defense: Blake Terrizzi, Spring-Ford Defense: Noah Shine, Perkiomen Valley Defense: Ryder Defibaugh, Owen J. Roberts Goalie: Kyle Pettine, Spring-Ford Honorable Mention Boyertown: Christian Hellreigel, Brett Heuer, Keegan Schealer
Daniel Boone: Tommy Buchert, Ben Sjosten, Kyle Golden Hill School: James Krick, JJ Pickard, Tres Munro, Michael Nastasi Methacton: Kyle Kacala Owen J. Roberts: Christian Brofft, Logan Clefisch, Joey Tordone Perkiomen School: Liam Brassington Perkiomen Valley: Rob Farrington, Nick Pammer, Connor Roop Phoenixville: Bobby Batten, Daniel Jackson, Ignacio Ortiz Pope John Paul II: Noah Balliet, Matt Cressman, Nick Russo Spring-Ford: Brad Hart, Collin Pettine, Nicholas Teets Coach of the Year Bryan Churchey, Perkiomen Valley Mercury lacrosse roundup: District wins for Perkiomen Valley girls, PJP boys Girls lacrosse Perkiomen Valley 12, North Penn 10 >> Paige Tyson’s three second-half goals ignited a late 5-0 run for Perkiomen Valley, who survived a stiff challenge from visiting North Penn at Ursinus on Wednesday afternoon, 12-10. Tyson’s third tally broke an 8-all tie with just over eight minutes to play, and her repeated dominance on draws allowed the 12th-seeded Vikings to extend the run and ultimately put the game away. The victory sends PV into a second-round matchup at #5 Harriton Thursday at Lower Merion High School in Ardmore.
“We’ll be tired,” allowed PV head coach Lisa Clark, “but from this point, we’ve got nothing to lose—it’s all icing on the cake.” The victory marked the second straight year PV has won at least one game in Districts—the first two playoff victories in program history. Riley McGettigan and Kat Kelley added hat tricks of their own for the victorious Vikings, while Maggie Sell added a pair of tallies. It was McGettigan’s work on draws, however, that turned the tide on the contest. “Once she figured out what to do on draws, things started to go our way,” said Clark. “The players do all that themselves—I just ask them what’s working for them, and we get to work.” After a seesaw battle for the first 40 minutes, PV held North Penn to only one goal in the final ten minutes. “Our defensive unit has grown so much. We only have one returning starter,” Clark pointed out. “They’ve worked hard to get to this point, and most of the credit for that goes to my assistant coach, Nina Miller.” Kelly McNamara put up four goals for North Penn in a losing effort. Lawrenceville 10, Hill School 6 >> In the Blues’ Senior Day contest with the Larries, soon-to-be graduates Leah Forrest and Dale Price helped lead the way in their regular-season finale. Price scored once for the Hill, and Forrest contributed an assist. Jordan Hower led the Blues’ offense with a hat trick and one assist while Tatumn Ecclestone added two goals and two assists. Jess Ciarrocchi was credited with an assist, and Mariah Sweeney with 16 saves in goal. Boys lacrosse Pope John Paul II 7, Phoenixville 2 >> It went in the record books Wednesday. A day later than expected, but no less a done deal. The Pope John Paul II boys lacrosse team made program history
by winning its first-ever District 1 playoff game. The Golden Panthers finished off their Class AA opener with Phoenixville by scoring a 7-2 victory. The first-round pairing between the Pioneer Athletic Conference entries had started Tuesday, but it was suspended with 1:40 left in the third quarter. Repeated lightning strikes pushed the finish ahead one day, with PJP up 6-2. The sixth-seeded Panthers didn’t miss a beat in the game’s resumption, Luke Roth gave PJP one more goal while causing six turnovers, and keeper Noah Balliet had six saves for the two days. Kyle Donovan, who netted a hat trick in Tuesday’s action, finished as the game’s scoring leader. PJP’s other Tuesday goals came from Eric D’Agostino, Matt Cressman and Justin Kent, with Phoenixville’s scoring provided by Igancio Ortiz and Bobby Batten. Perkiomen School 6, Phelps 4 >> Harrison and Chandler Gavin accounted for all the Panthers’ scoring while they outlasted Phelps School in their Tri-County League game. Harrison had a game-high four goals while Chandler added a pair. Both players were credited with assists, as were Liam Brasington and Sean McPherson. Boys Lacrosse: Mercury-Area Team-By-Team Preview
Boyertown
Boyertown’s Brady McFalls
carries the ball in
transition against
Phoenixville. (Austin
Hertzog – Digital First
Media)
Coach: Grady B. Wise, 2nd season
Last year’s record: 9-11 overall, PAC semifinals, District
1-3A qualifier
Players to watch: Seniors Skylar Wallace, mid.; Nick Moccia,
mid.; Keegan Schealer, def.; Brett Heuer, def.; Cole Metzger,
goalie. Juniors Brady McFalls, att.; Mike Federicio, att.;
Alex Axman, mid.; Carter Watts, att.; Shane Clinton, def.
Outlook: The Bears will hope continuity in coaching and roster
– seven starters return, including All-Area first team attack
Brady McFalls – can help them climb after mixed results in
2017 saw Boyertown reach the PAC and district playoffs but
finish 9-11, including going 2-7 over their last 9 games.
“This year’s team returns many players with varsity experience
from last year that provide another opportunity to play for a
PAC championship and win a District 1 playoff game,” coach
Wise said. Boyertown boasts its most experience on attack and
defense. Avoiding the performance peaks and valleys of the
past and playing ‘four complete quarters’ will be thedifference in the Bears’ getting on the right side of a winning record. Methacton Coach: Nathanael Ryan, 9th season Last year’s record: 8-10 overall Players to watch: Seniors Kyle Kacala, att.; Stanley Kolimago, mid.; Connor Sullivan, def. Juniors Payton Sikora, att.; Jack Pellegrino, att./mid.; Matt Wall, goalie. Sophomores Jaxson Peoples, mid.; Matt Matour, def. Outlook: Methacton is consistently in the conversation for the PAC Final Four and the District 1 playoffs, but neither target has been reached the past two seasons. The Warriors look to meet those goals in 2018 by counting on returning pieces on attack, including All-PAC second teamers Kacala and Kolimago. “We return four players with starting experience to our attack so we have great depth and competition at that position. Additionally our midfield returns two starters and a lot of experience,” coach Ryan said. They’ll need players to step up on defense with the departure of four starters, including PAC Defensive Player of the Year Kyle Derrickson (Vermont). “We need to gain some experience early. We do have outstanding talent and depth at the goalkeeper position (Wall) and are excited about what we can do there. We will be using the beginning part of our schedule to solidify the group in front of them.” Ryan sees a more competitive league in the PAC in 2018 and hopes his Methacton squad can keep pace throughout. “The league has continued to improve and grow and is much more competitive than it has been in the past. While Spring-Ford and OJR have solidified themselves as the consistent frontrunners, the talent and depth of teams from top to bottom has grown over the past few years. It should make for an exciting 2018 regular season.” Owen J. Roberts Coach: Ben Carville, 2nd season
Owen J. Roberts’ Joe Tordone
carries the ball against the
defense of Perkiomen
Valley’s Sam Bonavita during
the PAC semifinals Tuesday
at Owen J. Roberts. (Austin
Hertzog – Digital First
Media)
Last year’s record: 7-2 PAC, 11-9 overall, PAC finalist (lost
to Spring-Ford 9-5), District 1-3A first round (lost 16-8 to
West Chester East)
Players to watch: Seniors Brian Monk, LSM/def.; Nick DeCarlo,
mid.; Joe Tordone, att.; Matt Brownley, mid. Junior Logan
Clefisch, att. Sophomores Tyler Muir, goalie; Cooper
Chamberlain, mid.; Christian Brofft, mid.
Outlook: Another season commences of being the hunter and the
hunted for OJR. The Wildcats have played in the last 11 PAC
championship games, staying a step ahead of all PAC schools
not named Spring-Ford. But the Rams remained a thorn in OJR’s
side by winning a seventh-straight PAC title at the Wildcats’
expense. The Wildcats graduated three All-Area first team
picks in Austin Koury, Noah Calle and Mike Giandonato, but the
roster is far from bare with All-Area team attack Joe Tordone
leading the returnees. “Our team is poised to continue to
build on our successes and clean up our mistakes from last
season. It will be difficult to replace the experienced seniorclass from last year, but our players are excited to develop their own identity,” coach Carville said. OJR looks to use a stout non-league schedule to maintain its place as a contender in the PAC. “The competitive gaps have tightened in our league and we are looking forward to the challenge that presents. We enter every season with the expectation of competing for a league championship,” Carville said. Perkiomen Valley Coach: Bryan Churchey, 6th season Last year’s record: 8-1 PAC, 13-5 overall, PAC semifinalist (lost 9-8 to OJR), District 1 first round (lost 8-4 to Downingtown East) Players to watch: Seniors Remy Sell, def.; Brian Fehr, att.; Richie Marshall, att./mid.; Max Nice, mid.; Nick Pammer, mid.; Ryan Candelori, def. Juniors Connor Donovan, def.; Nick Steele, mid.; Rob Farrington, goalie. Sophomores Matt Brock, mid./FO; Connor Roop, att.; Zach Schiffman, att. Outlook: Perkiomen Valley will have a bit of a reboot in 2018 after graduating arguably the most talented class in program history led by All-Area first team picks Shawn Coulter (Stevens Tech), Nick Marren (Lehigh) and Kevin Mo (Seton Hill). The Vikings didn’t quite have the level of success they sought last season despite a strong regular season, but the expectations have been raised. “We have a lot of new faces after graduating a core group of leaders and contributors last year. With that said, those players that have been sitting behind last year’s contributors have done an outstanding job preparing themselves for 2018 and the opportunity to continue to take our program to new levels of success,” coach Churchey said. “We’re pleased with their progression so far. There’s still plenty of work to do but they’ve stepped up and know what the expectations are.” Phoenixville Coach: Chip Mittnacht, 2nd season
Last year’s record: 3-6 PAC, 10-9 overall, District 1-2A first round (lost to Radnor 15-2) Players to watch: Seniors Matt Napolitana, att.; Danny Jackson, mid.; Brendan Jenkins, def.; Danny Thompson, def.; John Kettelle, mid. Juniors Steven Schaefer, def.; Bobby Batten, mid. Sophomores Brady Aselton, att.; Ignacio Ortiz, att. Outlook: The Phantoms showed promise in coach Mittnacht’s first season by achieving a winning record and qualifying for the district playoffs for the first time. A largely new core will take the torch but Mittnacht is pleased with the developing chemistry in the early season. “This team has made great strides in the short amount of time they have played together,” he said. “They have become an increasingly confident group and believe they can compete with any team they are up against. I expect they will surprise a number of opponents.” Pope John Paul II Coach: Blase Cesarone, 2nd season Last year’s record: 3-6 PAC, 7-8 overall, District 1-AA first round (9-4 loss to Springfield-Montco) Players to watch: Seniors Luke Roth, def.; Justin Kent, att.; Kyle Donovan, att.; Jake Bildstein, def.; Mike Florig, def.; Noah Balliet, goalie; Eric D’Agostino, mid. Outlook: In a league with a landscape that barely ever changes, the Golden Panthers make for a team to watch in 2018. Last year’s record won’t impress, but PJP played close with traditional PAC playoff contenders and could have the ability to get on the right side of those results with a senior core returning, led by All-Area honorable mentions Balliet and Kent. “We are very optimistic about the 2018 season,” coach Cesarone said. “The majority of the team are seniors with years of varsity experience. We are looking forward to taking the next step as a program.” If things come together like PJP hopes, a winning record and return trip to the district
playoffs are very realistic.
Pottsgrove
Coach: Jason Gault, 2nd season
Last year’s record: 1-8 PAC, 2-15 overall
Players to watch: Senior Wyatt Sizemore, mid. Juniors Nate
Tornetta, def.; Justin Houck, goalie; Sebastian Nelson, att.
Sophomore Charles Sithens, att. Freshmen Justin Westcoat,
att.; Riley Howard, mid.; JaDore Colbert, mid.
Outlook: Wins haven’t come easy for the Falcons in recent
years and while that may not change this season, Pottsgrove
may be taking a long-term view with contributions expected
from a number of underclassmen. “Pottsgrove lacrosse is
continuing with a program focused on discipline,
sportsmanship, pride, and precision,” coach Gault said. “We
look forward to a competitive season of lacrosse, building on
the return of key players from last season, and bolstered by
a new influx of talented freshmen to round out the team.”
Spring-Ford
Spring-Ford’s Ryan Rosenblum
looks to dodge Owen J.
Roberts’ Brian Monk during
their PAC game Tuesday.
(Austin Hertzog – Digital
First Media)Coach: Kevin Donnelly, 15th season Last year’s record/accomplishments: 19-4, PAC champions (9-5 over OJR), qualified for PIAA 3A Championships Players to watch: Seniors Ryan Rosenblum, mid.; Jarrod Marenger, att.; Kyle Pettine, goalie; Gage Warrell, def.; Kyle Mason, LSM/def.; Gavin Hare, mid.; Hunter Hudak, LSM; Luken Wilson, def. Juniors Peyton Gensler, att.; Dean Costalas, def.; Blake Terrizzi, def.; Gunnar Romano, mid. Outlook: Spring-Ford furthered its status as the top program in the PAC with its seventh straight league title before qualifying for the PIAA tournament for the first time by defeating Haverford in the District 1-3A fifth-place game. It was the long-sought step forward for the Rams, but to repeat will require an even better performance than a year ago. While 2017 All-Area Player of the Year Danny Cassidy has since departed for Notre Dame, the Rams return a pair of All-Area first teamers in Marenger and Mason, second teamers Rosenblum and Pettine and good all-around depth. “ We are attempting to push ourselves to be the best team that we can be. We are focusing on doing the little things right,” coach Donnelly said. “We have set a challenging schedule for the team in hopes that it prepares us for the end of the year.” Indeed, Spring-Ford has as challenging a non-league schedule as you’ll find in the region, with the intent on keeping the PAC plaque in Royersford and making another deep postseason run. Upper Merion Coach: Brady McCormick, 11th season Last year’s record: 3-6 PAC, 6-10 overall Players to watch: Seniors Zeev Magid-Slav, mid.; Alex Merritt, def.; Johnny Salamy, mid.; Kyle Thornton, def. Juniors Nick Lindelow, mid.; Joey Meere, att.; Josh Reinhardt, att. Sophomores Scott Clairmont, def.; Andy Dixon, mid. Outlook: Upper Merion is looking for an attitude adjustment to help it on the way to a winning record, according to veteran coach McCormick. “Our biggest focus for the season is to tear
down the negativity and individualism that has been too ingrained in our past few seasons and create a true team culture,” he said. “The goal is to become a family that is playing for each other and giving everything we have on every play. A lot of boys are being called on to step into leadership roles a bit sooner than they may on other, deeper teams. If everyone buys into the coaches’ plans and executes, we can have a very successful season.” NOTE: Interboro has joined the Pioneer Athletic Conference as a boys lacrosse-only school. The Bucs previously played as an independent with the Del Val League not sponsoring a boys lacrosse league. The PAC remains a 10-team league with Norristown not fielding a team in 2018. OTHERS Daniel Boone Head coach: Jake Snyder, 2nd season Last year’s record: 0-10 Berks I, 4-14 overall Players to watch: Tommy Buchert, def.; Kyle Golden, mid.; Ben Sjosten, LSM. Outlook: A young squad will hope to get into the league win column under second-year coach Snyder, who was voted Berks Coach of the Year in 2017. Hill School Head coaches: Chris Chirieleison and Ned Ide Last year’s record: 7-9 overall (3rd in Mid-Atlantic Prep League) Players to watch: Seniors JJ Pickard, mid.; Mike Nastasi, mid.; Tres Munro, def.; James Krick, def. Outlook: Chirieleison and longtime former head coach Ide will serve as co-head coaches this season after the departure of Dave Mullen. The Blues faltered down the stretch in 2017, losing their last five games including a 10-goal loss to archrival Lawrenceville. Finishing stronger will be a priority
this season, but so too will be building chemistry with an inexperienced team. Ide figures the defense to be Hill’s rock, while All-Area second team pick Pickard returns in the midfield. A quick maturation process will go far in getting Hill toward a winning record and closing on its goal: a MAPL championship. Hill has extra motivation this season too as a host of the National Prep Lacrosse Championship, a postseason invitational featuring top prep schools on the East coast from May 16-20. Perkiomen School Head coach: David Antoniewicz, 1st season Last year’s record: 6-8 overall (3rd in Tri-County League) Players to watch: Seniors Chandler Gavin, att.; Jiho Park, def. Juniors Paul Schlabach, mid.; Liam Brassington, mid.; Adam Mancini, goalie. Sophomore Michael Berkheimer, mid. Freshman Harrison Gavin, att. Outlook: Transition will be a key word for the Perk School boys lacrosse team this season. It comes in the form of new head coach Antoniewicz, who played at Susquehanna University from 2001-05. Antoniewicz will look for the Panthers to get out and run as they try to move atop the Tri-County League. “We should see some great offensive production from the attackmen this year. They have the ability to get to the goal and get good shots. The speed from our middies should help in the transition game, and will lead to scoring opportunities.” Adam Mancini steps into goal after the graduation of fixture Ben Williams. Antoniewicz expects a tight race in the Tri- County League. ‘Every team will match up well against each other. It will be a battle to come out on top,” he said. “As a team, we want to get back to the very top of our league.
Annual Katie Samson Foundation Lacrosse Festival slated for April 29 Radnor >> The Katie Samson Foundation (KSF) Lacrosse Festival, celebrating its 17th year, will be held April 29 at Radnor High School. It is the largest single-day high school lacrosse festival in the country, with 54 premier varsity teams (26 boys’ teams and 28 girls’ squads) participating on six fields, running simultaneously. The Festival, which attracts more than 10,000 fans each year, also features disabled athletes demonstrating wheelchair rugby, tennis and basketball games; youth games; more than 20 vendors; more than 50 major sponsors; and two FanZones which will have “Katie’s Kiddie Korner” for younger fans- with clowns and balloon designs, a Mechanical Bull, Rock Climbing Wall, moon bounces, music, and a visit from the Phillie Phanatic. Games begin at 9 a.m., and will run until approximately 5 p.m. All of the game will be held at Radnor High School. More than $100,000 was raised at the 2016 Festival, with the support of more than 50 sponsors, donations from attendees, as well as fundraising efforts by each participating lacrosse team. Since 2000, more than $1.8 million has been raised and distributed to charities benefiting medical research and providing care for people with spinal cord injuries– patient care (46 percent), research (43 percent), and quality of life (11 percent). KSF raises money for research to identify a cure for spinal cord injuries and to optimize care and quality of life for spinal cord patients. The foundation also promotes social awareness as the lacrosse community comes together to support the festival. Through Samson’s courage and perseverance, her foundation has successfully raised funds to support spinal
cord injury research and rehabilitation programs that provide much needed independence and quality of life improvements for those with spinal cord injuries. Samson grew up in Wayne, and attended Radnor High School, where she was a goalkeeper for the girls’ lacrosse team. She went on to study Art History at Middlebury College, where she also played Division III lacrosse and helped her team capture a national championship in 1999. The following winter Samson suffered a spinal cord injury while sledding and became a quadriplegic. After months of rehabilitation and encouragement from family and friends, Samson went back to finish her degree and help coach her college team to two more National titles. In 2004, Samson moved to Arizona to pursue her graduate degree, where she remained for six years. She moved back to the Philadelphia area in 2010 and is currently the Assistant Director of Museum Education at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Samson still finds time to play wheelchair sports, such as rugby, tennis and cycling. She also enjoys storytelling as a creative art form and performs for different organizations in Philadelphia. As a peer mentor for people who have suffered spinal cord injury through Magee Rehabilitation Hospital, Samson encourages her mentees to seek out adaptive sports and therapeutic programs that have had such a positive effect on her life. The festival website, www.katiesamsonlaxfest.com, has an inspirational video, the full schedule as well as all the other details. Fans can also visit the festival on Facebook – KSF Lacrosse Festival. A $10 ($5 for students/under 3 is free!) admission fee allows unlimited access to all activities and rides within the two Fan Zones. The Katie Samson Foundation is a 501©3 corporation. All donations are tax deductible. For more information, contact the Director of Development, Eric Gorman at KSFlacrossefest@gmail.com. GAME SCHEDULE
Boys Games 9 a.m. Great Valley vs. Marple Newtown on Prevost Field Lower Merion vs. Shipley School on Loop or Library Field Upper Merion vs. Archbishop Carroll on Creek Field 11 a.m. Haverford School vs. Hun School on Prevost Field Downingtown West vs. Germantown Academy on Loop or Library Field Downingtown East vs. Central Bucks West on Creek Field 1 p.m. Garnet Valley vs. Spring-Ford on Prevost Field Harriton vs. Pennridge on Loop or Library Field Academy of the New Church vs. Hill School on Creek Field 2:15 p.m. Radnor vs. Penn Charter School on Encke Field 3 p.m. Conestoga vs. Malvern Prep on Prevost Field Brunswick School-CT vs. St. Augustine Prep-NJ on Loop or Library Field Avon Grove vs. St. Joseph’s Prep on Creek Field Girls Games 9 a.m. Owen J. Robert vs. Agnes Irwin School on Encke Field West Chester Henderson vs. Baldwin School on Loop or Library Field Strath Haven vs. Germantown Academy on Rowland Field 10:45 a.m. Abington vs.Penn Charter School on Encke Field Harriton vs. Unionville on Library Field Great Valley vs. Academy of Notre Dame on Rowland Field
12:30 p.m. Conestoga vs. Bishop Shanahan on Encke Field Garnet Valley vs. Archbishop Carroll on Library Field Friends’ Central School vs. Merion Mercy Academy on Rowland Field 2:15 p.m. Lower Merion vs. Hill School on Library Field Boyertown vs. Villa Maria Academy on Rowland Field 4 p.m. Radnor vs. Episcopal Academy on Encke Field Downingtown West vs. Springside-Chestnut Hill Academy on Rowland Field Upper Dublin vs. Shipley School on Library Field Hill School breezes past Wyoming Seminary, 17-4 The blue sky was spotless, and so very nearly was the Hill School lacrosse team in the first half on a postcard-perfect Thursday afternoon at Harry Price Turf Field. Wyoming Seminary traveled 90 miles from the Poconos (Kingston, PA) to find itself out of the game quickly. The Blues played with purpose, passion and precision in going up 13-1 by halftime over the previously unbeaten Knights, and from there it was academic as Hill School romped to a 17-4 victory.
Hill School’s Colin Forrest
(8) scraps with Wyoming
Seminary defenders Jake
Kolessar, left, and Quentin
Novinger for control of the
ball. (John Strickler – DFM)
Eight players scored for The Hill (3-3), and five generated
multiple-goal games, led by Drexel-scholarship-bound attacker
Jake Saenz’s four and three each from midfielders JJ Pickard
and Matt Krick. Six Hill School players doled two assists.
It was a big share-the-wealth day for a team with plenty of
firepower.
“We moved the ball around well, especially in the first half
we did a good job of that,” said midfielder Kurt Neumaier.
“It’s the most goals we’ve scored this year and I thought we
looked good offensively. We were all on the same page, and
that’s always a good feeling.”
The Rams dominated possession time throughout the first half.
Saenz scored the first two goals on assists from Aidan Coll
and Neumaier. Pickard’s laser from the right box off a pass
from Saenz made it 3-zip with 7:36 still to play in the first
quarter.
David Nape got the Knights (6-1) on the board about a minute
later on a rebound, but the Blues’ excellent defense thwartedtwo near attacks and, as a group, the Blues just kept pounding the net with a patient yet persistent offensive attack. Coll mentioned that talented Hill goalie Drew Hutchison often “stands on his head” in games, but on this afternoon he didn’t have to. “We knew they were a talented team and looking to knock us off,” Saenz said. “The big thing was staying disciplined and playing our game, keeping the offense flowing and the defense stout and poised. I think it was a good day for all of us. We really executed our coach’s game plan.” Hill School’s Aidan Coll scores one of his two goals past Wyoming Seminary’s goalkeeper Kyle Hall. (John Stricker – DFM) “Our guys did well, did what they were supposed to do and made good decisions,” said Hill School coach Dave Mullen. Neumaier scored on an assist from Wes Shaw, and in the last 3:41 of the first quarter starting with Coll’s goal, the Blues lit up the board three more times for a 7-1 lead. Pickard struck just 1:08 into the second quarter on an assist from Kevin Cummings and the floodgates opened under the clear sky.
The Knights got a little more going in the third quarter but each of their goals were answered by Hill School. Now with some huge games coming up, Hill School looks to build consistency on both sides of the field. Within the next three weeks, the Blues will face three Mid- Atlantic Prep League rivals who each defeated them by one goal last season — Princeton Day School, Lawrenceville and Hun. Plenty of motivation for these measuring-stick games. “We’ve been up and down but we’re hoping to keep it going,” Coll said. “Our goal is to get a run together.” “What we’re trying to accomplish is be consistent within ourselves, doing what we’ve got to do and not as much focusing on the other roster,” Mullen said. “We’re trying to get that dialed in.” 16th Annual Katie Samson Lacrosse Festival set for April 23 Radnor – The 16th annual Katie Samson Lacrosse Fest, which has grown into the largest one-day high school lacrosse festival in the United States, will be held April 23 at Radnor High School. A total of 54 varsity teams will be playing (26 premier boys’ teams and 28 premier girls’ teams on six fields running simultaneously), as well as wheelchair rugby, tennis and basketball games and youth games. The event routinely draws more than 10,000 fans, and includes
nore than 20 vendors, more than 50 major sponsors and two FanZones with rides, bounces, rock walls, face painting, BBQ, funnel cakes, raffle prices, clothing and equipment. More than $132,000 was raised in 2015 with the support of more than 50 sponsors, donations from attendees, as well as fundraising efforts by each participating lacrosse team. Since 2000 more than $1.7 million has been distributed to charities benefiting medical research and providing care for people with spinal cord injuries– research (43 percent), patient care (46 percent) and quality of life (11 percent). Featured highlights * 27 premier boys’ and girls’ league-sanctioned regular season games and several youth team games * Six fields running simultaneously from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. * Disabled athletes demonstrating wheelchair tennis, basketball and rugby games. * Families from all over the mid-Atlantic region enjoying games, rides, boutiques, face-painters, balloon artists, great raffle prizes, plenty of food and of course, great lacrosse. There will be two FanZones which will have “Katie’sKiddieKorner” for younger fans- with clowns and balloon designs, a Mechanical Bull, Rock Climbing Wall, moonbounces, music, and visits from Hershey characters * Food vendors in each Fan Zone. * Boutiques in both Fan Zones guarantee a shopping opportunity for all – including the latest lacrosse clothing and gear at great Fest prices. * In support of local lacrosse legend John Christmas’ foundation LEAPS (Lacrosse Education Attitude Perseverance Success), we are asking Fest attendees to clear out their basement of used lacrosse equipment, and to PLEASE bring it to
the Fest, dropping it off at either entrance. This will provide countless opportunities for inner city kids to learn and experience the great sport of lacrosse through John’s passionate efforts. The cause The Katie Samson Foundation raises money for research to identify a cure for spinal cord injuries and to optimize care and quality of life for spinal cord patients. The foundation also promotes social awareness as the lacrosse community comes together to support the festival. Through Katie Samson’s courage and perseverance, her foundation has successfully raised funds to support spinal cord injury research and rehabilitation programs that provide much needed independence and quality of life improvements for those with spinal cord injuries. The inspiration Katie Samson grew up in Wayne, and attended Radnor High School, where she was a goalkeeper for the girls lacrosse team. She went on to study Art History at Middlebury College, where she also played Division III lacrosse and helped her team capture a National Championship in 1999. The following winter Samson suffered a spinal cord injury while sledding and became a quadriplegic. After months of rehabilitation and encouragement from family and friends, Samson went back to finish her degree and help coach her college team to two more National titles. In 2004, she moved to Arizona to pursue her graduate degree, where she remained for six years. She moved back to the Philadelphia area in 2010 and is currently the Assistant Director of Museum Education at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Samson still finds time to play wheelchair sports, such as rugby, tennis and cycling. She also enjoys storytelling as a creative art form and performs for different organizations in
Philadelphia. As a peer mentor for people who have suffered spinal cord injury through Magee Rehabilitation Hospital, Samson encourages her mentees to seek out adaptive sports and therapeutic programs that have had such a positive effect on her life. Event Details The high school games will begin at 9 a.m. All of the games will be played at Radnor High School. The festival website, www.katiesamsonlaxfest.com, has an amazing inspirational video, the full schedule as well as all the other details. Or visit the Festival on Facebook – Katie Samson Lacrosse Festival. A $10 ($5 for students/under age 3 is free) admission fee allows unlimited access to all activities and rides within the two Fan Zones. Supporting the festival offers an opportunity to do something meaningful and historic to impact the lives of people affected by spinal cord injuries. The Katie Samson Foundation is a 501©3 corporation located at 522 Brookside Avenue, St David’s, PA 19087. All donations are tax deductible. Contact one of the two Co-Directors of Development, Courtney Cambpell or Krissy Brown at courtneycampbell91@gmail.com and kirssy_brown@mac.com respectively or call 610-688-1606 with any questions. The boys’ varsity games are as follows: 9 a.m. – Shipley School vs. Germantown Academy (Prevost Field), Archbishop Carroll vs. Upper Merion (Loop), Harriton vs. Academy of The New Church (Creek) 11 a.m. – Radnor vs. Downingtown East (Prevost), Lower Merion vs. Emmaus (Loop), St. Joseph’s Prep vs. St. Augustine Prep (Creek). 1 p.m. – Haverford School vs. Brunswick School (Prevost), Central Bucks South vs. Springfield (Loop), Malvern Prep vs. Hun School (Creek). 3 p.m. – Avon Grove vs. Conestoga (Prevost), Garnet Valley vs.
Downingtown West (Loop), Episcopal Academy vs. Hill School (Creek). 4 p.m. – Spring Ford vs. Upper Dublin (Turf1/Enke). The girls’ varsity games are as follows: 9 a.m. – Harriton vs. Notre Dame (Turf1/Enke), Lower Merion vs. Upper Dublin (Library), West Chester Henderson vs. Baldwin School (Rowland) 10:45 a.m. – Haverford High vs. Friends’ Central (Turf1/Enke), Germantown Academy vs. Strath Haven (Library), Boyertown vs. Shipley School (Rowland). 12:30 p.m. – Conestoga vs. Unionville (Turf1/Enke), Penn Charter vs. Hill School (Library), Agnes Irwin vs. Great Valley (Rowland). 2:15 p.m. – Radnor vs. Merion Mercy (Turf1/Enke), Downingtown West vs. Springside-Chestnut Hill (Library), Garnet Valley vs. Episcopal Academy (Rowland). 4 p.m. – Archbishop Carroll vs. Owen J. Roberts (Library), Abington vs. Villa Maria Academy (Rowland). Jake Saenz chooses Bucknell Name: Jake Saenz High School: The Hill School College selection: Bucknell University Sport: Boys Lacrosse Position: Attack Athletic Achievements: First Team Mid-Atlantic Prep League, All-Academic MAPL First Team, Three-time Varsity letter recipient (2013-2015), Hill’s leading scorer (2014, 2015). Club Affiliation: Duke Lacrosse Club (2012-2015) Parents: Jacob and Dawn Saenz College major: Biology/Pre-Med
Other schools considered: Dartmouth, University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown, US Naval Academy Hill School ups win streak to 5 with 18-5 win over Blair Academy Pottstown — It had been awhile. The veteran players of the Hill School boys lacrosse team would be the first to admit that playing with true confidence was a hard thing to do in recent times. It was tough to do so during a transitional 2014 season — head coach Dave Mullen’s first year at the helm — that might be most notable for the Blues having to go without a recognized goalie after their starter and backup both went down injured. “Last year we would face a good team and we would kind of go into it half-hearted like we’re going to try our best but we almost know we’re going to lose,’ senior midfielder Ben Bala said. “This year we came in and against a team like Loyola- Blakefield we were pumped the whole game, it was 4-4 at halftime and we played our hearts out believing we could win.’ The Blues didn’t take away a win (a 12-7 defeat to Loyola- Blakefield, ranked No. 3 in Maryland), but they did take away a mental boost. The boosts have added up — the ones from improved performances, stability in Mullen’s second season as well as the addition of two quality post-graduate goalies — and gave Hill the chance to register its longest win streak since the
middle of the 2012 season when it took on Blair Academy Wednesday afternoon. Riding the wave of a four-game win streak, the Blues made it five straight with a dominant first-half performance en route to an 18-5 victory over Blair Academy at Harry Price Field. Hill (6-4) improved to 2-0 in the Mid-Atlantic Prep League thanks to the scoring of Aidan Coll (four goals, two assists) and Jake Saenz (four goals, one assist), the faceoff domination of Will Schantz (16-for-19, three goals) and another lockdown defensive performance led by captain Conor Rayfield, Spencer Hoey and goalie Chase Midgley (seven saves), a postgrad out of Ossining, N.Y. “Our goalie has been standing on his head a couple games,’ Rayfield said, deflecting credit for four games allowing five or fewer goals. “Our coach is really defensive-minded so all practice we get after our offense, get on their hands and it gets us ready for every game. We press out and make the passes really hard and they don’t get to the net nearly as much.’ Blair, which was led by Kevin Claflin (one goal, three assists) and Pat Morrison (two goals), didn’t get to the net and past Midgley until 1:31 left in the first half. By that time Hill had run off 11 goals, a fastbreak goal by Coll on a quick passing move from Saenz and Rayfield, who got the ‘ hockey assist’ to the pleasure of Mullen, ranking among to best of the run. Blair came to life in the third quarter and outscored Hill to cut the lead to 13-5 with a four-goal run, but the Blues kicked it back into gear on a man-advantage goal by Wes Shaw (three goals), assisted by Zach Keller, with 4:44 remaining and ultimately closed with five unanswered goals. “Early in the season we had some problems with scoring and being consistent. After four or five games we did a much
better job,’ Schantz said. “We’ve been making better decisions and it’s been reflected in our scores.’ A season with plenty of potential has been refreshing for the Hill’s most experienced players. “We’re feeling very confident. I’m a senior and the last three years we’ve gotten knocked out of the Inter-Ac in the second round and last year the first round. Our ultimate goal is the quarterfinals and then we’ll go from there,’ Rayfield said. “Our last wins have given us a lot of confidence for those big games coming up.’ NOTES — Hill has three non-league games in a row before rounding out its MAPL schedule against Lawrenceville (4-5), undefeated Hun School (8-0) and Peddie (1-5). Other scorers for Hill were Jason Bram and Matt Krick. Mercury-area team-by-team season preview Boyertown Head coach Sean Kooker, 2nd season Last year’s record 8-6, PAC-10, 8-10 overall, PAC-10 playoffs, District 1 qualifier Players to watch
Michael Palladino, Sr., attack; Codey Prindle, Sr., goalie; Justin Endy, Sr., def.; Kyle Lee, Sr., def., Alex Firsching, Sr., attack. Outlook The Bears were packed with seniors – most notably top 2 scorers Chris Stutzman (Susquehanna) and Brock Johnson (King’s College) and PAC-10 defenseman of the year David Pettine (Misericordia) – last year on the way to the PAC-10 playoffs and districts. It will take some new faces to step up in 2015. “We have a young squad and they are eager to hit the grass running. We have several returning seniors and some athletic underclassmen,” coach Sean Kooker said. “The team is carrying 56 players on the roster this year as we develop our raw, young talent for the future. Hopefully, we will surprise some people and turn some heads.” The Bears have come on strong down the stretch the past few years, something that will have happen again if Boyertown is to return to the postseason. Daniel Boone Head coach Sean Wambaugh, 1st season Last year’s record 0-14 BCIAA, 1-16 overall Players to watch Zack Dickinson, attack; Ben Linsey, goalie; Nick Morse, def.; Jack Orendorff, def./LSM; Frank Peterson, attack; Sean Seifert, attack; Hunter Theobald, mid.; Nathan Wisler, mid.; Quinn Wisler, attack. Outlook With three wins over the span of four seasons, it would be
fair to say Daniel Boone has had its growing pains. New coach Sean Wambaugh, who replaced Matt Mogavero, hopes a more experienced squad can keep the Blazers get closer to the competition. “We are looking to become a much more competitive lacrosse team, better than any team ever before at Daniel Boone. We have an experienced team this year,” Wambaugh said. “The strength of the team is our drive to improve. Many players on our team have shown in offseason winter workouts that they want to improve as lacrosse players. I see that great drive continuing throughout this season. Our goal this year is to begin to put Daniel Boone High School on everybody’s radar.” Hill School Head coach Dave Mullen, 2nd season Last year’s record 3-2 Mid-Atlantic Prep League, 6-9 overall Players to watch Conor Rayfield, Sr., def. (All-Area 2nd team); Zack Keller, Sr., mid.; Jake Saenz, Jr., Aidan Coll, Jr., attack; Ben Bala, Jr., mid. Outlook The Blues caught a tough break when both goalies on the roster went down with injuries last season forcing first-year head coach Dave Mullen to adjust on the fly. A season later, Hill has added new recruits to stabilize the situation in the net and bring back a quality core led by defenseman Conor Rayfield and attackmen Jake Saenz and Aidan Coll. It’s also added a couple postgrads to bolster the defensive unit. Added up, Mullen is looking for Hill to be back in the MAPL title picture after a quality preseason trip to Florida. As always,
the Blues go through the gauntlet with their early-season non- league schedule. “By the time Game 6 hits we’ve played some serious teams,” Mullen said. “There’s a lot of good pieces in place, but we’re still working to be in the elite.” Methacton Head coach Nat Ryan, 6th season Last year’s record 6-8 PAC-10, 7-11 overall Players to watch Michael DelVecchio, Sr., attack; Keith White, Sr., attack (All-Area honorable mention); Colton Marin, Sr., def.; Conner Derrickson, Sr., mid.; Kyle Derrickson, So., def. (All-Area honorable mention); Aidan Denecke, Jr., attack; Connor Stevenson, Jr., attack/mid. Outlook Methacton has missed the PAC-10 playoffs the past three seasons by one place in the standings. That hasn’t sat well with the Warriors and they are poised to change it this spring. Outside of top defenseman Andrew DeSana (Seton Hill), Methacton brings back the bulk of its core, including goalie Jake Blitzer, Goucher commit Michael DelVecchio and All-Area players Keith White (Stevenson commit) and Kyle Derrickson. “We return a lot at the defense and attack, with everyone in those positions having starting experience. Our midfield is inexperienced but there is young talent ready to step in and fill those roles. I expect us to be stout defensively with a group headed up by four-year starter Jake Blitzer,” coach Nat Ryan said. “I’m excited about this group of young men. This is as experienced of a team as I’ve ever coached and is comprised of players of great character and skill.” When mid-
May arrives, there’s a fair possibility the Warriors will be calling their playoff drought a thing of the past. Owen J. Roberts Head coach Jeff Neese, 15th season Last year’s record 11-3 PAC-10, 16-6 overall, PAC-10 runner-up, District 1 second round Players to Watch Sam Garges, Sr., attack (All-Area first team); Jack Colt, Jr., attack (All-Area HM); Austin Delgatto, Jr., attack (All-Area second team); Ben Hiltebeitel, Sr., mid.; Eric Antich, Sr., mid. (All-Area second team); Chris Kent, Sr., mid; Dan Hughes, Sr., def. (All-Area HM). Outlook Two streaks continued in 2014 for the Wildcats, one welcomed, one not. OJR returned to the PAC-10 final for the 8th straight year but were on the wrong side of Spring-Ford in the final for the 4th straight season. Goals likely won’t be the issue in the Wildcats’ attempt to get back atop the PAC. All-Area first teamer Sam Garges (43 goals, 26 assists in 2014) and second teamer Austin Delgatto (74 goals, 17 assists) lead a potent attack that will be bolstered by second team midfielder Eric Antich. “We should have a strong midfield presence this year, along with a very strong returning attack,” coach Jeff Neese said. “Our goal is to be right in the mix for PAC-10 title.” But Neese believes the competition is on OJR’s heels. “Every year the PAC-10 is getting better and better. This year it should be it’s best ever. We enjoy that challenge.” Perkiomen School
Head coach Tim Gaiser, 1st season Last year’s record 5-5 overall, Tri-County League champions Players to watch Alex Williams, Sr., def.; Ryland Patterson, Sr., attack; Connor Bade, Sr., def.; Ben Williams, So., goalie; Logan Rhoads, Fr., attack; Jay Yang, Sr., mid.; Bobby Lee, Sr., mid. Outlook The Panthers are winners of four of the last five Tri-County League championships and return a strong senior core as they look to make it three titles in a row. According to new coach Tim Gaiser, Perkiomen will have be in search of some offense. “We will be looking to have Patterson and Cassel be major contributors on our offense as well as freshman Rhoads. We will have a strong returning defense. Williams, Bade, Hampton will be heavily relied on to shut down opposing offenses.” Perkiomen Valley Head coach Bryan Churchey, 3rd season Last Year’s Record 11-3 PAC-10, 13-7 overall, PAC-10 Final Four, District 1 qualifier Players to watch Tim Mallon, Sr., LSM (All-Area HM); Nick Scenna, Sr., def.; Connor Dee, Jr., attack (All-Area HM); Ben Minardi, Jr., mid./FO; Peyton Rieser, Jr., mid./FO; Brendan Dudley, Jr.,
LSM/def.; Dylan Pool, Jr., LSM; Shawn Coulter, So., mid./attack (All-Area HM); Nick Marren, So., def.; Kevin Mo, So., GK; Matthew Baker, So., attack; Dan Devlin, Sr., def.; David Kline, Sr., def.; Jake Willis, Sr., mid.; Matt Baker, Jr., attack; Connor Willey, So., mid.; Brian Fehr, Fr., attack. Outlook The 2014 Vikings were as close as any previous team to breaking up the Spring-Ford/Owen J. Roberts stronghold on the PAC-10 title picture. Coach Bryan Churchey is all about maintaining the upward trend in his third season but his team must do so by finding new scoring after the graduation of All- Area first teamers Sean Tornetta (Monmouth) and Shawn Dickey (UMass-Lowell). “Last year’s group set a new standard for our program and this year’s squad is determined to take that standard to a new level. We bring back a lot of depth on the defensive side of the ball but are very young on offense after graduating roughly 60-percent of our offensive production from a year ago. We have holes to fill offensively but the dedication and commitment we’ve seen thus far to earn those vacated reps has been fun to watch as a coaching staff,” Churchey said. PV can be counted on to contend for a PAC-10 playoff place – how far it goes will come down to how the team improves throughout the season. Phoenixville Head coach Grady Wise, 4th season Last year’s record 0-14 PAC-10, 0-16 overall Players to watch Scott Welsh, Sr., attack; Jack Leven, Sr., attack; Donnie
Jackson, Sr., mid.; Mike Wisser, Sr., mid.; Mike Thum, Sr., mid.; Adam Mittnacht, Jr., mid.; Jake Lewis, Jr., mid.; Owen Carney, Jr., mid.; Daniel Jackson, Fr., mid. Outlook Phoenixville endured a winless season a year ago and has found it difficult to gain traction in the league landscape. The Phantoms may not be able to compete for a league title, but coach Grady Wise is determined to narrow the gap. “(Our goals are to) uphold a commitment to the team and each other, improve team chemistry and work ethic, maintain a positive attitude, compete in closer games with PAC-10 schools and non- league opponents and cultivate a culture of improvement throughout the season and offseason,” Wise said. Pope John Paul II Head coach Matt McMillen, 3rd season Last year’s record 4-10 PAC-10, 6-12 overall Players to watch Wayne Mitchell, Sr,. attack; Jake Koury, Sr., attack; Armen DiFilippo, Sr., attack; Ryan Todd, Jr., attack; Jake Bevenour, Sr., mid.; Keith Destefano, Sr., mid.; Michael Frazier, Sr., goalie; Chase Lynch, Sr., def.; Colin Dahl, Sr., def.; Nick Kelly, Sr., LSM; Joe Kelly, Jr., LSM. Outlook The Golden Panthers have inched forward in each of their first four seasons, putting together quality results in the back end of last season by playing competitively with some of the league’s best. This season, coach Matt McMillen is optimistic
PJP can do more than inch forward while returning the entire attack unit, led by Wayne Mitchell and Jake Koury, as well as midfielder Jake Bevenour. “PJP boys lacrosse is positioned to take another step forward this year. The team will feature a lot of experienced upperclassmen with a mix of talented underclassmen,” McMillen said. “(Our) goal is to beat some previously unbeaten PAC-10 opponents and make the conference playoffs for the first time in school history.” Pottsgrove Head coach Fred Michaels, 4th season Last year’s record 2-12 PAC-10, 2-16 overall Players to watch Brendan Wurtz, Jr., mid.; John Gresko, Sr., attack; Will Wallace, Sr., mid.; Kyle Rodgers, Sr., attack; Jarad Ludy, Sr., def. Outlook They upped their win total by one last year, but things haven’t been so easy for the Falcons in the last few years. Along with the graduation of All-Area first teamer Riley Michaels (Cabrini), it could be another uphill battle for Pottsgrove. “We are a small group this year with many new faces. Our overall approach to this season is communication and teamwork,” coach Fred Michaels said. Spring-Ford Head coach Kevin Donnelly, 11th season
Last year’s record 14-0 PAC-10, 19-3 overall, PAC-10 champion, District 1 second round Players to watch Kevin Todd, Jr., attack (All-Area second team); Jake Hvazda, Jr., attack (All-Area HM); Zach Hare, Sr., mid. (All-Area first team); Carter Gensler, Jr., mid. (All-Area HM); Connor Crawford, Sr., def. (All-Area HM); Liam Hare, Jr., def.; Parker Hartline, Sr., def. (All-Area HM). Outlook It would have been fair to ask questions of Spring-Ford ahead of last season considering it had graduated nearly its entire core, including Division 1 players like Paul Major and Ian Hare. Then the Rams went out and ran the PAC table anyway and played a tight game with eventual District 1 champ and PIAA finalist Avon Grove in a season-ending loss in districts. They must replace Mercury All-Area Player of the Year goalie Matt Messerle and top attack Alex Marte, but there won’t be any underestimating Spring-Ford this year. It has returning depth and talent at every position, led by All-Area first teamer Zach Hare in the midfield and second teamer Kevin Todd on attack. Aspirations for a 5th straight PAC title and a deep run at districts would not be unreasonable. “The team is looking forward to building on the tradition that has been built by teams before us,” coach Kevin Donnelly said. “We are ready for the challenge of the season and competing against some of the top teams in the area and out of conference. We are hoping that we come together as a team and fulfill the potential that we have.” Compiled by Austin Hertzog, ahertzog@pottsmerc.com
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