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the cheshire herald, February 28, 2019
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Cheshire Squads Excelled Last Fall
Girls’ Volleyball (22-1, 8-0 in Hammonasset Division) Co-captains: Seniors Meagan Clyne, Ida Hoxha, Mia Juodaitis, Nina Montagna, Emily Russolillo, Jenny Wang, and juniors Lindsey Abramson and Julia Bartiet For the second straight season in 2018, Cheshire went unbeaten in the regular season, Hammonasset Division, and the Southern Connecticut Conference Tournament before falling to Amity in the Class LL playoffs. In the state quarterfinals, CHS led the Spartans 1-0 and 2-1, but ended up falling 3-2 to end the year. “It was the perfect storm,” said Head Coach Sue Bavone. “Amity is a rival and always gets up for the games against us. We also made a lot of errors that night.” While dropping the finale, Cheshire did rally from a 2-0 deficit to beat Amity 3-2 (22-25, 21-25, 25-20, 25-21, 15-12) to defend their SCC title. CHS has won a record 13 SCC crowns. “That was a gut check,” recalled Bavone, the SCC Coach of the Year. “It was the first time that we were down 2-0 before a big crowd. We made changes and they worked for us.” The senior class of Clyne, Michelle Frenkel, Hoxha, Juodaitis, Gro Letnes, Montagna, Russolillo, Wang, and manager Anisha Nigam earned an 83-11 record. “This was a fun class,” said Bavone. “Getting to see them evolve was great.” Stat leaders/honorees: *Abramson (162 kills, 64 digs, 46 aces; All-Class LL Second Team/All-SCC First Team/New Haven Register All-Area/All-Record-Journal) *Juodaitis (148 kills, 44 aces, 36 digs, 26 blocks; Co-Offensive Player of the Year/Connecticut High School Coaches Association Senior All-Star/All-SCC First Team/NHR All-Area/All-R-J) *Wang (126 kills, 47 aces, 28 digs; All-SCC Second Team/AllR-J) *Frenkel (334 assists, 69 digs, 32 aces; Co-Offensive Player of the Year/All-SCC Second Team) *Bartiet (95 kills, 34 aces, 26 blocks, 24 digs) *Clyne (95 kills, 35 blocks) *Junior Ari Perlini (212 digs; SCC Tournament Most Outstanding Player)
*Junior Emma Watkinson (136 assists) *Russolillo (69 kills; Coaches Award) *Hoxha (four digs, Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award/R-J Scholar Athlete) *Montagna (37 digs) 2019 co-captains: Abramson, Perlini Boys’ Cross Country (7-2, 2-2 in Housatonic Division) Senior co-captains: Justin Grove, Richmond Le Cheshire combined experience and youth in Pam Gunneson’s first season as head coach. CHS held an unbeaten record before falling to Amity 19-42 and Shelton 20-39. The Rams took fifth in the SCC and eighth in Class L. “It was a tremendous season. I’m so proud of how hard the guys worked and the times they did,” said Gunneson, who appreciated the leadership of her cocaptains and the help of Assistant Pat Long. In taking over the number one spot, junior Brendan Mellitt secured MVP, All-SCC First Team, All-Class L, NHR All-Area, and All-R-J. He also ran in the New England Championship. “He had a great season. He got stronger from the year before and gained valuable experience for next year,” said Gunneson. Junior Francis Simpatico moved up into the second spot, garnering All-SCC Second Team and All-R-J. Le, senior Yasin Tarabar (R-J Scholar Athlete), juniors Parker Arai and Charlie Pettit, and freshmen Thomas Longmore and Robert DiNatale also ran varsity in the post-season. Arai (Most Improved), Pettit (Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award), and Longmore (Novice Award) received awards. Girls’ Cross Country (8-1, 3-1 in Housatonic Division) Senior tri-captains: Amanda Addesso, Emmy Longmore, Rosie Marquez While competing without four varsity runners from the 2017 season, CHS dropped only one meet to Amity (23-33) and placed third in the SCC and sixth in Class L. “It was a great season,” said Head Coach Rob Schaefer. “I’m proud of all the girls.” Addesso and Longmore ran varsity for the fourth year in a
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Al Valerio/Cheshire Herald
Above, volleyball hitter Julia Bartiet takes a big swing. Below on left, Brendan Mellitt led the boys’ cross country squad. Below on right, goalie Nate Pisani (green shirt) makes a save for the boys’ soccer team.
Photo courtesy of Hank Goldstein Photo courtesy of Richmond Le
row. Addesso earned MVP, AllSCC First Team, NHR All-Area, R-J Scholar Athlete, and All-R-J. Longmore joined freshmen Olivia Ferraro and Meghan Georgescu as All-SCC Second Team and All-R-J. Marquez and sophomores Elizabeth Addesso, Cate Bedard, and Brooke D’Addio also ran varsity last fall. Bedard was Most Improved and Marquez shared the CJW Leadership Award with Longmore. 2019 tri-captains: Juniors Kristina Benga, Audrey Kiesling, Juliana Petronio Boys’ Soccer (12-4-3, 8-0 in Oronoque Division) Senior tri-captains: Jared Andrea, Jacob Goldstein, Nate Pisani Fifteen seniors made history last fall as the first group to win four division titles. In the Oronoque Division, CHS shut out the opposition 28-0 and clinched the crown with a 5-0 win over Branford. “This is a great legacy that these seniors leave behind,” said Head Coach Artur Branco. “The guys coming up have big shoes to fill for next year.” CHS started 8-0-2 and earned their first road win, 1-0, over Shelton in nine years. In the SCC quarterfinals, Cheshire fell 1-0 at Branford, but the Rams bounced back to beat E.O. Smith (2-1, overtime) and Staples (3-1) to reach the Class LL quarterfinals for the first time in seven years. Cheshire ended up falling 3-0 at Hall in West Hartford. “One of our goals is to go all the way and win the state tournament. I thought we ran out of gas in the end, but this was a great run
for this group,” said Branco. Stat leaders/honorees: *Goldstein (RAM Award/ All-New England/All-Class LL and All-SCC First Teams/AllOronoque/Senior Bowl All-Star/ NHR All-Area/All-R-J) *Senior Matt Mayano (MVP/ Senior Bowl All-Star/All-SCC Second Team/All-Oronoque/AllR-J) *Pisani (All-Oronoque, 10 shutouts) *Junior Jack Loura (All-SCC Second Team/All-Oronoque/AllR-J) *Andrea (Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award) *Senior Quinn Donahue (AllOronoque) *Senior Kyle Kuhlthau (R-J Scholar Athlete) *Junior Denys Fuentes *Junior Rob Fritz *Senior Evan Esposito Seniors Jason Aguirre and Alex Irizarry played key roles in the mid-field and backfield. 2019 co-captains: Junior Thomas Bonitz, Loura Girls’ Soccer (7-7-4, 3-1-2 in Housatonic Division) Senior tri-captains: Kaitlyn Loura, Lila McNamee, Riley Pettit The 2018 season represented the end of an era for the girls’ program. The senior class of Loura,
McNamee, Pettit, Annie Acquavita, Kayla Agostinelli, Cassidy Keaney, Paige Perez, and Shariqa graduated from the team, while James Luis chose to step down after six seasons as head coach. “It is a great group of kids,” stated Luis. “They had a range of personalities. Collectively, they were all passionate about what they were doing.” For his retirement, Luis stated that he wants to spend more time with his wife and two sons and also dedicate time to a job promotion at Connecticut Spring and Stamping. “The priorities of my life were family, work, and soccer. The only reason I would retire is because those other two things are most important to me,” said Luis, who posted a 63-36-14 mark. Under Luis, CHS won three Housatonic titles (2013, 201617). In 2016, Cheshire beat Daniel Hand 2-1 (5-4 in penalty kicks) to win the SCC crown. “I loved working with the team, administration, media, and parents,” said Luis. “I’m going to miss the interaction and the day-to-day process of developing a team to compete in the postseason.” In his final season last fall, Luis coached the Rams in the playoffs. See TEAMS, page 10
Cover Identification
Top group of photos, from left: Paul Villecco (baseball), Jade Barnes and Mikayla Crowley and Annie Eddy and Lexie Hemstock (field hockey), and Aidan Godfrey (boys’ basketball). Bottom group of photos: Ellie Murphy (girls’ swim and dive), Annie Acquavita (girls’ lacrosse), Jake McAlinden (football), and Isabelle Pellegrino and Riley Pettit and Lila McNamee (girls’ soccer). Photos by James Brandolini, Al Valerio, and Mike Crowley. Stories by Greg Lederer.
Sports…
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 28, 2019
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CHS Field Hockey Made History
Led by a senior class of 17 girls, Cheshire field hockey enjoyed a historic season last fall. For the first time in 28 years, CHS went unbeaten in the regular season (16-0, 21-2 overall) and shattered the program’s single-season record for shutouts with 19. “It was overall the most fun season I’ve had because the senior class, led by (co-captains) Annie (Eddy) and Mikayla (Crowley), was so fun and supportive of each other,” said Head Coach Eileen Wildermann. “We had two losses and both came in championship games, but that didn’t put a damper on anything we did.” During the regular season, CHS outscored the competition 63-1. Cheshire gave up their first goal at Daniel Hand, but the team rallied to win 2-1. While the perfect regular season wasn’t a goal, Wildermann felt that the feat spoke volumes. “The girls refused to lose,” said Wildermann. “There were games where we were outplayed, like when we beat Guilford (1-0) on Senior Night, but the girls found a way to win.” CHS won the SCC regular-season title and advanced to the tournament final where they dropped their first game, 3-1, at Guilford. “I think it (the loss) helped us,” said Wildermann. “When we
looked at the film, we saw how much we were out of position on the field.” Cheshire came back to beat Fairfield Warde (2-0), Amity (40), and Newtown (3-2) in the Class L playoffs. In the semifinals, Newtown scored with no time left in regulation to tie the game at 2-2, but CHS still got the win on a goal by junior Kiley Jackson in overtime. In the program’s first state final since 2015, CHS fell 2-0 to threetime reigning champion Staples. Both goals came after halftime. “We came in with a defensive game plan and I thought we played a great first half to keep them (Staples) scoreless,” said Wildermann. “They have a very good program.” Eddy and Crowley shared team MVP and the Poise, Leadership, Attitude, You, Excellence, and Respect (P.L.A.Y.E.R.) Award, along with joining senior goalie Lexie Hemstock with All-Class L and All-SCC First Teams, Connecticut High School Coaches Association Senior All-Star, New Haven Register All-Area, and All-Record Journal honors. “They (Crowley, Eddy) were unbelievable in the way they worked together,” said Wildermann. “You have Annie’s big personality compared to the subtle
way that Mikayla plays the game. They got everyone fired up for every single practice and game.” A four-year starter, Crowley compiled seven goals and 13 assists last fall. She received Player of the Year awards from the SCC and Hartford Courant. Wildermann felt that Crowley’s style of play was different all four years and that maturation molded her into a Division player going to Boston University. “They (BU coaches) respect and admire the way she plays,” said Wildermann. “I think she will do great things there.” A four-year varsity player, Eddy became the top shooter on penalty corners last fall and posted 12 goals and eight assists. In moving from mid-field to center back, Eddy directed her teammates on the field. “Her voice was so important,” said Wildermann. “She controlled the whole field.” Junior Olivia Salamone, seniors Jade Barnes and Bri Floyd, and sophomores Taylor Warburton and Danielle Floyd also contributed heavily on defense. An All-SCC Second Team and AllR-J honoree, Barnes will play at Endicott College with classmate Meaghan Hogan next year. “I call her a team-first player because the girls are so happy when she is around,” said Wildermann. “Jade is tough as nails and plays with such passion.” Wildermann felt that Bri Floyd (two goals) brought experience to the defense and came on strong in the second half of the season. “She was consistent and used her speed well,” said Wildermann. “She paved the way for her sister.” Wildermann believes that Danielle Floyd is one of the most coachable kids she has ever worked with. “Whatever I ask her to do on the field, she does. If she struggles, she works on it,” said Wildermann.
Photos by James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald
On left, Olivia Salamone drives the ball down the field. Above on Senior Night, Mikayla Crowley (3) poses with her father Mike, mother Maureen, and younger sister Megan (9). Warburton also started for the first time on defense. “The great thing about Taylor is that I didn’t need to worry about her. She was so consistent,” said Wildermann. “I’m excited to see how her game grows from here.” Salamone tallied a team-best 26 points and 14 assists, adding 12 goals. She earned All-SCC Second Team, CHSCA Junior All-Star, and All-R-J. “At any given time, you could look for Olivia to be strong with the ball,” said Wildermann. “She has the strongest (penalty-corner) insert I’ve seen in high school and that helped us on straight shots.” Hemstock, who will play field hockey and softball at Western New England University (Massachusetts), gave up just eight goals in the cage. “You could definitely see it (the shutout record) was a goal of hers, but she never took full credit for it,” said Wildermann. “She had a fantastic defense around her.” Hogan scored 12 goals, including the game-winners in 1-0 wins over Hand and Guilford. She had two assists. “She naturally dictated where the forwards should be on the field,” said Wildermann. Senior Kayla Sansone compiled seven goals and three assists. “She provided such a spark
with her energy level,” said Wildermann. Jackson tallied the first 15 goals (team-best) of her varsity career last year and added three assists. Classmate Megan Daly contributed six goals and 10 assists. The girls will captain the 2019 team. “She (Jackson) is someone who has grown so much, maturitywise. She had no ego about coming off the bench last year,” said Wildermann. “Megan is one of the quietest players I’ve coached, but has such a great impact on the field. She ran so hard at times that she couldn’t breathe.” Senior Sophie Cremo (All-RJ) tallied her first goal and added two assists in 2018, but it was her ability to defend that Wildermann thinks made her most special. “It is going to be tough to replace her ability to face guard and deny, as well as transition the ball down the field,” stated Wildermann. “She never got the credit that she deserved for that.” On a veteran team, freshman Lauren Houle stepped in to post three goals. Sophomore Sophia Vagts scored her first two goals last fall. Senior Talia Yavorek (goal), juniors Sabrina Cass (assist), Grace Keaveney (assist), Samantha Nowak (assist), and sophomore Raegan Bailey (goal, two assists) added their first points.
The Tradition continues!! Congratulations Coach Wildermann, Staff & the 2018 CHS Field Hockey Team on a successful season. Good Luck to our 2018 Graduating Seniors!!
2018 CIAC Class L and SCC Tournament Runner-Up 2018 All State Selections: First Team All State: Mikayla Crowley, Annie Eddy, Lexie Hemstock 2018 All SCC: First Team: Mikayla Crowley (SCC Player of the Year), Annie Eddy, Lexie Hemstock Second Team: Jade Barnes, Olivia Salamone
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the cheshire herald, February 28, 2019
CHS Football Built Young Team After graduating a school-record 27 seniors in 2017, the Rams had many spots to fill on the varsity level last fall. In battling to a 3-7 record under Head Coach Don Drust, CHS had many young players gain experience against one of the strongest schedules in the state. After dropping their first five games, Cheshire used goal-line stands to earn 21-14 wins against host West Haven and Notre Dame-West Haven. In the home finale, CHS sent out 16 seniors with a 40-0 shutout of Harding in the rain. “It felt great. We had a really tough schedule this year, but with all the work we did in the offseason, I knew we would pull off some great wins this year,” said senior linebacker Elijah Allston, a quad-captain with senior Tim Krutz and juniors Jason Shumilla and Will Bergin. For the second year in a row, junior Jake McAlinden led in rushing yards (973) and touchdowns (seven), averaging 6.4 yards per carry. The Offensive MVP and an All-Southern Connecticut Conference Tier I honoree, McAlinden also made nine receptions for 121 yards and a touchdown. “I was (training) with him all summer and saw the work he put in,” reflected Allston. “I knew he would have a great year.” Last fall, sophomore Ryan Mancl ran for 157 yards and scored four touchdowns, including a 41-yard TD run to win the West Haven game. As just a freshman, Christian Russo made an immediate impact, rushing for 276 yards and two touchdowns. He earned the CHS Offensive MVP in the Apple Valley Classic at Southington. Sophomore Jon Oris had 98 yards on the ground. “They are such young kids,” said Allston, of Mancl, Oris, and Russo. “I know they are going to be great players as they get older.” Juniors Jason Shumilla and
Colby Griffin both started at quarterback for the first time. Shumilla passed for 227 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 224 yards and two touchdowns before suffering a season-ending injury in the fourth game of the year, against Jonathan Law. Griffin stepped up to pass for 475 yards and picked up 197 rushing yards. He had three touchdowns each in the passing and the running game. “It was very tough losing Jason Shumilla,” recalled Allston. “I talked to Colby and I knew that he was up for the challenge. He did a good job this year.” Cheshire debuted a new varsity receiving group last fall. Junior Alec Frione led the way in catches and receiving yardage, scoring his first touchdown. Krutz caught his first two touchdowns, finishing with six catches for 109 yards. In his first season, senior Danny Skibitcky tallied eight receptions for 11 yards and a touchdown. “We lost some pretty big wide receivers, like (2018 graduates) Michael Jeffery and Eric Angelone,” said Allston. “The (receivers) knew they had big shoes to fill and did a good job.” Seniors Thomas Cherneskie and Austin Farb, Bergin, junior Sean Cangiano, and sophomore Ned McBain started out on the offensive line. When McBain went down with an injury, sophomore Colin Crowe moved into the unit. Bergin was selected as All-SCC Tier I and Cherneskie received Record-Journal Scholar Athlete. “I knew every time we stepped on the field, they would give it their all,” stated Allston. “That is all you can ask for.” The Defensive MVP, Cangiano led the defensive line with 6.5 sacks and added 43 tackles. Sophomore Chisom Okoro (Greg Schena Award) supplied 55 tackles and 2.5 sacks, while Bergin contributed 50 tackles. “It was great to see them step up,” said Allston. “I saw the work
those guys put in all year.” As new starters, juniors Jacob Dubois (72) and Trevor DeLott (58) led the Rams in tackles. DeLott made his first interception and scored his first touchdown against Harding. Sophomore Jon Oris posted 61 tackles. Senior Austin Glassey supplied 39 tackles and two sacks. “It was great playing with all of them,” said reflected Allston. “I thought we started off rough, but after the first few games, we all stepped up.” In transitioning from running back to linebacker, Allston recorded 19 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Allston received the Tommy DiDomizio Memorial Award. “I was surprised, but happy that I got that award,” said Allston. In the secondary, Shumilla made eight tackles before getting hurt. Mancl stepped up to post 45 tackles. Russo compiled 49 tackles and Frione had 32. Russo and Frione joined Krutz (five tackles) with their first interceptions. Frione was the Cheshire Defensive MVP of the Apple Valley Classic. Senior Jacob Simcik earned 17 tackles. “I thought they did a great job for us,” said Allston. A linebacker/tight end, senior Patrick Murphy was given the Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award. He also joined Allston as a Cheshire Junior Football Scholarship recipient. A sophomore newcomer, Jotham Casey was the kicker and punter. He made four field goals and converted 19 extra points. “It was great to have a soccer player come out and kick for us,” added Allston. The cheerleading squad provided spirit at home games and traveled with the team. Senior co-captains Lilly Greenquist and Emily Williams, as well as Ellen Albanese, Jess Glatt, Regan Kranyak, and Jess Mullen, will be graduating from the team.
Photos by James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald
Above, Alec Frione scored his first touchdown against Jonathan Law last fall. Below, Christian Russo sprints down the field.
Photo courtesy of Samantha Hill
From left, Jess Glatt, Emily Williams, Ellen Albanese, Lilly Greenquist, Regan Kranyak, and Jenna Mullen led as cheerleading seniors.
CHESHIRE JUNIOR FOOTBALL AND CHEERLEADING...
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Sports…
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 28, 2019
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CHS Girls Extend Title Reigns With Dan Mascolo choosing to step down as Cheshire girls’ swim and dive head coach last year, the Rams transitioned to a new leader. While there was change at the helm, the team didn’t take a detour from their traditional success under Dave Modzelewski. In 2018, CHS earned their fifth straight unbeaten regular season, extending the team’s dual-meet win streak to 55. Cheshire won the Southern Connecticut Conference final for the seventh straight year (24th time in 25 years). “I think we set all of our goals as a team,” said Modzelewski. “As a new coach, you never know how the kids are going to react. They had worked with Dan for a long time, but they trusted me and we had a great year.” Cheshire defended their Class L crown at Southern Connecticut State University. In the State Open, CHS placed second to rival Greenwich by just 15 points. “I was really happy with how everyone swam,” said Modzelewski. “As the season progresses, you aren’t getting your best times in dual meets, but the girls trusted the process. By Class L, the girls were swimming the best times of their life.” Seventeen seniors ended their dual-meet careers at 44-0. Ellie Murphy (Siena College-New York), Siena Breton (Ohio University), Caitlin Caron (Babson College-Massachusetts), Samantha Grenon (Bryant University-
Rhode Island), Esther Han (Colby College-Maine), and Shannon Lindsey (University of Vermont) will compete in college. “It was a blessing to have that many seniors in my first year,” said Modzelewski. “Most of them had been there for four years, so they knew how things ran.” Murphy and Elli Haskes led as senior co-captains. “I had a chance to meet them before the season and talk about the team,” reflected Modzelewski. “As the year went along, they were my go-to people.” As a sophomore, Murphy’s younger sister Sophie enjoyed another record-setting season. In Class L, she defended her 50- (24.14) and 100-yard (51.44) freestyle titles. Murphy captured both events (23.51, 51.36) in the State Open, lowering her school record in the 50-yard race and earning individual All-American consideration for the first time. Murphy also won the SCC 200yard freestyle (1:56.07). Along with receiving Most Outstanding Swimmer and New Haven Register MVP, Murphy joined senior Samantha Grenon, junior Julia Stevens, sophomore Nora Bergstrom, and Breton as All-State, All-SCC, NHR All-Area, and AllRecord Journal. “I don’t think she (Murphy) could finish any better than she did,” said Modzelewski. “She defeated kids in the State Open who beat her last year.”
Murphy teamed with Grenon, Stevens, and Bergstrom to win the 400-yard freestyle relay in the SCC (3:37.68) and Class L (3:31.70) meets. The team took third (3:29.93) in the State Open. “That is the first time that I’ve had a relay get All-American (consideration),” said Modzelewski. “I wasn’t expecting that, so it was a nice surprise.” In the 200-yard medley relay, junior Jillian Stevens, senior Ola Nawrocki, Julia Stevens, and Han won the Class L 200-yard medley relay (1:47.87) and took fourth (1:48.11) in the State Open. “When we won that relay at Class L, everyone looked around surprised,” reflected Modzelewski. “That victory gave us a lot of confidence and set the tone.” Haskes teamed with the Stevens sisters and Han to finish second (1:50.12) in the SCC final. For the 200-yard freestyle relay, Han, Haskes, Grenon, and Sophie Murphy finished second in Class L (1:37.99). In the State Open, Lindsey stepped in to help the squad take fourth (1:37.95). Julia Stevens won the Class L 200-yard freestyle (1:52.05) and defended her 500-yard freestyle crown (5:02.53). In the State Open, she placed third (1:52.13) and sixth (5:03.13) in those races. For the SCC meet, Stevens won the 100-yard butterfly (57.44) for the second year in a row and took second in the 200-yard individual medley (2:10.75). “She had a really good season,” said Modzelewski. “I knew that she was a good distance swimmer and butterflyer, but she can swim anything.” Grenon placed second (5:04.57) to Stevens in the Class L 500-yard freestyle. She took runner-up in the SCC (5:12.60) and fourth in the State Open (5:00.96). Grenon cracked the top five for the 200-yard IM in the SCC (third, 2:11.12), Class L (second, 2:06.63), and State Open (fifth, 2:06.13). For her efforts, she re-
Photos by James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald
Above, Sophie Murphy turns for a breath in swimming freestyle. Below left, Samantha Grenon competes in the 200-yard IM. ceived the Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award. “She was willing to do anything for us,” said Modzelewski. “Sam may be the most competitive person on the team.” Bergstrom took fourth in the Class L 200- (1:55.41) and 500yard (5:08.80) freestyles. She posted fifth in the SCC 100-yard backstroke (1:00.99). In her Class L debut, Nawrocki secured fifth place in the 100-yard breaststroke (1:08.01) and sixth in the 200-yard IM (2:11.56). “Nora moved back from North Carolina and Ola decided to join us as a senior,” said Modzelewski. “Having them come in was a big boost for team morale. Obviously, their swimming was big.” Jillian Stevens earned third in the Class L 100-yard backstroke (58.43). She will captain the 2019 team with junior Sarah Chen. “Jillian is a consummate hardworker,” added Modzelewski. Sophomore Bella Tejeda (1:08.81), junior Tori Newton (1:09.60), and Haskes (1:10.26) placed third through fifth in the SCC 100-yard breaststroke. Tejeda added fifth in the 100-yard butterfly (59.94). Han took eighth in the Class L 200-yard event (1:58.39) and ninth in the 100-yard race (54.38). “I’ve known Esther for a long time,” said Modzelewski. “She was definitely a big sprinter on our relays and made the State Open in the 100-yard freestyle.”
In the 500-yard freestyle, sophomore Grace Pettit earned fifth in the SCC (5:16.02) and eighth in Class L (5:14.96). Lindsey (fourth, 25.45) and Chen (sixth, 25.58) made the top six of the SCC 50-yard freestyle. Lindsey teamed with Ellie Murphy, Haskes, Lindsey, and Nawrocki to take fourth in the 200-yard freestyle race (1:42.18). “We will miss her in the sprints,” said Modzelewski, of Lindsey. In Class L, sophomore Mary Barto took eighth in the 100yard butterfly (1:00.31) and seventh in the 100-yard breaststroke (1:08.47). Freshman Kaitlyn Grove (Most Improved) and senior Haley Grayson (R-J Scholar Athlete) earned additional honors for the team. A three-time Most Outstanding Diver honoree, Breton set a new Cheshire six-dive mark (285.67). She also won her first SCC title (462.45), setting CHS and conference records for 11 dives. Breton placed third (437.35) in Class L and finished 11th (435.05) in the State Open. The Coaches Award recipient, sophomore Natalie DeMatteo overcame an ankle injury to place 12th in the SCC (314.25) and ninth in Class L (344.20). Senior Erin Wu took 25th (255.70) in the SCC. “It was good to have Sienna and Erin lead the young divers,” said Modzelewski.
GIRLS’ SWIMMING AND DIVING
2018 SCC Champions and Class L State Champions 7-time defending SCC meet champions 2-time Class L State Champions
Thanks to Head Coach Dave Modzelewski, Assistant Shea Moriarty, and Diving Coach Patty Conte
We will Miss You Seniors
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the cheshire herald, February 28, 2019
CHS Softball Returns Depth
In preparing for the spring season, familiarity has been a strength for CHS softball. The Rams graduated just three seniors from last year’s team that won a fifth straight divisional title and reached the Class LL semifinals for the fourth consecutive season. “We have a lot of girls coming back on the offensive and defensive side,” said Head Coach Kristine Drust. “When you put that together, it brings the excitement that the girls are craving.” After graduating last year, Sara Mulligan, Kinsey Ratchelous, and Natalie Amato left the team with a program-best 96-8 record. Mulligan (Springfield CollegeMassachusetts) and Amato (University of Saint Joseph) are now playing on the college level. A three-year starter in left field, Mulligan earned the RAM Award last spring. She also joined Amato in earning All-Class LL and All-SCC First Team, All-Record Journal, and Connecticut High School Senior All-Star. As a first-year starting pitcher, Amato posted a 19-3 record. She shared Co-Defensive MVP with catcher Jade Barnes, along with receiving New Haven Register All-Area and R-J Scholar Athlete. As another new starter last year, Ratchelous provided a key glove in right field and enjoyed her best season at the plate. “Natalie, Kinsey, and Sara are just unbelievable kids. I think of them as people first,” said Drust. “We saw Sara grow over four years as a contributor. Kinsey took charge of being a role player for her first couple of years and then stepped up as a senior. Natalie waited her turn and then became one of the best pitchers in the state last year.” This year, Drust is excited about her new senior class of infielder Bri Floyd, center fielder Lexie Hemstock, shortstop Mia Juodaitis, catcher Jade Barnes, and outfielder Zoe Kasinskas. As freshmen, Floyd, Hemstock, and
Juodaitis were immediate starters and helped the Rams earn their first unbeaten season (27-0). “When time goes by fast, it means that things are good,” said Drust. “Those girls have truly done something that is very difficult to do. For a freshman to step right into this program and contribute to a state championship, it is so special.” Juodaitis, who has signed with Providence College (Rhode Island), earned Offensive MVP, All-Class LL and All-SCC First Teams, NHR All-Area, and All-RJ last spring. In moving into the leadoff spot, she led CHS with a .452 batting average, 38 hits, 20 RBIs, 27 runs scored, and 15 walks. She tied junior Ari Perlini for the team lead in doubles (10) and also hit two home runs. “I knew that would be her spot eventually even as a freshman,” reflected Drust. “She added a few things to her game last year. It has been exciting to watch Mia grow into the player she is now.” In the number two spot in 2018, Floyd batted .321 with 27 hits, 12 runs scored, and 10 RBIs. She will play at William Paterson University (New Jersey) next year. After spending her two seasons at second base, Floyd accepted a move to third as a junior. “Bri has been so impactful for me and the team,” stated Drust. “It (her position change) speaks to her character as a team player. She has this giddy personality and it has been an awesome experience to watch her develop.” Hemstock, who will compete in softball and field hockey at Western New England University (Massachusetts), shifted from right to center field last spring. She also posted a .333 average with 23 hits, two home runs, 23 RBIs, and 19 runs scored. “I put some players into the umbrella of program kids,” stated Drust. “Since day one, Lexie has come to hit and hit in the off-season. Everyone looks up to her for
Photos courtesy of Cherie Hemstock
On left, Lexie Hemstock starts to move off second base. On right, Bri Floyd fields a ground ball. that. She is the type of player that a coach needs to run a team successfully.” Barnes will play field hockey next year at Endicott College (Massachusetts), but first she will lead as the varsity catcher for the third straight season. In getting to bat last year, Barnes had 17 hits and 13 RBIs. Drust loves the energy that Barnes brings to the team and pointed to her leadership in last year’s Class LL quarterfinal. CHS trailed Norwich Free Academy 6-2 in the sixth inning, but rallied to win 7-6. “Jade came up big to keep Natalie (Amato) composed on the mound in that game,” recalled Drust. “It was raining, cold, and we were behind. Everybody was looking to her (Barnes) and she stepped up as a leader.” Barnes will work with a new pitching staff this year. As a freshman in 2018, Bri Pearson went 2-0 in backing up Amato. “Bri Pearson has found a love for pitching. She is craving that starting role,” said Drust. Drust believes that Floyd could also pitch innings if called upon. Stephanie Burke and Kailey Sweigard add more depth from the sophomore class. Along with pitching last spring,
Pearson led CHS in home runs (three) and singles (26). She earned a .419 average with 31 hits, 18 RBIs, and 21 runs scored. Pearson was given the Ram Off-Season Commitment Award. “She is a student of the game and a softball kid year-round,” stated Drust. “There are a lot of players who practice well, but it is a big transition to play on the varsity level immediately.” Last spring, Perlini (second base) and Emma Watkinson (first base) emerged as starters in the infield. The 2018 Most Improved recipient, Perlini batted .422 with 35 hits, 17 RBIs, and 19 runs scored. Watkinson contributed 19 hits, two home runs, 12 RBIs, and 13 runs scored. Both girls also play volleyball and basketball. “They are great kids and very competitive,” said Drust. “Playing three sports in high school is not easy.” After missing last year due to knee surgery, Drust feels that junior Lindsey Abramson will return mentally stronger. As a freshman, she was a varsity starter at first base. “She is a pure athlete and a great team player to have around,” said Drust. “Lindsey comes from a great family and knows what it
takes to be successful.” Last year, sophomore Emma Glover hit her first varsity home run. Classmate Bridie Borland received the Coaches Award. Drust looks forward to players competing for spots this spring. She feels that Kasinskas is a great example of a person who has put in the time to improve leading up to the season. “Zoe is a real special player and kid,” said Drust. “She is the definition of a team player. Zoe loves the game and appreciates what it gives back to her.” In 2018, Cheshire went 21-3, winning the Hammonasset Division title (8-0) for second straight season. The team fell 3-2 to Sheehan in the SCC quarterfinals, but bounced back to beat Stamford (11-2) and NFA in Class LL play. In the state semifinals, CHS fell 6-5 to Trumbull. While returning the ingredients for another deep run, Drust focuses on the journey over the final destination. “I feel that culture beats strategy,” explained Drust. “Building the right culture and letting everyone know that we care for each other is why we continue to be where we are every year. We talk about playing like a champion more than championships.”
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 28, 2019
Sports…
Seven
Rams LAX Aims To Reload In the last two years, Cheshire boys’ lacrosse have utilized experience and depth in making deep post-season runs. In graduating 14 seniors from the program in 2018, Head Coach Rich Pulisciano feels that new faces will have to step up this spring. “It’s going to take a lot of hard work from our younger guys to replace players, especially on offense,” said Pulisciano. Of last year’s seniors, many contributed on varsity for two, three, and four years. The group contributed to CHS making the 2017 Class L final and placing second. “They were another class that helped to put the program back on the map after some tough years of not making the playoffs,” stated Pulisciano. “Those guys laid the foundation for the players we have coming through now.” Pulisciano looks for mid-fielder Tim Krutz to accept a leadership role as senior captain. Krutz, who has signed to play at Southern New Hampshire University, tallied 17 goals and 10 assists last year. He netted the game-winner in an 11-10 win over Notre Dame-West Haven. “Timmy is an experienced kid who has really come a long way,” said Pulisciano. “With (his dad) Joe coaching here, Tim has been around the program for a long time.” Like Krutz, senior Ben O’Connor is also coming off a breakthrough season in which he posted 30 goals and nine assists. “Ben is a quiet kid, but he is a great athlete,” stated Pulisciano. “He understands where to be on
James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald Photo courtesy of Debbie O’Connor
the field. Ben is so tough and knows how to get the job done.” Pulisciano looks for O’Connor and senior Jack Surato (three goals, assist) to provide experience in a new unit on attack. CHS graduated three-year starters in Tim Hoynes (teambest 69 goals, 22 assists) and Jack Raba (46 goals, team-best 58 assists and 104 points). As a senior, Raba earned All-Class L First Team and joined Hoynes as CoOffensive Player of the Year, AllSouthern Connecticut Conference First Team, and New Haven Register All-Area. Quad captains with Dan Covel and Michael Jeffery last spring, Raba (Loyola University-Maryland) and Tim Hoynes (University of Massachusetts) are now playing Division I in college. CHS also graduated Mike Bronson, who had three goals and three assists on attack last year. “We knew the time was coming when we would lose those guys,” stated Pulisciano. “We are going to need people to take on roles for us.” The graduation of Jeffery (43 goals, 29 assists), Covel (eight, six), Matt Moran (20, 17), Will Boy (11, six), and Dylan Hick (three, one) take experiences out
of the mid-field. A four-year starter, Jeffery was named the SCC Co-Division I Player of the Year, as well as team MVP, All-Class L Second Team, All-SCC First Team, Academic All-American, NHR All-Area, and Record-Journal Scholar Athlete. “Michael Jeffery was one of the best mid-fielders in the state of Connecticut. We will miss his caliber of play,” stated Pulisciano. Moran was chosen as the Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award recipient. “Matt Moran could play offense and defense. His speed made a big difference for us on the field,” said Pulisciano. The Hard Hat Award winner last year, Covel controlled 272 of 437 face-offs. “Dan Covel came out of nowhere to step up on face-offs over the last two years,” said Pulisciano. “It is tough to lose him.” When Covel missed games due to injury last year, sophomore Aidan Gaudet was moved into his place and won 44 of 72 face-offs. “It was good for him to get experience last year,” reflected Pulisciano. “We are excited to see him play in the spring.” Defensively, the Rams graduated Colin Fanning (one goal, two
On left, Tim Krutz returns to captain the 2019 Rams. Above, Ben O’Connor will provide leadership on offense this year. assists), Dan Calbo, Jay Como, and Ethan Bronson (Kevin Tyska Award) from the lineup, but CHS will return experience to the unit. Junior Jason Shumilla started in his first two seasons, earning AllSCC Second Team last spring. “He is a very athletic and toughnosed player,” said Pulisciano. Nick DiDomizio and Jon Oris also played key roles as freshmen. Pulisciano feels that seniors Elijah Allston and Evan Veivia and juniors Max Shafer and Trevor DeLott will benefit from the experience they gained last season. Goalie is a position of returning strength. As a first-year starter last spring, junior Brendan Grove made 275 saves and received Defensive Player of the Year. “That (spot) was our biggest concern last year,” recalled Pulisciano. “We were very pleased with the way Brendan played. He saved us in a lot of games and kept us in them.” Pulisciano likes the depth at goalie with junior Max Novicelli and sophomore Andrew Vernon also returning this year. In the last two seasons, CHS has placed runner-up to Fairfield Prep in the SCC final. Last year, Cheshire rallied late before falling 12-10.
The Rams bounced back to beat Simsbury 15-10 in a Class L qualifier, but lost 14-10 at Newtown to end the year at 12-9. “We always look to win the SCC and beat the top teams. We also want to make the state playoffs this year and go as far as we can,” Pulisciano said. “With a lot of new faces, I think we’ll need to take it one game at a time and build throughout the year.” Pulisciano feels that the team’s youth will change the way that the staff approaches drills. “We need to break it down and work with these kids,” said Pulisciano. “It can be fun to get back to the basics.” Along with SCC competition, Pulisciano also likes to play teams from out of the state. To open the year on March 30 at 4 p.m., CHS will play Wappingers Central (New York) at Western Connecticut State University.
Congratulations Coach Pulisciano, Staff and CHS Boys Lacrosse on a great 2018 Season. Good Luck to our graduated Seniors and the 2019 Rams Lacrosse Team this Spring!! 2018 All State Selections: 1st Team: Jack Raba
2nd Team: Michael Jeffery (Academic All- American)
2018 All SCC:
1st Team: Jack Raba, Tim Hoynes, Michael Jeffery 2nd Team: Matt Moran, Jason Shumilla
Rich Pulisciano - 2018 US Lacrosse Man of the Year
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the cheshire herald, February 28, 2019
Veteran Girls’ LAX Team Looks Forward To The Spring
For Cheshire girls’ lacrosse, last spring represented a historic season. Fielding a young squad with just two senior starters, CHS produced the program’s best start (14-1) under Head Coach Dan Warburton and finished 17-4. While dropping four games, all of the losses were by a single goal. “We knew we had potential, but we were still a young group last year,” said Warburton. “We gained a lot of experience and I think that will help us this season.” Warburton hopes the 2019 team benefits from having played in big games. Last year, Cheshire fell 12-11 to rival Daniel Hand in the regular-season finale and Southern Connecticut Conference title game. In both contests, CHS rallied from early deficits before coming up short. “It showed that the girls never gave up,” recalled Warburton. “We were down 9-2 in the finals last year and came back to pull to within one (goal) at the end.” Cheshire has placed runnerup to Hand in the last three SCC title games, a trend that the team hopes to change this spring. “Last year, Hand had the best team I’ve seen in the league in a while,” said Warburton. “We’ve won games against them in the last couple of years and that says a lot about the teams we’ve had.” Last spring, Cheshire also reached the Class L semifinals for the first time in four years. CHS took a 13-12 lead on a goal by senior Annie Acquavita with 29 remaining, but Ridgefield tied the game at 4.9 seconds left and then won 14-13 in overtime. “When you get that close to making the finals, it is motivation, but we can’t just jump right back there,” said Warburton. “What we can do is try to improve every day and if we work hard, hopefully we can have another shot at
James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald
Photo courtesy of Mike Crowley
Above left, Kayla Sansone looks to clear the ball on defense. On right, Annie Eddy has been a starting attack player since her freshman year. a game like that.” Led by a deep senior class, CHS has the experience to make another post-season run. “In this group, I’ve had some girls on varsity for three or four years,” stated Warburton. “They are a fun and driven class. They enjoy being around each other and do a good job including the younger girls in the team.” Varsity players since they were freshmen, senior tri-captains Mikayla Crowley (mid-field), Annie Eddy (attack), and Kayla Sansone (defense) will lead from different levels on the field. An immediate starter, Eddy is coming off her best season, in which she posted a team-best 72 goals and 23 assists. Eddy earned All-American AllState, All-SCC First Team, team MVP, and New Haven Register All-Area. In receiving All-American for the first time, she joined her older sister Katherine, a 2010 graduate, as the first CHS lacrosse sisters combination to earn the honor. Eddy will follow in her sister’s footsteps to play at Colby College in Maine. “Annie is a perfect example of a player who has worked very hard and has seen a lot of success,” said Warburton. “I’m very proud
of the player she has become.” Last year, Crowley posted 41 goals and seven assists en route to garnering All-Class L and AllSCC Second Teams, as well as U.S. Lacrosse All-Academic. She also ranks as a ground ball leader on the team. “She is the Energizer bunny. Mikayla is an engine for us in the mid-field,” explained Warburton. A two-year starter, Acquavita recorded 42 goals and 21 assists in 2018, securing All-Class L and All-SCC Second Teams. She teamed with Eddy to play a key role on the draw. “She really stepped up for us last year,” stated Warburton. A four-year varsity player, Mia Pulisciano tallied 54 goals and 11 assists last year, but even with her moving on to Endicott College (Massachusetts), CHS will still have depth. As freshmen last spring, Raegan Bailey (30 goals, 12 assists) and Taylor Warburton (eight, five) made an immediate impact. “Taylor and Raegan got an opportunity that not a lot of freshmen get,” reflected Warburton. “I think that experience will help them coming back this year.” As a mid-fielder, senior Sophie
Cremo supplied four goals and five assists last spring. “Sophie comes up with so many loose balls and that leads to more opportunities for us to control the game,” stated Warburton. Varsity players since their freshman year, juniors Liney Dutchyshyn (20 goals, 10 assists) and Megan Daly (two, 10) combined for 42 points last spring. “I think you will see great things from them,” added Warburton. “There is a lot of growth between sophomore and junior year.” With the graduation of threeyear varsity player Samantha Oris, Sansone will captain the defense. As a junior, she earned All-SCC First Team and netted her first two goals last year. Sansone joined Acquavita, Eddy, Daly, Cremo, and junior Kiley Jackson in the Inaugural Connecticut Rising Stars Game. “Kayla has a lot of experience,” stated Warburton. “She is an athlete with great stick skills.” In becoming the starting goalkeeper last year, junior Sophie Kurtz was named Most Improved. Junior Rylee Post backed her up. “People were concerned about that position coming into last year because we had graduated an AllState First Team player (Carolynn Pechmann), but Sophie really stepped up for us,” said Warburton. “The defense also did a great job in front of her.”
Jackson played a key role on low defense and supplied a goal last year. “Kiley is going to have a great season,” said Warburton. “I think she makes plays at the right times.” Senior Erin Daly (four goals, three assists) and junior Grace Keaveney (two, one) also earned their first points in 2018. While returning many players, Warburton feels that the Rams will still miss the graduated class of Oris, Pulisciano, Julia Acquavita, Lauren Newton (Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award), and Annie Roberts. “That was a very unselfish group,” said Warburton. “They put the team first.” The 2018 co-captains, Pulisciano and Oris both earned the Lacrosse Award, as well as CHSCA Senior All-Star, All-Class L and All-SCC First Teams, and NHR All-Area. Oris also received Academic All-State and Record-Journal Scholar Athlete. Warburton likes to challenge his team against top competition. Along with the SCC slate, CHS will face Conard, East Lyme, Glastonbury, Greenwich, Hall, Newtown, South Windsor, and Staples. “Years ago, I think the girls wondered if they could beat the top teams in the state,” said Warburton. “Now, they know that they can play with anyone.”
congratulations to the 2018 Graduated seniors and best of luck to coach Warburton and his coaching staff on a successful 2019 season !! 2018 All SCC Conference Selections: First Team:
annie eddy and Mia Pulisciano, Kayla sansone, samantha Oris
Second Team: Mikayla crowley and annie acquavita 2018 SCC Lacrosse Tournament Runner-Up
best of luck in 2019 from the cheshire lacrosse club !!
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 28, 2019
Sports…
Nine
CHS Baseball Seeks Title Defense
For the first time since 1996, Cheshire baseball will enter the spring season with a new head coach. After leading CHS to the program’s first state title in 25 years and earning his 250th win last year, Bill Mrowka announced his retirement from coaching. Despite the change at the top, the Rams return the experience and familiarity to make a run at defending their crown. After assisting Mrowka for 21 years, Mike Lussier is excited to take over as head coach this spring. “I can’t wait for the season to begin,” said Lussier. “I’m lucky to have a lot of my starters back.” Lussier added that he will be sad not to work with Mrowka, whom he compares to a brother. “We knew what each other was thinking, so we were able to bounce ideas off each other,” said Lussier. “He made the final decisions and now I get to do that because it goes on my record.” Last spring, the Rams used a loss to spearhead their title run. After falling 8-5 to Branford in the Southern Connecticut Conference quarterfinals, CHS (21-5, 6-2 in Housatonic Division) swept New Canaan (6-1), Glastonbury (2-0), Staples (4-3), Fairfield Prep (5-4), and Ridgefield (1-0) to win the Class LL crown. “In all honesty, I think losing that (SCC) game was the best thing for us because we could set up our pitching for states,” reflected Lussier. In the semifinals, the Rams led Fairfield 4-1 in the seventh inning, but the Jesuits used a threerun double to tie the game. In the 10th, Matt Downing doubled and Ian Battipaglia hit the eventual winning RBI single. Pitching in relief of Downing, 2018 graduate Ben Shadeck earned the win. “That group didn’t give up when we lost the lead,” reflected Lussier. In the Class LL final, CHS scored the lone run in the seventh. Battipaglia singled and ended up
scoring on an RBI ground out by 2018 grad Ben DeLaubell. In his final game, DeLaubell also pitched a three-hit shutout. A four-year starter and co-captain with Ben Schena, DeLaubell is now pitching at the United States Military Academy (New York). Schena (Endicott CollegeMassachusetts) and Shadeck (University of New Haven) are also playing at the next level. CHS graduated eight players overall, but will still return a big senior class planning to play in college. Brothers Eli and Ian Battipaglia will play at Franklin Pierce University (New Hampshire). Downing (Northeastern University-Massachusetts), Matt Costello (College of the Saint Rose-New York), Ryan Strollo (Fairfield University), and Paul Villecco (Western New England University-Massachusetts) have also committed to college careers. “The kids want to go back-toback (as champions) this year,” said Lussier. “It is obvious when you see them working out in the off-season.” Costello, Downing, and Strollo will captain the Rams. A starter since his freshman year, Strollo has played in center field and batted leadoff for the last two seasons. Last spring, Strollo led in runs scored (22), hit by pitches (five), walks (24, tied CHS single-season record), and triples (two), adding a .338 batting average, two home runs, and 25 hits. Strollo earned co-MVP with DeLaubell, as well as All-Class LL, All-Housatonic, Connecticut High School Coaches Association Junior All-Star, New Haven Register All-Area, and All-Record-Journal honors. “He is a leader in the outfield,” said Lussier. “He has a great bat and a strong arm.” Eli Battipaglia (13 hits, 13 runs scored, nine RBIs) and senior Ryan Cyr (six, two, three) return as starting outfielders. Battipaglia worked 21 walks last spring. “In left field, Ryan made an un-
believable catch in the state final last year,” said Lussier. “Eli has a strong arm in right field.” Matt Seigel graduated last year, but Lussier feels that junior Ryan Sokolik will step in to contribute in the outfield and at the plate. Costello returns at catcher. Last year, he tallied 24 hits, 11 runs scored, and eight RBIs. “He has gotten bigger and stronger,” said Lussier. “If someone wants to try to steal a base on him this year, I say, ‘good luck.’” Last year, DeLaubell, Shadeck, Connor Bauer, Mike Pepe, Aaron Schlosser, and Jon Vigdorchik graduated from the staff. DeLaubell went 9-1 and pitched his first no-hitter in a 5-0 road win over Notre Dame-West Haven. Offensively, DeLaubell led CHS in hits (28), doubles (tie with eight), home runs (three), and RBIs (21). He batted .326 and scored 17 runs, as well as set the CHS record for career doubles. DeLaubell received All-Class LL, All-Housatonic, CHSCA Senior All-Star, NHR All-Area, R-J Scholar Athlete, and All-R-J. On the mound, Shadeck (AllHousatonic, All-R-J) had a 6-2 record. He also hit .305 with 25 hits, 19 singles (team leader), 17 RBIs, and 10 runs scored in 2018. “I had a really good relationship with those guys,” said Lussier, of DeLaubell and Shadeck. “Both of them are very competitive. They want the ball and don’t want to come out of the game.” A 2018 CHSCA Junior AllStar, Downing returns to the staff this spring. Last year, he dropped his first two starts, but he didn’t lose again on the way to recording a 5-2 record. At West Haven, he pitched a two-hit shutout (5-0) with a career-high 10 strikeouts. Offensively, Downing led the Rams with a .360 batting average and eight doubles. He added 27 hits, 14 RBIs, and 12 runs scored. He dealt with mononucleosis in the off-season, but Lussier expects him to be ready this spring. “Matt isn’t a loud kid, but with
Photos by James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald
Matt Downing (above) and Matt Costello (below) hit at the plate.
his hard work ethic, other players should watch him as an example of what you can accomplish,” said Lussier. In his first start on the mound last spring, junior Mike Kozlowski yielded three hits and tallied a career-high eight strikeouts in a 5-1 road win over Xavier. Senior Rob Roles excelled in the bullpen before going down with an injury. “He overcame it and tried to come back at the end last year,” said Lussier. “I like Rob to play at first base, too.” Lussier feels that senior Patrick Murphy and juniors Erik Gutowski, Zach Strout, and Joe Sabo can also emerge as pitchers. CHS brings experience back to the infield. Last spring, Villecco and Ian Battipaglia started at second and third base, respectively. They both had 14 hits and scored 10 runs, combining for 10 RBIs. “Those guys came up with
some big plays under pressure,” said Lussier. A three-year starter, Schena batted .311 with 19 hits, 14 RBIs, 16 runs scored, and 13 walks. With his graduation, Lussier feels that sophomore Ryan Scialabba will play at shortstop. When Villecco got injured last year, Scialabba played at second base. “He has got great hands and has gotten stronger,” stated Lussier. Senior John Waitkus and juniors Jack Hickey and John McBain also had varsity at-bats last year. After placing second in the Housatonic Division last year, the Rams are moving to the Quinnipiac Division in 2019. While seeking to defend the state title, Lussier doesn’t want his team to get too far ahead. “We need to go game by game and day by day,” said Lussier. “We need to work 110 percent in practice.”
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Sports…
the cheshire herald, February 28, 2019
Teams Prepare For Spring Seasons
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Rams Stay Busy In The Winter
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Left column photos, from top: 1. Girls’ basketball senior captain Mia Juodaitis, standing next to Head Coach Michelle Vieira, cracked 1,000 career points this year. 2. Wrestling at 152 pounds, senior co-captain Pat O’Donnell looks to break a hold. 3. As a track runner, senior quad-captain Amanda Addesso ran middle and long distances. 4. From left, sophomore Ty Mann and junior Colby Hick are racing varsity for the boys’ ski team. Right column, from top: 1. Senior co-captain Ian Battipaglia prepares to shoot on Jan. 4, contributing to CHS boys’ basketball earning the program’s first win (51-44) over Hillhouse. 2. From left, sophomore Megan Crowley, senior tri-captain Meaghan Hogan, and junior Nadia DiNatale helped the Amity/North Haven/ Cheshire Co-Op girls’ ice hockey team beat rival West Haven/Sacred Heart Academy Co-Op 4-3 in last Friday’s Southern Connecticut Conference Southern Division final in West Haven. 3. As a versatile performer, freshman Shane Wynne factored into the boys’ swim and dive team posting a 9-2 dual-meet record. 4. With 10 goals over a seven-game win streak, sophomore forward Niklas Vasiljevs has fueled a hot streak for CHS ice hockey (15-4-1).
continued from page 2 In overtime, Cheshire fell 3-2 at Shelton in the SCC quarterfinals and then lost 5-1 at host Trumbull in the Class LL First Round. Stat leaders/honorees: *Loura (New Haven Soccer Officials Association Female Player of the Year/All-Class LL/ All-SCC First Team/All-Quinnipiac/Senior Bowl All-Star/NHR All-Area/All-R-J) *McNamee (All-SCC Second Team/All-Quinnipiac/All-R-J) *Junior Caroline Campion (All-Quinnipiac) *Perez (All-Quinnipiac) *Pettit (CJW Leadership Award) *Freshman Olivia Jones (Most Improved) *Rahman (R-J Scholar Athlete) *Sophomore Isabelle Pellegrino *Junior Marisa Brough *Sophomore Ellie Pergolotti *Sophomore Seymone Rosenberg (three shutouts in net) Like Jones, freshmen Ariana and Briana Geloso stepped up to play on varsity last fall. Girls’ Golf Senior tri-captains: Maggie Burkhard, Keaney, Lucy Pellegrino After graduating just one senior (Leah Gutowski), Head Coach John Williams feels that the Rams have the experience to return to the State Open for the first time since 2013. “I hope the girls remember looking at the scorecard last year and knowing how we were close to making states,” said Williams. “We finished 23rd and the cut off is 20 teams.” Keaney has been a varsity player since her freshman year. In posting the team’s lowest stroke average last spring, she earned MVP and joined junior Marisa Brough on the All-SCC Second Team. Keaney also captained the 2018 team with Gutowski, the CJW Leadership Award recipient and R-J Scholar Athlete. Burkhard and Brough have both played on varsity for two years. Pellegrino earned Most Improved last year. As a freshman last year, Isabella DelRosso was an immediate starter. Williams believes that freshman Mia Hidalgo can also have a big impact this year. Cheshire went 11-5 in the regular season last spring, placing third in the SCC Tournament. To plan for this year, CHS is taking a spring break trip to Florida. “I’m excited for the girls,” said Williams. “They’ll be playing matches and going to the beach.” Boys’ Golf Senior tri-captains: Colby Brabant, Justin Grove, Mark Dellostritto Graduation will significantly change this year’s lineup. Cocaptains Drew Bellina (All-SCC) and Owen Reach were four-year starters. Fellow grads Harry Kiesling and John Stanton (Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship
Award/R-J Scholar Athlete) also played heavily last spring. “It will be especially difficult to replace Drew and Owen as fouryear starters,” said Head Coach Dan Lee. “In golf, experience is very important with managing the courses we see every year.” Brabant broke into the varsity lineup last spring, while Grove and Dellostritto have been contributors for years. “We have three good golfers and leaders,” stated Lee. “They have experience, but it will be different this year playing higher up in the lineup. I think they will be up for the challenge.” Cheshire finished seventh in the SCC and 19th in the D-I tourney last spring. Girls’ Tennis Senior co-captains: Kelsea Mann, Jenny Wang This spring, Cheshire will take the court under the tutelage of Bruce Levine, who has succeeded Scott Matthews as head coach. Matthews, who took a new job, coached the team for seven years. Despite graduating tri-captains Camille Bisson, Caroline Jentzen, and Shivani Padhi, the Rams will return experience for Levine’s first season. Mann and Wang have been the team MVPs in the last two seasons. In doubles, the girls broke through last year to make the State Open quarterfinals and earn All-State for the first time. Like Mann and Wang, juniors Christine Anthony and Olivia Santoro have played doubles since their freshman year. They reached the State Open last year. Graduation will impact the singles lineup. Bisson was a four-year starter and Jentzen (R-J Scholar Athlete) started matches for the last three years. Seniors Erin Wu, Sydney Wang (Most Improved), and Sri Arunachalam bring considerable experience as seniors. Padhi (CJW Leadership Award) won doubles matches last spring with senior Gabby Russitano, juniors Jenna DeGennaro and Julia Modine, and sophomores Alyssa Behuniak, Megan Crowley, and Ellie Rockoff. As a team, CHS went 12-7 in 2018. Boys’ Tennis Senior co-captains: Nate Pisani, Yasin Tarabar With their toughest competition to start off last season, Cheshire got off to an 0-4 start under Head Coach Nan Cunningham. After graduating just four seniors and having a more balanced slate this year, Cunningham feels that her team is very capable of improving on their 5-11 record. “We have varsity experience now and just need to work in new players,” said Cunningham. Pisani and Tarabar became starters last year. Pisani teamed with junior Ben Fritz at number one doubles. Tarabar played in the second singles spot. The graduation of captain See TRACK, page 11
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the cheshire herald, February 28, 2019
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Track And Field Squads Will Head Outdoors
continued from page 11 Andrew Walton (R-J Scholar Athlete), Dan Eldredge (MVP), James Fanning, and Mike Kosover opens up spots in the starting lineup. Walton and Fanning played at number two doubles last year, while Kosover and senior Christian Kjeldsen partnered at the third position. Yasha Laskin gained considerable experience after playing number one singles as a freshman. Seniors Keith Arneson and Connor Watkinson have also seen considerable time in singles. Senior Jacob Yale received the Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award last year. Boys’ Volleyball Senior co-captains: Berkley Fang, Colby Hayes While winning the SCC regular-season title for the last three years, CHS has dropped their last two tournament finals. Regaining the top spot will be one of the goals this spring. Cheshire fell 3-1 to Daniel Hand in the 2018 SCC final. In the Class L First Round, CHS came up short 3-1 at Hall to finish an 11-9 season. “We didn’t have experience in big matches last year,” reflected Head Coach Sue Bavone. After graduating six players, Bavone will turn to Fang and Hayes to lead the team. “Both of them are great kids,” said Bavone. “Berkley is running the off-season program because Colby is playing basketball (at CHS) this year.” Bavone is looking for Hayes to step up as the team’s big hitter in the middle. Last spring, he received CHSCA Junior AllStar. Hayes also shared Offensive Player of the Year, All-SCC First Team, and NHR All-Area with 2018 graduate Alex Feldman. A co-captain last year with Mengyi Sun, Feldman was chosen as a CHSCA Senior All-Star. “The big question is who will take Alex’s place as the big outside hitter,” said Bavone. “Once we fill that spot, we can build around it.” Bavone believes senior Alex Irizarry can hit on the right side or outside. Senior Connor Guilford and junior Yingpeng Tao add size in the middle. Fang and senior Franz Acurantes bring back experience in the back row. With Sun missing all of last year due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, Fang stepped up and was rewarded with Defensive Player of the Year and AllSCC Second Team. With the graduation of Joe Chen (Most Improved, R-J Scholar Athlete), junior Thomas Bonitz and senior Luke Pinciaro will be looked upon to set this year. The 2018 Most Versatile recipient, Bonitz has also been a hitter Boys’ Outdoor Track and Field Quad-Captains: Seniors Jared Andrea, Thomas Cherneskie, Eric Sudhoff, junior Brendan Mellitt The Rams will reload after saying goodbye to a deep senior group last year. In the graduating class, Brendan Murray (long
distance), Liam Killea (sprints/ middle distance), Sawyer Hackett (javelin), Mark Rubin (hurdles), and Drew Zebarth (throwing events) were among the top point scorers. “It will be a tough season because we drew a hard schedule this year,” said Head Coach Allen Dvarskas. “Starting day one, we want people to understand that everybody has to step up and help replace guys.” A record-holder, Murray received the Greatest of All-Time Award, All-New England, NHR All-Area last year. He captained the squad with Hackett, Rubin (Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award), and Sudhoff. As a contributor in individual races and relays, Killea was award Track MVP last spring. Mellitt and junior Francis
Simpatico are coming off stellar indoor seasons in distance running. Junior Sean Cangiano, Cherneskie, and sophomore Chisom Okoro combined to form a solid throwing group indoors. Andrea adds experience in the sprints and middle distance. Last year, he teamed with Sudhoff, and junior Jake McAlinden, and 2018 graduate Bryce Levenduski on a 4x100-meter relay team in the post-season. CHS went 7-4 in 2018, placing eighth in the East Sectional and SCC meets. Girls’ Outdoor Track and Field Senior tri-captains: Amanda Addesso, Cali Lonardelli, Riley Pettit CHS graduated a large senior class last season, but still returns letter winners this spring.
“Every year, you have to readjust,” said Head Coach Barbara Hedden. “We’ll be calling upon our veteran competitors to step up and hope that our underclassmen can fill shoes as well.” Junior Samantha Nowak is a returning leader in the jumps sprints, and relays. Last year’s Field MVP, Nowak was the East Sectional runner-up in high jump (4 feet, 8 inches). “As a junior, she will have more of a leadership role,” Hedden said. Hedden feels good about the leadership of her tri-captains. Pettit had a breakout season last spring, becoming a top point scorer in the hurdles. The middle/long distance team saw turnover with the graduation of Rachel Kaplan (MVP), Emi Schwab, and Lauren Daddi (R-J
Scholar Athlete). Schwab co-captained last year’s team with Jess Zanca (CJW Leadership Award). Addesso (Will to Win Award) and classmate Emmy Longmore and Aliza Taylor have run varsity track and cross country for four years. Addesso’s younger sister Elizabeth was named the 2018 Outstanding Freshman of the Year. She will contribute in middle/ long distance. Lonardelli (Coaches Award) is back to lead in the pole vault with junior Ameya Arun. “Depth is always important in track and field,” added Hedden. “In the spring, there are 18 events, so you want three or four people in each one.” Last spring, CHS went 6-5. The team took sixth in the East Sectional and 11th in the SCC.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 28, 2019
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