2016-2017 Sports Highlights

Sports…

2016-2017

Sports Highlights

February 9, 2017

the cheshire herald, february 9, 2017

Two

Sports…

Girls Shined On V-Ball Court

Neither graduation losses nor a schedule realignment stopped Cheshire girls’ volleyball from posting another strong season last fall. After winning eight straight Housatonic Division titles, CHS moved into the Hammonasset Division in 2016 and proceeded to go 8-0 (18-5 overall).

“I was happy that, despite changing our league, we still won it (the title) and went unbeaten,” said Head Coach Sue Bavone.

“The disappointment was when we had momentum in some matches, but couldn’t close the deal. We were inconsistent.”

Cheshire reached the Southern Connecticut Conference final for the sixth straight year where they fell to Amity (3-1) for the second straight season.

“It hurts more losing to Amity because they are our big rival. We won the first game and I think if we had won game two, we would have won the match. We lost momentum and it cost us,” said Bavone.

CHS beat Trumbull 3-1 in the Class LL Second Round, but came up short 3-0 at Stamford (eventual champion). The loss ended a string of six straight semifinal appearances.

Seniors Molly Michaud and Mallory Groom were named CoOffensive Players of the Year.

A senior co-captain with Taryn Murasso, Michaud led the team in kills (165), blocks (41), and aces (50). She received the Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award, All-Class LL Second Team, All-SCC First Team, New Haven Register All-Area, and All-Record-Journal.

“Molly did a great job this year.

She was our go-to hitter in the middle,” stated Bavone. “When you look back at her freshman year, her career is a testament to what hard work will do for you.

Everything she did to get better was earned.”

A three-year varsity player, Groom (All-SCC Second Team) shined with a personal-best 160 kills, 39 aces, and 24 digs.

“Her serve was big for us. We weren’t able to build as many runs as in previous years, but when we did, Mallory’s service helped us gain separation,” said Bavone.

“She also became a smarter hitter.”

Senior Kellie Phipps (579 assists, 39 aces, 35 digs) and junior Karly Pedberenzak (142 assists, 26 aces) both contributed at setter. Phipps received Most Improved and was chosen as the SCC Female Scholar Athlete.

“We started in a 6-2 (formation) with Kellie and Karly on the court, but neither one is a big

block, so we decided to go with one setter,” explained Bavone.

“Kellie is a tough kid. She played the SCC final with a sliced finger.”

In the middle, junior Brady McQuade posted 112 kills and 21 blocks as a first-year starter.

“Brady is going to have to be more aggressive and physical without Molly (Michaud) next year,” stated Bavone.

On the outside, Murasso earned 75 kills and 13 aces.

“We clicked really well,” said Michaud, of working with Murasso. “It was an honor to stand next to her (as captain).”

As just a freshman, Lindsey Abramson started matches and posted 21 of her 49 kills in the Class LL Tournament.

“Lindsey has every bit of potential to be an outstanding outside hitter for us next year. Last season was about her settling into it,” stated Bavone.

A transfer from Wolcott, senior Mackenzie Setaro had 55 kills and 31 aces in 2016.

“We wish that we had her for four years,” said Bavone. “We all loved that she was competitive and loud on the court.”

Senior libero Panru Jing tallied a team-best 168 digs in earning Defensive Player of the Year.

“She had some highlight digs

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Taryn Murraso (12) and Molly Michaud (36) defend at the net. for us,” said Bavone.

Jing’s twin sister Qianru added 50 digs last fall. Juniors Megan Kroqi (35), Alexis Benvenuti (33), Seneca Ellis (24), and Ava Millares (four) also contributed digs. Millares was given the Coaches Award and Qianru Jing was picked for Record-Journal

Scholar Athlete.

As sophomores, Jenny Wang (21 kills, two blocks), Mia Juodaitis, and Giselle Zumerchik broke into the lineup. Zumerchik won the Relentless Pursuit Award.

Kroqi, Millares, and Pedberenzak will captain the 2017 team.

On The Cover

Counter clockwise from the top, cover photos are Abby Abramson (softball), Julie Roche and Maggie Devine and Mikayla Crowley (field hockey), Arnav Velaparthi (boys’ tennis), and Matt Mayano (boys’ soccer).

Photos by Allen Paul and James Brandolini. Stories by Greg Lederer.

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Sports…

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Three

Seniors Lead Girls’ LAX Team This spring, Cheshire girls’ lacrosse will have the benefit of veteran experience. CHS will return 11 seniors and nine starters total from a team that went 14-6.

“This team will have the most senior experience we’ve had in three years,” said Head Coach Dan Warburton. “There are a lot of girls who’ve played in big games.”

Last spring, CHS won 12 of their last 15 games, including a 6-5 win over Daniel Hand to clinch a three-way tie for the Southern Connecticut Conference regular season title.

Cheshire beat Branford 14-4 in the SCC semifinals to avenge a regular-season loss.

In the title game, CHS raced to a 6-1 advantage and led 9-5 in the second half, but Hand rallied to force overtime and won the game 11-10 on a shot with 3.4 seconds remaining.

“If you had talked to this group at the start of last year, they wouldn’t be sure if they could win the (regular season) title and make that (final) game,” stated Warburton. “They know they can be there now and win.”

Seniors Bailey Cunningham, Kaitlyn D’Andrea, and Brooke Jackson will captain the 2017 team. They became starters as sophomores with Vicki Palmer.

Cheshire graduated co-captain Hannah Hackett (All-SCC Second Team/Record-Journal Scholar Athlete), Emily Peck (two goals, ,Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award), and Isabel Peck (assist, Most Improved) on defense, but Cunningham and senior Julie Roche (three goals) are back from a strong unit. Cun-

ningham received All-Class L Second Team and All-SCC First Team last season.

“Bailey is a special athlete. She transitions the ball really well,” said Warburton. “Having Bailey, Julie, and (senior goalkeeper) Carolynn (Pechmann) back is great to build around on defense.”

As a first-year starter, Pechmann earned 2016 All-SCC Second Team. She also joined Cunningham, D’Andrea, and Palmer in the Super Junior Classic.

“Carolynn is an ex-factor,” said Warburton. “It is huge to have a great goalie. That is valuable, especially in close games.”

D’Andrea plays a key role in her ability to get ground balls off the draw and transition down the field. She posted 15 goals and 10 assists this past season.

D’Andrea has chosen to play at the University of Hartford.

“She is one of the few players I’ve coached who can change a game without scoring,” stated Warburton. “Having her back is huge for us in the mid-field.”

Warburton hopes offensive balance can make up for the graduation of co-captain Meghan Dutchyshyn. A threeyear starter and top point-scorer for the last two years, Dutchyshyn (63 goals, three assists) received 2016 SCC and New Haven Register Player of the Year, along with team MVP, CHS Lacrosse Award, CHSCA Senior All-Star, and AllClass L and All-SCC First Teams.

“I’m not sure if we’ll have a dominant scorer like Dutch, but I think we can have at least five girls with 30 goals,” explained Warburton.

Due to a concussion, Jackson missed the first seven games last

year, but she returned to post 35 goals and 13 assists in the midfield. She has committed to Washington College (Maryland).

“She averaged more than three goals a game last year and took pressure off of other people,” said Warburton. “She absolutely loves lacrosse and I think she will have a big year.”

Palmer (26 goals, six assists), senior Colleen Carroll (27, 21), and junior Mia Pulisciano (39, 12) all shined offensively in 2016.

Palmer has signed with Merrimack College (Massachusetts).

“Vicki has been a big part of our team for the last couple of years and I think she is going be a key piece for us again,” said Warburton. “We are going to need goals from a lot of people and I think she can score in critical times.”

After starting a couple of games as a sophomore, Carroll enjoyed a breakout season last season.

“She came in and had a really nice junior year for us,” said Warburton. “Being a lefty with her size and height, she can really help us.”

Pulisciano has started games since her freshman year.

“She is one of our top goalscorers coming back,” said Warburton. “Mia has the ability to take over a game.”

Anne Eddy (11 goals, 12 assists), Sophie Cremo (three, five), Mikayla Crowley (five, two), Annie Acquavita (four goals), and Kayla Sansone contributed as freshmen last spring. Eddy started on attack.

“They got great experience as freshmen, so it feels more like juniors instead of sophomores coming back this year,” said Warburton. “I think that experience will serve them well.”

Senior Maggie Devine supplied three goals and five assists last spring. Junior Samantha Oris recorded five goals and an assist.

Warburton feels that this team will benefit from depth and com-

Photos by Allen Paul and James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald

Above, Kaitlyn D’Andrea passes the ball. Below, Bailey Cunningham looks to find open space. Brooke Jackson is pictured to the left. petition.

CHS hopes to make another run in the Class L Tournament.

Last spring, Cheshire beat Fairfield Ludlowe 15-11 in the first round and then fell 13-8 to Wilton in quarterfinal action.

“We always have a strong schedule and scrimmages to prepare for states,” said Warburton.

After graduation, senior Brit-

A C L R ’ O S SSE L R I G HAVE A GREAT SEASON! Good Luck After Graduation to our Seniors!

FROM THE CHESHIRE LACROSSE CLUB

ney Herskowitz will keep playing at Framingham State University (Massachusetts).

“I think it is a great opportunity for her. She really loves the sport,” said Warburton. “We have a lot of seniors who are going on to play in college. It shows their commitment to the game and the fact that they’ve enjoyed their experience playing here.”

Four

Sports…

the cheshire herald, february 9, 2017

Cheshire Football Made Strides In 2016 Season

Led by a strong group of upperclassmen, Cheshire football shined within a tough Southern Connecticut Conference last fall.

The Rams went 6-4 and improved their win total by two games over the 2015 season.

Cheshire fell to West Haven (41-14), Shelton (34-20), Notre Dame-West Haven (27-21), and Southington (47-20). Those teams all made the Class LL playoffs.

“I’m proud of those guys, especially the senior group,” said Head Coach Drust. “You look at our schedule and it’s tough.

We wish we could have finished some of those games.”

The Rams did enjoy comeback wins over Xavier (26-24) and Daniel Hand (21-20) at home.

“It speaks to the character of these kids. They didn’t think that those games were over,” said Drust.

The Rams had 17 seniors. Pat Bourdeau, Cesar Pascal, Zach Racow, and Brian Weyrauch captained the team.

“Those (senior) guys grew up a lot and did a great job,” reflected Drust. “They took ownership of the season.”

Bourdeau and Pascal provided experience on the line. Bourdeau earned Offensive MVP, AllSCC Division I, and All-Record Journal. He will keep playing at Southern Connecticut State University.

“Pat was the heartbeat of our team. He brought a lot of leadership and energy,” stated Drust.

Injuries limited Pascal’s playing time as a senior, but he provided guidance for new offensive line starters, juniors Jack LaMadeline, Nick Nelson, Dan Covel, and Riley Griffin.

“For a guy to go through what he (Pascal) went through last year and stay positive was great,” said Drust. “Cesar is very mature.”

The front line provided time for junior quarterback Jack Raba to pass for 1,721 yards. After tearing his anterior cruciate ligament

Photos by James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald

Above, Jack Raba drops back to pass. At right, Mike Millea runs around a tackler at Shelton last fall. at the end of his sophomore year, catches, 491 yards), Eric AngeRaba returned to complete 150 lone (40, 569) both caught three of 250 passes for 14 touchdowns touchdowns. Classmate Tommy Wnuck added 22 receptions for against seven interceptions.

Raba also ran for 45 yards 276 yards and a touchdown.

“Anytime you can have guys and two touchdowns. He was Cheshire’s Apple Valley Classic like that, it is awesome,” said Drust. “Mike understands the Offensive MVP. “His ability to bounce back game so well. Eric is a phenomfrom the injury was great,” said enal athlete and Tommy can reDrust. “It speaks to his character. ally run.”

Cheshire also used depth in the Jack cares about his teammates. I can’t say enough about what he running game. In his first year on varsity, sophomore Elijah Allston did for us.”

Raba was injured last fall, but posted a team-best 632 yards and classmate Will Graikoski stepped nine touchdowns. Junior Bryce up to throw for 470 yards and Levenduski supplied 332 yards and two touchdowns. three touchdowns.

“Sometimes, you forget that “There are a lot of teams that would love to be in our position he (Allston) is just a sophomore. with quarterbacks,” said Drust. Ethan has made tremendous “Will is so even keeled. He has strides,” said Drust. “Bryce is another tough guy who bounced done a tremendous job.”

The quarterbacks benefitted back from an injury as a sophofrom a strong receiving corps. more.”

Weyrauch ran for 43 yards, Senior Mike Millea set CHS single-season records for receptions but his impact was felt most on (59), yardage (723), and touch- defense last season. A three-year downs (nine) en route to earning starter, Weyrauch compiled 107 All-SCC D-I, All-Class LL, and tackles (team leader), 3.5 sacks, All-R-J. Millea will play at Wag- a fumble recovery, and an interception at linebacker. ner College in New York.

He was given the Tommy “He worked extremely hard to get in shape,” stated Drust. “Mike DiDomizio Memorial Award and received the Bent Face Mark plays with an edge.”

Juniors Michael Jeffery (37 Award for the third straight year.

Weyrauch also picked up AllClass LL, All-SCC D-I, New Haven Register All-Area and AllState, and All-R-J. “He deserved every honor that he got,” said Drust. “Brian was a game-changer in any game and practice. Players flock to him.

Brian is a special player and guy.”

At middle linebacker, Nelson earned 101 tackles and four fumble recoveries (team leader).

“He is a quiet guy who works hard,” said Drust. “No matter how beat up he is, he just keeps working. He doesn’t back down from any challenge.”

Senior Matt Nugent led the Rams in sacks (four), adding 40 tackles and a fumble recovery.

He was Cheshire’s Apple Valley Classic Defensive MVP. “I’m just really proud of him,” said Drust. “He battled back from an injury as a freshman and didn’t play as a sophomore. I couldn’t be more proud of what he gave to this program.”

Senior Derrick D’Amato secured 32 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and an interception. Junior Jay Como picked up 45 tackles.

“You are aways looking for guys to mature. At the end of his junior year, he (D’Amato) made

a decision to make an impact,” said Drust. “Como is working extremely hard in the weight room.

He is willing to do whatever to help the team.”

Bourdeau earned 55 tackles and 2.5 sacks on the defensive line.

Covel had 42 tackles and a sack. Owen Reach (34 tackles, two sacks), Drew Zebarth (32 tackles), and Dan Calbo (10 tackles) also contributed from the junior class.

“I’m excited about those guys coming back,” said Drust.

A three-year starter, junior safety Michael Jeffery compiled 73 tackles and a team-best four interceptions. He earned Defensive MVP, as well as All-SCC D-I and All-R-J. “Michael is a different kid from a mental standpoint,” said Drust.

“He says and does the right things.

The program is in a good spot because he is part of it. I can’t say enough about what he does in the classroom and community.

Senior Josh Frenkel (34 tackles, interception), Angelone (39 tackles, interception), Racow (33 tackles), junior Nick Quint (14 tackles, interception), and seniors Ben Beaudoin (26 tackles) and See BRONSON, page 14

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Registration begins Apr. 1st 2017 • Practice begins Aug. 1st 2017 Tackle and Flag Football • Competition and Spirit Cheerleading www.cheshirejuniorfootball.com “It’s all about the kids!”

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Sports…

Five

CHS Field Hockey Won SCC Regular Season Title Experience was key for Cheshire field hockey last fall.

Led by 15 seniors, CHS won the Southern Connecticut Conference regular season title and reached the SCC title game. The program last met those goals in 2013.

“The SCC is not easy to win,” said Head Coach Eileen Wildermann. “The girls fought back from an early loss (1-0, overtime) to Branford. The seniors were determined to win that title this year.”

In a regular season highlight, CHS beat Lauralton Hall (1-0) for the first time since the Crusaders joined the SCC in 2014. Cheshire beat Branford 2-0 to earn a split in the regular season, but fell 2-1 to the Hornets in the SCC final.

“That was probably the one game that the girls wish they could have back,” said Wildermann. “We didn’t feel that we played our best that night.”

CHS beat Fairfield Warde 1-0 in the Class L First Round before losing 1-0 in the quarterfinals at Darien (cochampion).

“The girls were focused every second of that (Darien) game.

We had no let downs,” said Wildermann.

“Darien scored a gorgeous goal. We took some great shots, but their goalie came up with big saves.”

Seniors Bailey Cunningham, Sarah Pierpont, Julie Roche, Sam Simione, Jacqueline Allard, Victoria Briggs, Maggie Devine, Camryn Formica, Mikenzy Golebiewski, Brooke Jackson, Lauren Rochow, Paige Roosa (manager), Hannah Salvietti, Alyssa Stevens, and Alexis Yamin posted a career record of 65-12-6-4.

“The thing I’m most proud of is how kind and mature they are,” said Wildermann. “I can see them

in the hallways and know they are good people and well respected in the school.”

Last fall was a historic season for Stevens, whose 12 shutouts allowed her set a new CHS career record (37). The previous mark (34, 1992-94) was held by Mary Pearsall-Contaldi.

A three-year starter, Stevens earned Harrow/National Field Hockey Coaches Association Second Team All-American, SCC Player of the Year, and Connecticut High School Coaches Association Senior All-Star for the first time. She received All-Southern New England Region honors for the second straight year. For the third year in a row, she was named All-Class L, All-SCC First Team, New Haven Register AllArea, and team MVP. “Alyssa was driven to have her team succeed,” said Wildermann.

“That award (All-American) is reflective of her hard work and dedication.”

When Stevens sustained a concussion last fall, sophomore Lexie Hemstock stepped in to record two shutouts. The goalies were supported by a strong defense, including Simione and juniors Julia Schaff and Mia Pulisciano.

A starter since her freshman year, Simione captained 2016 team with Cunningham, Pierpont, and Roche.

Simione posted a career-high 10 goals and eight assists, scoring the game-winner against Lauralton Hall. She earned All-Class L, All-SCC First Team, and AllState Academic Team for the first time. Simione shared MVP with Stevens and joined her in the Senior All-Star Game.

“Sam definitely took her game to a different level. She dedicated herself to being a complete player,” explained Wildermann.

Pulisciano (three goals, two assists) and Schaff have started for two years.

“She (Schaff) is a strong field general. Julia is aggressive and won’t let anyone beat her to the ball,” stated Wildermann. “She (Pulisciano) has a great knack for finding the ball. I’m excited for her senior year.”

Sophomore Anne Eddy (Most Improved) excelled in transitioning the ball. She earned her first four assists last fall. Eddy will captain the 2017 team with Schaff and Pulisciano.

“She is going to be an amazing captain,” said Wildermann. “She can take criticism and inspire others.”

A three-year starter at forward, Pierpont (six goals, team-best 15 assists) was named All-SCC First Team and All-Class L Second Team for the second straight year.

She received Cheshire’s Poise, Leadership, Attitude, You, Excellence, and Respect (P.L.A.Y.E.R.) Award.

“The girls loved seeing her with the ball at the end of games.

She is so skilled and poised,” said Wildermann.

The Offensive Player of the Year and All-SCC Second Team selection, sophomore forward Mikayla Crowley led in goals (12) and points (32) and added eight assists in her second season as a starter. She scored the gamewinner against Fairfield Warde.

“Her speed is amazing,” said Wildermann. “I’m blown away by her footwork, preparation, and game sense. I’m excited for her final two years.”

Varsity players since their sophomore years, Cunningham (seven goals, nine assists) and Roche (nine, seven) both shined last fall. Cunningham received All-SCC Second Team for the second straight year and the Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award.

“Bailey would give everything on the field. We will miss her de-

Photos by Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Above from left, Sarah Pierpont and Mikayla Crowley led the CHS offense last fall. Alyssa Stevens is pictured in the middle of the page. termination,” added Wildermann.

Roche started at mid-field before being moved up to forward in states. She was named RecordJournal Scholar Athlete.

“We found that she should have been playing at forward from the start. Julie is a crafty, technical player,” said Wildermann.

The Rookie of the Year, sophomore Meaghan Hogan scored her first four goals in 2016.

“Meaghan translates her skills well from ice hockey. She really stepped up,” said Wildermann.

Devine had four goals and three assists last year.

“Maggie has good stick skills.

After she got hurt as a junior, it was great to see her come back strong,” said Wildermann.

Senior Brooke Jackson became a starter and posted her first points (two goals, three assists).

“I love Brooke. She has been

such a positive light this season (in 2016),” stated Wildermann.

“She is mature, honest, and a workhorse.”

Sophomore Sophie Cremo earned two assists last year. Juniors Lizzie Vignola and Alexa Purcell also tallied assists.

Yamin (goal), Allard (goal), Salvietti (two goals), Rochow (assist), junior Maddie Diglio (two goals, assist), and sophomore Bri Floyd (two goals) all recorded their first points. Diglio was given the True Grit Award after bouncing back from an injury.

Cunningham and Roche are both going to compete at Trinity College. Stevens (Sacred Heart University), Simione (Bentley University-Massachusetts), Pierpont (Hamilton College-New York), and Devine (Southern Connecticut State University) will also play at the next level.

Congrats to the 2016 Cheshire High School Field Hockey Team on extending the program’s traditional success!

SCC Regular Season Champion Good luck seniors! A special thank you to Coaches Bowman, Libby Vieira, Mrowka and Wildermann for your dedication to helping these girls reach their potential.

Six

Sports…

the cheshire herald, february 9, 2017

Cheshire Returns Many Pitchers To Baseball Diamond

Cheshire baseball has all the motivation they’ll need for 2017.

The Rams held a 13-4 record last year, but dropped their last five games, including a 2-0 loss to Wilton in the Class LL First Round. While posting a 1.47 earned run average as a team, CHS scored just five runs total during their late slide.

“We didn’t want to end the season losing five games,” said Head Coach Bill Mrowka. “That was frustrating because we got good pitching, but couldn’t get the big hit. We were losing games 2-1, 3-2, and 1-0.”

The return of letter winners will help the Rams in their effort at redemption this spring. Despite graduating seven seniors, Cheshire will have six varsity pitchers back. They will return eight players who started games in 2016.

“It takes pressure off us to have these pitchers, but we are going to need to have guys support them at the plate this year,” stated Mrowka.”

Last year, CHS posted a ninegame win streak and defeated Amity, the four-time defending Class LL Champions, by a score of 4-3. Cheshire hadn’t earned a rivalry road win since 2000. Amity lost just once in 2016.

“I think it was a confidence builder. It shows as a group that they can win a big game,” said Mrowka. “It was good to get the monkey off our back having not won there in so long.”

A two-year starter, junior Ben DeLaubell shined at the plate and on the mound last season in earning team MVP. As pitcher, he led the Rams in innings (54.1), strikeouts (49), and ERA (1.024).

DeLaubell gave up 40 hits and 16 walks in posting a 4-5 record.

Of the 40 runs against him, only eight were earned.

At the plate, DeLaubell hit .316 with a team-best 24 hits, 15 RBIs, and .421 slugging percentage. He added eight runs scored and six walks.

DeLaubell has verbally committed to play for Army at West Point (New York).

“Ben is that veteran guy who we need to lead by example on and off the field,” stated Mrowka.

“We are going to ask a lot from him. While we will be careful with his innings, he will pitch. He can also play first and third base.”

A transfer from Platt, senior Gary Costello also excelled as a hitter and pitcher in 2016. Costello batted .385 with 17 hits, 10 runs scored, 13 RBIs, 16 walks (team leader), and a home run.

In going 4-2 on the mound, he yielded 31 hits and 24 walks in 37.2 innings. He recorded 28 strikeouts and posted a 2.23 ERA. “When you switch programs and schools, there are different philosophies. Last year was a learning curve and he handled it well,” stated Mrowka. “He is a big, strong guy. We want him to

be dominant on the mound.”

Pitching depth was key last spring since 2016 graduate Connor Davey pitched in only one game due to injury. Seniors Mike Hickey (College of Saint JosephMaine), Ryan Mostoller (Washington College-Maryland), and Collin Hajjar contributed in key spots. Hickey, who went 1-0 with two saves, worked 23.2 innings.

He allowed 25 hits and 11 walks to go with 22 strikeouts and a 2.07 ERA. Mostoller (3-1) recorded a 1.05 ERA. In 18.2 innings, he surrendered 18 hits and 10 walks. Mostoller had 16 strikeouts.

In 13 innings, Hajjar (1-1) earned eight strikeouts. He yielded six hits and six walks, recording a 0.538 ERA. “Those guys continue to get better with their mechanics and velocity,” explained Mrowka.

Senior Matt Geyda added two strikeouts on the mound.

“It could be a problem, deciding who to start each game,” said Mrowka. “We have options this year.”

Photos by James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald

Above, senior Gary Costello takes a swing at the incoming pitch. Below, junior Ben DeLaubell returns as Cheshire’s team MVP. The Rams graduated co-captains Altrin Kabashi (second base) and Nick Sansone (first base) in the infield. Kabashi was given the Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award, All-Housatonic Division, and Connecticut High School Coaches Association Junior All-Star. Sansone was named Record-Journal Scholar Athlete.

“We are thinking about using Hajjar at second base when he is not pitching,” stated Mrowka.

CHS will return junior shortstop Ben Schena, who had 12 runs scored, 21 hits, eight RBIs, and 11 walks as a first-year starter in 2016. He batted .328.

“He gives us stability at shortstop. He can tell people where to be on the field. He has a high baseball IQ,” said Mrowka.

Mrowka feels that replacing graduated catcher Brandon Clark is the most pressing objective.

“It is a wide open position right now,” added Mrowka.

As a freshman outfielder last year, Ryan Strollo was moved up to varsity. He hit .387 with 12 hits, four RBIs, 10 runs scored, and eight walks.

“Ryan can really put the bat on the ball,” said Mrowka. “We see

him in center field for the next three years.”

As a designated hitter last spring, senior Jensen Bassett posted four runs scored, nine hits, an RBI, and four walks.

“Jensen can really swing the bat and has deceptive speed on the bases,” said Mrowka. “He is a calm guy.”

In the outfield, CHS lost Zach Barlok (Salve Regina University), Troy Richmond, and Luciano Gaudio to graduation. Hajjar saw time in right field last year and had seven hits, three runs scored, and three RBIs at the plate.

Since the Southern Conference Conference has undergone a realignment, CHS will have a different Housatonic schedule. They will face Hamden, Notre DameWest Haven, Lyman Hall, and West Haven in division play.

Cheshire went 5-3 in the division last spring.

“It’s a new division and will be competitive,” said Mrowka.

CHS will open and end the regular season against Amity.

“I think the guys will be pumped up because we will open the season (against them) at home on April 3,” said Mrowka.

PLAYER REGISTRATION

For the Spring 2017 Season is NOW OPEN! REGISTER ONLINE at www.cybcys.org • Cheshire Youth Baseball (ages 5-18) • Cheshire Youth Softball (ages 6-16) Register ASAP as divisions fill up quickly*.

Late fee in effect after 2/19/17 so register NOW! If your company would like to be a sponsor for the 2017 season please contact Jill Lamadeleine at jlamadeleine01@snet.net. *Registration requests received after divisions are filled will be placed on waitlist.

the cheshire herald, february 9, 2017

Sports…

Seven

CHS Girls Break Records In The Pool Cheshire girls’ swim and dive produced another stellar season last fall. In hosting meets at Cheshire Community Pool for the first time since 2013, CHS went 11-0 to extend the team’s dualmeet win streak to 33 and secured a third consecutive Southern Connecticut Conference Division I regular season crown.

Cheshire also won the SCC meet for the fifth straight season and 22nd time in 23 years.

The Rams placed runner-up to Darien in the Class L final. CHS ended with a seventh-place finish in the State Open.

With 29 of 42 athletes being underclassmen, leadership was key in 2016. Emily Murphy and Kathryn Robinson, Danielle Dietrich, Cameryn Guetens, and Lily Kurtz formed a small, but strong senior class.

“Each of those girls brought something to the table from a leadership perspective,” said Head Coach Dan Mascolo. “They took a different path to this point, but all of them contributed heavily to the team.”

For the second straight year, Guetens and junior Liz Boyer

were the top point-scorers. Both earned All-State, All-Class L, and All-SCC. The SCC Swimmer of the Year and Most Outstanding Performer at the conference meet, Boyer won six crowns last fall. Individually, she was SCC Champion in the 200-yard individual medley (2:05.66) and 500-yard freestyle (5:01.18).

In Class L, Boyer captured the 200-yard freestyle (1:50.97) and defended her 100-yard butterfly (55.95) crown. Her freestyle time broke the meet record and CHS mark previously held by Melanie Veazey (1:51.56, 1994).

Boyer finished up in the State Open, taking fourth in the 200yard freestyle (1:51.2) and second in butterfly (56.38).

By holding a top 10 time in seven individual events in program history, Boyer has earned the title of CHS All-Time Swimmer (54.5 points). The rankings are based on a point system. Former All-American Sarah Bowman (45) had previously held the top spot since 1999.

“She makes winning look ordinary,” said Mascolo. “To have

Submitted photo

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Above, Liz Boyer set the CHS record in the 200-yard freestyle. Below from left, seniors Cameryn Guetens, Kathryn Robinson, Lily Kurtz, Emily Murphy, and Danielle Dietrich hold the SCC title banner. that quality of competitiveness is something you are born with. Her success comes from working hard everyday.”

The team MVP for the second consecutive year, Guetens also had a historic season. She won her first Class L crown in the 500yard freestyle (4:56.48) and finished third in the 200-yard freestyle (1:52.82).

While taking runner-up for the 500-yard race (4:54.95) in the State Open, Guetens broke Veazey’s Cheshire record (4:55.35) from 1993.

“I couldn’t have been more happy for her,” reflected Mascolo. “As impressive as the other performances from the girls were, there is something special about a record in the 500 (yard freestyle).

It is a race where you can watch the whole thing develop.”

Guetens and Boyer teamed with junior Jordyn Deubel and freshman Julia Stevens to win the Class L 400-yard freestyle relay crown (3:31.51). The All-American consideration time broke the CHS mark (3:31.93) from 1997.

The relay squad placed third (3:32.9) in the State Open. Sophomore Esther Han also joined with Deubel, Guetens, and Stevens to win the SCC crown in 3:38.13.

“We felt we were going to have a strong relay, but didn’t know how good it was going to be until

the SCC meet,” explained Mascolo. “The girls gelled together.”

Boyer teamed with sophomore Shannon Lindsey, Han, and Deubel on the 200-yard freestyle relay squad that posted top finishes in Class L (second, 1:38.42) and the State Open (fifth, 1:39.53). Junior Amanda Go, Han, freshman Tori Newton, and Boyer also earned second (1:40.82) in the SCC. In the 200-yard medley relay, Stevens, Kurtz, Guetens, and Boyer additionally captured the SCC title (1:52.78).

With Kurtz finishing strong in the 100-yard breaststroke, Mascolo felt that he could use Boyer in the 200-yard freestyle at states.

Kurtz placed third in the breaststroke in the SCC (1:08.26) and Class L (1:04.08) meets. The latter effort earned All-American consideration and moved her up to third all-time at CHS. Kurtz will keep swimming at Tufts University (Massachusetts).

“She had a great end to her (CHS) career,” said Mascolo.

“Her best times are ahead of her.”

In joining the team with her twin sister Jillian, Julia Stevens had a stellar first year. She was runner-up in the SCC 200-yard IM (2:12.46) and went under a minute in the 100-yard butterfly (fifth, 59.87). In Class L, Julia Stevens finished top six in the 200- (sixth, 1:56.49) and 500-

yard (fourth, 5:08.58) freestyles.

“Julia is a very versatile swimmer. She is someone who wants do more and be challenged every day,” Mascolo said.

Deubel secured fifth in the SCC 200- (1:58.47) and 500- (5:19.32) freestyles. She added another fifth place in the Class L 200-yard IM (2:09.93).

“Jordyn did a great job,” added Mascolo. “I think sometimes people take her for granted. She is a tough swimmer and fights for every stroke.”

In the 200-yard IM, sophomore Samantha Grenon cracked the top 10 in the SCC (fourth, 2:14.34) and Class L (sixth, 2:09.99).

“She was on fire all season long and made strides in the IM,” stated Mascolo. “That is not an easy race because you need to be strong at everything (four strokes). She is steady all the way through the race.”

Han placed fifth in the Class L 500-yard freestyle (5:09.7). Lindsey sprinted to sixth place in the SCC 50-yard freestyle (25.67).

Lindsey, Robinson, Dietrich, Go, junior Lexi Tejeda, Newton, Jillian Stevens, and sophomores Elli Haskes, Haley Grayson, Caitlin Caron also competed individually in Class L. A co-captain with Robinson, Murphy received the Coaches See DIVERS, page 12

GIRLS SWIM AND DIVE

2016 scc regular season champions/ five-time defending scc Meet champs thanks to head coach dan Mascolo, assistant shea Moriarty, and diving coach Patty conte

We’ll Miss You Seniors

Eight

Sports…

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Girls’ Soccer Team Excelled In 2016

Last fall represented a bounce back season for Cheshire girls’ soccer. After varsity inexperience and injuries contributed to a 4-8-4 record in 2015, Cheshire posted a 17-4 record and won two championships in 2016.

“It was feel good season. The girls, who had played on the team the year before (in 2015), had a lot of motivation and benefitted from their hard work,” said Head Coach James Luis.

Cheshire won the Housatonic Division title (7-1) and defeated Daniel Hand (2-1, 5-4 in penalty kicks) to capture the Southern Connecticut Conference crown for the first time since 2011.

“It was the second time I’ve been there (SCC finals) and the first time I’ve won one,” reflected Luis. “The team was great all season and remained focused on their goal to win the Housy and SCC Tournament.”

CHS beat Fairfield Ludlowe 1-0 in the Class LL First Round.

In the next game, the Rams fell 3-1 to Westhill to end the year.

The Rams will graduate 16 seniors, a group led by tri-captains Abby Abramson, Sarah Clark, and Allison Leonetti.

“It was one of the most experienced teams we’ve had,” said Luis. “It was great to have their maturity and personality. They understood what it took to compete at this level.”

Boys’ Soccer Team Reloaded In 2016

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Saige Bingman prepares to kick the ball.

Senior Saige Bingman, who missed five games due to injury as a junior, keyed the offense with a career-high 18 goals and eight assists. She had multiple gamewinners, including the lone goal against Fairfield Ludlowe.

“She had the type of season we thought she would. She came into training camp much stronger athletically,” said Luis.

Clark provided nine goals and six assists. In the SCC semifinals, she netted the game-winner (2-1) against Amity. Clark joined Bingman as All-Class LL, All-SCC First Team, All-Housatonic, AllR-J, and NHR All-Area.

“She worked 110 percent at everything,” stated Luis. “Her speed is phenomenal. She also improved on her defense and getting 50/50 balls.”

Leonetti had seven goals and three assists. She received the Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award, as well as AllHousatonic and All-R-J honors.

“She was a true leader and motivator. She always stepped up at

the right moment,” said Luis Sophomores Lila McNamee (eight goals, team-best 10 assists) and Kaitlyn Loura (seven goals, four assists) started for the second straight year. McNamee was named All-Housatonic.

“They had good seasons,” said Luis. “They still have room to grow and we are expecting a lot out of them next year.

Juniors Jill Klem (eight goals, assist) and Elizabeth Lurz (three goals, two assists) also contributed key offense.

On defense, CHS had a veteran unit. Abramson, seniors Mackenzie Keaney, Bridget Loura, Kaitlyn D’Andrea, Emma Takizawa, and sophomore Paige Perez (assist) all started games.

“Their ability to play every minute like it was their last is what separated us,” stated Luis.

Abramson, the R-J Scholar Athlete, added a goal as a senior.

“She is an All-American kid with an All-American attitude.

You can only hope to have playSee CHS, page 12

Cheshire boys’ soccer entered the 2016 season needing to fill many spots vacated by the graduating class from the year before.

While having lost key leaders, the Rams responded with another championship season.

CHS enjoyed an 11-3-5 record and won the Oronoque Division crown. Cheshire had previously played in the Housatonic Division before a realignment in the Southern Connecticut Conference last season.

CHS gained redemption in the SCC Tournament. After falling 5-0 to West Haven in last year’s quarterfinal, Cheshire faced the same rival and rallied from two one-goal deficits to win 3-2.

Sophomore Quinn Donahue netted the game-winner with 53 seconds left.

Cheshire fell 4-1 in semifinal action at Shelton (eventual champion). In the Class LL First Round, Cheshire led 1-0 and 2-1, but ended up losing 3-2 to Simsbury for the second year in a row.

Senior captain Mitch Manware tallied his first six goals and added four assists in his transition from defense to forward. He scored the game-winner (1-0) at Guilford, to clinch the division title. Manware received All-Oronoque, AllRecord Journal, and the Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award.

A key newcomer, senior forward Andre Pereira led the Rams with nine goals and five assists.

Pereira was selected to receive the Ram Award, as well as AllClass LL, All-SCC First Team, All-Oronoque, New Haven Register All-Area, and All-R-J. Sophomore Toby Goldstein controlled play in the mid-field.

He earned All-SCC Second Team, All-Oronoque, and team MVP. Like Manware, senior Sean Black (three goals, four assists) also transitioned to forward. The

Most Improved Player, Black netted the game-winner (1-0) against Wilbur Cross on Senior Night.

Brothers, senior Andrew Mayano (three goals) and sophomore Matt Mayano (four goals, three assists), contributed key points.

Donahue (four goals, assist), juniors Jared Andrea (goal) and Sam Ubertalli (goal), sophomore Jason Aguirre (assist), and freshman Jack Loura (goal) tallied their first points. Senior Quinn Boucaud supplied his first assist.

Junior C.J. Andes (assist) and seniors Pascal Preud’homme (goal) and Robert Pellegrino (assist) were part of of a stingy defense. Andes received AllOronoque and Preud’homme was named R-J Scholar Athlete.

In his first year as starting goalkeeper, sophomore Nate Pisani earned 10 shutouts and was named All-Oronoque. Junior Steven Rapillo also saw action in net.

Head Coach Artur Branco secured his 250th win. He ended the season with 255.

Andes and junior Brian Fox will captain the Rams this fall.

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Quinn Donahue celebrates after his SCC tourney game-winner.

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Sports…

Nine

Cross Country Teams Earned Top Times Last Year Cheshire girls’ cross country returned to a championship level last fall. For the first time since 2012, the team went unbeaten in dual meets (9-0) and captured the Housatonic Division title. CHS claimed the Southern Connecticut Conference crown (60 points) for the first time since 2010 and also won the Windham Invite (37).

“For me, it’s always been about the kids,” said Rob Schaefer, the SCC Coach of the Year. “I’m at the point in my career where I want my kids to experience winning and have their pictures taken (after getting championships).”

Cheshire earned third place in Class L. The Rams advanced to the State Open for the first time in four years, placing 14th.

“I’ve said many times that if you make the State Open, you’ve had a great season,” said Schaefer. “We took a step back timewise, but just making it there was a great accomplishment.”

CHS beat Amity (19-40) and host Shelton (17-42) in the dualmeet finale. Junior Lauren Daddi clocked 19:58 to break the course record (20:12) of former CHS standout Natalie Wickenheisser.

In the conference meet held at East Shore Park, Daddi (third, 19:49) and junior Rachel Kaplan (seventh, 20:27) secured All-SCC First Team. Sophomores Amanda

Addesso (14th, 21:04) and Emmy Longmore (16th, 21:09) and junior Emi Schwab (20th, 21:22) made the second team.

“That is an awesome honor,” said Schaefer. “It is a testament to the girls training in the summer and doing well.”

The seniors on the varsity team, Camille Lewis (29th, 21:49) and Maya Kreidwise (40th, 22:21), also placed top 40 in the SCC. They captained the team with senior Hannah Cremo, who received the Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award.

“I had excellent captains this year,” said Schaefer. “They did a great job running things. They were happy for the team’s success and not just themselves.”

The MVP for the third straight year, Daddi won three dual meets. She added first place finishes in the Windham (20:00), Nonnewaug (19:22), and Winding Trails (19:09) invites. Daddi earned All-Class L (third, 19:42) and All-State (17th, 19:39). In the New England Interscholastic Championship in Rhode Island, she took 59th place (19:23.67).

Daddi also received RecordJournal Scholar Athlete.

“Right now, Lauren Daddi is the second best runner I’ve coached behind Amy Baxter. I’m hoping that she gets one of her records in

the future,” said Schaefer. “She is an incredible runner. Lauren is so dedicated and focused on everything she does.”

Kaplan, who took 14th (20:54) at Class L, joined Daddi as New Haven Register All-Area.

“She is an unsung hero for us,” said Schaefer. “Rachel didn’t get a lot of attention, but she just continues to get faster and faster. I would love for her to make AllState next year.”

An alternate on the state team, sophomore Aliza Taylor was named Most Improved. Seniors Colleen Carroll, Zoe Fritz, Aliana Glatt, Hannah Lawlor, Julia Marcouiller, junior Breanna Clark, and sophomores Rosie Marquez and Jen Ndjomou received coaches awards.

CHS will graduate 19 seniors.

Daddi, Kaplan, Schwab, and junior Hannah Na will captain the 2017 team this fall.

Last year, the Cheshire boys’ team also posted a strong season.

The Rams went 6-3 in dual meets (2-2 in Housatonic) and placed third in the SCC Championship.

“I would say that everybody from varsity to JV (junior varsity) to freshmen did well that day,” said boys’ head coach Will Lathrop, of the conference meet.

The team placed 15th in Class LL. The Rams were dealt a tough

Photos by Allen Paul/ Cheshire Herald

Lauren Daddi (left) and Brendan Murray (above) led their teams for the third straight year. blow when junior number one runner Brendan Murray felt dehydrated during the race and finished in 81st place (17:55).

“I feel bad about what happened to Brendan because he is one of the best runners in the state,” said Lathrop. “It was unfortunate how we finished up as a team in Class LL, but you have to move forward.”

Murray still had another stellar

season, earning MVP and NHR All-Area for the third year in a row. He was victorious in three dual meets and secured first place (16:12) in the Windham Invite.

In the SCC Meet, Murray placed second (15:39) for the third straight year.

“I think he did a great job,” said Lathrop. “He was obviously disappointed by what happened See SENIOR, page 15

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Ten

Sports…

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Cheshire Boys’ Lacrosse Has Core Group Back After missing the post-season in consecutive years, Cheshire boys’ lacrosse got back on track last year. CHS (12-6) beat Stamford 19-1 in a Class L qualifier and battled Fairfield Prep in the first round before falling 13-11.

“It was one of our goals to make it back to the state playoffs,” said Head Coach Rich Pulisciano.

“Not having (junior) Jack Raba due to (an anterior cruciate ligament) injury, I thought our kids dug down deep as best as they could. It was a young group of kids playing together last year.”

With veteran players returning to the field this year, CHS seeks a deep run in the playoffs.

“We return 17 kids and most of our offense is back,” said Pulisciano.”

While Pulisciano was not pleased with the strength of his schedule last year, he was able to utilize a deep bench.

“We took care of business and didn’t play down to anyone,” said Pulisciano. “We are excited to have our traditional schedule back this year.”

The senior quad-captains have all signed with colleges. Sean Black, Peter Brown, and Brian Weyrauch have chosen to play at Merrimack College in Masssachusetts. Matt Federico will compete at Quinnipiac University.

“They are good kids and players,” said Pulisciano. “They love the team and the game of lacrosse.

It was such a tight race (for captains) that we had four of them.”

Pulisciano feels that he has always been blessed with great goalkeeping. Austin Ingarra (Cheshire Kiwanis Sportsmanship Award) graduated last year and is playing at College of the Saint Rose (New York), but Brown is returning for his third season as a starter. Last year’s Defensive MVP, Brown has made 338 saves in the last two years.

“We know we have a good goalie and that is one less thing

we need to worry about,” said Pulisciano. “Pete has faced a lot of shots since his sophomore year and plays a competitive schedule in the summer.”

A starter since his freshman year, Federico provides experience on defense. He sat out the majority of the regular season last spring with a knee injury, but returned by the end of the year.

“When he wasn’t ready at the start of last year, we had to shuffle things around,” said Pulisciano.

“He is a smart, aggressive player who understands the game of lacrosse.”

Senior Matt Nugent and juniors Ethan Bronson and Colin Fanning (goal) also return as long poles on defense. CHS graduated Sal DeLucia and Xavier Celestino, team captains with Griffin Cunningham (Oberlin College-Ohio) and Andrew Criscuolo (Western New England University-Massachusetts).

Black is back to help lead an explosive group on attack.

Last year, he had a team-best 33 goals, 64 assists, and 97 points.

He received Offensive MVP/AllSouthern Connecticut Conference First Team/New Haven Register All-Area/Record-Journal Player of the Year.

“Sean is a crafty, little kid. He took it on his shoulders because Jack (Raba) wasn’t there last year,” stated Pulisciano. “He did a great job of distributing the ball when he was double teamed.

Sean also took advantage of his opportunities to go to the cage.”

Raba’s return will bolster the offense. While missing his sophomore year, he posted 11 goals and 10 assists as a freshman.

“I’m excited that he is back,” said Pulisciano. “He had to sit for a whole year and I’m sure there is fire is his belly to get out there.”

Junior Tim Hoynes broke through for 23 goals and 13 assists last spring.

“He was a surprise,” said Pu-

lisciano. “There is another smart kid, who plays year round.”

Mid-field is also an area of returning strength. Using a strong shot, Weyrauch posted 22 goals and eight assists last year and earned All-SCC Second Team.

“A lot of people look up to Brian whether in football or lacrosse,” stated Pulisciano. “His game has come a long way.”

Senior Ryan Lindsey tallied 23 goals and six assists in 2016. He has committed to playing at the University of Vermont.

“Ryan is a very good player,” said Pulisciano. “I got to watch him play over the summer. He got bigger and stronger.”

Junior Michael Jeffery (19 goals, eight assists) has played on varsity since his freshman year.

“He is big, strong, and a fast mid-fielder,” said Pulisciano.

“Michael had a fantastic year in football and I think that is going to correlate on the lacrosse field.

He is very intelligent, as well.”

Seniors Jared Chase (11 goals, four assists) and Jake Herskowitz (six goals, assist) also saw key minutes last year. Mike Bronson (eight goals, 11 assists) and Dan Covel (six, three) return experience, as well.

The firepower will help offset the graduation of Chris Papa (36 goals, 11 assists), Criscuolo (12, 12), Cunningham (11, seven), Matt D’Andrea (six goals), Peter Earley (five, one), and R.J. Oris (five goals). Oris made All-SCC Second Team in 2016.

“Our seniors did an unbelievable job last year of getting the kids to understand that hard work pays off,” said Pulisciano.

CHS also graduated Matt Robidoux, who won 245 of 327 faceoffs and scored a goal as a senior.

He now plays at American International College (Massachusetts).

Criscuolo also controlled 16 face-offs. He received the Kevin Tyska Award, joining Robidoux as a All-SCC Second Team

Above, Matt Federico controls his stick. At right, Peter Brown returns in net. At bottom, Brian Weyrauch (15) takes a shot while Sean Black (3) looks on. honoree and Connecticut High School Coaches Association Senior All-Star.

“Finding a face-off guy is probably the most important part for our team,” said Pulisciano. “We told all of our kids that if you put the time in then you could play on varsity.”

Al Valerio/Cheshire Herald

Greg Lederer/Cheshire Herald

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

CHESHIRE BOYS’ LACROSSE t a e r g a e v a H ! n o seas

Good luck to seniors, Coach P & staff...

... From the Cheshire Lacrosse Club

Sports…

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Eleven

Cheshire Softball Returns Core Of Historic 2016 Team Last fall, Cheshire softball chose to push back the start of preparation for the 2017 season.

The move was made so that the program could further savor what the team accomplished in 2016.

CHS made history by posting the program’s first unbeaten season (27-0). In the Class LL final, Cheshire shut out rival Amity 5-0 to win the school’s first state crown and earned the number two ranking in the final state poll.

CHS captured the Housatonic Division crown for the third straight year and claimed the Southern Connecticut Conference crown for the first time since 2002.

Cheshire also became the first CHS team to receive the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Girls’ Team of the Year.

Kristine Drust was named the Maxpreps.com National Coach of the Year. She received the same honor from Class LL, Record-Journal, New Haven Register, and Federation Softball Umpires of Greater New Haven.

“As a coach, I’ve worked with a lot of great teams,” reflected Drust. “To be able to coach a team coming off a season like last year, it is something new.

We are going to do what we did to get to that level. We are going to look at our past and use it to get better.”

Drust feels that the team gained valuable experience under pressure last year. Cheshire trailed 3-1 headed to the seventh inning against East Haven (regular season finale) and Lauralton Hall

(SCC final), but rallied to win both games 4-3. Senior Sam Simione hit a walk-off solo home run to beat East Haven in 11 innings and senior Hannah Salvietti had the winning single to defeat Lauralton Hall in the seventh.

Cheshire will return to the diamond without graduates Megan Hodgdon, Gabby Batista, Ally Braun, Alex Czarkosky, Alexa Dayton (Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award), and Jenny Vignola.

“It is never good to lose seniors,” stated Drust. “Every one of those seniors had a role on our team. They have left these never ending legacies. They are players that we continue to talk about in our program. It is sad seeing them l e a v e , but it is great to see what they are d o i n g now.”

Cheshire will still return seven starters and multiple letter winners this spring.

Abby Abramson (pitcher), Salvietti (third base), and Simione (center field) are senior tri-captains.

“They lead on and off the field,” said Drust. “They’ve bought into the program.

Our motto is respect and loyalty. I’m looking forward to them getting us to the next level this year.”

A 2016 captain with Hodgdon, Abramson had a historic junior year. She batted .493 with a teambest 36 hits, 32 RBIs (team leader), 11 home runs (CHS singleseason record), 13 runs scored, and 27 walks (team-best).

As pitcher, Abramson posted a 0.612 earned run average with 326 strikeouts in 183 innings.

Abramson received CHSCA and SCC Player of the Year, along with All-Class LL, All-Housatonic, CHSCA Junior All-Star, NHR All-Area MVP, R-J Player of the Year, and CHS MVP. She will play at the University of Pennsylvania.

“I don’t like comparing statistics from year to year,” stated Drust. “I just want her (Abramson) to grow as a pitcher and hitter. If she can continue to get better, there is no reason that she can’t have a stronger season.”

With the graduation of Hodgdon as a three-year starting catcher, Abramson will work with a new player. Hodgdon received the 2016 Ram Award, as well as All-Class LL, All-Housatonic, CHSCA Senior All-Star, NHR All-Area, R-J Scholar Athlete, and FSUGNH All-Star. She is playing at Eastern Connecticut State University.

“It will be tough to not see that battery (Abramson, Hodgdon) out there anymore,” stated Drust. “I have no doubt that we have great athletes in the program. There is a person out there waiting for that opportunity (to play catcher).”

Salvietti shined in her first year in the order. Last spring, she batted .349 with 29 hits, five home runs, 24 RBIs, and 18 runs scored.

She received All-Housatonic, SCC Tournament Most Outstanding Player, NHR All-Area, and CHSCA Junior All-Star. Salvietti shared Most Improved with junior Sara Mulligan.

Salvietti will play at Springfield College (Massachusetts).

“She was working so much on her swing heading into last year.

Her hard work paid off,” said Drust. “Hannah Salvietti never lets you down.”

Photos by James Brandolini and Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Above, Sam Simione makes contact at the plate. Hannah Salvietti is pictured on the left.

Another All-Housatonic honoree last spring, Simione posted a .362 average with 34 hits, seven home runs, 31 RBIs, and 24 runs scored (team leader).

“She has such maturity as a hitter,” stated Drust. “I would love to know how she got there so fast.”

Mulligan transitioned from infielder to starting left fielder last year. She had three game-winning hits, including her first home run to beat Stamford 1-0 in the Class LL Second Round.

“Sara Mulligan was someone right from the start that I could tell was hungry for knowledge of the game,” said Drust. “You get that feeling from working with her.”

As just freshmen, Mia Juodaitis (shortstop), Bri Floyd (second base), and Lexie Hemstock (right field) all started last year. In the regular season finale, Juodaitis went four-for-four and hit her first home run to start the seventhinning rally. Juodaitis batted .476 with 39 hits (team-best), 12 RBIs, and 20 runs scored.

“Watching her grow throughout the year was amazing,” said Drust. “We put her in the ninth

Building on Tradition

spot to give her an opportunity to watch the pitchers and develop.”

Hemstock (.277 average, 23 hits, home run, 15 RBIs, 22 runs scored) and Floyd (.312 average, 29 hits, eight RBIs, 20 runs scored) led off the batting order.

“Bri and Lexie have that natural sense of grit,” Drust explained.

“They set the table with their confidence and body language. They are hard outs at the plate.”

Juniors Kinsey Ratchelous (18 runs scored) and Rachel Kaplan (three runs scored) also played heavily as courtesy runners.

“Being a role player is one of the hardest positions on the field,” said Drust. “When they get the opportunity on our team, the girls take advantage of it. Their energy made it impossible for the other team to keep momentum against us (last season).”

In 2017, CHS will move to the Hammonasset Division.

“It is important for the girls to buy into our philosophy,” said Drust. “To achieve the outcome we want, we need to focus on getting better on the next pitch, play, and game. We learned last year that the attitude works.”

Good Luck to our 2017 RAM SOFTBALL FAMILY ~Friends of Softball~ Respect & Loyalty

2016 LL State Champions

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Twelve

Sports…

Rams Will Reload On Court The Cheshire boys’ and girls’ tennis teams graduated starters in singles and doubles after winning seasons last year, but both squads return players who will vie to fill those spots.

“It’s always tough to graduate kids. It is a fact of high school sports, but you have to rebuild,” said Head Coach Scott Matthews.

Cheshire girls are coming off an 11-7 season in which they enjoyed an eight-match win streak.

As just a freshman last spring, Lila McNamee faced top competition at number one singles.

“It’s nice to have a strong number one. I’m excited to see what Lila can do this year,” said Matthews.

CHS graduated four-year starters in Durga Rathi (Record-Journal Scholar Athlete) and Amanda Murray, but juniors Caroline Jentzen and Shivani Padhi and sophomores Kelsea Mann and Erin Wu were victorious in singles last year. Playing mostly in the third spot, Jentzen was named MVP. Jentzen will captain the 2017 team with senior Alexa Wetmore.

“Caroline is a great athlete and player. I hope she continues on the path she has been on,” stated Matthews.

Cheshire graduated Ariana Pepper and Serena Steskla in doubles. They captained last year’s team with Rathi.

Junior Camille Bisson played number one doubles with Pepper last spring and senior Katie Tomko paired with Steskla in the third position.

“It’s very important to have experience back on the court because they can help other players,” said Matthews.

Wetmore and sophomore Jenny Wang are back after playing in the second position together.

Last year, Wetmore received the Cheshire Junior Women’s Lead-

CHS Shined On Defense Last Fall

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Caroline Jentzen will return as a tennis co-captain this year. ership Award.

“She is a good leader on the team and will make for a great captain,” said Matthews.

Wang shared Most Improved with Wu. “Those girls showed a lot of promise and potential. We had a great freshmen class (this past season),” added Matthews.

Cheshire reached the playoffs last year. The team fell 6-1 in the Southern Connecticut Conference First Round at Daniel Hand.

In a Class L Qualifier, CHS lost 5-2 to Ridgefield.

After going 13-7 last year, Cheshire boys have five starters back. Senior Arnav Velaparthi has started in singles since his sophomore year and will captain this year’s team with classmate Sean Crowley.

The recipient of the 2016 Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award and R-J Athlete nod, Velaparthi played number one singles and captained the team with 2016 graduate Owen Murray.

“It is nice to have the number one player back. He handled that position with a lot of grace,” said Matthews.

A two-year starter, senior Jaden Tiriolo won a match in the Class LL Tournament last season and was named team MVP. Recently, he earned first place in a United States Tennis Association (USTA) tournament.

“It’s nice to have Jaden back.

He had some long matches (last season) and was able to come out on top,” said Matthews.

CHS graduated Murray, Jake Goldstein, and Joe Cashore in singles, but return sophomore Connor Watkinson to the lineup.

“I was lucky to have such a strong singles lineup last year,” said Matthews. “I was happy that Connor got some time. He had some really grinding singles matches and I think that experience will help him this year.”

CHS lost doubles experience with the graduation of starters Jeff Russitano, Sanjay Montagna, Evan Zovas, Goldstein, and Dan Light. Crowley and senior Sean Sprankel are key returners to the lineup.

“Sean (Crowley) will be a great captain,” said Matthews.

Sprankel and Light were CoMost Improved Players in 2016.

“Sean (Sprankel) is such a great strategist and has awesome volleys,” explained Matthews. “I think he can help anyone on the court.”

Seniors Justin Niebling, Mike Toscano, Joey DeGennaro, Evan Byers, and Anthony Simpatico also won matches for the Rams last year.

Cheshire defeated rival Xavier three times in 2016, including a 4-3 win in the SCC First Round.

CHS fell 7-0 to Amity in the semifinals.

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For the third straight year, Cheshire rotated two goalkeepers. In all but one game, senior Zoe Riccio played the first half and junior Sam Mathews came in for the second. They combined for seven shutouts.

“It worked out great and better than what we expected,” stated Luis. “We knew we would have a hard challenge of picking one, so we started alternating. They adjusted very well to it.”

Seniors Katie Bartlett (goal) and Paige Pelletier (assist) and sophomore Kayla Agostinelli (goal) posted their first points.

Bartlett and Pelletier shared the Coaches Award.

“They stepped up to the plate and made sure everyone was ready to go,” said Luis. “When they got on the field, they gave it everything they had.”

continued from page 7 Award at the end of last season.

“It is always a challenging award to give out because there are many swimmers who work so hard. Emily was dealing with back issues last year, but she never gave up. She did the work everyday even though her body wouldn’t let her do best times,” explained Mascolo. “As a captain, Kathryn was wonderful. She didn’t hesitate to speak her mind and hold the team accountable.”

Dietrich was voted as the Cheshire Junior Women’s Club Leadership Award winner.

“One of the things that I’m most proud of is that the leadership award is one of the most contested honors,” stated Mascolo.

“Danielle silently works hard and does what is needed. I’ve never seen her slack off in a single workout in four years and that is what we ask from these girls.”

Coached by Patty Conte, the diving team returned six girls from the 2015 season. With reopening of CCP, the divers and swimmers were able to practice at the same facility for the first time in years.

“Patty did such a terrific job with those girls. To see the improvement from one year to the next was awesome,” said Mascolo.

The Most Outstanding Diver, sophomore Sienna Breton placed fifth in the SCC (342.75) and seventh in Class L (379.3). She took 16th (381.25) in her first State Open appearance.

“She has grown so much as a student-athlete over the last two years,” stated Mascolo. “She works so hard to improve.”

Silin took fourth in the SCC (356.1) and 11th in Class L (353.85). She will captain the 2017 team with Boyer and Deubel.

“I’m very happy to have a diver as a captain,” added Mascolo. “I think it is good to have the divers get more say.”

Sophomore Erin Wu, who took 21st place (250.65) in the SCC meet, was voted Most Improved.

Divers Scored Key Points

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

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continued from page 8 ers like that,” said Luis.

Keaney (Most Improved) posted her first goal and assist, while D’Andrea contributed a goal and two assists.

“Mackenzie has always had the athletic ability and competitiveness, but she improved her technique and positioning,” said Luis.

“Defensively, she (D’Andrea) is a hard worker. She matured a lot from the year before.”

A first-year starter, Bridget Loura scored her first goal last fall. She also netted the winning penalty kick in the SCC final and received the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.

“She was cold as ice,” stated Luis. “She did what we knew she could do. Without her composure, we wouldn’t be champions of the SCC Tournament.”

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Sienna Breton performs a dive.

Bronson Came Up Clutch continued from page 4 Luke Bastin (14 tackles) made key plays.

“You have guys back there who have played hard and understand what it takes to win on Friday nights,” explained Drust.

Quint also blocked a punt, while junior Cole Escoto added two fumble recoveries.

Junior kicker/punter Ethan Bronson (All-R-J) excelled in special teams. He made eight of 10 field goals, including a 38yard kick to beat Xavier.

“He is a great athlete and kid,” said Drust. “We are fortunate because he change field position and hit big kicks.”

CHS returns 28 juniors this fall.

Sports…

the cheshire herald, february 9, 2017

Thirteen

Winter Teams Stay Active

Boys’ Basketball (8-8, 2-4 in Hammonasset Division) Senior tri-captains: Jensen Bassett, Drew Hart, Mike Quint With Hart being the only fulltime starter back, CHS started out with an inexperienced lineup. The Rams dropped the first three games by a combined eight points, but they’ve recently come to together to win five of their last seven games and qualify for the Southern Connecticut Conference and Class LL tournaments.

“I think as a team, it says a lot about the kids that they were able to learn from those early losses and continue to get better every day,” said Head Coach Dan Lee. Hart is the top scorer and rebounder in the post. Frione runs the team at point guard. Angelone and Quint have been key scorers behind the three-point line.

Juniors Will Graikoski, Ben DeLaubell, Matt Rosadino, James Pettit, and senior Evan Russo have also been playing in a deep rotation. DeLaubell has been sidelined recently due to sickness.

Lee added that strong defense has been a constant all season.

Girls’ Basketball (4-13, 1-5 in Housatonic) Tri-captains: senior Kaylyn Clairmont, juniors Sara Mulligan and Julia Schaff CHS got off to a slow start and suffered a tough break when top scorer, sophomore guard Mia Juodaitis, suffered a fracture in her foot on Jan. 11.

Cheshire has just one senior (Clairmont) this year. Schaff has been the top scorer in Juodaitis’ absence. Mulligan, Schaff, and junior Brady McQuade lead in three-pointers.

After missing last season due to injury, junior Emily Yonych has added a post presence with Clairmont. Junior Mia Pulisciano, sophomore Jade Barnes, and freshmen Emma Watkinson and Ariana Perlini have contributed off the bench.

“We are striving to play a full four quarters,” said first-year head coach Michelle Vieira.

“We’ve been right in games in the first half, but unfortunately, the third quarter has been a problem for us this year.”

Cheerleading Senior co-captains: Kaitlyn D’Andrea, Alexis Yamin CHS has a new team (13 athletes) after graduating eight girls last year.

On Jan. 28 at Wolcott, CHS opened their tournament slate with a fifth-place finish.

“I think it was a really good start for our team,” said first-year head coach Samantha Hill. “It showed us what we need to work on for our next competition.”

Photo courtesy of Kristin D’Andrea

Clockwise from above, are a sampling of winter athletes: senior cocaptains Alexis Yamin and Kaitlyn D’Andrea (cheerleading), freshman Emma Watkinson (girls’ basketball), senior Conrad Reynolds (ice hockey), senior captain Sean Black (wrestling), and senior captain Ryan Mostoller (boys’ swim and dive).

Last Saturday, the girls placed third in the SCC Championship at Shelton. Along with competing in five or six tournaments, the program has started the Unified Competition Cheerleading Team.

The girls are performing with two students with special needs.

Last fall, seniors Natalie Dicks and Rosa Palmieri captained the cheer squad.

Boys’ Ice Hockey (8-7) Senior captain: Vinnie Solla Senior assistant captains: Tom Bishop, Matt Federico, Ryan Novia The Rams have had an up and down season. Cheshire started 2-0, but then faced a 1-6 stretch, including consecutive overtime losses. CHS has rebounded to win three straight games and make the state’s Division II playoffs.

The Rams also hope to qualify for the SCC/South West Conference D-II Tournament.

“We think we have settled down now,” said Head Coach Anthony Giusto. “The four-game losing streak, including the overtime losses, was tough to take, but we play a tough schedule and that prepares us for the end of the year.”

Solla (15), Federico (13), and senior Ammar Chaudhry (12) are top point-scorers. Bishop is starting in goal for the first time.

Novia, a leader on defense, was given the Sixth Annual Greg Schena/Mark Whitlock Award on Jan. 21. The award honors the memory of two former players who died in May 2010.

Indoor Track and Field Senior tri-captains (Girls): Sarah Clark, Abigail DelVecchio, Lexie Gula Senior tri-captains (Boys): Jake Lawlor, Isaac Marquez The girls’ 4x800-meter relay team of senior Camille Lewis, juniors Lauren Daddi and Rachel Kaplan, and sophomore Amanda Addesso won first place in the McReavy Invite (10:25.33, Jan. 13) and East Sectional (10:08.22, Jan. 24). With sophomore Aliza Taylor subbing for Daddi last Friday, the squad took second (10:15.54) in the SCC meet.

Daddi placed runner-up in the East Sectional 1,600-meters (5:23.09). Senior Lizzy Goul tied for second in high jump (four feet, eight inches).

“Overall, I would say I’m

happy with what we’ve done this year,” said girls’ head Coach Allen Dvarskas. “There have been a lot of surprises, which is nice.”

While having a smaller boys’ team than in previous years, CHS has still made an impact.

Junior Brendan Murray won the 3,200-meters in the East Sectional (9:53.13) and SCC (9:32.85) meets. He was the East Sectional runner-up in the 1,000- (2:39.55) and 1,600-meters (4:25.28).

Seniors Trevor Steskla (shot put) and Evan Cole (jumps) have also finished strong in the field.

“The training is going well,” said boys’ head coach Pam Gunneson. “If you are getting a personal-record right now, that is great.”

Skiing (Boys, 13-8; Girls, 7-11) Senior tri-captains (Girls): Colleen Carroll, Rebecca Hyman, Katie Tomko Senior tri-captains (Boys): Peter Brown, Jared Chase, Matt Urbano Seniors are contributing heavily for both teams. On the boys’ side, Chase and Anders Norback have been leading in races. Brown and Urbano have also cracked the top 10 overall.

Junior Andrew DePalma and seniors Evan Byers, Max Tougas, and Dimitri Tracey have also scored in varsity meets this year.

“I’m very pleased with the way the varsity boys have come through. They have overcome adversity in a couple of tough meets and come back strong,” said Head Coach Toby Brimberg.

For the girls, Tomko has been the top racer. Rebecca Hyman, senior Emily Bodurtha, junior Rachel Hyman, sophomore Grace Johnson, Carroll, and freshman Riley Chase have also factored into the team’s top six.

“I’m very proud of the girls.

There aren’t many USSA (United States Ski Association) racers on the team, but they continue to get better and have a great attitude,” added Brimberg.

On Jan. 30, Chase, Norback, and Tomko advanced in the giant slalom shoot-out. Chase won the boys’ race.

Monday’s slalom shoot-out was past press time. The top 24 racers (12 boys, 12 girls) will represent Team Connecticut in the See RAMS, page 15

James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald

Photo courtesy of Mike Crowley

James Brandolini/Cheshire Herald

Tracey Harrington/Cheshire Herald

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Fourteen

Sports…

the cheshire herald, february 9, 2017

CHS Boys’ Volleyball Aims To Extend Traditional Success

Last year brought a return to glory for CHS boys’ volleyball.

After seeing their Southern Connecticut Conference title reign end in 2015, the Rams won back the regular season and tournament crowns in 2016. Cheshire also returned to the Class L Tournament after a one-year hiatus.

“We were happy to be back playing for a banner,” said Head Coach Sue Bavone. “We are trying to build a program with consistency. It was hard to not win a championship that year (2015).”

Cheshire earned a 16-6 record last year. In the SCC title match, the Rams outlasted Hand 3-2 to win the tournament crown for the fifth time in six years.

“It was great. That gave us confidence going into states,” said Bavone.

CHS beat Xavier 3-0 in the Class L First Round, but fell 3-2 in quarterfinal action at Darien.

“That was one of the toughest losses I’ve had since I’ve been coaching the boys,” said Bavone.

“I thought we were the better team, but the bounces didn’t go our way in the fifth game.”

While graduating a strong senior class, Bavone feels the team can still defend their SCC titles and have another run in states.

Seniors Mike Stickney, Mitch Manware, and Matt Russolillo will return as tri-captains. The libero since his sophomore year, Manware had 142 digs last year and earned All-SCC First Team, and Connecticut High School Coaches Association Junior AllStar. He shared Cheshire’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player honor with Stickney and 2016 graduate Matt Pinciaro.

“He will anchor our defense again,” said Bavone. “Mitch has already been a captain in soccer last fall, so he is used to a leadership role.”

Bavone likes her passing depth with seniors Fritz Acurante and Neal Dellostritto, junior Joe Chen, and sophomore Berkeley Feng coming back this year. CHS graduated Zach Feldman, who had 31 digs last spring. Feldman captained the 2016 team with Pinciaro and James Marinaccio.

Russolillo, who tallied 417 assists as a junior, will fill the set-

ting position. He worked with 2016 grad Josh Chen (495 assists) in a 6-2 formation.

“Matt set last year and he has been working hard in the off-season,” said Bavone. “He is technically sound and really thinks the game (through).”

Stickney will be back to lead as a middle hitter and blocker. A first-year starter as a junior, he posted 184 kills and 84 blocks en route to receiving All-SCC Second Team. In the SCC final, Stickney tallied 11 kills and three blocks to earn the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.

“He had a big match that night and hopefully that gives him confidence going into this year,” said Bavone. “He has played in the middle for his whole career.”

The Rams graduated the core of that hitting group, including Pinciaro (All-SCC Second Team), Marinaccio, Yannik Lind, T.J. Lochowski, and Henry Liu. “We are going to need guys to step up offensively,” stated Bavone.

Marinaccio and Lind were Co-Most Outstanding Offensive

After a transition season last year, Cheshire girls’ golf head coach John Williams is optimistic about having a more experienced lineup this spring. CHS returns experienced players, including senior co-captains Sophia Qiu and Karen Larkin.

The number one player in her first two years, Qiu initially chose not to play as a junior, but, at the end of the season, she returned to compete in a couple of matches.

“I always told her that she could come and play last year,” reflected Williams. “When she was done with AP testing, she chose to join. It was good to have the younger girls meet her.”

Larkin also missed the first six matches last season, but returned to be a key contributor.

“Having Karen and Sophia to start the season is huge,” said

Williams. “We’d like to get back to a 66 (stroke differential) this year.”

Sophomores Kiarra Michaud and Cassidy Keaney are expected to build off of solid seasons.

“They gained a lot of experience about the game and the courses,” said Williams.

Williams feels that depth will help offset the graduation of co-captains Natalie Anastasio (MVP) and Savannah DeBauche from the varsity lineup. Junior Nina Merz, who earned Most Improved last year, also moved out of the district.

With the Southern Connecticut Conference adding girls’ golf this year, Cheshire has left the Southern Connecticut Girls’ Golf League. Led by a 102 from Larkin, CHS finished fifth in the 2016 SCGGL Tournament.

“It’s not going to change a lot,” stated Williams. “We’ll still play Mercy, Hand, Lauralton Hall, Sacred Heart Academy, and Amity.”

CHS will play home matches at Southington Country Club.

“Our won-loss record should be better this year,” said Williams.

Like the girls, the Cheshire boys’ team will also have varsity players back. CHS graduated just one starter (Carter DeFigueiredo) from the 2016 squad that placed sixth (349) in the SCC. “We have a lot of good players coming back,” said boys’ head coach Dan Lee. “Last year, we couldn’t put four good scores together in a match. With our experience, we are hoping to be more competitive this year.”

A starter since his freshman year, Dan Schena will return as captain. He also led the squad last

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Senior tri-captain Mike Stickney returns as a leader in the middle.

Players in 2016. Marinaccio (300 kills, 50 aces, 53 digs) also received SCC Player of the Year, All-Class L, New Haven Register All-Area MVP, and CHSCA Senior All-Star. A foreign exchange student from Germany, Lind had 120 kills and 28 aces.

“James and Yannik were two of

the strongest outsides we’ve had here.” Bavone reflected.

Cheshire will have another foreign exchange student, Luca Bregoli, from Italy this year.

“He will be a nice addition,” stated Bavone. “It is good for the team to see someone from a different country.”

season with DeFigueiredo.

Schena, who will compete at the College of Mount Saint Vincent (New York), fired an 83 in the 2016 SCC Championship at Orange’s Racebrook Country Club.

He also tied for 45th place (79) in the Division I Open at Tallwood Country Club in Hebron.

“I’ve seen so much growth in Dan’s skill and demeanor,” said Lee. “Toward the end of last season, I saw him gain a better understanding of the course and what approach to take.”

Juniors Owen Reach and Drew Bellina have both started in their first two years. Reach played in the 2016 SCC Championship (89)

and D-I Open (55th, 80).

“Owen had a great finish to last year. He came up big for us,” stated Lee. Bellina supplied a 88 in the conference meet this past season.

“Andrew’s game has a big upside,” added Lee. “He made great strides at the end of last season.”

As a freshman, Mark Dellostritto became starter and added a 107 in the SCC Championship.

“Mark showed a lot of potential last season,” said Lee. CHS host matches at The Farms Country Club.

“We are fortunate to play and practice on a course like at the Farms,” stated Lee.

Cheshire Golf Teams Bring Back Experience For The 2017 Season

Girls Fell In Powder Puff Game

On Nov. 22 of last year, Cheshire came up short 34-14 against visiting Southington in the 19th Powder Puff Classic.

While the Lady Knights outnumbered the Rams 110-33, CHS took a 7-0 lead on a 3-yard touchdown run by senior Isabel Cuddy in the second quarter.

Southington cut the deficit to 7-6 at halftime, but CHS went up 14-6 in the third quarter. Senior quarterback Alyssa Stevens broke free for a 41-yard touchdown run and classmate Amanda Ruszcyzk kicked her second extra point.

Southington scored the final 28 points. They hold a 12-6-1 lead in the flag-football series with CHS. Stevens (100), senior Erika Barolli (93), and Cuddy (38) were top rushers for Cheshire, while Rachel Esposito made a 22-yard catch. Barolli and Esposito joined Colleen Carroll and Felicia Rosadini as captains.

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Isabel Cuddy carries the ball.

George Gihuly announced last fall that he would step down as head coach.

Sports…

the cheshire herald, february 9, 2017

Fifteen

Rams To Head Outdoors For Track And Field

With there being 18 events in an outdoor track and field meet, Cheshire head coaches Barbara Hedden (girls) and Allen Dvarskas (boys) both put an emphasis on depth. Since both squads lost key athletes to graduation, having new contributors emerge will be key to their success in 2017.

“We still have a lot of athletes back who’ve led in events,” said girls’ head coach Barbara Hedden. “We will work toward building up our depth.”

Cheshire boys and girls both went 10-1 in dual meets last year.

CHS girls graduated 11 seniors from a team that placed second in the East Sectional and SCC. CHS finished eighth in Class LL. A 2016 captain with Janine Zumerchik and Brenna Reach, Janaia Skibitcky left the program with school records in the the long and triple jumps, 100-meters, and the 4x100-meter relay. She earned MVP (Field) and All-New England honors, along with winning East Sectional, SCC, Class LL, and State Open titles.

Skibitcky is now competing at Northeastern University (Massachusetts).

“Janaia is a very strong athlete and one of the best to come through Cheshire High School,” said Hedden. “She scored a lot of points for our team, but there are athletes waiting to step up in her place.”

Seniors Sarah Clark, Lexie Gula, and Camille Lewis will captain the team.

“I think they will do a great job,” said Hedden.

Junior Lauren Daddi returns to

lead the distance team. Last year, Daddi captured the East Sectional 1,600- (5:37.36) and 3,200-meters (12:07.9). She placed runner-up in those events (5:08.53, 11:31.27) at the SCC meet.

“Lauren will bring a lot of leadership for us,” said Hedden. “We have a deep distance team this year.”

Lewis, senior Maya Kreidwise, junior Emi Schwab, and sophomores Emmy Longmore and Amanda Addesso provide are returning contributors in distance.

Hedden looks to build a new 4x100-meter relay team after the Rams graduated Skibitcky, Janine Zumerchik (Coaches Award), and Madison Hunt.

Clark ran for the team last year, while Gula and senior Claire Pier were alternates.

Clark will help lead from 100 to 400-meters.

“Sarah will do a great job in the sprints,” said Hedden.

CHS graduated Alyssa Addesso and Hunt in the hurdles, but senior Abigail DelVecchio and sophomores Riley Pettit and Giselle Zumerchik had strong seasons last year.

Senior Lizzy Goul has experience in pole vault and high jump.

Last spring, senior Angela Zhu placed runner-up for discus in the East Sectional (97 feet, six inches) and SCC (106’6”).

“As a senior, Angela is going to step up as the leader of our throw team,” said Hedden.

Gula, Zumerchik, and junior Jess Zanca will provide points in jumps.

For Cheshire boys, last year’s

continued from page 13 Eastern High School Championship on March 10-12 at Attitash Mountain in New Hampshire.

Boys’ Swim and Dive (10-0) Senior captains: Kevin Erickson, Matt Mita, Ryan Mostoller, Ryan Nguyen, Will Wynne After going unbeaten in dual meets last year, Cheshire is a win away from repeating as SCC D-I regular season champs. On Feb. 15, they visit Fairfield University to face Fairfield Prep at 7 p.m.

“They are very good and the best team in our league. We need to be at our best when we race them,” said Head Coach Kevin Reeder. “We lost a lot of depth (to graduation), but I think we have good depth again. Guys have stepped up to fill holes.”

Wynne, Mostoller, Nguyen, senior Jamie Eigner, juniors Dara Malone, Ben Brewer, Jack Hanke, sophomores Joe Cannata and Ankit Sahasrabudhe, and freshman Sam Hanke have been top scorers.

CHS started the season without a diver, but Nguyen accepted the challenge of swimming and diving. Working with Coach Patty Conte, he recently qualified for the SCC and Class LL meets.

Wrestling Senior captain: Sean Black With just 10 wrestlers on the

roster, the Rams are dealing with a lack of depth. Multiple forfeits have kept them from winning dual meets, but the team has found success in tournaments.

A four-year starter, Black (138 pounds) has dropped only four matches and won his first title in the Casey Yates Invite on Jan. 14.

Sophomore Troy LaRusso (106) is currently riding a five-match win streak.

“Sean has been great. He only has one loss (against in-state competition) at his weight class,” said Head Coach Jake Dilts. “For Troy, it has been great to see him turn the corner. He has been working hard and it is paying off.”

Girls’ Ice Hockey (8-5) Sophomore Meaghan Hogan, along with freshmen Nadia DiNatale, Olivia Salamone, and Jackie Oliveri, are playing for the Amity/North Haven/Cheshire Co-Op team.

“It’s awesome,” said Cheshire graduate Kate Mrowka, who has assisted with the Connecticut Blades for three years. “I was really worried we would only have one (CHS) player (Hogan), so it was a pleasant surprise to have three more girls come out to start the season.”

Last year, Hogan helped the Blades win their first SCC D-II regular season/tournament titles.

Rams Are Perfect In Pool

senior class contributed heavily to top 10 finishes in the East Sectional (third) and SCC (eighth) meets. Tri-captains Peter Bellantonio, Ethan Lachance, and Andrew Levy, along with Jeremy Bennett, Jared Dennehy, David Amann, and Jordan Kolpak, were key contributors.

“It’s going to be tough without those guys,” said boys’ head coach Allen Dvarskas.

CHS still returns letter winners.

Isaac Marquez, Brendan Hogan, and Jake Lawlor will be senior captains.

“They are good people,” said Dvarskas. “They are bright and hard-working.”

While losing Amann and Kolpak in distance events, junior Brendan Murray and Lawlor will provide experience.

Murray is one of the state’s top distance runners. In the 2016 East Sectional, he won the 3,200-meters (9:30.23) and took second in the 1,600-meters (4:31.02).

Also, in the 3,200-meters, Murray earned top five times in the SCC (9:23.53), Class LL (third, 9:22.9), State Open (fourth, 9:16.16), and New England Interscholastic Championship (fourth, 9:11.97).

“He is a student of the game and knows what he has to do to get better,” said Dvarskas.

Junior Liam Killea will help offset the loss of Bellantonio and

Allen Paul/Cheshire Herald

Sarah Clark sprints to the finish line.

Levy in the sprints. Last year, Killea finished in the top 10 of the Class LL 200- and 400-meters.

“I feel great about him,” added Dvarskas.

Senior Josh Frenkel was also a Class LL qualifier in the 100- and 200-meters.

Senior Trevor Steskla and junior Drew Zebarth are back to lead the throw events. In Class LL last year, Steskla competed in

shot put and Zebarth threw discus.

A top scorer for four years, Lachance was a versatile performer on the track and in the field. The graduation of Dennehy takes away key points in the hurdles and jumps.

Dvarskas feels that junior Sawyer Hackett (javelin) and senior Evan Cole (jumps) will be key contributors in the field.

In Class LL, Lawlor led CHS in 43rd place (17:20).

“I think our captains did a phenomenal job,” said Lathrop.

“They motivated guys and did a lot of stuff behind the scenes. I know those guys will continue to support the program.”

Senior Henry Klarman (29th, 17:31), junior Cal Odermatt (36th, 17:37), sophomore Sebastian Pepe (44th, 17:56), and Galuska (58th, 18:18) also took top 60 in the SCC meet.

At Class LL, senior Isaac Marquez (102nd, 18:25) and junior Jack Hanke (136th, 19:21) were inserted in the varsity lineup.

“We are really proud of our se-

nior group (eight boys) and the work they put in over the summer,” explained Lathrop. “That allowed for them to be strong for us at the end and hopefully that motivates our younger guys to run in the summer.”

Sophomore Richmond Le was the Cheshire Kiwanis Club Sportsmanship Award winner.

“Richmond is a soft-spoken kid, but a great leader. He did a great job working with the freshmen,” said Lathrop.

Senior Brendan Hogan was named R-J Scholar Athlete. In the fall, Murray and junior Isaac Moskowitz will return as team co-captains.

Senior Racers Finished X-C Careers

continued from page 9 at (Class) LL. I think he will be motivated to come back as the strongest runner in Connecticut.”

The Most Improved recipient, senior Quentin Arai enjoyed his best season. A first-year varsity runner, he took 12th (16:55) in the conference meet to join Murray on the All-SCC First Team.

“We all knew he had it in him,” said Lathrop. “He was always sick or injured in the past, so it was great for him to put everything together and see that hard work pay off at the end.”

Jake Lawlor, a senior co-captain with Erik Galuska, made AllSCC Second Team (21st, 17:11).

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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, FEBRUARY 9, 2017