East baseball 04 16 2016

2016 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS PREVIEW

SOFTBALL

April 7, 2016

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April 7, 2016 — 3

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

TEAM IndEx

Baldwin Bruins ................................ 6 Calhoun Colts (Bellmore-Merrick) ... 8 Carey Seahawks (Franklin Square) .. 11 Clarke Rams (Westbury) .............. 12 East Meadow Jets ........................ 14 East Rockaway Rocks................... 16 Elmont Spartans .......................... 18 Freeport Red Devils ....................... 20 Hewlett Bulldogs .......................... 22 Kennedy Cougars (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 24 Lawrence Golden Tornadoes ......... 26 Long Beach Marines...................... 28 Lynbrook Owls .............................. 30 MacArthur Generals ..................... 32 Malverne Mules ............................ 34 Mepham Pirates (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 36 Oceanside Sailors ........................ 38 Seaford Vikings ............................ 40 Sewanhaka Indians (Floral Park)... 42 South Side Cyclones (Rockville Centre) ......................... 44 Valley Stream Central Eagles ........ 46 Valley Stream North Spartans ...... 48 Valley Stream South Falcons ........ 50 Wantagh Warriors ......................... 52 West Hempstead Rams ................ 54

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April 7, 2016

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B ASEB A

INSIDE PROSPECTS FOR THE ’16 SEASON

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4 — April 7, 2016

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April 7, 2016 — 5

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Baldwin Pitching sets tone for Bruins

B

By STEVE SINISKI

aldwin comes off a playoff season and welcomes back plenty of experience in its pitching rotation, and a large roster that gives coach Frank Esposito plenty of versatility and flexibility.

“I think it’s going to take all nine out there to win,” Esposito said. “Each [player on the roster] complements the next. I think somewhere along the way, each [player] is going to help us in his own way. We’re evenly mixed with juniors and seniors.”

Seniors Jeffrey Dominguez and Brandon Hoskins, both captains, return as the top two pitchers in the Bruins’ rotation and both have playoff experience. Dominguez is a hard thrower with a solid change up, while Hoskins keeps batters off-balance with his slider.

Sophomore Tommy Airey, a middle linebacker for Baldwin’s football team, brings his physical presence to the diamond. Slated to see time in the rotation, Airey also brings a power bat to the lineup. Junior Steven Strategakos, another hard thrower, is expected to have a role on the mound — possibly as the closer or in relief —after injuries limited his innings last season.

Strategakos is also going to see time in the field at first, and at the plate he brings a power bat to the middle of the batting order.

Senior Mike Pereira, a twoyear varsity player, returns at second alongside junior shortstop Freddie Lucas, while senior Conor Nelson provides returning experience in left field. On days he doesn’t pitch, Airey will man the hot corner. Behind the plate, junior Alan Drew takes on an expanded role after seeing some time at the position last season. “Defensively we’re going to make plays,” Esposito said.

6 — April 7, 2016

On top of a veteran pitching staff and strong defense, the Bruins also have a lineup that can’t be ignored by the opposition. With speed from the likes of their middle infielders — Lucas and Pereira — and power from the bats of Dominguez, Hoskins, Airey and Strategakos, Baldwin has the looks of a team that can keep the scoreboard operator busy.

“I think we can [score] some runs,” Esposito said.

Talented outfield leads Lady Bruins Baldwin’s going to have a new look across much of the softball diamond in 2016, as just six players return from the team that captured the Conference AA-III title. And even a few of the returnees will be playing new positions.

“We’re the returning conference champions and we’re looking to get back and do that again,” coach Tom Llewellyn said. “We’re very young but we’re talented.”

The bulk of the Lady Bruins’ experience returns in the outfield, as all three starters return including sophomore Alex Burns in center.

An All-County honoree who was also named a National All-American by MaxPreps. com, Burns is the focal point of Baldwin’s offense after tying for the Nassau County lead with 11 home runs and driving in 50 runs in 18 games.

She’ll again be flanked by senior captain Taylor Krucher in left, a four-year starter, and junior Montia Moon, a threeyear starter in right.

The biggest changes for the Lady Bruins come in the infield and in the circle.

Freshman Katelyn Borello gets first crack at taking over as the team’s No. 1 pitcher and has excellent movement on her pitches that prevents batters from making solid contact. Junior Lindsay Partridge, the JV starter last season, is also in the mix

for some innings along with sophomore Yanique Spencer.

Spencer moves from behind the plate to first base with junior Nicole Danyi and freshman Juliet Bernstein taking over the catching duties. Junior Alex Dustan will also see some innings at first, while returning

senior Erin Engelhart and freshman Brianna Salvatore are battling for time at second. Sophomore Caitlen Karl

Jeffrey Dominguez

Schedule BASEBALL March 31 MacArthur

April

Matt Guilfoyle 4 Calhoun

Taylor Krucher

and freshman Lexi Aponte can both play shortstop or third, while Borello could also see some time at the hot corner on days she’s not pitching.

Burns will be protected in the lineup by Spencer, who’s slated to bat cleanup, while Borello is a perfect No. 2 hitter who can help set the table for the heart of the order. Moon moves up to the leadoff spot where Baldwin hopes to take advantage of not only her speed but a keen batting eye.

The Lady Bruins are ranked second behind Mepham in Conference AA-II.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

7 11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

Oceanside Port Wash. @ Port Wash.

Port Wash. @ Herricks Herricks @ Herricks Hicksville @ Hicksville Hicksville

2 3 5 9 10 11

Plainview @ Plainview Plainview @ East Meadow East Meadow @ East Meadow

May

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

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10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 22 South Side 29 @ Long Beach 31 Mepham

April

2 4 6 8 12 15 16 18 20 25 29

@ Hicksville @ V.S. Central Herricks Port Wash. @ Farmingdale @ Oceanside @ Mepham Hicksville V.S. Central @ Herricks @ Port Wash.

3

Farmingdale

May

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

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4:45 p.m.

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7:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

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10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

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April 7, 2016 — 7

2016 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

CAlhoun Colts possess experienced arms Canestro said.

Lusak can run down plenty of balls in centerfield, and senior Billy Solomon will see nchored by three time in left. senior starters in the When it comes to generatpitching rotation — ing runs, the Colts’ lineup each of whom also happens to could get its spark from be a co-captain — Calhoun is almost anyone. Hughes, Backhoping to again make a strong us and Gargiulo are all going push in Nassau County Class to be at or near the top of the AA baseball. Last season, the order. “We have some real Colts advanced to the quarquality [bats],” Canestro said. terfinals and pushed the even- “We can hit doubles, have tual champions, MacArthur, power, we can bunt. I think to a third and deciding game it’s a good mixture. If we can — the only team to do so — stay consistent, we’re going to before coming up short. score some runs.”

The leader of the pitching staff is senior Dylan Hughes, Versatility a luxury a hard-throwing righty with a good breaking ball and for Lady Colts off-speed pitch. Like Hughes, Calhoun may have lost seniors Rob Backus and Jake three players with a comGargiulo, a lefty, can also bined 14 years of varsity throw the same three pitches experience but in 2016, the for strikes with some heat Lady Colts still have one ace on their fastball. Hughes and in their back pocket.

Gargiulo are each entering Senior pitcher Nicole their third varsity campaign. Imhof is back for her fifth “They’ve all had two years of and final varsity campaign varsity experience pitchingafter earning All-County wise,” coach Art Canestro honors in each of her first said. “They’ve learned a lot. four. And surrounding Imhof They know how to spot the in the field is a group of verball and where to put it in cer- satile players, most of whom tain spots.” can play multiple positions.

Additional support “We have five or six girls that on the mound will come have stepped in and said they from a pair of junior leftare willing to [play] wheries — Mike Lusak and Matt ever we need them to,” coach Garber — and senior Peter Jason Boland said.

Conti. Behind the plate, Matt Heading into her senior Pelcher and Ray Pusateri are season, Imhof ’s biggest both angling for playing time. improvement may not be On the days he doesn’t with her arm, but simply tappitch, Gargiulo is the first ping into her wealth of game baseman, while senior Conexperience and knowing what nor Hannon and his brother, to do in any situation. “What Kevin Hannon, will see time I see is game-inside-the-game at second. Hard-working [improvement],” Boland sophomore Jack Pugliano said. “She comes [back to the provides excellent defense at dugout] knowing what works shortstop and swings a solid against certain batters.” bat. Backus and Hughes can After pitching to the same each play third, and dependcatcher since the eighth ing on the opponent Backus grade, Imhof will be working and Gargiulo could move to with a new teammate behind the outfield. “We’re going to the plate — and possibly a few put our best team out there,” of them at that. Sophomore

A

By STEVE SINISKI

8 — April 7, 2016

Kayla Pilotti moves from the outfield to catcher and swings a potent bat in front of the plate. She could split time with freshmen LA Orlich and Heather Nerberich, who has the ability to play all nine positions on the field.

Berberich may also see some innings at pitcher, and eighthgrader Lindsay Roman also has the potential to pitch.

Junior Jordan Walley, a returning All-Division honoree at first is also the cleanup hitter and swings perhaps the team’s most powerful bat. With a new outfield wall, Walley, who also led the team in triples, now has something to target in home games.

Junior Julia Presti takes over at second, while sophomore Christine Argentieri steps in

Jordan Walley

Schedule April

BASEBALL

4 11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

@ Baldwin MacArthur @ MacArthur MacArthur @ G.N. South G.N. South @ G.N. South @ Long Beach Long Beach @ Long Beach

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

2 3 5 9 10 11

V.S. Central @ V.S. Central V.S. Central Mepham @ Mepham Mepham

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Dylan Hughes at shortstop. Senior Ally Reilly came on strong down the stretch last season and will see time at third with Orlich.

Sophomore centerfielder Jennifer Imhof enters her third varsity campaign and returns as the leadoff hitter after batting nearly .400.

Senior Katelin Harrington is expected to see time in left.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March

29 @ Hicksville 31 @ Plainview

April

2 4 6 8 12 14 16 18 20 25 29

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

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

10:00 a.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

3 @ East Meadow 5 @ Syosset

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Photos by Jeff Wilson HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

CArey Seahawks have pieces to fill

A

By ANDREW MccLURE

fter posting an overall 12-9 record in his first as coach of Carey baseball, Mike Farina needs to rebuild his pitching staff and fill numerous positions. The Seahawks will face Sewanhaka, Great Neck North, Jericho, Bellmore JFK, Manhasset, and Garden City in conference play.

Farina is exciting about the upcoming season. “This team is just a great bunch to be around,” Farina said.

“The guys do the right thing on and off the field. We had a solid offseason. We’re athletic, so we’ll have the ability to manufacture runs, but we also have guys with good pop in their bats. We should be in the mix.”

Senior first baseman Anthony Catapano is one of those big bats. The four-year starter is more patient at the plate, and has gotten better at hitting off-speed stuff. Catapano, who is a tremendous defensive player, hit seven home runs as a junior. He’ll also serve as a reliever.

Shortstop Mike Catanese has all the tools at shortstop.

His ability to run, hit for average, and hit for power, will bode well for the Seahawks.

Senior second baseman Kyle Capoziello is a good contact hitter and solid defender.

The Seahawks have a good one in senior Jake Safuto roaming center field. Safuto, who hit four homers as a junior, is dangerous with the bat. Senior Joe Filardo will likely hit fourth. He has good power, excellent speed, and a plus arm in right field.

The makeup of the pitching staff is a work in progress. Timmy Cassese did a nice job as a junior, and his hard work over the winter has paid off. Junior Dan Conte TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

will be in the rotation. Senior C.J. Buchanan had a huge outing against Bellmore JFK, last season. After relieving most of the time as a junior, he should occupy one of the top three spots on the mound.

Senior T.J. Toscano returns behind the plate. Toscano has an excellent arm, and does a great job managing the game.

Farina is expecting Toscano to hit somewhere in the middle of the order.

Lady Seahawks remain top contenders Despite a 21-4 record, Carey comes off a season that saw it finish a victory short of a second consecutive county softball title.

With numerous key players returning, expect Carey to be right in the mix for the Class A championship when June comes around. Defending champion Clarke will again be one of the teams to beat.

“Honestly, anything less than a return trip to the county finals would be a disappointment,” coach Anthony Turco said. “We’re going to be aggressive, and I think we’ll hit for more power than we did a year ago.

We’re ready to get going. The girls are looking forward to the challenge.”

Southpaw pitcher Rebecca Vilchez will carry the load in the circle for the Seahawks.

Vilchez, who has better velocity and movement on her pitches, relies on hitting spots.

At the plate, she is one of the county’s most feared hitters.

Vilchez hits for average and has tremendous power.

At the top of the order, the Seahawks return a one-two punch like none other. Junior shortstop Brianna Pinto and senior second baseman Amanda Ulzheimer are a pair of fleet-footed players with the ability to play small ball

and hit for power. When they’re on base, which is often, they wreak havoc on opponents.

Junior catcher/outfielder Megan McCormack will occupy one of the spots in the middle of the batting order. Junior Jaclyn Rodriguez is a great defender at the hot corner. She’ll also see time behind the plate. Senior Maria Porcasi will play third when Rodriguez catches.

First baseman Sam Romanello, a three-year starter, has tremendous power and an excellent glove. Fellow senior Alexandria Davis will man right field. Davis is another power threat in the middle of the order.

Junior Olivia Krevatas and versatile senior Faith Spano will both fill outfield posi-

Anthony Catapano

Schedule

BASEBALL March 28 @ Sewanhaka 29 Sewanhaka 31 @ Sewanhaka

11:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

G.N. North @ G.N. North G.N. North @ Jericho Jericho @ Jericho Manhasset @ Manhasset Manhasset

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

2 3 5 9 10 11

Kennedy @ Kennedy Kennedy @ Garden City Garden City @ Garden City

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

April Matt GuiLfoyLe

Rebecca Vilchez tions. Sophomore Madeline Lafferty will also be in the mix for outfield time. Junior Emily Agate, and sophomores Frankie Cirone and Marissa Nicoletti will all contribute.

A pair of freshman pitchers, Jaclyn Schemmer and Julia Riccobono, are part of the present and future of Carey softball.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

May

SOFTBALL March

22 Plainview 30 Clarke

April 1 5 7 9 11 15 19 20 26

@ Seaford @ Bethpage Division Plainedge @ Island Trees @ Clarke Seaford Bethpage @ Division

May

2 Island Trees

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

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4:30 p.m.

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4:30 p.m.

Photos by Victoria Lodi

April 7, 2016 — 11

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Clarke Rams set the bar high again

C

By STEVE SINISKI

larke’s eager to get back on the baseball diamond, where it’s enjoyed a lengthy run of success that spans nearly two decades.

The Rams, who’ve won 17 regular-season conference titles (in coach Tom Abruscato’s 18 seasons), as well as five Nassau County championships and three Long Island titles during the span, welcome back four starters to the lineup and a pair of hurlers in the rotation.

Junior EJ Cumbo earned All-County honors last season after batting a robust .392 and striking out just twice in 96 plate appearances. The speedy leadoff hitter also has some power in his bat and kickstarts a lineup that also includes senior Brendan Hanrahan in the No. 3 spot and senior Kyle Pitone as the cleanup hitter.

Hanrahan hit .363 and can play both shortstop and third, while Pitone will pitch and can also play first.

Seniors Sean Fitch and Robbie Callaghan and junior Kemel Deljanin are virtually interchangeable at second base and shortstop and they can all also play third. Cumbo will be joined in the outfield by senior Brandon Garcia, who moves out from behind the plate, junior Corey Rosenbloom and senior Rob Ciorciari.

“They all get it,” Abruscato said of the continuing the program’s lengthy winning tradition. “They take pride in it. They’re working hard just like everyone before them.

“Everyone’s on the same page whether they start or not, and they’re all in for the ultimate goal.”

The rotation will be led by junior lefty Matt Boyko, who stands 6-foot-3 and brings 12 — April 7, 2016

some heat with a fastball in the mid-80s. With flawless mechanics and plenty of upside riding on his arm, Boyko is already able to throw four pitches. Pitone is slotted as the No. 2 pitcher in the rotation after posting a 3-0 mark as a spot starter last season. Several players were battling in spring camp for the final spot in the rotation, including Deljanin, Ciorciari and Rosenbloom. The hurlers will be throwing to senior James Meehan and sophomore Josh Dawson behind the plate.

Lady Rams seek to defend crowns

Clarke’s first season under coach Rachel Barry was a memorable one to say the least.

The Lady Rams captured the Nassau County Class A championship, won the Long Island title and advanced all the way to the New York State finals before falling short in extra innings. What will they do for an encore this spring?

With seven returning starters, including senior FirstTeam All-State pitcher Sarah Cornell, the sky remains the limit. “They know what they want and they know what to expect,” Barry said.

The power-pitching Cornell brings an improved changeup to the circle and has also tweaked her delivery this spring. She’ll have a new batterymate in senior Brooke Scherer, a converted first baseman who was listed as the backup catcher the last two seasons. A flawless defender at first last season with a perfect fielding percentage, Scherer, a co-captain along with Cornell, has already taken well to the position change.

Clarke has a pair of sophomores set to take over at the corners with Alexandra Koustagiannis stepping in

at first and Erin Connolly, a quiet workhorse, taking over at third.

The Lady Rams remain strong up the middle with senior Holly Romeo back at second and junior Kirsten Cox returning at short. The outfield returns just as much experience as the infield with juniors Victoria Sferrazza (left field), Sabrina Caputo (center) and Emily Widmaier (right) all tracking down fly balls.

The lineup has plenty of pop with Cornell, Scherer and Caputo providing big bats in the heart of the order.

Romeo and Sferrazza are also expected to drive the

Brooke Scherer

Schedule

BASEBALL March 28 Seaford 29 @ Seaford 31 Seaford

April

4 @ Island Trees 5 Island Trees 7 @ Island Trees Matt Guilfoyle 18 Mineola 19 @ Mineola 21 Mineola 25 @ Friends Aca. 26 Friends Aca. 28 @ Friends Aca.

Kyle Pitone ball, but don’t expect the Lady Rams to simply sit back and wait for the home run. Cox has plenty of speed at the top of the order, and Widmaier is a candidate to move up as a tablesetter as well. While her strong arm already helps cut off runs in the outfield, Widmaier’s feet can help create some on the basepaths. “Having the speed of Kristen and Emily is probably going to get [the order] going around,” Barry said.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

May

2 3 5 9 10 11

@ Locust Valley Locust Valley @ Locust Valley C.S. Harbor @ C.S. Harbor C.S. Harbor

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SOFTBALL March 30 @ Carey

April 1 7 9 11 13 15 19 26 30

@ Island Trees Plainedge @ Division Seaford Bethpage Carey Island Trees @ Plainedge Division

May

2 @ Seaford 4 @ Bethpage

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 13

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

EASt MEAdow Talented veterans lead Jets is back at the hot corner, and like Mascia and D’Onofrio, has plenty of pop in his bat.

In senior Paul Miano and nchored by a pair of junior Kyle Leibel, the Jets All-County returnees have a pair of fleet-footed outat first and third base, fielders who can track down and a talented nucleus of vet- balls and also use their speed eran players, East Meadow hit to get on base. Senior Frank the field running during the Ippolito, a three-year varsity early days of spring baseball player, is also back in the outpractice. field and can play first base “The first two days of camp on days Mascia may pitch. we were outside more than the first three weeks last seaLady Jets have son,” coach John Marciante pieces in place said, noting the warm, dry weather early on. “From day East Meadow fans sure one the field was game ready, got their money’s worth and there are some things you watching the Lady Jets on the can’t simulate in a gym.” softball field last season. The The pitching staff is team was routinely involved anchored by senior Joe Minuc- in one-run games, even in ci, the team’s most experithe playoffs where they won enced pitcher who won a play- an improbable first-round off game last season. “He’s our matchup with Baldwin in the big-game guy,” Marciante said bottom of the seventh and of Minucci, who’s fastball tops then lost in the second round out in the mid-80s. in another nail-biter. “That Senior lefty Ryan Wallstedt was my most exciting seaposted a 1.12 earned run aver- son,” coach Stew Fritz said. age as a reliever and now slots “It was a crazy season, and it in behind Minucci in the rota- was all fun.” tion. Crafty with a variety of Senior Kelsey Leonard pitches in his arsenal, Wallst- returns to the circle with edt pitched into the seventh a few extra miles per hour inning in the quarterfinals of on her fastball, and she’ll last season’s playoffs. Senior get help from sophomore Matt Mascia, a returning All- Christina Loeffler, who was County honoree at first base lights out in relief during and an anchor in the middle last year’s first-round playoff of the team’s lineup, is comvictory, striking out four peting for time as the No. 3 straight batters during one starter along with senior lefty stretch. Sophomore Sara Matthew Gold and senior Polansky enters her first Connor Trebendis. varsity campaign behind the Behind the plate, the Jets plate and already excels on return senior Joe Gangi, a the defensive side. gritty, hard-nosed catcher At third, East Meadow whose toughness and abilboasts one of Long Island’s ity to block balls in the dirt top players, All-County senior are big assets for a staff that Crista SanAntonio, a team relies heavily on cutters. captain who hit five homers Junior Justin Reyes shores last season, including two in up the defense at second and the playoffs. Senior co-captain teams up with junior Sal Jess Laird, an Honorable D’Onofrio, the shortstop, in Mention All-County at second turning double plays. Senior base, also returns with senior Zach Fritz, East Meadow’s Gianna Azzato shoring up other All-County returnee, the other half of the middle

A

By STEVE SINISKI

14 — April 7, 2016

infield at short. A complete package on offense and defense, it was Azzato’s big bat that did damage in the playoff win over the Lady Bruins, as she blasted a pair of homers.

Sophomore Emily Shurina started almost every game as a freshman in the outfield but has moved over to first base, where she’s already showing flashes of having a strong glove on defense. Junior lefty Jessica Marsala, an All-Conference honoree, takes her blazing speed and strong arm from shortstop to centerfield.

Senior Kelli Hosey started

Matt Mascia

Schedule April

BASEBALL

11 @ Plainview 12 Plainview 14 @ Plainview Matt Guilfoyle 18 @ Hicksville 19 Hicksville 21 @ Hicksville 25 Port Wash.

26 @ Port Wash.

28 Port Wash.

May

Crista SanAntonio in the New York State finals two seasons ago and will see competition from juniors Alex Cunha and Mary Wagner and sophomore Samantha Reyes. Jenna Laird, an eighthgrader, has plenty of speed on the bases and the versatility to play any position on the infield. Junior Caitlyn Aurrichio and junior Nicole Kain are also expected to see time on the infield.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

2 3 5 9 10 11

Herricks @ Herricks Herricks Baldwin @ Baldwin Baldwin

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SOFTBALL March 29 @ Carey 31 @ Long Beach

April

2 4 6 8 12 14 16 18 20 25 29

@ Plainview Oceanside Massapequa Syosset @ Calhoun MacArthur Long Beach Plainview @ Oceanside @ Massapequa @ Syosset

May

3 Calhoun 5 @ MacArthur

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 15

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

EaSt Rockaway Rocks hope to flip close results

E

By ANDREW MccLURE

ast Rockaway had an up and down 2015 on the baseball diamond, but lost five games by a single run.

The Rocks will compete in Conference BC where they’ll face Oyster Bay, Carle Place, Malverne, and Wheatley three times each. The team will crossover with the six teams comprising the Countywide league.

Coach James Hickey hopes senior leadership will carry his team. “We’re a little more experienced than we were a year ago,” Hickey said. “The schedule is a little different from what it has been in the past. This strong senior class should allow us to be pretty competitive.”

Ryan Kelly, an All-County selection as a junior, has terrific baseball IQ. Kelly is a smart hitter who always has a plan when he comes to the plate.

The sure-handed senior will play shortstop when he’s not on the mound. Kelly has a terrific curveball and has increased the velocity on his fastball.

Senior Mike Delgais will take the ball after Kelly each week. Delgais’s out pitch is a two-seam fastball that has late movement. He’ll played both shortstop and third base.

Delgais is the fastest player on the team, so when he’s on base, he makes things happen.

Senior Nick Ippolito, the starting first baseman, is a solid hitter with a good approach at the plat. Ippolito will likely be the No. 3 starter.

Versatile junior Justin Schmidt can play every position and will likely see time on the mound.

Jacob Barth will handle catching duties. Barth missed considerable time as a junior due to injury. He figures to bat fifth or sixth. Hickey likes 16 — April 7, 2016

what he gets out of hard-working second baseman Luis Umana, who always seems to make the most of his opportunities.

Junior center fielder Chris Deptulski is a strong hitter who rarely has a bad at-bat.

Deptulski will hit out of one of the top two spots in the order. Senior Mike Acampora is a versatile player with a good bat.

Eric Graves will see time in left field, with fellow senior Jorge Hazim providing depth at multiple positions.

and batting average as a junior, earned All-County honors. Juniors Michelle Sheridan and Jessica Loyer figure to occupy the corner outfield positions. Senior Jen Weinrib will also see time in the outfield.

Junior Corinne Haab (8-3) and freshman Emily Chelius (10-2) return in the circle for East Rockaway.

Haab has improved her con-

Erica Acampora

Schedule

BASEBALL March

Lady Rocks off 20-win season The defending Nassau County Class B softball champions return everyone from a team that finished in 20-5 in 2015. The Rocks will take a big step up in terms of competition as they move to Conference ABC-II, a league composed of Floral Park, Garden City, Bellmore JFK, Glen Cove, New Hyde Park, Oyster Bay, and Mineola.

Coach Joe Lores hopes his girls are prepared for what figures to be a tough schedule. “There are no easy ones,” Lores said. “The biggest difference is adjusting to the tougher pitching we’re going to face each game. Last season, we were overmatched by pitching in the Long Island championship game. This year, the regular season will be very challenging, but we will be better prepared for the playoffs.”

Centerfielder Erica Acampora returns in the middle of the order. Acampora, who led the team in home runs, RBI,

field and has improved her ability with the bat. Senior Sydney O’Connor has the inside track at first base, while sophomore Sarah Donnelly will man the hot corner, and also see time at first. O’Connor and Donnelly each have power at the plate.

28 Lawrence 11:00 a.m.

29 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

31 Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

April

Ryan Kelly trol, and Chelius has added a change and a rise ball to her arsenal. When she’s not pitching, Chelius will see time at second, third or in the outfield. Haab, who hit .400 in the playoffs, will see time at second base and in the outfield.

Senior catcher Marisa Felbinger will again hit leadoff. Felbinger led the team in runs scored as a junior. Senior captain Caitlin O’Mara returns at shortstop.

The four-year varsity starter is a terrific hitter. Both Felbinger and O’Mara earned All-Conference recognition.

Junior second baseman Diana Locoteta is solid in the

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 18 19 21 25 26 28

@ Westbury Elmont @ Roosevelt @ Malverne Malverne @ Malverne Oyster Bay @ Oyster Bay Oyster Bay

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@ Carle Place Carle Place @ Carle Place Wheatley @ Wheatley Wheatley

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May

SOFTBALL March 26 V.S. South 29 V.S. Central 30 @ Oyster Bay

April 4 5 7 9 11 13 15 19 21 26 30

10:00 a.m.

4:15 p.m.

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@ Floral Park 4:30 p.m.

Mineola 4:30 p.m. @ New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m.

Kennedy 10:00 a.m.

Garden City 4:30 p.m.

Glen Cove 4:15 p.m.

Oyster Bay 4:30 p.m.

Floral Park 4:30 p.m. @ Mineola 4:30 p.m.

New Hyde Park 10:30 a.m. @ Kennedy 10:00 a.m.

May

2 @ Garden City 4 @ Glen Cove

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 17

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Elmont Spartans optimistic for winning year

I

By ANDREW MccLURE

t was a bit of a roller coaster ride for Elmont baseball in 2015. The Spartans had a four-game winning streak early in the year, but closed out the season with five straight losses.

With many players back from a team that finished 8-10, Elmont should fight for the top spot in a league that comprises West Hempstead, Roosevelt, Westbury, Lawrence, and Hempstead.

Coach Ed McCormack is optimistic. “We lost a couple of key players, but the young guys who are returning have a year under their belts,” he said. “We were very inexperienced last season. We have a nice young core, and a few veteran leaders who should allow us to improve upon what we did last year.”

Steven Girdhari, who authored a no-hitter in a win over Hempstead in 2015, takes over as ace of the pitching staff. Girdhari features a fastball, change, and curve, and is working on a splitter. When he’s not pitching, Girdhari is the prototypical shortstop.

Expect him to hit third and be a run producer.

Sophomore southpaw Will Cook has improved his velocity and mixes it up well on the mound. He will play first base on days he’s not on the mound. Cook is the fastest player on the team. He will bat either first or second in the order.

Junior center fielder Aaron Ruthman has tremendous speed. He will form a great tandem with Cook at the top of the order. Ruthman led the Spartans in stolen bases as a sophomore. Sophomore Mohammad Arif will play left field. Both Ruthman and Arif will get starts on the mound.

18 — April 7, 2016

The pride of the Spartans is senior captain Eddy Peguero, a three-year starter.

Peguero is solid behind the plate and leads by example.

He’s a contact hitter who runs the bases very well.

Senior Gideon Bernal and junior Chris Gomez are both looking for time at second base. Junior third baseman Jacob Rodriguez handles the bat well and is strong in the field. He’ll move to short when Girdhari pitches.

Senior Sam Harris and junior Jaydel Richardson will both get time in the outfield.

Lady Spartans bank on experience The Elmont girls didn’t get a slew of wins in 2015, but just about everyone returns, including a few highly athletic players.

The Lady Spartans will undoubtedly be improved, and should be very competitive in a Conference ABC-V, a league made up of Lawrence, Friends Academy, Malverne, North Shore, and Roosevelt.

Coach John Squillace believes his team will be tough on opponents. “We were extremely young last season, so there were times when we struggled,” Squillace said. “We have some experience now, and I have high hopes. With our speed and athleticism, we should be able to play some small ball, manufacture runs, and hopefully play with a lead.”

Senior captain Amy Vidal, a four-year starter at catcher, is Elmont’s rock. She blocks the ball well, has a strong throwing arm, and does a nice job managing the game.

She will bat fourth for the Spartans, who hope to get terrific production from their table setters.

Shortstop Akemi Shard and left fielder Gigi Faison

are a pair of fleet-footed freshmen who should he a handful for opponents from the top of Elmont’s order. Shard is a terrific contact hitter with a knock for reaching base. Both Shard and Faison make up for their size with athleticism and speed.

Junior pitcher Kiara Holland has improved in the circle. Holland won’t overpower hitters, but she pounds the zone and allows her defense to do the work. Like Shard and Faison, she has speed on the base paths.

Second baseman Naomi Thomas led the team in home runs in 2015. She will hit in the middle of the order.

Thomas has an excellent

Steven Girdhari

Schedule

BASEBALL March 28 @ Oyster Bay 29 Malverne 31 @ Wheatley

April Matt Guilfoyle

Amy Vidal glove in the middle infield.

Junior Nyah Breleur will start at third base, but is hardnosed and willing to play anywhere.

Sure-handed junior Kristina Sanos saves her fielders numerous errors with her fine play at first base. Brianne Faison is athletic, has a little pop in her bat, and can get after it in center field. Juniors Tahisha Jocelyn and Ilianna Ayala are both vying for time in the outfield.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 11 12 18 19 25 26

C.S. Harbor @ East Rockaway Carle Place Hempstead @ Hempstead Roosevelt @ Roosevelt @ Lawrence Lawrence

2 3 9 10

West Hempstead @ West Hempstead @ Westbury Westbury

May

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SOFTBALL March 23 Friends Aca. 30 Friends Aca.

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April 1 5 7 9 1 1 13 15 19 21 30

Malverne North Shore @ Lawrence @ Roosevelt @ Friends Aca. @ Malverne @ North Shore Lawrence Roosevelt Malverne

May

2 North Shore 4 @ Lawrence 5 @ Roosevelt

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 19

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball preview

Freeport Red Devils excited about home in Conference AA-1. The top enrollment league in Nassau County also includes Farmingdale, Massapequa, Oceansreeport’s baseball team ide, Syosset and Uniondale.

“We are in the toughest is starting off the 2016 division on Long Island in season on a winning note with a new and improved my opinion,” said Delgado. “I believe we will be competitive home. and make some noise.”

Fifth-year head coach Delgado said entering the Roberto Delgado spearheaded season he is impressed by his efforts to enhance the Red team’s devotion in practice Devils’ field at Cleveland and striving to improve. He Elementary School with new hopes the hard work pays off bleachers, fence, dugouts and for his players and translates a bullpen area. The Freeport to victories.

School District provided “We have a strong team the materials and Delgado arranged for his construction that is very committed,” he company to install everything. said. “They are working very, very hard.”

“We now have a very nice field,” said Delgado, a High hopes Dominican Republic native who played five years of for Lady Devils professional baseball in the Freeport softball has playSan Francisco Giants minor off aspirations this spring, league system. “It’s going to but will have little margin for be very nice.” error to reach this goal.

Delgado hopes the The Lady Red Devils comenhanced facility leads to pete in a winnable Confervictories for his veteran team. ence AA-III with Hempstead, The Red Devils’ senior-laden Uniondale, Westbury and roster is led by first baseman Great Neck South. In order Justin Lake and catcher/third to reach the postseason, baseman Anthony Diaz.

Freeport will need to win the “They taken leadership,” league and can only afford said Delgado of Lake and one loss in the process due Diaz. “They lead by example.” to playing in the lowest rated AA division.

Leading Freeport’s pitch“It makes it very difficult,” ing staff is seniors Erick said fourth-year head coach Fragoso, Rafael Tavares and Danielle Sekesan. “It can get Franklin Gonzalez. Lake also frustrating.” takes the mound as a relief Freeport brings back pitcher. “They bring a lot of experience to the mound,” Del- plenty of young talent from gado said of his pitching staff. last year’s 9-8 team led by sophomore third baseman Freeport also brings back Daelyn Ross, who earned Allexperience in the middle County honorable mention infield with junior Argenis accolades as a freshman. Ross Henriquez and sophomore led the team in home runs Breylin Marene, who can both play shortstop or second last season and will hit in the cleanup spot. She can also base. Third base will likely occupied by Diaz or Anthony pitch if needed.

Lamar. Diaz and Lamar are “She’s a huge leader on the versatile and can also step in team,” Sekesan said of Ross. at catcher if needed.

“She has some muscle behind Delgado has high hopes her.” for this season, but knows it Junior shortstop Darielys will be a challenge competing Veras also has some pop in

F

By ANDREW COEN

20 — April 7, 2016

her bat and hit two runs last season. Sekesan has been impressed with Veras’ work effort leading into this spring.

“She doesn’t look like a power hitter, but when she makes contact the ball goes flying,” Sekesan said. “She is passionate and dedicated.”

Junior second baseman Kimberly Serna is also expected to be key component of team. She hit two home runs in a 15-2 win against Elmont last season.

Who will start on the mound was unknown early in preseason, but Sekesan said she has a few field players with sold arms capable of pitching.

Freshman catcher Isabel Reyes will lead Freeport’s

Daelyn Ross

Schedule BASEBALL April 7 11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

@ Port Wash. @ Farmingdale Farmingdale @ Farmingdale @ Massapequa Massapequa @ Massapequa Syosset @ Syosset Syosset

2 3 5 9 10 11

Oceanside @ Oceanside Oceanside Uniondale @ Uniondale Uniondale

May

Justin Lake pitchers behind the plate.

Despite the pitching uncertainty, Sekesan is confident about Freeport’s defense. She has been pleased with the hard work many of players have put in and hopes that pays dividends once they get onto the field for key conference games.

“They are probably the most hard working kids I’ve had in a long time,” said Sekesan, a former softball standout Hicksville. “They work their butts off.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

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SOFTBALL March 31 @ Hempstead

April 2 4 8 12 14 16 20 25 29

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Uniondale @ G.N. South Westbury Hempstead @ Uniondale G.N. South @ Westbury @ Hempstead Uniondale

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2 @ G.N. South 3 @ Port Wash.

5 Westbury

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May

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 21

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

HewleTT Deep lineup to lead Bulldogs

T

By TONy BELLISSIMO

he Bulldogs are eager to put an injury riddled 2015 season in the rearview mirror and make a push for the Nassau Class A baseball playoffs despite a Conference A-II schedule that became more challenging with the addition of Wantagh.

“We didn’t have a good year at all, but it’s out of our heads,” Hewlett coach Andy DeBernardo said. “As difficult as the conference is, I honestly feel we have a chance to make the playoffs. We’ve got a deep lineup and some talent on the mound.”

Having a healthy Aaron Kadosh to help lead the starting rotation would go a long way in the Bulldogs reaching their goal. “He’s had bad luck with injuries the past two years, but nothing with his arm and he can be a hardthrowing workhorse,” DeBernardo said. “We’re looking for him to stay healthy and have a big year.”

Kadosh, a shortstop on non-pitching days, will throw the first or second game of every series. DeBernardo said he’d like to see senior Andrew Genovese get more support than last spring when his ERA was below 3.00 but he notched only two wins.

“Andrew gives 110 percent every outing,” the coach said of the team’s centerfielder.

Junior southpaw TJ Lantigua was a regular in the rotation last year and has the inside track to return in the same role. “TJ has good off-speed stuff and gives us a lefty to go with the two righties,” said DeBernardo, who will count on sophomore Matt Kim to log innings as well.

Junior Harry Fink and sophomore Chris Rodriguez give the Bulldogs a pair of quality catchers. Fink has 22 — April 7, 2016

a strong arm and bat, while Rodriguez, an All-Conference selection, can play almost anywhere.

When power-hitting corner infielder Mike Curiel went down with a hamstring injury midway through last season, Hewlett was unable to make up for the lost production.

“He can mash,” DeBernardo said. Seniors Josh Pincus and Maui Mawhinney, and junior Jesse Metz, can hit and contribute at more than one position.

Young Lady Bulldogs face challenges Coming off a 10-win season, barely missing the Nassau Class A softball playoffs, the Lady Bulldogs will have their work cut out this spring with a younger roster and more challenging schedule.

“I think we’ll be solid defensively,” coach Vinnie Lospinuso said. “If our hitting comes around, I think we’ll surprise some teams.

With such a young team, I’m looking to finish .500.”

Returning starting pitcher Ricki Sperry is one of three seniors on the roster. She won six decisions a year ago and has added zip on the fastball. “She works both sides of the plate and has experience,” Lospinuso said of Sperry, who is backed up by sophomore Mai Menashe.

“She also handles the ball well and she’ll hit second again,” he added.

Sophomore catcher Lauren Dori was Hewlett’s leading hitter in 2015 with a .345 average and also threw out nine baserunners. “She’s smart behind the plate and hits line drives,” Lospinuso said of the All-Class selection.

The offense got an unexpected boost last season from sophomore Harper Manus, who started at third base and quickly moved up the lineup

and finished with six homers and 17 RBIs. She homered in her first varsity at-bat and hit .305 on the campaign.

Junior Dana Feldman is a smooth fielding shortstop who turns the lineup over as the No. 9 hitter. She batted .275 last spring. At second base, seventh-grader Valerie Liao-Greene has all the tools and brings travel ball experience. She could hit at the top of the lineup. Junior Julia Bromley moves from the outfield to first base where her height provides a nice target.

The outfield has depth and potential. Junior Hannah Prusack (center) led the Lady Bulldogs at the plate over the second half of last season with a .345 clip, and returning starter Jessica Sil-

Aaron Kadosh

Schedule BASEBALL

April

Matt Guilfoyle 4 Wantagh 5 7 11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

4:30 p.m. @ Wantagh 4:30 p.m.

Wantagh 4:30 p.m. @ New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m.

New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m. @ New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m.

Roslyn 4:30 p.m. @ Roslyn 4:30 p.m.

Roslyn 4:30 p.m. @ Plainedge 10:30 a.m.

Plainedge 10:30 a.m. @ Plainedge 10:30 a.m.

2 3 5 9 10 11

@ South Side South Side @ South Side Division @ Division Division

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

31 @ G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

May

Lauren Dori berger, another junior, moves from right to left. Eighthgrader Emma Blumenstein is expected to take over in right, with seniors Carly Fisher and Gillian Goldminz, as well as junior Rebbeca Cresto also in the mix.

Hewlett competes in Conference ABC-IV with Locust Valley, Cold Spring Harbor, Sewanhaka, Roslyn, West Hempstead, Lynbrook and Great Neck North.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March

April 2 4 6 8 12 14 16 18 20 25 29

Lynbrook @ Locust Valley Roslyn @ Sewanhaka @ West Hempstead @ C.S. Harbor @ G.N. North @ Lynbrook Locust Valley @ Roslyn Sewanhaka

May

3 West Hempstead 5 C.S. Harbor

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

2016

Nassau CouNty softball CoNfereNCes

ConferenCe AA-I

1. MacArthur 2. Oceanside 3. Massapequa 4. Syosset 5. Long Beach 6. East Meadow 7. Calhoun 8. Plainview-JFK

ConferenCe AA-II

1. Mepham 2. Baldwin 3. Farmingdale 4. Hicksville 5. Port Washington 6. Valley Stream Central 7. Herricks

ConferenCe AA-III

1. Freeport 2. Great Neck South 3. Uniondale 4. Hempstead 5. Westbury

ConferenCe ABC-I

1. Clarke 2. Carey 3. Island Trees 4. Seaford 5. Plainedge 6. Bethpage 7. Division

ConferenCe ABC-II

1. Bellmore-JFK 2. New Hyde Park 3. Mineola 4. Glen Cove 5. Floral Park 6. Garden City 7. East Rockaway 8. Oyster Bay

ConferenCe ABC-III

1. Wheatley 2. Valley Stream North 3. Jericho 4. Wantagh 5. Valley Stream South 6. South Side 7. Manhasset 8. Carle Place

ConferenCe AB-IV

1. Locust Valley 2. Cold Spring Harbor 3. Sewanhaka 4. Roslyn 5. West Hempstead 6. Lynbrook 7. Great Neck North 8. Hewlett

ConferenCe AB-V

1. North Shore 2. Malverne 3. Lawrence 4. Friends Academy 5. Elmont 6. Roosevelt

Nicole Imhof Calhoun High School Photo by Jeff Wilson

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 23

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Kennedy Senior experience to lead Cougars outstanding assets. On days he isn’t pitching, Schwartz could play first base with power-hitting senior George ennedy’s established Savas and junior Brandon itself as an annual Basile also in the mix. Couls competitor on the diais also a defensive whiz at mond in Nassau County Class second, while senior Greg A baseball over the last sevGoeller returns at short. eral seasons, winning at least Third base will be manned a share of three out of the last by the combination of senior five regular season conferPeter Cuttitta and junior Vinence titles and also making cent Padone. some deep playoff runs at the Senior Tyler Griffith will end of the season. track down fly balls in left, Heading into this Spring, next to senior centerfielder the Cougars have put together Nick Lisi. Bruno will see time a deep pitching staff that in right with senior Zach Hilstands to keep them in the lel also has potential to see Nassau County mix of top time in the outfield. teams.

Lady Cougars boast “The guys are pretty motiplenty of talent vated,” coach Eric Passman said. “It’s a senior-laden team As Kennedy’s new coach, so they’ve been through a Cheryl Feldman, and her lot.” assistant, Erika Nogan, take Senior Michael Schwartz the reins for the softball prois back on the mound after gram, the talent on the roster injuries relegated him only to jumps off the page and the positional duties last season. field as well.

A hard-throwing lefty with “They all play in outside a fastball topping out near leagues,” Feldman said. “The 90 miles per hour, Schwartz first day was very impressive. was undefeated and earned They look like they can do All-County honors as a everything.” sophomore. He’ll be joined in The Lady Cougars are led the rotation by junior Jason in the circle by senior SidCouls, who throws nearly as ney Yormack, a fourth-year hard, and senior Eric Gossart, pitcher, and sophomore Daniwho had a strong finish as a elle Polirer, a second-year sophomore in the playoffs. varsity pitcher who excelled Complicating matters for in spot duty last season. Yoropposing hitters will be the mack struck out 82 batters back end of the pitching staff, in 87 and 1/3 innings with a which includes senior closer healthy 3.12 earned run averJonah Zeitland and junior age and just 19 walks. VersaFrankie Bruno. Senior Brett tile in the circle, Yormack has Pizzamenti is also expected to some speed on her fastball but have a key role on the mound. also throws a highly effective “If we get a lead in the drop, changeup and riser. fifth inning we feel confiPolirer, meanwhile, brings dent [Jonah] can close it,” more power in her arm and Passman said. “He’s more allowed just 13 hits and five comfortable as a closer. He walks with 21 strikeouts in 15 has good stuff and throws innings of work. strikes.”

Senior Samantha Berger Senior Reid Oreste is back returns behind the plate after for his fourth season as the hitting .455 with an on-base starting catcher where his percentage of .510, and sophodefense and leadership are more Amanda Malandrucco-

K

By STEVE SINISKI

24 — April 7, 2016

lo, a strong-armed defender with a knack for blocking pitches in the dirt is also in the mix for playing time.

The two pitchers, as well as sophomore Jesse Condello, will see time at first base with senior Samantha Klein and sophomore Sarah Porcellini are vying for time at second.

Shoring up the middle of the infield at shortstop is senior Samantha Simon, who was hitting .500 before suffering a seasonending injury in last spring, and sophomore Kaitlyn Judd. At third base, sophomore Azaria Vargas, a .400 hitter with a strong glove is back.

Cora Traviglione

Schedule

BASEBALL March 31 G.N. North

28 G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4 5 7 11 12 14 18 19 21

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

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 3 5 9 10 11

@ Carey Carey @ Carey Sewanhaka @ Sewanhaka Sewanhaka

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

29 @ G.N. North Matt Guilfoyle

April

Reid Oreste Senior Cora Travaglione returns in centerfield where her speed, glove and arm may only be trumped by the power in her bat. Travaglione blasted seven homers as a junior. Junior Brianna Gomez and sophomore Jillian Chirico are part of the outfield mix. “She’s a girl that’s got everything,” Feldman said of Travaglione. “She’s got speed, she can hit, she’s great in the outfield, she has a good attitude and is a good team leader.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

May

SOFTBALL March

30 @ New Hyde Park

April 1 5 7 9 11 13 15 19 21 26 30

@ Mineola Oyster Bay Floral Park @ East Rockaway Glen Cove @ Garden City New Hyde Park Mineola @ Oyster Bay @ Floral Park East Rockaway

May

2 @ Glen Cove 4 Garden City

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 25

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

LAwrence Fresh start for Golden Tornadoes enough to make baserunners think twice. “Joe’s a mainstay,” Leonard said.

Junior Brandon Goris year after carrying 18 starts at third base and is on the varsity roster the team’s best contact hitwhile being unable ter, making him a good fit to field a JV program, Lawin the lineup behind Duran. rence’s baseball numbers are Sophomore lefty first baseon the rise as it moves into man Derek Canales will get the Countywide ‘developmen- a long look in the No. 3 spot, tal’ league. while senior Chase Doyle and Through the first two junior Eric Morales compete weeks of camp, coach Dennis at second base.

Leonard had 17 varsity playAmong the outfield candiers and 18 on a revived JV. dates are senior newcomers “We’ve done a pretty good job Frank Tortorici and Harris of persevering,” Leonard said. Deljanin, and sophomore “Being in the Countywide Aaron Jackson. league provides the opportunity for guys to stick around.

I expect us to be in the middle Lady Tornadoes’ to the top of the pack.” call to arms The Golden Tornadoes, For the first time in five who won three games in 2015, years, Lawrence softball will are mainly comprised of have someone other than seniors and sophomores. “We Emily DiNardi delivering the have little varsity experience majority of pitches. The Lady with the arms,” Leonard said. Golden Tornadoes come off a Of the returning pitchers, five-win campaign and coach sophomore Carlos Duran Tom Frawley is planning to logged the most innings a rotate four different arms in year ago. With a strong arm the circle. that’s put to good use from the “We’re coming along,” shortstop position two games Frawley said. “We’re going a week, Duran throws a fastto combine the pitchers. ball, curve and change-up.

We’re asking each of them to He’ll also hit in the leadoff give us the innings they can. spot, Leonard said. SophoWe’re not putting the burden more Josh Ramirez is popon one shoulder. We could ping the catcher’s mitt with use two, three or even four his fastball and also has pop pitchers in a game.” in his bat. He’ll play outfield The only two seniors on non-pitching days. on the roster — Gabby Jan The X-factor in the rotaand Natalie Kenny — and tion is senior Chris Rincon, sophomores Stacy Portillo who was slowed by a knee and Olivia Levi will comprise injury last spring. Rincon the staff. Jan is likely to catch will hit fourth and contribute on non-pitching days, while at shortstop and first base.

Kenny’s bat will be a constant Senior Vinny Amoroso is in the lineup as the desiganother potential starter nated hitter. Portillo and Levi, on the mound and is always who represent the future at around the plate, Leonard the position, shared the JV said. He’s a contact hitter and workload in 2015. a corner outfielder.

It could be an all-junior Behind the plate is Vinny’s infield for Lawrence, which younger brother, sophomore competes in Conference Joe Amoroso, who blocks well ABC-V along with North and possesses an arm strong Shore, Malverne, Friends

A

By TONy BELLISSIMO

26 — April 7, 2016

Academy, Elmont and Roosevelt. Junior Graciela Cruz is a shortstop/outfielder who’s been a key part of the school’s volleyball program.

“Her instincts are excellent,” Frawley said. “She’s a good fielder and a powerful hitter.”

Another volleyball recruit, Kiara Stephens, takes over first base duties after playing elsewhere last season. “She has good hand-eye coordination, hits and runs well,” Junior Kayla Notarnicola moves from the outfield to second base. She’s a threesport athlete who’ll set the table for the offense from the leadoff spot. “She’s quick and can steal a lot of bases,” Frawley said of the third-year varsity performer.

Lawrence’s most versa-

Chris Rincon

Schedule

BASEBALL March 28 @ East Rockaway

29 Carle Place Matt Guilfoyle 31 @ Oyster Bay

11:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

Kayla Notarnicola tile player, junior Yoseline Chavarria, could start at third base, and practically anywhere else, the coach said.

“The only thing she probably won’t do is pitch,” Frawley explained. “She’s come a long way. The way she swings the bat, she’s not coming out of the lineup.” Levi is also likely to see time at the hot corner, and the outfield is spearheaded by junior Danielle Portillo in center.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

Malverne @ Wheatley @ West Hempstead West Hempstead @ Westbury Westbury Elmont @ Elmont

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 2 3 9 10

@ North Shore North Shore @ North Shore Bethpage

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 30 @ Roosevelt

April 1 5 7 9 11 13 15 18 19 21 26

@ Friends Aca. Malverne Elmont North Shore Roosevelt Friends Aca. @ Malverne @ Friends Aca. @ Elmont @ North Shore @ Roosevelt

May

2 Malverne 4 Elmont 5 North Shore

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 27

2016 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

Long Beach Marines boast youthful enthusiasm

I

By TONy BELLISSIMO

nconsistency cost Long Beach a third consecutive appearance in the Nassau Class AA baseball playoffs and limited the Marines to just three wins in 2015, but a youthful roster after the graduation of 11 players brings a jolt of enthusiasm.

“We underperformed drastically last year after making the playoffs back-to-back for the first time in more than 20 years,” coach Jason Zizza said. “Our priority is to get back to the playoffs, and I’m excited about the present and the future.”

Unlike last spring, seniors are the exception and not the rule on Long Beach’s roster.

Justin Rodriguez is one of them, and he’s being counted on to pitch deep into games and hit in the middle or top of the order. He’ll play second base on non-pitching days.

“Justin’s a durable pitcher who throws multiple pitches for strikes,” Zizza said. “We need him to eat up innings and lead the rotation.”

Like Rodriguez, sophomore Sam Brinster can find the strike zone. Brinster enjoyed a stretch of 19 consecutive scoreless innings a year ago and earned All-Conference honors. A third baseman when he’s not towing the rubber, Brinster had a sub-3.00 ERA and led the team in batting average (.419) and RBIs. Sophomores Matteo Camarda and Evan Garcia are vying to be the No. 3 starting pitcher, and the other will work in relief. Camarda has a full year of varsity experience on the mound and also plays right field. Garcia could see time at second and third base.

Behind the plate, junior Kyle Kubelle is a varsity newcomer with solid all-around skills. He led the JV in every 28 — April 7, 2016

offensive category last season and has an exceptional arm.

Junior Woodrow Mendoza takes over at shortstop. He’s smooth with the glove and is a contact hitter with speed.

Senior Dante Vittor or junior Kevin Dunn Jr. work at first base, with Matt Maquet and Marc Paez ready to contribute in the infield.

Sophomore Deon Ray starts in left field and bats leadoff. Sophomore John Diaz can cover plenty of real estate from center.

Lady Marines young but experienced Coming off a 12-win campaign that ended with a onerun loss to Mepham in the quarterfinals of the Nassau Class AA playoffs, the Lady Marines are loaded with youth but not short on experience.

“We have a lot of versatile players and the luxury of three talented pitchers,” said coach Carmine Verde, who enters his 29th year at the helm. “If we stay healthy, I think we can make a deep playoff run.”

Tonianne Larson tops a pitching depth chart that includes freshman Grace Rosenberg and sophomore Taylor Haines. Larson, an AllCounty selection in 2015 who in addition to some dominant outings in the circle batted .402 and led the team in runs scored. “I think everyone realizes Tonianne is a strong pitcher, and we have a lot of returnees around her,” Verde said. “We’ve talked about limiting her workload early in the year and we have Grace and Taylor, who proved last year they can perform in big spots.”

Larson will start in centerfield on non-pitching days, Verde said. Rosenberg is the primary centerfielder and the likely leadoff batter. She earned two regular-season victories last year as well as the first-round playoff win

over Farmingdale with Larson sidelined with shoulder soreness. Haines threw four shutout innings in the playoff loss and picked up her first varsity win against Syosset.

She and senior Klaudia Sarno are working at first base.

Sophomore Paulina Cardona takes over at shortstop to fill the shoes of Kelsey Larson, who graduated last June as the program’s firstever four-time All-County selection. Cardona batted .380 as last year’s starter at third base and has all the tools, Verde said. Sophomore Colleen Mannle slides into the hot corner spot and brings an excellent glove. Junior Eleanor Byrne (.328 avg.) and sophomore Jackie Muratori will fill the starting jobs at second base and right field.

Tonianne Larson

Schedule April

BASEBALL

11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

@ G.N. South G.N. South @ G.N. South @ V.S. Central V.S. Central @ V.S. Central Calhoun @ Calhoun Calhoun

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

2 3 5 9 10 11

Mepham @ Mepham Mepham MacArthur @ MacArthur MacArthur

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Justin Rodriguez Sophomore catcher Meredith Fagan is already a three-year starter, and junior backstop Amanda Angst has a powerful bat. Left fielder Kirsthie Rodriguez is the lone starting senior, and junior newcomer Khristie Ching brings energy.

Long Beach is seeded fifth in Conference AA-I behind MacArthur, Oceanside, Massapequa and Syosset.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 28 @ Mepham 29 Baldwin 31 East Meadow

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

April 2 4 6 8 1 2 14 16 18 20 25 29

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

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

3 @ Plainview 5 @ Massapequa

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May

Photos by Peter Frutkoff HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

LynBrook Owls rely on experience factor plate is a boon for the pitching staff. De Los Santos, who returned to Lynbrook from St. Mary’s, brings a lot of ynbrook qualified for power to the lineup and leadthe Nassau Class A ership to the dugout. Baeyens baseball playoffs with is a topnotch defender. five sophomore starters a Senior Tyler Garrett heads year ago and pushed eventual the rotation after recording county and Long Island cham- four wins a year ago. He feapion Division to the limit in tures a mid-70s fastball and the second round. a knuckle-drop. Sophomore “It was nice to see our Ryan Mueller and juniors young kids get all that experi- Tom Costiglione and Dan ence and play so tough against Werzinger are in the mix to a tremendous team that went start or relieve. upstate,” coach Al Marrazzo The Owls compete in Consaid. “I think that experience ference A-III with Floral Park, will pay dividends.”

Glen Cove, North Shore, BethPracticing outside for the page, Valley Stream North first two weeks, unlike last and Valley Stream South. year, bodes well for the juniorladen Owls. “The more reps Tougher road for we get, the better,” Marrazzo Lady Owls said.

While the pitching staff The Lady Owls boast a had more question marks strong senior class a year than answers in camp, Marafter overcoming a rash of razzo had a pretty good idea injuries to finish tied for the about his defense and lineup. conference title. “We moved Senior Tony Neal is a return- up a conference and we’re ing starter in left field and excited about it,” coach Pete likely to set the tone for the Toscano said. “It should be offense. “Speed is his game,” very competitive and I’m the coach said. Juniors expecting good things.”

Tommy Sullivan (center) and Senior Kacie Curran has Dominick Sinopoli give Lynbeen the face of the program brook two additional strong for years and was Honordefensive outfielders. able Mention All-County in The infield has potential 2015 after hitting over .500 to excel. Junior Nick Tuzzio and swiping 12 bases. The slides over to shortstop from third-year captain starts at second base, where he started shortstop and bats second. “I every game last season. “He’s can’t say enough about her,” a gamer and can be a big facToscano said. “Her uniform tor this year,” Marrazzo said. never stays clean.”

Senior Will Tucker, who does Curran was Lynbrook’s all the little things it takes only starting infielder to get to win, takes over at second. through last season without At third base, junior Paul a significant injury. Senior Scibelli swung a hot bat from Georgia Krendel, who sufthe day he was called up to fered a foot injury after an varsity in the middle of last excellent start, enters her season and will look to pick fourth year at first base and up where he left off. Either will bat in the heart of the senior Dennis De Los Santos order. Senior Kiki Cusak is or Justin Baeyens will be at back at third base following a first. broken hand. She’s an enerThe talent of De Los Sangetic player with a great eye tos and Baeyens behind the at the plate, Toscano said. At

L

By TONy BELLISSIMO

30 — April 7, 2016

second base, sophomore Lindsey Ostroff is fully recovered from a broken ankle and elbow, and can hit for average. She batted .400 before getting hurt.

In the circle, Julianne Graepel struck out 130 batters as a freshman and has the program in good shape looking down the road. She limits walks, fields the position well, and can find an extra gear when she needs it, Toscano said. She’ll once again throw to senior catcher Elizabeth DiCarmine, who cracked four homers and batted .350. “We want runners on base when Elizabeth’s at the plate,” he added.

The outfield returns Emily

Dennis De Los Santos

Schedule

BASEBALL March 28 @ Bethpage Matt Guilfoyle 29 Bethpage 31 @ Bethpage

April

Kacie Curran Gagliano and Claire Reilly, seniors switching spots with the latter going to right from left. In center, freshman speedster Jessica Graepel is solid with the glove and provides the offense with a lefty bat. Sophomore Chelsea Domon will play a utility role.

Hewlett, West Hempstead, Roslyn, Cold Spring Harbor, Sewanhaka, Locust Valley and Great Neck North are conference foes. “I think we’ll score runs,” Toscano said.

“We need to be strong defensively behind Julianne.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

Glen Cove @ Glen Cove Glen Cove @ V.S. South V.S. South @ V.S. South V.S. North @ V.S. North V.S. North @ Floral Park Floral Park @ Floral Park

May

2 North Shore 3 @ North Shore 5 North Shore

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

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10:30 a.m.

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10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March

28 V.S. South 4:15 p.m.

31 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

April 2 4 6 8 12 14 16 18 20 25 27 29

@ Hewlett C.S. Harbor Sewanhaka Roslyn @ G.N. North Locust Valley West Hempstead Hewlett @ C.S. Harbor @ Sewanhaka Malverne @ Roslyn

May

3 G.N. North 5 @ Locust Valley

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

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10:30 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

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4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 31

2016 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

MacArthur Generals ready for title defense

F

By ANDREW COEN

ollowing the program’s first county title in 21 years, MacArthur baseball is aiming for a repeat.

The Generals clinched the Nassau Class AA championship with a 4-3 win against Oceanside on June 3 before falling in the Long Island finals to Connetquot. Much of the offense from last year’s magical 21-7 season has graduated, but MacArthur still returns some key pieces hungry for another postseason run.

“We bring back some very athletic kids,” coach Steve Costello said. “We’re very optimistic.”

MacArthur returns two starting pitchers from last season including junior Bobby Lewis and Mike Sivilli. Lewis earned the win in MacArthur’s Class AA finals triumph with a five-strikeout performance and is slated to be the ace. Sivilli also adds experience on the mound after picking up two wins last season. In total the Generals have 10 hurlers on the roster.

“We have a lot of pitching depth,” Costello said. “We have two kids with a lot of experience.”

Senior third baseman Jared Wolfe gives MacArthur a big returning bat. Wolfe was MVP of the Nassau County playoffs and hit a crucial tworun single in the clinching win against Oceanside.

Senior right fielder Vin Martino also earned championship experience last spring and will look close his high school career with another title coming off an All-Conference season. Seniors Marc Arboleda and Matt Deblaiso are also offensive threats that can add run support for MacArthur’s strong pitching.

Deblaiso, Arboleda, Martino 32 — April 7, 2016

and Wolfe helped lead MacArthur football to a county championship last November, and Costello expects that winning mindset to carry over into the spring.

“They are winners,” Costello said. “They are very accomplished.”

Senior outfielder Matt Imbrogno returns to the lineup after missing his junior season with an ACL injury suffered on the basketball court. Senior Justin Norcini, who won a boys’ soccer county title in 2014, can step in as a pitcher or infielder.

“We have a special group of seniors,” Costello said.

“They are incredibly accomplished kids who have had a lot of success.”

Lady Generals eye big prize

On the heels of a 2015 season that saw MacArthur softball drop the Nassau County Class AA finals in heartbreaking fashion, the Lady Generals are determined to march back to the championship stage.

MacArthur’s championship dreams last spring ended with a 6-5 defeat to Oceanside in game two of the best-of-three finals, with the Lady Sailors scoring three runs in the bottom of the seventh. The Lady Generals graduated four contributors from last year’s 21-4 team that just missed out on the program’s first county title since 2012, but bring back five starters who can utilize the 2015 playoff run to their benefit.

“We want to take care of what we couldn’t do last year,” coach Bobby Fehrenbach. “We want to get back there and take it home.”

MacArthur returns sophomore pitching ace Jessica Budrewicz, who recorded 17 wins as a freshman. Budrewicz’s twin sister Ashley also returns at catcher to form a

cohesive battery mate.

“They have been doing it for years,” said Fehrenbach of the chemistry between the Budrewicz sisters. “It’s pretty special.”

Ashley Budrewicz will look to give her sister run support at the plate as one of MacArthur’s key returning hitters. She went 3-for-4 in a 13-1 quarterfinal playoff win against Syosset last spring.

Other returning bats include senior first baseman Gabby Denunzio, junior third baseman Shannon Myles and senior shortstop Jessica Lombardo. Lombardo smacked three home runs last year including a first inning threerun bomb against Mepham in the Class AA semifinals

about six teams that can win it.”

Jessica Budrewicz

Schedule April

BASEBALL

5 @ Syosset 9 @ Plainview 11 @ Calhoun 12 Calhoun Matt Guilfoyle 14 @ Calhoun 18 @ Mepham 19 Mepham 21 @ Mepham 25 V.S. Central 26 @ V.S. Central 28 V.S. Central

May

Vin Martino that helped set the pace for a 6-1 MacArthur win. Denunzio also has power and is coming off a two home run campaign.

Fehrenach is also hoping for offensive production from senior Dana Kiedaisch. She cracked the lineup as a designated hitter last year and can also play outfield.

The Lady Generals compete in a challenging top conference and Fehrenbach is expecting stiff competition from Syosset, Oceanside, Long Beach and Calhoun.

“It’s going to be very tough,” Fehrenbach said. “There are

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

2 3 5 9 10 11

G.N. South @ G.N. South G.N. South @ Long Beach Long Beach @ Long Beach

4:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 28 Plainedge 29 Bethpage 31 @ Oceanside

April 2 4 6 8 12 14 16 18 20 25 29

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

May

3 @ Syosset 5 East Meadow

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

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10:00 a.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 33

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Malverne Mules field an interesting mix

M

By TONy BELLISSIMO

alverne managed only two wins on the diamond a year ago but played some of its best baseball against eventual Nassau Class B champion Oyster Bay. “It’s something to build off,” Mules coach Joe Dunn said. “We had plenty of opportunities to win more games than we did. We lost a bunch of close ones.

“We have a good mix of veterans and young guys,” he added. “We’ve looked solid in scrimmages so far, so we’ll see what happens.”

Sophomore Alex Berry is the team’s most talented underclassmen. He’ll lead the pitching rotation and bat third in the order. “He pitched a two-hitter and a three-hitter last season as a freshman,” Dunn said. “He knows how to attack hitters and his location is phenomenal.” Berry and junior Alex Rodriguez, the No. 2 starter, will play shortstop on on-pitching days.

Rodriguez beat Oyster Bay last spring and has a fastball that could reach 80 on the radar gun. “He’s a travel ball player and one of our better athletes,” Dunn said.

The third spot in the rotation was up for grabs heading into April, with senior centerfielder Mike Mendez and junior catcher Joe Grandos as the leading candidates.

Mendez, a polished all-around player who rarely fails to make contact at the dish, enters his fifth varsity campaign. He’ll hit in the cleanup spot and has good speed.

Grandos, a first-year starter, is athletic and can handle the workload behind the plate, Dunn noted.

Freshman Timmy Bosques, up from JV, is expected to leadoff and play 34 — April 7, 2016

third base. “He puts a lot of work in,” Dunn said. “He gets on base and is very good defensively.”

Another freshman, Christina Morgan, brings a reliable glove to first base. The Mules have plenty of good options at second base, with seniors Ramzees Kennedy and Anthony Santoro, and junior Brian Castro all in the mix for playing time.

Seniors Dom Clare and Cody Michaels are looking to crack the outfield as fulltimers after splitting responsibilities a year ago. Senior Andrew Morgan will also contribute.

Rebuilt Lady Mules bring quickness The Lady Mules have a new look in most areas in 2016 after capturing a conference title last spring behind veteran pitcher Sydney Witowski, who started almost every game for the program for five years.

“We’re rebuilding with only four starters back, but I think we can still be competitive,” coach Jen Gibbons said.

“Our offense has potential.

We’ll have speed on the bases and maybe as much power as we’ve had in the past.”

New pitcher Christina Sengenitti isn’t without experience in the varsity circle. Primarily last year’s starter at first base, she threw a few games and has a good command of the strike zone. “She has decent speed and is learning new pitches,” Gibbons said. “He confidence is growing.”

Freshman Alex Delligatti is a returning starter behind the plate and has a strong arm to second base and solid blocking skills. Her bat came alive last spring, Gibbons said, and she’ll hit in the heart of the order. “Alex is a travel ball player with good all-around skills,” Gibbons

noted.

Another key to the offense and defense is junior shortstop Olivia Quaranto, who spent most of last year as the starter at second base.

“She has a strong arm and will be one of our power hitters,” Gibbons said.

The rest of the infield around Quaranto is comprised of first-year varsity players coming up from JV. Sophomore Olivia St. John slides into the vacated second base spot and brings a reliable glove and quickness, junior Chelsea Morgan takes over at first, and junior Joanna Gandolpho will start at third and potentially give Delligatti a breather behind the plate.

Mike Mendez

Schedule BASEBALL March 28 Westbury 29 @ Elmont 31 Roosevelt

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4 5 7 11 12 14 18 19 21

Lawrence @ West Hempstead @ Hempstead @ Carle Place Carle Place Carle Place East Rockaway @ East Rockaway East Rockaway

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 3 5 9 10 11

@ Wheatley Wheatley @ Wheatley Oyster Bay @ Oyster Bay Oyster Bay

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Matt Guilfoyle

April

Olivia Quaranto Speed is the theme of Malverne’s outfield. Junior Micaela Fibleul covers a ton of ground in center and will hit first or second. Senior Lyndsey Patley and sophomore Kelsey Patley are the leading candidates for left and right, respectively, and senior newcomer Amy Elvir-Bulnes will also contribute.

The Lady Mules compete in Conference ABC-V and are ranked second behind North Shore, ahead of Lawrence, Friends Academy, Elmont and Roosevelt.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

May

SOFTBALL March 26 C.S. Harbor 30 @ North Shore

11:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

1 5 7 9 11 13 15 19 21 26 30

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

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10:30 a.m.

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April

@ Elmont @ Lawrence Roosevelt @ Friends Aca. North Shore Elmont Lawrence @ Roosevelt @ Friends Aca. @ North Shore @ Elmont

May

2 @ Lawrence 4 Roosevelt 5 Friends Aca.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 35

2016 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball preview

MephaM Pirates boast leadership, speed

e

By STEVE SINISKI

xcitement fills the air on the diamond at Mepham, where the Pirates have won consecutive conference titles for the first time since 2004-05 and boast the return of eight seniors this spring. But unlike previous Mepham teams, which featured a lineup full of power bats, this year’s Pirates have a few new wrinkles to unleash — speed and versatility.

“We’ve really been impressed with the speed and defense,” coach Bill Murphy said. “They’re not just baseball players but athletic. They can all play multiple positions and run like deer. We’re going to put a lot of pressure on teams to make plays.”

Senior T.J. Rullo is a returning All-County honoree at third base after leading the team in home runs (three) and finishing third in runs batted in (14). He’ll be joined on the infield by senior Sean Napier at short and a trio of juniors vying for time at second — Alec Acri, Nick Valeriano and Mike Valentino.

Senior Danny Dazzo is slotted at first base, with junior Matt Coster and Valentino each getting time behind the plate.

A pair of starters return to the outfield — seniors Zach Egland in right and Ryan Connolly in center — while juniors Matt Conry and Brian Porcelli battle for time in left.

On the mound, senior Nick Taratko is back along with Porcelli and sophomore Mike Proios, and Mepham has several others vying for time in the rotation and the bullpen.

Egland, Napier, Rullo, Valeriano and senior Joe Tavolino are all hoping to pitch some innings. Taratko, Proios and Porcelli are hard throwers, while Rullo and Tavolino have great location and can change speeds well. “They can all 36 — April 7, 2016

pitch,” Murphy said. “It’s just a matter of earning their spot in the rotation and putting the best defense behind them.”

At the plate, Rullo’s going to provide one of the power bats in the heart of the order with Conroy, Valentino and Napier also expected to generate runs. Connolly and Egland are pencil in again as the table-setters at the top of the lineup.

New pieces for Lady Pirates As much as eight is the magic number for the Pirates on the baseball diamond — as in returning starters — the Lady Pirates have to replace that very same number from their 2015 team which made the Nassau County Class AA semifinal round for the third straight season.

What may boost Mepham’s fortunes on the softball field with the influx of new players is the fact many are coming from a successful JV season.

The two players returning with the most experience are junior Stephanie Burns, a centerfielder who is also in the mix to pitch, and sophomore Kara Castaldo.

Burns returns after batting .321 with a home run and 15 runs batted in, and Castaldo, a third baseman and catcher, comes off a season in which she hit .301 with a homer and right RBIs. In the circle, Burns is vying for time along with junior Mackayla Brown, the starter for the junior varsity team last season, and junior Karlee Greco, returning to pitch after missing 2015 due to injury. Brown and Greco are both able to get the ball over the plate, which could go a long way in their success in ‘16. “With the pitchers, everything’s still up in the air,” coach Mike Muscara said.

“The key is don’t walk any

body and make [hitters] earn it. We want to limit the walks, because they will kill you.”

Behind the plate, junior Samantha Arcese and junior Julia Losciale will both see time and Losciale is also going to log innings at first base, a position she has already gained experience playing. Senior Ebbie Berkowitz steps in at second, with Burns the only outfielder already penciled in to a starting gig.

As Muscara sorted out his lineup during spring training, Burns and Castaldo

Kara Castaldo

Schedule April

BASEBALL

11 @ V.S. Central 12 V.S. Central

18 19 21 25 26 28

MacArthur @ MacArthur MacArthur G.N. South @ G.N. South G.N. South

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

2 3 5 9 10 11

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

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Matt Guilfoyle 14 @ V.S. Central

May

TJ Rullo

were the two known commodities. Both are gap hitters with good speed and will be expected to continue to be key contributors for a Mepham team that has dropped down to Conference AA-II. “We’re going to take it one game at a time,” Muscara said.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 31 @ Baldwin

April 2 6 8 12 14 16 18 25 29

@ Farmingdale Port Wash. @ Herricks Hicksville V.S. Central Baldwin Farmingdale @ Port Wash.

Herricks

May

3 @ Hicksville 5 @ V.S. Central

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 37

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

OceAnSide Sailors have lofty expectations

A

By TONy BELLISSIMO

fter back-to-back Nassau Class AA baseball runner-up finishes and 10 playoff victories over the past two seasons, Oceanside has a goal to win a county championship this spring.

“We had to replace a lot of talented players, but we’ve had guys waiting to get their shot,” coach Mike Postilio said. “It’s been a great two years reaching the finals, but we’ve got more work to do and more we want to accomplish.

We’re hungry.”

Leading the Sailors’ charge is senior pitcher/shortstop Kyle Martin, who comes off an All-State campaign and a second straight Conference AA-I Player of the Year selection. The Fordham-bound Martin batted .452 and was lights-out on the mound with a record of 8-1, two saves, 109 strikeouts and 37 hits allowed in 65 innings. “Kyle was truly dominant, and now he’s bigger and stronger,” Postilio said. “He’s just a special kid in a lot of ways.”

Senior Nick Vlahakis will once again set the table for the offense from the leadoff spot for a third consecutive season. The All-League centerfielder batted .363 a year ago. “Nick’s a great defensive outfielder who always has a quality at-bat,” Postilio said.

Sophomore Dylan Judd has two important roles, serving as a starting pitcher and the team’s catcher on non-throwing days. Sophomore Chris Murphy will catch when Judd pitches. “Dylan’s an excellent athlete with a fearless mentality,” Postilio said.

Junior southpaw Max Jennings is getting a long look to be the third starter in the rotation as well as contribute at first base along with senior Jake Spielberg. Jennings 38 — April 7, 2016

saw work on the mound as a reliever last season. Senior James Paczkowski returned to the program and could land the closer’s role. Senior Mike Pagona, a candidate for the second base job, will also see time on the bump. Third base is up for grabs, with senior Chris Macca and junior Patrick Hood in the mix.

Senior outfielder Brandy Diaz has a lot of tools, including a bat with pop, and senior outfielder Justin Halper possesses blazing speed.

Lady Sailors aim for repeat Fresh off their first county softball championship since 2008, the Lady Sailors are the preseason No. 2 after sweeping this year’s No. 1, MacArthur, in last May’s finals.

Senior Risa Zucker, who scored the title-clinching run on Claire McNamara’s walkoff single in Game 2, returns with five other full-time starters including the pitching duo of junior Sabrina Seeger and senior Liz Campo.

“The team mentality we had was tremendous,” coach Joe Supple said. “The girls never felt out of any game.

“We return a deep, athletic group and we’re hoping to make another run at the title.”

It all starts in the circle, where Seeger is coming off an honorable mention AllCounty campaign and Campo has two All-Conference awards under her belt. “It’s a nice luxury,” Supple said of the pitching situation. “We can mix and match during the regular season and ride the hot hand in the playoffs.”

Seeger, who averaged seven strikeouts per game and helped her own cause by driving in 31 runs at the plate, has improved her velocity and location. Campo, the full-time starter in 2014 when Oceanside reached the Class AA finals and finished

runner-up to East Meadow, keeps the ball down in the zone and makes things easy on the defense. Seeger or Campo will also handle first base duties.

Senior Grace Bandini, an All-County selection, moves back behind the plate after spending last season at third base. She batted .412 with six homers and 32 RBIs, leading the team in the power categories. “We’re looking at leading off with Grace and having her set the table,” Supple said.

“She’s one of the best catchers in the county.”

Junior Taylor Eisel takes over at shortstop and bats in the middle of the order along with Seeger.

Nick Vlahakis

Schedule April

BASEBALL

7 @ Baldwin 11 @ Massapequa

Matt Guilfoyle 12 Massapequa 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

@ Massapequa Uniondale @ Uniondale Uniondale Farmingdale @ Farmingdale Farmingdale

2 3 5 9 10 11

@ Freeport Freeport @ Freeport @ Syosset Syosset @ Syosset

May

Taylor Eisel Eisel, who boasts a strong arm and glove, hit .411 with 25 RBIs. Junior Erin Corona and eighth-grader Emily Seaver will fill Eisel’s former role at second base, with senior Samantha Colten the frontrunner for third base.

The outfield is promising with Zucker, juniors Nadia Miranda and Emily Paczkowski, sophomore Kaitlyn Schwarz and eighth-grader Catherine Stanford.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4:30 p.m.

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SOFTBALL March

31 MacArthur

April 2 4 6 11 12 16 18 20 25 29

@ Syosset @ East Meadow Calhoun Long Beach @ Massapequa @ MacArthur Syosset East Meadow @ Calhoun @ Long Beach

May

3 Massapequa 5 @ Plainview

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

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4:45 p.m.

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10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

6:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 39

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

SeaforD Vikings brace for tough schedule junior varsity games last year.

Seaford competes in a competitive Class A that Milano expects to wide open. He said espite graduating the the grueling schedule the battery mate of pitcher league provides means his Lucas Hall and catcher team will need to stay extra Jake Doyle, Seaford baseball focused each game. “Class A is poised to be in the mix is a constant grind,” Milano come playoff time in a comsaid. “It is a very, very good petitive Class A. conference.”

The Vikings’ streak of two Seaford’s schedule is straight semifinal appearhighlighted by a night game ances ended last year followat MCU Park in Brooklyn on ing back-to-back losses to April 21 against Cold Spring Manhasset and Floral Park Harbor. The Vikings were after winning their playoff selected to play in the home opener. Head coach Mike of the Brooklyn Cyclones Milano brings back some after helping the minor key pieces from last year’s league team sell tickets for 12-10 team, but the losses the 2016 season. of current college player Hall (Columbia) and Doyle Pitching holds key (Vassar) will not be easy to for Lady Vikings replace.

“It should be a season Seaford softball brings where we can go into games back key parts of a team that with confidence that if we reached the playoff stage for play well we can win,” Milano a 13th straight year, but the said. “If we can get on base we Lady Vikings will need to have some guys in the lineup raise their game in order to who can do some damage.” capture the program’s first Junior A.J. Cain is one of county title since 2011.

Seaford’s multiple offensive Seaford went 10-9 last year threats capable of delivering competing in Conference A-1 extra base hits that can bring and fell to New Hyde Park in runners home. Cain, who is also the quarterfinals. The Lady starting quarterback on the Vikings moved up to the Seaford football team, hit four highest Class A division after home runs as a sophomore. winning the 2014 Conference Joining Cain among key A-II regular season title, and hitters in the lineup are head coach Rob Perpall is Keith McHugh, Michael expecting another challengPerez, Anthony Pristera, ing schedule in a league that Michael Tito, Nick Calandra, features multiple dominant Joseph Ippoliti and Hunter pitchers.

Price. Sophomore Vincent Pec“We’re in the toughest conora is expected to replace Doyle ference in my opinion in Nasbehind the plate at catcher. sau County,” Perpall said. “We Cain and Matt Pugliese have a very solid nucleus, but lead Seaford’s pitching staff. they’re going to have to step Pugliese recorded three wins up and overachieve because last spring including a twothe competition they’re going hit shutout against Valley to face is very good.”

Stream South.

Junior pitcher Sophie DanJuniors Christian Alfano dola leads the Lady Vikings and Andrew Pich also make pitching staff after recording take the mound either as six wins as a sophomore. The starters or relievers. Pich Hofstra-bound pitcher tossed pitched the bulk of Seaford’s a one-hitter with 12 strikeouts

D

By ANDREW COEN

40 — April 7, 2016

in a 12-0 first-round playoff win against Floral Park.

Senior Ashley Casazza provides Seaford with an additional ace on the mound. The LIU-Post bound pitcher, who also plays third base, won five games last year and was an All-County selection.

One big loss from last year is catcher Brittney Lazar, who now plays on the collegiate level at Felician University.

The Lady Vikings do bring back some power in second baseman Danielle DiNapoli, who smacked eight home runs last year. DiNapoli is joined in the infield by senior shortstop Erin Russell, who is coming off back-to-back All-County seasons and first baseman Amelia Cariddi.

Seaford returns its entire

Sophie Dandola

Schedule

BASEBALL March 28 @ Clarke 29 Clarke 31 @ Clarke

April

Matt GuilFoyle 4 Mineola

Andrew Cain outfield: Jessica Fischetti, Alexis DiCapua, and Madison Lazar. Freshman Julie Hilton has also made strides and could receive some playing time at the position.

Perpall is expecting stiff competition in Class A from Clarke, Island Trees, Division and Plainedge. The league is full of dominant pitchers and he hopes Dandola is up to the task as Seaford’s ace.

“Nobody can win the title unless they have a strong pitcher,” Perpall said. “It’s a pitcher-dominated conference.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

5 7 11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

@ Mineola Mineola @ Friends Aca. Friends Aca. @ Friends Aca. C.S. Harbor @ C.S. Harbor C.S. Harbor @ Locust Valley Locust Valley @ Locust Valley

May

2 Island Trees 3 @ Island Trees 5 Island Trees

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SOFTBALL March 30 Island Trees

April 1 2 5 9 11 13 15 19 21 30

Carey Garden City Plainedge @ Bethpage @ Clarke @ Division @ Island Trees @ Carey @ Plainedge Bethpage

May

2 Clarke 4 Division

4:30 p.m.

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Photos by Peter Frutkoff HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

2016

ConferenCe AA-1

Nassau CouNty BaseBall CoNfereNCes

Massapequa Freeport Syosset Farmingdale Uniondale Oceanside

ConferenCe AA-2

Herricks Hicksville Baldwin East Meadow Port Washington Plainview

ConferenCe A-1

Bellmore-JFK Manhasset Garden City Jericho Carey Sewanhaka Great Neck North

ConferenCe A-2

New Hyde Park Wantagh Hewlett South Side Division Plainedge Roslyn

ConferenCe A-3

Glen Cove Bethpage North Shore Lynbrook Floral Park Valley Stream North Valley Stream South

ConferenCe A-4 Clarke Mineola Island Trees Seaford Locust Valley Cold Spring Harbor Friends Academy

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

ConferenCe AA-3

Valley Stream Central MacArthur Great Neck South Long Beach Calhoun Mepham

ConferenCe B/C

Wheatley Malverne East Rockaway Oyster Bay Carle Place

ConferenCe A-2 Great Neck North Manhasset South Side Plainedge Division Hewlett Roslyn

ConferenCe AB-3

Glen Cove Floral Park Bethpage North Shore Lawrence Lynbrook Valley Stream North

CoUnTYWIDe

Hempstead Westbury Elmont Lawrence Roosevelt West Hempstead

ConferenCe AB-4

Valley Stream South Island Trees Seaford Mineola Clarke Locust Valley Friends Academy

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

Zach Fritz East Meadow High School Photo by John Heckman

April 7, 2016 — 41

2016 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

Sewanhaka Indians eager to show improvement

T

By ANDREW MccLURE

here’s only one way to go on the baseball diamond for Sewanhaka, which is coming off a pair of very tough seasons, including a winless campaign in 2015.

With a senior-laden roster, the Indians should be far more competitive this spring.

Coach Mike Ryan expects better results. “The guys are excited, and looking forward to turning this around,” Ryan said. “Pitching should be one of our strengths. If we stay healthy, I expect to be able to stick with everyone and be in the mix.”

Senior catcher Niko Rullo, a four-year varsity performer, returns to lead the Indians.

Rullo is a solid backstop with a strong throwing arm. Ryan will look for him to hit for average and knock in runs.

Senior Nick Parasconda will be the ace of the staff.

Parasconda, who will DH when he’s not on the mound, features a fastball, change and curve. Ryan sees him occupying a slot in the middle of the order.

Praveen Persaud pitched well in 2015, and will be relied upon to do the same as a senior. Persaud is not overpowering, but pounds the strike zone and keeps hitters off balance with his breaking ball. He will play just about everywhere on the field when not pitching.

Ryan is hoping for a big year out of junior Justin Bellamy, the number three starter. Bellamy was injured as a sophomore, but pitched a bit late in the season. He’ll hit in the middle of the order.

The Indians have a solid hitter in Vincent Gennarelli.

The senior third baseman led the team in hits and batting average. Junior shortstop Christopher Zunno will be 42 — April 7, 2016

one of the table setters from the leadoff spot.

Senior Zack Reifschneider will play the outfield and second base, and will serve as a reliever. Senior Vincent Balletta will play right field and backup Rullo behind the plate.

Junior center fielder Angel Sanchez has incredible speed and a good glove. Ryan will bat Sanchez at the bottom of the order with hopes of serving as another table setter.

Lady Tribe seek positive results After consecutive winless seasons, Sewanhaka softball coach Deirdre Kelly believes that her team’s resilience and perseverance will pay dividends in 2016. The team is looking for its first win since the last week of the 2013 season.

Sewanhaka expects to get in the win column in Nassau Conference AB-IV, a league comprising Cold Spring Harbor, Great Neck North, Hewlett, Locust Valley, Lynbrook, Roslyn, and West Hempstead.

“As always, pitching will be the key,” Kelly said. “The pitching needs to keep us in games, and give us a shot to be successful. While we didn’t win a game, last season, the girls never gave up, and played hard. They’re fighters. You’d never know that we hadn’t won a game.

They played with confidence all the time. I was very proud of them.”

Sewanhaka’s go-to player is senior Jancarla Herrera, a five-year varsity player. Herrera, who has committed to St. Joseph’s (Pennsylvania), slaps and hits to all fields, and makes things happen on the bases. The speedy center fielder is exceptional in the outfield.

Eighth-grader Megan Bleeker takes over in the circle for the Indians. Bleeker

has a fastball with good movement, and a steely demeanor.

A solid hitter, Bleeker will occupy a slot in the middle of the lineup.

Sophomore Catarina Teta will handle the catching duties for Sewanhaka. Teta is good defensively and has strong throwing arm. Junior Kayla Khanat will move from shortstop to third base. Khanat has soft hands, a good arm, and adds some pop in middle of the order.

Junior Ally Rullo, who spent time in the pitching circle as a sophomore, will handle second base duties.

Kelly likes Rullo’s ability at the plate. Senior Kim Velsor does a nice job at first base for

Niko Rullo

Schedule

BASEBALL March 31 Carey

28 Carey

11:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4 5 7 11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

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4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

29 @ Carey Matt GuiLfoyLe

April

JanCarla Herrera the Indians. When she gets on base, she can use her speed to her advantage.

Senior Rebeca Solorio will play anywhere on the field.

Expect Solorio to provide Kelly with versatility. Sophomore shortstop Jazmine Ditterline has been a pleasant surprise. She has shown a little power in her bat during the preseason.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

@ G.N. North G.N. North @ G.N. North Jericho @ Jericho Jericho @ Manhasset Manhasset @ Manhasset Garden City @ Garden City Garden City

May

9 @ Kennedy 10 Kennedy 11 @ Kennedy

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 31 @ Roslyn

April 2 4 6 8 12 14 16 18 20 25 29

Locust Valley @ G.N. North @ Lynbrook Hewlett C.S. Harbor @ West Hempstead Roslyn @ Locust Valley G.N. North Lynbrook @ Hewlett

May

3 @ C.S. Harbor 5 West Hempstead

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

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4:30 p.m.

Photos by Victoria Lodi HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 43

2016 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

South Side No easy path for Cyclones

t

By TONy BELLISSIMO

he Cyclones return more than half of last year’s team that split four Nassau Class A baseball playoff games, but once again must navigate a difficult conference schedule with no easy days.

“Last year’s schedule was hard, and this year is ridiculously hard,” coach Tom Smith said. “Our goal is to win two of three in every series. It’s going to be tough.”

South Side competes in Conference A-2 along with defending county champion Division, Plainedge, New Hyde Park, Wantagh, Hewlett and Roslyn. “Only four of us get in,” Smith said.

Losing Diamond Award pitcher Andrew Misiaszek to graduation isn’t a quick fix, but Smith is pumped about returning his other two starters from 2015 in seniors TJ Avgerinos and Brendan Condon. Avgerinos earned All-Conference honors after going 5-1 with a 1.25 ERA and 62 strikeouts in 34 innings.

“He can hit the upper 80s with his fastball and has a big curve and a nice change-up,” Smith said. Condon, a lefty, went 4-2 with a 1.96 ERA. “He’s another smart pitcher with experience,” the coach noted.

Competing for the No. 3 starter job are juniors Kenny Hoefer and Aymar Carmichael, and Smith isn’t ruling out a shared situation. Hoefer, slated to be the starting shortstop, enjoyed a successful two years at the JV level and hit .500 last spring. Carmichael was the closer for the 17-0 JV squad and could covert to a starter.

Senior Kyle Shutkind is back as the everyday centerfielder and could also see work on the mound. He’ll 44 — April 7, 2016

bat in the heart of the order, Smith said, with junior Jim Barrett and Patrick Leach, a pair of talented catchers versatile enough to contribute elsewhere in the field, at the top of the lineup. Senior Harrison Kravis is a returning starter in left field.

Senior Mike Angelis brings a solid lefty bat and a reliable glove to first base, senior second baseman Tony Izzo is swinging a hot stick in camp, and senior Liam McManus is making a smooth transition from behind the plate to third base.

Lady Cyclones possess interesting mix After barely missing the Nassau Class A playoffs and losing some talented senior contributors, the Lady Cyclones have more than twice as many freshmen — eight — as they do seniors — three — this spring.

“It’s all a matter of coming together and trying to click,” coach Kristen Aksionoff said. “Each of our seniors is a leader.”

Aksionoff ’s hopes of regaining a JV program fell just short, she said, and the varsity roster will be 19-deep.

“We were close to having enough for two teams,” she said. “Hopefully next year.”

While the program remains with one team, the varsity will feature two pitchers. Sophomore Emma Wagner threw every inning of every game last year and made tremendous strides, Aksionoff said. “Her strength and confidence grew,” she said. “She looked great in our first scrimmage in March.” Freshman Morgan Gilligan joins Wagner in the pitching department and features a fastball with zip.

“We’ll get Morgan’s bat in the lineup when Emma pitches,” Aksionoff said.

Both pitchers should benefit from an experienced infield.

Senior Hanna Festa, who was honorable mention AllCounty, anchors the group from shortstop and will likely serve as the clean-up batter.

Sophomore Stephanie Masotti (third base) has good range and quick reflexes, and her speed is key at the top of the lineup. Junior Erin Dooney is one of South Side’s biggest offensive weapons and can play first base or right field.

At second, junior Madelyn Ajello possesses a solid glove and makes contact at the plate.

Aksionoff said she’s looking forward to senior Katelin Benincasa working with the younger outfielders, including freshman Kelli Maher.

Hanna Festa

Schedule

BASEBALL March 28 @ Wantagh 29 Wantagh 31 @ Wantagh

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4 5 7 11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Matt GuilFoyle April

TJ Avgerinos Benincasa starts in center and creates headaches for opposing pitchers. “She controls the outfield for us and is a tough out,” Aksionoff said.

The speed of senior left fielder Emily LaCava comes in handy on offense and defense.

“She has an excellent short game and covers ground in the outfield,” the coach said.

Two underclassmen will contribute behind the plate.

Aksionoff is excited about the potential of sophomore Mary Macre and freshman Katie Mazzanobile.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

New Hyde Park @ New Hyde Park New Hyde Park @ Roslyn Roslyn @ Roslyn Plainedge @ Plainedge Plainedge @ Division Division @ Division

May

2 Hewlett 3 @ Hewlett 5 Hewlett

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 30 @ V.S. South

April 1 5 7 9 11 13 15 19 21 28 30

@ Carle Place V.S. North Jericho Wantagh @ Manhasset Wheatley V.S. South Carle Place @ V.S. North @ Jericho @ Wantagh

May

2 Manhasset 4 @ Wheatley

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

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4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

1:30 p.m.

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4:30 p.m.

Photos by Peter Frutkoff HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 45

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

V.S. Central Eagles won’t fly under radar

a

By TONy BELLISSIMO

fter a handful of difficult years, Valley Stream Central comes off a breakout campaign that saw it advance to the Nassau Class AA baseball semifinals.

The Eagles upset top-seeded East Meadow along the way and will try to remain competitive despite losing seven starters.

“We’ve got a little bit of the core left over, but the group of seniors we lost was special,” coach Frank Alesia said.

“After what we accomplished, we’re going to be on everyone’s radar now. We’ve got a bunch of new faces and we need to stay healthy to have a good season.”

Unlike last spring when Alesia knew where everyone fit, he’ll be doing a lot of mixing and matching. “It’s more of a puzzle this year,” he said.

“We’re fortunate to have versatile players because we’re going to need guys in different spots depending on the day.”

Seniors Will DeLuca and Justyn Cristostomo lead a pitching staff with talent but not a lot of depth. DeLuca worked in relief a year ago and is a hard thrower with a strong change-up, while Cristostomo, the team’s starting shortstop, took over the No. 3 starting job in April and never relinquished it. They’re followed by senior Eric Pujols or junior Joe Stewart.

“I’m confident in Will’s ability,” Alesia said of DeLuca, who can play a corner infield spot on non-pitching days.

Justyn increased his speed on the fastball, and Eric and Joe are consistent in the zone.”

Pujols will start at second base two games of every series and slide over to shortstop when Cristostomo pitches. Stewart starts in centerfield, between seniors 46 — April 7, 2016

Tom Logan (right) and Kevin Grande. Logan, projected as the clean-up hitter, had a big offseason, Alesia said.

Junior Joe Pena has big shoes to fill behind the plate, where former All-County standout Vito Friscia used to call home. Pena plays yearround and has a solid skill set, the coach said. Seniors Ryan Forbes and Joe Scanlon give the Eagles reliable options at the infield corners when DeLuca toes the rubber.

Lady Eagles a dedicated bunch A one-run defeat to Farmingdale on the final day of the regular season kept Valley Stream Central out of last year’s softball playoffs. The Lady Eagles won 10 games and will seek to reach double digits once again in senior pitcher Tiffany Longarzo’s final season.

“We want to get to the playoffs after coming so close last year,” said Artie Riccio, who after 14 seasons as coach is stepping into a voluntary assistant role under new coach Britt Klein. “I know the girls are going to work hard every game,” he said.

“They’re a dedicated group.

They attended clinics regularly during the offseason.”

Central competes in Conference AA-II with Farmingdale, Mepham, Baldwin, Port Washington, Hicksville and Herricks.

Longarzo, a captain, earned All-County honors in 2015 after posting a 1.21 ERA and hitting .475. “She’s got really good movement and all the experience you want in a pitcher,” Riccio said.

One of five senior starters, Longarzo has felt comfortable working with new catcher Syeda Hussain, a junior up from JV, Riccio said. “It’s important to have a good pitcher-catcher relationship,”

he said. “Syeda is getting the hang of it and has a strong arm to second base.”

Senior Laura Johansen returns to first base after batting .350. She’s likely to hit fourth, between Longarzo and senior Jenny Dignam. With speed and tracking ability, Dignam was a prime candidate to move from left field to center. Sophomore Ayana Bisnar takes over in left, with junior Bryanna Fernandez in right.

Senior Alyssa Picillo moves from second base to shortstop and sticks as the No. 2 batter. “She’s an experienced infielder with the arm strength needed to play short,” Riccio said. Senior Sabrina Malfa, who suffered an ankle injury during the second week of practice, will start at second base if healthy.

She makes all the defensive plays, Riccio said.

Justyn Cristostomo

Schedule April

BASEBALL

11 Mepham 12 @ Mepham

18 19 21 25 26 28

Long Beach @ Long Beach Long Beach @ MacArthur MacArthur @ MacArthur

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14 Mepham Matt GuilFoyle

May

Tiffany Longarzo Sophomore Heidi Schmalfuss, up from JV, showed a tremendous glove at third base in the first few scrimmages. Her ability to make contact could land her in the leadoff spot.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 31 @ Port Wash.

April 4 6 8 12 14 16 20 25 29

Baldwin Farmingdale Hicksville @ Herricks @ Mepham Port Wash. @ Baldwin @ Farmingdale @ Hicksivlle

May

3 Herricks 5 Mepham

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April 7, 2016 — 47

2016 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

V.S. NorTH Youthful Spartans appear promising cleared from a shoulder injury. Projected starting shortstop Tom Graziano, a sophomore, could help down he Spartans will be the road following Tommy relying on some young John surgery, but Sanfilippo talent to help it reach is excited about the potential the Nassau Class A baseball of freshman Joe Gisonda. Patplayoffs for a fifth consecutive rick Morgan has the inside season. Last year, they closed track at third base. strong after a tough start and The outfield is brand new, finished with 10 wins. headed by senior Nick DiCle“It’s a young team, but very mente in center. Senior Anthotalented and hard-working,” ny Napolitano and juniors coach Phil Sanfilippo said.

Anthony Collura and Daniel “We have some players other Rung will also contribute. teams don’t know about, and Lady Spartans aim I feel we can finish in the top four in the conference and get for playoffs back to the playoffs.”

After missing the Nassau Valley Stream North Class A softball playoffs for two remained in Conference A-3 straight years, Valley Stream along with Bethpage, Glen North has its sights set on postCove, North Shore, Floral season play with a wealth of Park and Lynbrook. Local starters back in the fold. rival Valley Stream South “Last year was a big-time replaced Lawrence. disappointment,” coach Dave North could feature one of Aquado said. “We tied for the the top batteries in the confer- last playoff spot but didn’t get ence with senior Matt Cosme in because of the tiebreaker. taking over full-time behind We’re bringing back a lot of the plate and juniors John experienced players who are Calouri and Nick Cassatelli motivated to get to the playheading the pitching rotation. offs and battle for a confer“Matt caught a few games ence title.” on an emergency basis last The Lady Spartans are part year,” Sanfilippo said of of a competitive Conference Cosme, who two years ago bat- ABC-III that includes Wheatted over .400 and will hit third ley, Jericho, Wantagh, Valley or fourth. “He’s a vocal leader Stream South, South Side, and has a hose for an arm.”

Manhasset and Carle Place.

Calouri, a gap hitter comLeading North’s hopes ing off a .385 season who uses are juniors Kelly Kroez and the whole field, won three Samantha Estupinian, who games on the mound and were honorable mention Allfeatures a strong fastball and County and All-Conference, splitter. He’ll also play first respectively, last spring. base. Cassatelli, also a three“They’re interchangeable,” game winner, has a good Aguado said. command of his curve and a Kroez (.523 batting averdeveloping fastball. They’ll age, 28 RBIs, 33 runs scored) be followed in the rotation by pitched and played third base sophomore Jalen Bertie, who a year ago, while Estupinian held his own last spring after (.433 avg., 23 RBIs including a call-up from JV and won a two grand slams) started at varsity decision. shortstop for a second straight Junior Danny Keane year. They might flip places in returns at second base and the field, and Kroez could bat is expected to hit at the top leadoff spot with Estupinian of the order as soon as he’s hitting third or fourth.

T

By TONy BELLISSIMO

48 — April 7, 2016

Aguado anticipates Kroez handling about 25 percent of the pitching workload behind freshman Victoria Rossetti.

“Victoria came up last year and handled herself well at the varsity level,” Aguado said of Rossetti, who can keep hitters off-balance and recorded six wins.

Behind the plate, sophomore Cassie Saracino returns with a high softball IQ, solid blocking skills and an aboveaverage arm. The right side of the infield has sophomore Laila Drosman returning with a good eye at the plate and strong fielding skills at first, and either senior Selina Patti or sophomore Jackie Winslow at second. Patti is a good

Samantha Estupinian

Schedule

BASEBALL March 28 @ V.S. South Matt GuiLfoyLe 29 V.S. South 31 @ V.S. South

April

Matt Cosme contact hitter, and Winslow a key defender.

Senior Danielle Iorlano, a three-year starter, anchors the outfield in center. She has blazing speed, Aguado said, and he’s expecting a breakout campaign at the plate. Senior Tara Meehan can play anywhere in the outfield and can drive a ball into the gap, while senior Veronica Lusterino looks to build off last year’s strong finish.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

11 12 14 18 19 21 25 26 28

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Glen Cove @ Glen Cove Glen Cove @ Bethpage Bethpage @ Bethpage

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SOFTBALL March

30 Wheatley

April 2 5 7 9 11 13 15 19 21 23 30

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@ Wantagh @ South Side Manhasset V.S. South @ Jericho Carle Place @ Wheatley Wantagh South Side @ Manhasset @ V.S. South

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May

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

April 7, 2016 — 49

2016 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

V.S. South Falcons to rely on pitching

A

By TONy BELLISSIMO

year after winning four conference games, the road in 2016 doesn’t appear any easier for Valley Stream South. “It’s going to be a tough go,” coach Ken Ward said. “We’re going to need some guys to step up on the mound.”

The Falcons moved into Conference A-III, joining local rival Valley Stream North, Floral Park, Lynbrook, North Shore, Glen Cove and Bethpage.

“We’ve got 18 league games,” Ward noted. “And they’re all going to be difficult.”

South’s top returning pitcher, senior Brian Donnelly, is looking to benefit from a year of experience on the bump. He earned a win and a save a year ago while providing strong defense at first base twice a week. “He bulked up during the offseason and I’m expecting a good year out of him,” Ward said.

The rotation should get a boost from senior Noel Fernandez, who played in 2014 but not last season. He impressed early in camp with his velocity and command.

Sophomore Nick Hernandez, the No. 1 pitcher and starting shortstop for the JV last spring, has a chance to round out the rotation and anchor the infield. “He has an excellent glove and a solid arm,” Ward said of Hernandez, who will hit leadoff or ninth.

Junior catchers Luis Dono and Chris Hess will handle the staff and platoon at first base. Dono, also a reliever, batted .340. The coach is optimistic junior second baseman Michael Charles is healthy enough to log innings as well. The likely No. 2 batter, Charles compiled a .314 average in 2015. At third base, senior Jason Mercado is stepping into a starting role after 50 — April 7, 2016

coming off the bench a year ago. He’ll hit in the meat of the order.

Spearheading the outfield and a candidate for the leadoff spot is junior speedster Ozzie Trail. One of the top JV players from last season, Andrew Lazzara, will play right, and sophomore Chris Peralta has the nod in left. Sophomore Matt Doncell can help just about everywhere and has a promising bat.

Experience a key for Lady Falcons What transpires in the pitching circle could ultimately shape the season for the Lady Falcons, who come off an inconsistent year that featured wins against conference champ East Rockaway and runner-up Roslyn.

“We have a lot of seniors and it’d be nice if we can make a run,” coach Demetri Adrahtas said. “The conference is mostly the same and should be pretty competitive as it was last year.”

South is led one of the premier players in Nassau County. Senior Briana Schippell enters her sixth season of varsity softball and has earned an individual honor in each of the previous five.

The shortstop/pitcher is a three-time All-County and two-time All-Conference selection. “She has all the tools, works hard and leads by example,” Adrahtas said.

Schippell was pressed into full-time pitching duties in 2015 due to team needs. This spring, with eighth-grader Isabella Secairo-Cotto in the fold, Adrahtas is hopeful Schippell can spend the majority of the campaign anchoring the defense at shortstop. “Isabella is a highlevel travel player and one of the better pitchers in her age group in the county,” the coach noted.

The Lady Falcons have a lot of experience in addition to Schippell. Seniors Katie Shields (third base), Melanie Morales (centerfield) and Victoria Martucciello (first base) all enter their fourth year on varsity.

Shields is a line-drive hitter with outstanding speed and will hit leadoff if Schippell doesn’t. Adrahtas said Shields is one of the best athletes in the school.

Morales also boasts speed

Brian Donnelly

Schedule

BASEBALL March 30 @ Mineola 31 Mineola

April

Matt Guilfoyle

Briana Schippell and covers plenty of real estate in the outfield. She hits to all fields and is dangerous on the bases. Martucciello is a polished hitter with a reliable glove and has developed a knack for coming up with clutch hits over the years. She’s a candidate to bat cleanup.

Senior Lindsay Cook, a three-year starter, will play shortstop when Shippell pitches and second base otherwise. Senior catcher Manali Innis swings a powerful bat, while senior Brittany Colon and juniors Chelsea Hicks and Taylor Santiago will contribute in the outfield.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4:30 p.m.

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

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

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May

SOFTBALL March

25 Roslyn 27 Carle Place

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

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

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5 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

7 Manhasset 4:30 p.m.

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

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2016 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

Wantagh

Warriors eye deep playoff run D’Onofrio, who hit .388 as a freshman with 10 stolen bases. D’Onofrio has already verbally committed to play on antagh’s baseball the collegiate level at Hofstra. team rebounded Another returning sophofrom a slow start more expected to contribute last year to reach the fourth to the lineup is Anthony Fonround of the Class A playoffs, tana, who moved up to varsity and with experienced back as a freshman and led Wantis eyeing a deeper run this agh in hitting during playoffs. spring.

The 6-foot-3 Fontana can also Longtime head coach Keith pitch if needed.

Sachs always has high expecSachs is hoping for a big tations and has reached the senior year from center playoffs each of his 21 seasons fielder Joe Murphy, who is in the dugout. The program Wantagh’s lone returning outhad previously missed out fielder. Junior Trevor Fagan on the postseason for two is another key component of decades before the arrival the team at catcher. of Sachs, who played college Battery a key for baseball at Hofstra.

Lady Warriors “The program is always trying to win a county title,” Following a disappointing said Sachs, who led Wantagh 2015 season, Wantagh softball to a state championship in is looking for a rebound 1998 and Long Island title in spring.

2010. “We made a nice run at Christine Moran returns it last year.” as Lady Warriors head coach Senior Will O’Brien after a one year absence and returns to lead pitching staff is excited about the enthusiafter winning league MVP asm shown early on by her honors last year. The St. young team. Wantagh went Thomas Aquinas College5-11 last year and missed out bound O’Brien went 5-1 last on reaching the playoffs for season with a 0.61 earned the first time this decade. run average as a junior. “He’s “They are really willing to going to be the ace of the learn,” said Moran, who team,” Sachs said. “He is a played collegiate softball at leader.”

Hofstra. “They are taking it Junior Jimmy Joyce will all in.” serve as the No. 2 starter. The Among Wantagh’s key hard-throwing Joyce, who returners are junior pitcher has verbally committed to Haley Monahan and senior Hofstra, is also offensive force catcher Julie Van O’Linda. coming off a .324 sophomore Monahan picked up wins on season with three home runs. the mound in each of Want“He throws the ball in the agh’s five victories last spring mid-90s,” Sachs said of Joyce. and also shined offensively “He is one of the best players with two home runs. Van in the county.”

O’Linda led the charge behind Bobby Hegarty and John the plate also proved to be an Fitzgerald are fighting for offensive weapon with speed the number three spot in the on the bases. pitching rotation. Fitzgerald “They are leading the also plays second base. way for us,” said Moran of The Warriors return Monahan and Van O’Linda. plenty of offensive firepower “They are our battery.” including Joyce and sophoVan O’Linda’s younger more shortstop Anthony sister Emily is up on varsity

W

By ANDREW COEN

52 — April 7, 2016

as a seventh- grader and expected to start at shortstop and anchor the infield defense.

Emily Van O’Linda follows in the footsteps of her older sister, who also played on varsity as a middle schooler in 2012 when Kelly Van O’Linda starred for the program.

Another middle schooler Moran expects contributions from is eighth- grader Nalani O’Brien. Moran said the athletic O’Brien adds some speed to the offense and can play multiple positions in the field.

“She’s a solid bat,” said Moran. “She can play any-

Julia Van O’Linda huge benefits.

“It’s been great having her,” said Moran of Osborne, who is also the head softball coach at Wantagh Middle School. “She’s awesome.”

Schedule

BASEBALL March

28 South Side Matt Guilfoyle

29 @ South Side 31 South Side

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April

Will O’Brien where.”

Junior left fielder Renee Puccio and sophomore Jaclyn Ludwikowsky are also expected to contribute.

Ludwikowsky is a former Wantagh Middle School baseball player who Moran sees potential for a breakthrough season.

A new addition to the Wantagh dugout this season is assistant coach Callie Osborne, who pitched at Hofstra from 2003-05. Moran said that having a former college pitcher on staff adds

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

4 5 7 8 13 18 19 21 27

@ Hewlett Hewlett @ Hewlett @ Roslyn Roslyn New Hyde Park @ New Hyde Park New Hyde Park @ Roslyn

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May

SOFTBALL March

30 Jericho

April 2 5 7 9 11 13 15 19 21 25 26

V.S. North V.S. South @ Carle Place @ South Side @ Wheatley @ Manhasset @ Jericho @ V.S. North @ V.S. South South Side Carle Place

May

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April 7, 2016 — 53

2016 HERALD High school Baseball / softball preview

West Hempstead Rams need to limit mistakes

W

By ANDREW MccLURE

est Hempstead continues to compete in the Countywide baseball conference, a league that includes Elmont, Hempstead, Roosevelt, Lawrence, and Westbury. The Rams will also play crossover games with all of the teams in Conference BC. The Rams finished with an overall record of 8-10 in 2015.

Kevin Cloughessy, in his first season as coach, likes the way his team is looking in the early going.

“We’re itching to get the season going to see how we stack up against the competition,” Cloughessy said.

“Right now, we’re just trying to get better every day. The key is going to be to limit our mistakes. Errors are going to happen, but when they do, we have to put it behind us and move on to the next play.

We’re looking pretty good thus far.”

Senior Ryan Sandberg, a three-year starter, takes over as the team’s No. 1 pitcher.

Sandberg, who will play shortstop when he’s not pitching, is the whole package.

He has smooth hands, good range, and a strong arm, and has a good plan every time he comes to the plate. Sandberg will be looked upon for run production hitting either second, third, or fourth.

Matt Moral had some decent outings as a sophomore. Cloughessy is hoping he’ll take the next step as a junior. Moral will play both middle infield positions when he’s not on the hill. He’s a contact hitter who is terrific on the base paths.

Junior Matt Arasmo doesn’t throw gas, but he’s always around the strike zone.

He’ll play second base or the outfield when not pitching, 54 — April 7, 2016

and will lead off. Like Moral, Arasmo likes to push the envelope when he gets on base.

Juniors Kyle and Dylan Suffa both have displayed some power at the plate. Kyle will be the team’s catcher, while Dylan will play first base, the outfield, and will see time out of the bullpen.

Senior Ray Close will see time at first base, Junior Savion Thorpe can play just about anywhere on the field.

He’ll be a key utility player for Cloughessy.

Lady Rams’ focus: Pitching and defense West Hempstead softball didn’t have the year it was hoping for in 2015, but hopes to turn things around in Conference ABC-IV, a league composed of Great Neck North, Lynbrook, Sewanhaka, Roslyn, Locust Valley, Cold Spring Harbor, and Hewlett.

Coach Chris Van Kovics hopes his team’s pitching and defense will be sound, and bunts, slaps, and crafty base running will lead to runs.

West Hempstead will face each conference opponent twice.

“We’re going to try to force the issue, and keep teams on their toes,” Van Kovics said. “We’re inexperienced in some key spots, but if we throw strikes and play defense, we should be ok.”

Junior Dana Palermo takes over in the circle for the Rams, who lost both of their pitchers to graduation. Palermo throws a fastball, curve, and change, and is making steady improvement. With a little game experience, Van Kovics believes she’ll be a pitcher who is in the zone and puts the ball in play.

All-Conference catcher Emily Weinstein returns for a third season on the varsity. Weinstein’s defense has improved, and her abil-

ity to get on base from the leadoff position is uncanny.

She bunts, slaps, and drives the ball. When she’s on base, Weinstein uses her speed to help the team manufacture runs.

Junior second baseman Kelsey Reichert is a terrific complement to Weinstein.

Reichert, who will more than likely hit second, handles the bat real well. Senior Emma Shanley can play all three outfield and both corner infield positions. At the plate, Shanley hits ropes. Van Kovics will use her in the three, four, or five hole.

Junior Maria Graci moves from third base to shortstop.

Graci has the power to hit in the middle of the order. A pair of freshman will be a big part of the present and future on the softball field for West Hempstead.

Ryan Sandberg

Schedule

BASEBALL March 29 East Rockaway 31 @ Carle Place

April

Matt Guilfoyle 4 5 7 11 12 18 19 25 26

Emily Weinstein Sydney Reitz and Ashley Obando, both who are expected to play the outfield, have the potential to be solid players.

Sophomore Laura Eivasi has a live bat and does a nice job of going with the pitch.

Eivasi will play both first and third.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL/SOFTBALL PREVIEW

Oyster Bay @ Malverne Wheatley Lawrence @ Lawrence Hempstead @ Hempstead Westbury @ Westbury

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@ Elmont Elmont Roosevelt @ Roosevelt

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SOFTBALL

April 1 2 4 6 8 11 12 14 16 18 20 29

Lynbrook G.N. North @ Roslyn @ Locust Valley @ C.S. Harbor Locust Valley Hewlett Sewanhaka @ Lynbrook @ G.N. North Roslyn C.S. Harbor

May

3 @ Hewlett 5 @ Sewanhaka

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April 7, 2016 — 55

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