UA_COLLEGE_SPRING_I_2014 by UA MEDIA

FIND US ON FACEBOOK! WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/UAMAGAZINE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Ultimate athlete magazine PUBLISHER/CEO EXECUTIVE EDITOR

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR SENIOR MEDIA MANAGER GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

PAUL CORACE N.J COMANZO

LOUIS H QUACH PONNUTHURAI JEYATHAS MELISSA FEARON WIN-KYE CHEONG

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

RICHARD BROOKS KEVIN FREHEIT JACKLYNKELLI KRONEMBERG BRIAN COLEMAN JUSTIN MACKIN DR. TOM FERRARO SANDY SARACONA MIKE MEJIA CSCS

IN-HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

KEVIN SPERANDEO KEVIN FREIHEIT

MORGAN HARRISON BILL KELLY

KEVIN SPERANDEO

Ultimate Athlete Magazine (ISSN 1931-5295) is published 12 times a year by Ultimate Athlete, Inc., 24 Woodbine Ave, Northport, New York 11768. All contents copyright 2012 by Ultimate Athlete Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or part of the content without the prior written consent of Ultimate Athlete, Inc. is strictly prohibited. All logos and trademarks are properties of thier respective owners. Although the writers and the publishers have exhaustively researched all sources to ensure the accuracy and the completeness of the information contained in this publication we aassume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or any inconsistency herein. The opinions expressed in all materials are those of authors and do not neccesarily represent those of Ultimate Athlete, Inc or Long Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ultimate Athlete Magazine.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

CONTENTS COLLEGE

SPRING I 2014

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

FEATURES

PG 10

ADELPHI

PG 16

HOFSTRA

PG 22

NYIT

PG 30

STONY BROOK

PG 36

SUFFOLK (LI)

PG 40

SUNY OLD WESTBURY

PG 46

SPORT PSYCHOLOGY

PG 48

SPORT NUTRITION

PG 50

SPORT TRAINING

Women’s Softball Women’s Lacrosse Men’s Lacrosse Men’s Baseball

Women’s Lacrosse Men’s Baseball Ira Silverman

The Perils Of Running On Empty Multi-tasking Your Muscles

SHUT TER

SPE ED Photo by ADIL BORLUCA

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

They understand that competition amongst them is a healthy and necessary ingredient for success and also embrace their roles, which is a huge factor as well

The Adelphi Panthers

Pounce and Prevail Story By Lisa Holahan Photos By Adil Bolurca

Head coach, Breanne Nasti

he Adelphi University Softball team has really out done themselves this year and it looks like they are going to have a tremendous chance to possibly win it all during the NE-10 Championship. The Adelphi Softball team known as the Panthers has had a fantastic regular season this spring with a total of 26 wins and 17 losses. This puts the brown and gold as the number two seed from the Southwest Division entering the Conference Tournament. The team of greatly skilled players has displayed a great deal of dedication on the playing field and it has shown in their results. Head coach, Breanne Nasti and her staff have been giving this team the tools they need for success ever since they began their reign in 2012. When Coach Nasti first became a Panther she finished with a 25-5 record in the Northeast-10 Conference and overall has led the team to victory when they took the 2013 Southwest Division Regular Season crown as well as the 2013 Northeast-10

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

Conference Championship title. The Panthers were granted fifth seed in the NCAA East Regional, advancing to Super Regionals for the first time in program history. With a team consisting of knowledgeable coaches and exceptional players, the Panthers have had a promising year thus far and during this spring season. The Adelphi Panthers are a very diligent team who support each other and “share a vision and desire to do great things”, Coach Nasti said. Each individual member of the team is essential for the team to operate in such a successful way. Coach Nasti speaks very passionately about her team and she acknowledges each member as a part of why the team has been and continues to be so successful. “They understand that competition amongst them is a healthy and necessary ingredient for success and also embrace their roles, which is a huge factor as well.”

One of the main reasons why the team functions so well is that everyone from the players to the coaches has a mutual respect for one another. Nasti explains that, “We have a lot of conversations about things that happen on and off the field in a desire to learn, grow and progress. There is a mutual respect and trust that I believe has led to a healthy, happy, and positive coach-athlete relationship.” The team also has an incredible work ethic that keeps both the players and coaches on their toes. They are constantly trying to improve by practicing as much as they can and the team is always striving to exceed expectations. When asked the difference between pre-season and inseason practices, the head coach replied, “Pre-season practices are designed a bit differently due to the phase of the season and the need to learn, review, and repeat offensive and defensive

strategies, skill development, philosophies, and mentalities. In season, our practices consist of a little bit of everything and always include a lot of defensive reps and offensive swings.” In addition, all of the teams’ hard work has been duly noted among the softball community. The Adelphi Panthers have gained recognition by their fellow peers and coaches within the NE-10 Conference due to their phenomenal performance on the diamond. Katie Andrews, a senior at Adelphi University, has been named the 2014 Northeast-10 Conference Softball Player of the Year. A tremendous accomplishment for Andrews and the team, Andrews has helped lead the Panthers to success by currently batting fifth in the Northeast-10 with an overall batting average of .388, tied for third with 50 hits and came in fifth in both doubles and in RBIs. In Northeast-10 Conference

play, Andrews is second highest in batting average (.453). She was voted Player of the Year by the league’s 15 head coaches. Another player that helped the Panthers become number two seed entering the Northeast-10 Softball Championship was Victoria Wink. Wink is currently a junior on the team and has a .331 batting average along with 19 RBIs. She stands proudly at eighth in the conference with six homeruns along with a total of 34 runs and 22 walks that put her at second and third respectively. Not only has the team been recognized for their hard work, but so have the coaches. Head Coach Nasti and her assistants Ophir Sadeh and Leah McIntosh were named the NFCA Division II East Region Coaching Staff of the Year in 2013.This had been a first in program history and the three coaches can be credited with guiding the Panthers to be one of the most proficient teams

in the Northeast-10 in 2013. In discussing her two assistant coaches, Coach Nasti considers herself, “very lucky and fortunate to have such a knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and dedicated staff.” She continued on to say, “We are very different in many ways, which I like, but most importantly, we share many of the same philosophies and values, which provides a consistent message.” In fact, Coach Nasti has had the honor of working with Coach Sadeh prior to coaching the Panthers. They both began their college coaching careers at Hofstra University and when the two had the opportunity to be side by side once again, Coach Nasti was thrilled with the idea. Coach McIntosh was also thrown in the mix as a part-time volunteer assistant and even though she currently resides in Canada, the team knew that Coach McIntosh would be an essential asset to the team. McIntosh is an expert

on pitching and has had her own personal success as an extremely talented and decorated pitcher. Each coach has unique experiences and perspectives that they bring to the team, which unitedly makes their efforts outstanding for the Adelphi Panthers. With the teams’ previous success and current success, it’s no wonder how the Adelphi Softball team has made it this far and how much potential they have to go even further. So what separates the Adelphi team from their competition other than their work ethic and determination to win? Well, Coach Nasti says, “I believe our team is unique in that they remain composed throughout highs and lows and face adversity well, knowing it is a normal and expected part of our sport, being on a team, and working through a season. They are also an extremely caring group who look out for each other in ways I feel to be extraordinary and special. They

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

“

very lucky and fortunate to have such a knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and dedicated staff. Head coach, Breanne Nasti

have a desire to listen, and progress. Headlearn, coach, Breanne Nasti We can’t ask for more than that.” Adelphi University will be giving it their all as they compete this weekend in the Northeast-10 Conference Championship. The Northeast-10 Conference is an association of 15 NCAA Division II colleges and universities located in New England and New York that supports a balance between both academic and athletic opportunities for students. Every year, 4,000 of those student-athletes compete in conference championships that consist of 23 different sports that are offered. This makes the NE-10 the largest DII conference in the country in terms of sport sponsorship. The conference believes in the motto of taking initiative in the classroom, taking charge on the field and leading within the community. Adelphi University has finished their regular season schedule with an overall record of 26-17. The Panthers are currently 14-8 in NE-10 Conference play, and 11-7 in NE-10 Divisional play. The team is secured as the #2 seed in the Southwest Division and the mighty Panthers will be in action starting on Friday, May 2nd at New Haven for Championship Weekend. They are also currently ranked #3 in the region which, if they remain as such, would guarantee the team a bid to Regionals. If you would like to keep track of the Panthers throughout their post-season or learn more about the team, please visit www.aupanthers.com. You can also follow the team on Twitter at @AUCoachNasti, @CoachSadeh, @ adelphisb and follow them on Instagram at @adelphisb.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

SHUT TER

SPE ED Photo by ADIL BORLUCA 15

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

HOFSTRA’S

TEAM OF THE POWERFUL PRIDE ARE LOOKING TO PREVAIL STORY BY LISA HOLAHAN PHOTOS BY ADIL BORLUCA

reviously visiting the Hofstra Women’s Lacrosse team earlier this spring, we wanted to catch up with our ladies again and see how the spring season has been holding up. The Hofstra women have been pretty consistent this season, so far they have racked in a total of 7 wins and 9 losses. However, their losses are nothing to get discouraged about seeing as they still have a chance towards the semifinals and even the championship game. The Hofstra Pride has a solid team this season and they have their head coach, Shannon Smith, who is a three-time first team lacrosse All-American. Coach Smith is currently on her second season as the head coach for the women’s lacrosse team at Hofstra University. With a coach that has a pure love for the sport of lacrosse, a passion to push her team toward success and a team of young ladies who are extremely talented, the Hofstra Pride women have more than a chance to go all the way this year. The Pride’s season started out in mid-February when they played against New Hampshire University. The team suffered a loss of four goals, making the final score 5-9. Not starting off the season as they imagined, the team continued to redeem themselves in their next two following games. The first game they won was against Fairfield University which ended in a score of 8-7 and the game after that they versed Colgate University and won 10-8. During their last game in February, the team took a hard hit from Maryland University. The opposing team scored a total 14 goals leaving Hofstra in the dust with only 3 goals scored. Despite a minor bump in the road, the Hofstra Pride were ready to take their skills to the next level and get

things going back on track. That is exactly what they did starting the beginning of March, the team practiced hard and learned from their mistakes of previous games. In fact, they started the month of March off with a win and continued winning for a total of a three game winning streak. The scores of these games are not something to take lightly either, the Hofstra Pride team not only came back but they came back with a vengeance. Their first game of March was verse Central Connecticut State University where the Pride scored a whopping twelve goal lead and ended the game 17-5. Following that impressive win, they played Marist College where they tripled the opposing teams score and took home a win of 9-3. The last game of the Hofstra lacrosse ladies’ winning streak was against Quinnipiac University where they had a six goal lead over team, with a final score of 13-7. Towards the end of March through the beginning of April, things began to shift and the ladies headed into a slump during the season. They were faced with six losses in a row by various schools such as Ohio State, Temple, Albany, Rutgers, Towson and Delaware University. However, the Hofstra Pride team has always been able to get back on their feet and improve themselves, which is why they remain a strong contender for the CAA championships. Recently, the team racked in two wins verses Dartmouth College and the College of William & Mary. They beat Dartmouth in a close win of 9-8 but they crushed the College of William & Mary doubling their score at 10-5. They continued on to play against James Madison University where they could not come up with a win, the final score being 7-17.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

The Hofstra Women’s Lacrosse team consists of many valuable players and well experienced coaches. With head coach Shannon Smith and assistant coaches Michael Bedford and Katie Mollot, this team is constantly absorbing useful information. Even though Coach Smith is fairly new to the lacrosse team, she has received nothing but praise from the other coaches. Seth Tierney, who is Hofstra’s head coach of the men’s lacrosse team, had been quoted saying “We are very excited that Shannon Smith will be the next head women’s lacrosse coach at Hofstra University. Her success on the field will without a doubt lead into a very long and successful coaching career. At Northwestern she was the coach on the field, and we are all excited to support her as she begins to patrol the sidelines at James M. Shuart Stadium. Shannon has been successful at everything she has done thus far, and we are now looking forward to seeing the “Shannon Smith Era” begin at Hofstra.” The Hofstra women have been practicing thoroughly to help develop each individual player’s skill to make an overall better team. Some of the teams’ prominent players are Brittain Altomare, Emily Von Hollen and Emily Corzel. Brittain Altomare who is a junior at the university, set a new Hofstra record when she broke the Hofstra career assists record that was previously set by Kathleen McPike from 1998 to 2001 and

Kimberly Hilier from 2004 to 2007. Both reached 82 assists during their career and Altomare surpassed them by reaching an all-time high of 85. Both of the Emily’s on the team are seniors at Hofstra and play a role as team captain. Both Von Hollen and Corzel lead by example by not only guiding the team of Pride but by equally shining on the playing field as well. The Hofstra Pride Women are currently 7-9 and 1-3 for the CAA. The CAA is otherwise known as the Colonial Athletic Association Championship. So where does that leave the team? Well, Hofstra’s final game before the championship will take place on April 26th against Drexel University. The winner of the game will advance to the CAA as the number 4 seed in; the loser will sadly see their season come to an end. Drexel University’s current standings are 6-9 and 1-3 for the CAA. Luckily, the Pride has completely swept the Drexel Dragons in the past, with a 12-0 victory during the previous regular season finals. The CAA tournament will be played in Williamsburg, VA at the College of William & Mary throughout the first weekend in May. The semifinals will begin on Friday, May 2nd and the championship game will be on Sunday, May 4th. Towson University will be the top seed in the tournament, with James Madison being the second seed and Delaware University shooting for third. So who will take that fourth spot? You can bet Hofstra Pride will.

ULTIMATE ATHLETE

NEW YORK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY MEN’S LACROSSE

NYIT Lacrosse Strives To Greatness In 2014

STORY BY ROBERT DEVITA PHOTOS BY KEVIN SPERANDEO

he 2014 NCAA lacrosse season is well underway and the NYIT Bears find themselves in the midst of a great season thus far. The Bears currently have a record of (10-3, 7-1 ECC), which is good enough for 7th in the USILA Coaches Polls. The Bears opened up the season dropping two of their first three games, but since then there has been no looking back for them as they have went on to play a tenaciouss style of lacrosse having compiled a 9-1 record since then. Over the course of the season the Bears have picked up a number a huge wins, but none bigger than a pair of back to back overtime thrillers against Molloy and LIU Post. The Bears knocked off Molloy 13-12 in quadruple overtime on a goal scored by red-shirt freshmen Tom Hughes. The victory over LIU Post was very similar as the Bears edged out a 9-8 victory in triple overtime. Sophomore Shawn Murphy was the hero on that day as he scored the game winning goal which defeated LIU Post. “Last two games they’re ones for the ages. I always tell the guys and we’ve learned this from past experiences that in order to win a championship you need some luck and sometimes you got to make your own luck”, said Bears Coach Bill Dunn when commenting on their back to back overtime classics against Molloy and LIU Post. This Bears team features an extremely balanced scoring attack which is anchored by a trio of scoring machines junior attacker Luke Miller, senior attacker Cory Triola and sophomore attacker Shawn Murphy. These three guys are a matchup nightmare for any opponent as each of them can beat you at any given moment. Luke Miller has put up some huge numbers for the Bears this season. Through 13 games Miller is the team’s leading scorer with a total of 72 points, he has scored 30 goals and has a whopping 42

assists to go along with the big scoring numbers he has also picked up 30 groundballs. “He’s one of the best players in Division II and we’re lucky we have him here, a very unselfish player and he really controls our offense for us and having him back there helps Shawn Murphy out”, said Coach Dunn. Miller has pulled in some big time accolades over the past couple of seasons. As a freshman he was named ECC Rookie of the Year, last season as a sophomore he was named First Team USILA Division II AllAmerican. He was also named ECC Player of the Year as well as attaining ECC First Team honors. With the year Murphy is having this year; you can expect a few more honors coming his way. Shawn Murphy has done some fantastic things for the Bears this season; he has a total of 45 points this year, netting 27 goals, 18 assists and has picked up 27 ground balls. Murphy had his stand out moment in the Bears overtime victory over LIU Post where he notched the game winning goal. The third member of this trio Cory Triola is the team’s leading goal scorer with 35 goals on the season. Triola made some history earlier this season as he recorded his 100th career goal. “He’s actually the 4th all-time leading scorer in the history of this program, which that’s saying a lot. He’s past some real good players, some former all American players and his recruiting class, he was one of the last players that I recruited and he ended up starting from day one”, said Coach Dunn when commenting on Triola’s 100th career goal and his outstanding play. The Bears can certainly pack a punch on the offensive side of the ball but they also know how to get it done on the defensive side. They have a number of midfielders and defensemen who pride their game on limiting the opposing offenses to a minimum. The Bears have also received outstanding goalie play from freshman goalie Alex Seltzer who has been a nice surprise this season.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

NEW YORK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY MEN’S LACROSSE

On defense the Bears have one of the best patrolling their side of the turf, senior long-poll midfielder Danny McDermott has been one of the best on the defensive side of the ball in the nation. McDermott is a two time USILA AllAmerican, has attained All-ECC first team honors twice and was named ECC Defensive Player of the Year last season. “We moved him to long-poll midfielder this year and he hasn’t skipped a beat let’s put it that way. I think he’s better as a long-poll midfielder then a base defenseman, he’s one of the top players in the country”, said Coach Dunn. The play of Bears goalie Alex Seltzer cannot go ignored, he has made some big time headlines of his own this season. He has been named Goalkeeper of the Week four times and Rookie of the Week twice this year. Seltzer has provided an answer to a position that the Bears just didn’t know what to expect from. “He’s played great it’s a tough position for a goalie and the other day he had 18 saves and he played unbelievably against Post”, said Coach Dunn. As a freshman Seltzer has made his mark on this team

by providing a high level of play from the goalie position. “Well over the years and I’ve done this a longtime, things that I usually really worry about usually takes care of itself and this is a good example of that”, said Coach Dunn when commenting on his goaltender position. This position was a real question mark for the Bears and it seems that Coach Dunn has a keeper in Seltzer. The Bears have a tough road ahead moving forward as they take on Adelphi and Post in games that can either make or break their run at the playoffs. They will need to pride themselves on the things that have got them to where they are this season and that is a conscious effort on the defensive side of the ball and a balanced scoring attack. The Bears are currently riding a five game winning streak and are playing some of their best ball of the season. If they can continue to mesh all the aspects of the game together the sky is the limit for this team. They are a talented bunch and if they can make it into the playoffs watch out for the Bears to make some serious noise.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

FRAMED POSTERS Our stories and cover are available to purchase. Choose from any cover and/or article from any Ultimate Athlete Magazine issue to have made into a poster. Covers come in a 9x11 or 12x18 print. Articles come in a 12x18 print. Any prints can be ordered with or without a black frame. To order, call 1.800.680.3213 or email Paul at publisher@ultimateathletemagazine. com 9â&#x20AC;?x11â&#x20AC;? Framed Cover NAS SAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE lions

NAS SAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE LIONS

NASSAU LIONS OFF TO A STRONG SEASON Story By Kevin Freiheit // Photos By Kevin Sperandeo

NASSAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOOTBALL

In their six wins this season, Nassau has put up 240 points, an average of 40 points per game. Those numbers increased after the Lions defeated Hudson Valley Community College 68-20 in a JDPH WKDW JRW RXW RI KDQG TXLFNO\ The Lions defense has allowed more than seven points in a game just twice this season and KDYH \LHOGHG SRLQWV RYHUDOO WKURXJK WKH ÂżUVW six games. By scoring four times more than the opponent, Nassau isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to have a problem winning games. They havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been relying on star senior players, either. Nassau has been able to spread the wealth and possesses numerous ways to score. 6RSKRPRUH TXDUWHUEDFN 7UR\ -RQHV KDV led the Lions to victory at every chance he has KDG WKLV VHDVRQ -RQHV KDV FRPSOHWHG RI attempts this season, along with 10 touchdowns. His longest play of the year went for 82 yards and KH LV DYHUDJLQJ MXVW RYHU SHU JDPH -RQHV KDV plenty of talented wide outs to throw the ball to, but if thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a favorite target he has, that very well may be sophomore Antwane Grant. Grant has found the end zone six times this season, including three in the win against Hudson Valley. Grant has three 100-yard receiving games and has made at least a reception during every game, except one. When theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not throwing the ball, the Lions KDYH D JUHDW RSWLRQ LQ VRSKRPRUH UXQQLQJ EDFN 7UDYLV /RFN ZKR KDV EHHQ D ELJ SDUW RI WKH offense this year and has made some big runs DOO VHDVRQ ORQJ /RFN KDV JDLQHG \DUGV DQG WKUHH WRXFKGRZQV RQ FDUULHV +LV ORQJHVW UXQ RI WKH VHDVRQ ZDV \DUGV With these offensive options, the Lions can be an unpredictable group, and can win games LQ GLIIHUHQW ZD\V *UDQW DQG -RQHV KDYH FUHDWHG problems for their opponents so far because they are both so dynamic.

f thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one word to describe the Nassau Community College football team, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;dominantâ&#x20AC;?. The Lions are plain and simple destroying their opponents this season and have shown no signs of slowing down. The Lions are off to a 6-1 start and have proven, time after time, that they will be a team to beat going forward. Nassau has been on a roll and is building more momentum DQG FRQÂżGHQFH ZLWK HYHU\ ZLQ PDNLQJ LW WKDW PXFK PRUH GLIÂżFXOW IRU DQRWKHU WHDP WR stop them.

1(800)680-3213

12â&#x20AC;?x18â&#x20AC;? Framed Cover Poster

7KH /LRQV ZLOO ORRN WR ERWK RI WKHVH SOD\HUV WR NHHS GRLQJ ZKDW WKH\ KDYH EHHQ DV WKH\ FRQWLQXH The Lions had their toughest game of the season recently, and the results were different this time. Nassau suffered its lone loss of the season, which VQDSSHG D VL[ JDPH ZLQQLQJ VWUHDN 7KH /LRQV IHOO WR *HRUJLD 0LOLWDU\ &ROOHJH WKH UDQNHG VFKRRO E\ D VFRUH Playing the top seeded school is always tough, but Nassau has the talent and mentality to bounce EDFN 7KH /LRQV KDYH D IHZ JDPHV UHPDLQLQJ RQ WKHLU VFKHGXOH 7KH\ ZLOO WDNH RQ /RXLVEXUJ College, Globe Tech and ASA College to close out the regular season.

1(800)680-3213

12â&#x20AC;?x18â&#x20AC;? Framed Article Poster

SHUT TER

SPE ED Photo by KEVIN SPERANDEO

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

BASEBALL THRIVES TO RETURN TO NCAA TOURNAMENT

STORY BY BRIAN COLEMAN PHOTOS BY KEVIN SPERANDEO

welve years ago, the Stony Brook University athletic program joined the field of Division I athletics, making the leap from Division III to the highest level of college athletics back in 2000. While this transition is often difficult for many programs, the Stony Brook baseball team has made the crossover look easy, and a lot of that is due to the stability at the head coach position. Matt Senk is currently in his 24th season at the helm of the Stony Brook Seawolves and continues to produce a winning team year in and year out. In 2004, in what was just its fourth season in Division I competition, the Seawolves reached the NCAA Tournament. Eight years later, in 2012, Senk and the Seawolves would go on one of the more magical runs in the history of the College World Series. The 2012 season was one of the most memorable in the history of the University, as the Seawolves won a school record 43 regular season games, eclipsing the previous school high of 42 victories. After winning 19 of its final 20 games, Stony Brook entered the America East tournament as the top-seed. After disposing of Maine and Binghamton, the Seawolves captured the America East championship and a spot in the Coral Gables Regional. Heading down south to what is widely considered the better baseball region, Stony Brook carried along with it Long Island pride and a bit of a chip on its shoulder. Facing off against the Miami Hurricanes, Stony Brook completely took apart the Hurricanes pitching in a 10-2 blowout, proving that it belonged

on the national stage. Stony Brook would battle through the regional, and used a comeback in the Regional Final to down the University of Central Florida Golden Knights to advance to the Super Regionals. It was the first time an America East team had advanced as far as the regional final, and now the Seawolves were headed to Baton Rouge to take on one of the best teams in the country in LSU. In an epic three-game series, Stony Brook, as it had done all season long, battled back from a devastating Game 1 loss and won the final two games to advance to the holy grail of college baseball: Omaha, Nebraska. The magical run, however, would come to an end when Stony Brook matched up with powerhouses UCLA and then Florida St. The two clubs proved to be too much and Stony Brook’s season would come to an end, but after one of the most improbable and inspiring runs. “I can’t really put into words what kind of experience that was,” said Senk reflecting back on the 2012 season. “It was a record setting season not only for us, but for the America East conference and we had some really, really good players.” Three players, Travis Janikowski, William Carmona and Tyler Johnson, were all named All-Americans and Matt Senk won the NCBWA Coach of the Year. The school from Long Island finished the season with 52 victories, the most out of any team in the NCAA.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

Two years removed from that season now, Stony Brook hopes to use that experience and knowledge to reach that point yet again. After a disappointing 2013 campaign, only in the fact that they had high expectations, the Seawolves look poised to get back to the NCAA Tournament. It did get off to a bit of a slow start this year as it lost the first six games of the season, a three-game sweep on the road at Florida International and three losses in the Wake Forest tournament. “We always tried to play the most competitive schedule we can,” said Senk. “Playing against the best competition prepares you for tough games later in the season.” There is a lot to be learned by facing and losing to touch competition. Since the rough start, Stony Brook has been one of the hottest clubs in the country and has won 21 of its last 26 games and can be considered a favorite to win the America East crown. “Our goal every year is the same,” stated Senk. “We want to play for and win the America East Championship.” As is the case with the majority of successful baseball teams, the pitching is the straw that stirs the drink for the Seawolves. Anchored by some experienced seniors at the top of the rotation, Frankie Vanderka and Brandon McNitt, the Stony Brook pitching has been the key to the good play over the last several weeks. “Our starting pitching has been outstanding during this run and we have gotten excellent relief pitching as well,” said Senk. “Our defense is leading the nation in fielding percentage also. Our offense is putting together quality atbats, and when you do all those things you always have a chance to win.” Freshman Cameron Stone has made the transition from the rotation to the bullpen, and now serves as the team’s closer. He took over the role in early March and has posted six saves and an Earned Run Average of 1.64. Stone is not the only freshman having an impact on Stony Brook this season, as he is one of three freshmen to win America East honors. Ryley MacEachern, who is 3-1 with a 3.51 earned run average, was named Pitcher of the Week for the week ending April 12th, while Stone and Casey Baker have both taken home Rookie of the Week awards at points this season. Now sitting at 21-11 on the season and 7-1 in conference, the Seawolves do look poised to make a run at the America East crown and a spot in the NCAA Tournament. It would come as no surprise, as Stony Brook has become accustomed to winning over the last several years, and has brought a lot of baseball pride to Long Island. “I am a Long Island guy myself so I find myself a little partial to players from here,” said Senk. “It may be a little biased but I think Stony Brook is the best university on Long Island and I tell my players that.”

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

Foundation for a

ew to the National J unior Coll Athletic A ege ssociation is the Suff County Co o lk mmun ever Wome n’s lacrosse ity College’s first team. Suffo a Women’s lk started lacrosse p rogram th with Thom is season as Carro as the head co team is co ach. This mprised of players tha to join fro t decided m word of mouth. Th time to rec ere was no ruit this se a son so all th joined from e players flyers and hearing pe about the te ople talk am. “The first day was because we a culture had girls at shock every diffe of experien rent level ce coming to join the Carro. “It team,” said is tough as a first year but our gro program wth so far has been tr We just wa e m endous. nt to get b ette practice an d every gam r every day, every e.” Running th e brand new program is Women’s la head coach crosse Carro. Carr lacrosse at o played both Suffolk Communit and Adelph y College i Universit y . the high sc He has coa hool level ched at and was th coach at D e assistant owling Co llege last y has been a ear. Carro physical ed ucation tea years and is cher for 19 the directo r of the Lo Yellow Jac ng Island kets. “Playing fo r Coach experience ,” said midfi Carro is a great elder Brian “We never a Johnson. have a dull practice. C us on our to arro keeps es and help s us to beco players.” me better As a new program th lacrosse tea e SCCC W m has alrea om d y got a couple en’s under their belt. Every o f wins thing they a this year ccomplish is huge an d will be history bec written in ause they a re the first o do it. Their nes to ever record so far is two wins and

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

a Future at Suffolk Story By Jaclynkelli Kronemberg | Pho tos

By Morgan Harrison

two losses. The y were victorio us against CCB Catonsville and C Broome Comm unity College and came up sh ort against Har ford Communit College and Nas y sau Community College. “I feel honored to be a part of the first ever Women’s lacros se program at Suffolk,” said Johnson. “This season has been go ing great for a first year team that started play ing in January. This season is ev erything I though t it would be. At the first prac tice I attended I kn mix of girls wou ew that this ld be a good team because of all the talent we ha ve from all over Long Island.” This year 20 gi rls showed up fo r try outs and 20 girls are on the team. As a fi rst year program Carro did not w ant to cut anyone and wanted to lay a foundation for the future of the program. “Everyone is im pacting every as games,” said C pect of the arro. “The girls grew a bond so quickly and th at is helping w ith our success so far. They ar e striving to gr ow, get better and make this a successful pr ogram. Our go this season is to al build a founda tion for SCCC women’s lacros se and make gi rls want to com here and play.” e

Helping to buil d a foundation and make this program known on Long Island are a few impact players. Capta in attack/midfi elder Corinne Geiger from W ard Melville ha s five goals an three assists so d far this season. “Corinne is do ing a great job for us,” said Carro. “She is an impact player an d is definitely the leader of ou r offense.” Captain defend er Melanie Mas ullo is from Bay Shore. “Melanie’s lead ership is above and beyond,” said Carro. “She has great comm unication and

brings the defens

e together.”

Captain defend er Melanie K han is from Sachem. Khan helped recruit pl ay er team. s to join the

“Melanie Khan is a great com Carro. “She is petitor,” said a leader on defe nse and is a ve enthusiastic play ry er.” Angela Henriks en is an attacker Point. So far H out of Rocky enriksen has se ven goals and assist. one

“Angela is beco ming one of ou r top attackers,” said Carro. “She has high lacrosse knowledge and great field vision .” Johnson is a mid fielder from Bre ntwood. So far Johnson has four goals and one as sist. “Briana is extr emely coachabl e,” said Carro. “She is a very good athlete th at wants to lear more and she ke n eps getting bett er every day.” This team is go ing to be foreve r known and be the base of wha t girls look at w hen they decide come and play to at Suffolk. “We have noth ing to lose an d everything to gain,” said Carro . “We are lookin g to build a futu with these girls. re They come to pl ay. Win or lose they leave ever ything on the fi eld.” Next up for Suf folk is Herkim er Community College on Mar ch 29, 2014. Eve ry on wants to contin e on the team ue to win so th ey can set a hi standard of wha gh t to expect whe n you come to pl for the Suffolk ay Community C ollege Women lacrosse progra ’s m. They want to be ranked th year and show th is ey are a good te am. “It means the w orld to me to ge program,” said t to start this Carro. “I’m ha pp y to be a part of Suffolk Com munity College and I hope to eventually mak e this team a hi gh caliber prog I couldn’t have ram. asked for a bett er group of girl to start this pr s ogram with. T hese girls are hundred percen on e t in the zone an d are committe the program an d to d want to be su ccessful.”

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

21.95

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY POST PIONEERS DOWLING COLLEGE golden lions

return, LIU can really start expecting more victories. Even with that, the Pioneers have some areas to improve upon, and Collins has already been making adjustments. “Going into the year, we felt solid in certain areas, but we had certain question marks in other areas,” Collins said, “We have to stop giving up the big play.”

Story by Kevin Freiheit Photos by Morgan Harrison

The defense has had a rough time, especially over the past two games, giving up 86 combined points. It was a major difference as the defense allowed just 28 in the first pair of games. Collins is confident that the Pioneers can recover from the losses and put together a winning season.

DOWLING Men’s Soccer A Stands Tall

“This team is sticking more together,” Collins said, “Adversity causes some to break, and others to break records. We’re always working hard, and we have excellent recruiting class that is showing.” A big piece of the Pioneers’ puzzle is how the younger players perform. “It’s a huge role from younger players,” Collins said, “We’re very happy with the freshmen class. We want to

he Dowling College men’s soccer team was unsatisfied with their

“

We have a tremendous roster and This season, the Pioneers got off to a start again, winning the opening pair we have already won hot more games of games and scoring 71 points. However, this year than all ofLIUlast year. took a step backwards as they dropped the next two games, falling back to .500

maintain a winning attitude, and make sure the freshmen are seeing it.” The confidence level for LIU is still high, and the Pioneers believe that they are a talented enough team to put together a successful season. The coaches believe in the players, and they are willing to work to make them even better. “I really do believe this is a special group of players,” Collins said, “They’re preparing very hard to play these games. Everything is in place for them to succeed, and we’re hoping for big things from the Pioneers this season.”

declining, and they have lost that winning touch they held onto for so long.

results from a year ago. After DiRico noted that the team lost eight posting a 2-15-1 record, the Golden Lions games by only one-goal last year, but knew that change was necessary. With regardless, it was still a disappointing Dowling has season. The Golden Eagles have played fter a disappointing finish to only last 13 onreturning the year. players, The Pioneers are facing alreadyancollected more situation wins than all of season, the Long Island University eerily similar to the one in four one-goal games this year, but have bythey winning the firstbut fiveare been on the winning side more frequently. Post Pioneers are looking to last get year that were three in lastofseason, games looking this season. back where they belong. Following two for a completely opposite With an experienced coach like successful winning football seasons, theHead outcome. Despite the two coach John DiRico is game in hislosing DiRico, Dowling already has a starting Pioneers finished with a 3-7 record 22nd last year streak, head Coach Bryan Collins is of coaching and understands point to get back on track. “We have a year, falling short of their ultimate goal. team can getLions back on the what itconfident takes to that win.hisThe Golden completely different team than last year,” right track. were National champions in 2006 and DiRico said, “We have a tremendous Despite winning the first two games would consistently post season 10 roster and we have already won more of the year by a combined 91-36 score, “I fully expect us to of compete,” or more wins.said, However, overis the last9-2, games this year than all of last year.” LIU was unable to keep the momentum Collins “Our goal to go two years, their up performance has been going. Bloomsburg University halted one week and one week down. the energy and the Pioneers started an Attack the next opponent.” The unfortunate string of defeats. Throughout Pioneers have been battling injuries the rest of the season LIU would only during both this season, and the winKevin one other game, a 20-15 victory over last one. While many coaches will Story by Freiheit Millersville University on homecoming never use injuries as an excuse, Photos by Morgan Harrison weekend. A losing season can be looked they certainly hurt the overall at in more ways than one. While it wasn’t quality of the team. the anticipated or wanted outcome, the “Our starting running back Pioneers used the year to learn, rebuild has battled an ankle injury, but and improve. he’s playing through it,” Collins

“

KEEPSAKE POSTERS

Any Cover Available in 8.5 x11 Print

said, “We’ve been struggling with injuries. If we can get back healthy, we’ll continue to get better each week.” Once a few of the injured players begin to

Freshman infielder Alex Hailes is one of the new players on the team and is looking to get his collegiate career off to a good start. “This team has gelled together really quickly and I have high expectations,” Hailes said. Hailes, who is from England, didn’t hesitate to say that he is more concerned than how the team is doing than personal statistics. At the same time, he knows that he is going to have to step and contribute when called upon. “Hopefully I can make a big impact, stay off the bench and make a difference,” Hailes said.

team become that successful once again, but he’ll have to do it with a completely new set of players, a lot of whom are new. “This team has the makeup, the talent and the chemistry to get back to where we are used to being,” DiRico said. “I have a good sense of where this team can go.”

Returning striker Kariym Balthazer knows what it’s like to play for Dowling, as he did last year, but wants to see the team be successful. “The sky is the limit”, Balthazer said. “We have a lot of work to do, but we’re responding well. I’m happy with how we already beat our record from last year.”

DiRico’s determination to win translates to his players and he aims to recruit players that have the same mentality that he does. “I recruit players from winning programs and my players hate to lose more than they love to win,” DiRico said.

Improving a record from a season ago, but that’s just the first step for Dowling soccer. The Golden Lions made a name for themselves and were a strong force, and an intimidating team to play against.

Head coach John DiRico

DiRico has plans of seeing his

DiRico has set high standards for the Golden Lions and he has every season, regardless of past records or performances. “The coach has high expectations of you and doesn’t settle for mediocracy,” Balthazer said, “I respect him as a coach.”

The Golden Lions are off to a good start, but the season has just begun. Dowling will try to make a deep run for the first time in three years.

Any Cover or Article Poster Available in 12 x 18 Print

$24.95

1(800)680-3213 1(800)680-3213

Any Cover Available in 8.5x11 Print with Frame

$34.95

SUFFOLK COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE sharks NAS SAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE

LIONS

“I believe that hard work beats talent, every time talent does not work hard,” says Kim Simpson, head coach of the Suffolk County Community College Girls Volleyball team. In Coach Simpsons past five seasons with the �harks, the team has made it to the regional semifinals four times. Last season, the Sharks had a record of 22-1 and went to nationals after winning their region. The team included an all-American nomination, as well as multiple all-regional players.

about the game, I must also exhibit it. I work my girls hard and expect a lot out of them.” She says, “No matter how talented, I expect my teams to work, work, work until we hit our final goal of winning the region.”

volleyball, you always know when she is on the court.” Brittney led the team in kills last season. “She works extremely hard and is passionate about the game. She loves to have fun at practice with her teammates and loves to push them. She is a true leader ”, according to Simpson. With a bright future ahead, on and off the court, Brittney is pursuing a future career in nursing. Simpson says, “She is going to do amazing things on the next level when she leaves Suffolk.”

NASSAU LIONS OFF TO A STRONG SEASON Kim Simpson’s volleyball career began at NYIT, where she was a scholarship player for four years. Since then, she has worked with multiple volleyball programs such as the Longwood PAL and the Long Island United travel 18 year old volleyball team. Coach Simpson’s enthusiastic coaching and hard work by the players has lead to indisputable success for the Suffolk Volleyball program. Simpson believes in leading by example, “I think if I want them to have desire and passion

SUFFOLK SHARKS

Team captains for the 2013 season include returning sophomores Amanda Dill and Brittney Olazagasti.

Amanda Dill, from Patchogue, was nominated to the all tournament team at the regional playoffs in 2012, where the team took first place. �impson says, “I am very lucky to have someone like Amanda on the team who pushes others to be the best they can be.” This dedicated student athlete is described as a , “consistent, strong, and a mentally tough player.” Amanda hopes to continue playing at a four year school after graduating from SCCC. Fellow team captain and extremely talented player, Brittney Olazagasti, from Selden, NY is a first team all regional player. Coach Simpson says, “Brittney loves

Sophomore Katie Shannon from Selden, controls the court for the Sharks, and is the team’s setter. “The team depends on her and she has done such an amazing job setting up all of our hitters so far this season. She loves the game and wants to continue playing at the next level. Katie is willing to work on anything or try anything you ask her to. Sometimes as a coach you know you push people, and sometimes you must stop before you break them, but there is no breaking Katie. She wants to be the best player she can be!” says Coach Simpson. Simpson describes her as, “a caring, dedicated and hardworking

Story By Kevin Freiheit // Photos By Kevin Sperandeo

look forward to successful year Story and Photos By Kevin Sperandeo

Suffolk Girls Volleyball

NASSAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOOTBALL

young lady.” Fighting her way to a starting spot with very talented group, freshman, Carly Lombardo from Stony Brook has been able to find her role on the team. Coach Simpson says, “She is volleyballminded. She has been around the game for so many years and is driven to be successful.” Carly came to the team from High School coming off not only a Division 1 Suffolk Championship, but also a Long Island Championship. Described as a player that always brings one hundred percent, Simpson says, “She is a versatile player, I can ask her to play any position on the court, and she will gladly do so.”

Another key player for the team is Kiersten Kissinger from Islip. This is �iersten’s first year with the �harks. According to Coach Simpson, “She is a humble player; she works hard at practice, and truly loves the game.” Kiersten is a sophomore transfer student from SUNY Oneonta. Coach Simpson says, “We are lucky to have Kiersten transfer back home to join the Suffolk volleyball team.” Having a presence on the court, Simpson describes Kiersten as a, “strong, loud and aggressive player. She is great to watch when she gets more excited for a teammates accomplishments then her own.” With great teamwork, dedication,

respect and passion, Coach Simpson believes the team will go far. The goal is always to win the region and make it to nationals, “That is always what the girls are working to”, says Simpson. This year’s team looks promising, and they are set for another successful year. Simpson says, “They have many talents on the court, strong hitters, big blockers, tough defense, but I love that these girls know the true meaning of being a team and what a teammate really is.” The �harks played their first match on September 3rd. They beat Hostos Community College with a score of three games to none.

The Lions defense has allowed more than seven points in a game just twice this season and have yielded 60 points overall, through the first six games. By scoring four times more than the opponent, Nassau isn’t going to have a problem winning games. They haven’t been relying on star senior players, either. Nassau has been able to spread the wealth and possesses numerous ways to score.

Any Cover or Article Poster Available in 12x18 Print with Frame

$44.95

�ophomore quarterback Troy �ones has led the Lions to victory at every chance he has had this season. �ones has completed 56 of 97 attempts this season, along with 10 touchdowns. His longest play of the year went for 82 yards and he is averaging just over 1�0 per game. �ones has plenty of talented wide outs to throw the ball to, but if there’s a favorite target he has, that very well may be sophomore Antwane Grant. Grant has found the end zone six times this season, including three in the win against Hudson Valley. Grant has three 100-yard receiving games and has made at least a reception during every game, except one. When they’re not throwing the ball, the Lions have a great option in sophomore running back Travis Lock, who has been a big part of the offense this year and has made some big runs all season long. Lock has gained �23 yards and three touchdowns on 93 carries. His longest run of the season was 56 yards.

“I believe that hard work beats talent, every time talent does not work hard” Kim Simpson, head coach

Suffolk Girls Volleyball

With these offensive options, the Lions can be an unpredictable group, and can win games in different ways. Grant and �ones have created problems for their opponents so far because they are both so dynamic.

f there’s one word to describe the Nassau Community College football team, it’s “dominant”. The Lions are plain and simple destroying their opponents this season and have shown no signs of slowing down. The Girls Lions are off to a 6-1 start and have Suffolk Volleyball proven, time after time, that they will be a team to beat going forward. Nassau has been on a roll and is building more momentum and confidence with every win, making it that much more difficult for another team to stop them.

1(800)680-3213 1(800)680-3213

The Lions will look to both of these players to keep doing what they have been as they continue. The Lions had their toughest game of the season recently, and the results were different this time. Nassau suffered its lone loss of the season, which snapped a six game winning streak. The Lions fell to Georgia Military College, the �1 ranked school, by a �5-22 score. Playing the top seeded school is always tough, but Nassau has the talent and mentality to bounce back. The Lions have a few games remaining on their schedule. They will take on Louisburg College, Globe Tech and ASA College to close out the regular season.

To Order: Call 1.800.680.3213 or Email publisher@ultimateathletemagazine.com

SUNY OLD W

BASEBALL MAKING

he goal of any college athletic team is to compete for and win your conference championship. Doing so validates your season and illustrates that you were the best team all season in your conference.

It also ensures you a spot in the NCAA Tournament and the opportunity to compete for a national championship, which is all you can ask for as a college athlete or coach. The State University of New York (SUNY) at Old Westbury baseball team fell just short of that goal last season, reaching the Skyline Conference Championship as the number two seed in the tournament. Unfortunately, the Panthers ran into the top-seeded Farmingdale State Rams and came up just one run short in what was a cleanly played baseball game that SUNY Old Westbury dropped 2-1. The go-ahead run was manufactured by the Rams in the top half of the fifth inning after the runner reached third on a throwing error and eventually scored on a groundball out. “I never like to lose a game. It was disappointing,” said head coach Rod Stephan. “The team needs to focus on the game they are playing. We lost in the conference finals

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

WESTBURY

G PUSH FOR SKYLINE CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP Story By Brian Coleman || Photos By Kevin Sperandeo

and they wanted to be playing in the NCAA Tournament.”

look poised to make a run at the championship.

Stephan, who is in eighth season as head coach, said that his team was looking ahead to the NCAA Tournament rather than

“Our expectations are to advance to the NCAA Tournament,” said Stephan. “To do that we need to win our first Skyline Conference Championship.”

The Panthers lost some key players from last year’s team such as Brian Walsh, Robert Crocito and Stephen Chapter, but Stephan and his team understand that that is life in college sports; the inevitability

While sitting with an overall record of 12-18 as of April 17th, the Panthers are 9-4 inside the Skyline Conference. The struggles out of conference can be attributed to the competivie schedule that Coach Stephan and his program choose to play in order to prepare his club for games inside the conference.

focusing on the more important game at the time, the conference championship. Heading into this season that goal remains the same. Despite struggling a bit out of conference, the Panthers have played very well inside the Skyline Conference and

“We play a very challenging non-conference schedule, competing against the #2 and #4 teams in the nation,” reflected Stephan. “Those tough games give me the ability to evaluate what we need to do to win our conference tournament. We are also now healthy and have our team at full strength.” That is a major factor for SUNY Old Westbury going forward this season. It lost a number of key players to graduation as well as injuries early on, but weathered the storm and is now fully healthy for the second half of the season.

that you will eventually need to find new players. “College athletics is a revolving door,” said Stephan. “You always have to keep a good freshmen class. We brought in freshmen Tommy Ziegen, Jesse Matos, Michael

Cardino and Nick Dorcean along with transfers Nick Yip, Christian Faust, Tim Ingram, Braylin Perez and Byron White to reload our talent.”

en route to the no hitter in front of his home crowd on Senior Day at the Jackie Robinson Athletic Complex at SUNY Old Westbury. The offense has been effective as well, paced by a couple of hitters who made impacts last year. Junior outfielder Jacob Coners has flourished this year as he has received more at bats and is making them count. The kid from Selden, N.Y. is leading the Panthers in hitting with a .356 batting average with one homerun and 17 runs batted in.

The transfer is one of the most important aspects of college athletics, and bringing in the right players from other schools can be the difference between a good and bad season. “It’s always good to get transfers,” said Stephan. “It’s immediately helped that they have played college baseball before. Freshmen sometimes take seasoning to get to the championship level.”

The power has come from one of those transfers that Stephan raved about in Nick Yip, who has gone One of the transfers brought in last offseason was pitcher Arismendy Nunez, a pitcher from the Bronx who originally played his college baseball at Nassau Community College. He went 6-5 with a 3.12 earned run average last season, and came into this season poised to improve on that success. He has dropped his earned run average by nearly a run and is now at 2.30 with a record of 4-2. His most outstanding performance came on April 17th, when he hurled a no-hitter in the first game of a doubleheader against Stevens Institute. Nunez needed just 79 pitches as he struck out four batters

SUNY OLD W B A S E B A L L 42

B A S E B A L L WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

B A S

yard three times while driving in 16 runs. Another junior outfielder, Jonathan Pagan, has also hit three homeruns while leading the team with his 20 runs batted in. SUNY Old Westbury has received excellent hitting and pitching so far in the 2014 campaign, and with seven games left in the season, it can smell the Skyline Conference Tournament. Stephan says while the hitting and pitching have been good, it has been the little details of the game that have put the Panthers in a position for success. “We are currently 9-4 in conference and we just need to continue to do the little things like sacrifice bunting, moving runners, stealing bases, throwing strikes and staying healthy,” said Stephan. While success on the field is imperative for this program, coach Stephan takes great pride in the relationships he forms with his players, and how playing college baseball can be impactful in other areas of life. “I love to give back the knowledge that I have learned throughout my career,” said Stephan. “I continue to keep learning over the years. To see student-athletes go on and play professionally and student-athletes moving on academically to positions such as accountants, teachers and police officers. It’s great to see them come back and support the program.”

WESTBURY E B A L L

B A S E B A L L 43

ULTIMATE ATHLETE

SPOrT PSYCHOlOGY Ira Silverman: The Jerry Maguire of Long Island

Ira SIlverman LIFE OF A SPORT AGENT

early every elite high school athlete harbors a fantasy of continuing on and becoming a pro. After all, who wouldn’t want a life of glamour, fame, travel and wealth? All the while, doing the thing you love the most. Not a bad gig but as every young athlete knows, the chances of making it to the pros is fairly remote. One must be better than the best in the nation and also avoid injury. What typically occurs, after a stellar high school or college career one must unfortunately and reluctantly say good-bye the glorious Friday Night Lights in the arena and move on. But wait a minute, not so fast. Maybe there is a way to stay connected to the wonderful world of sports.

psychologist. It would be a great job and I’d stay in sports. Although, sport psychology is not the only field that connects with sports. Remember the Oscar winning film with Tom Cruise called Jerry Maguire. That film was inspired by and based upon the life of sports agent and attorney Leigh Steinberg. He represented Troy Aikman, John Starks, Dusty Baker and more.

To find out more about the life of a sports agent I called upon Ira Silverman who is one Long Island’s best. Ira has worked with and represented athlete’s like Freeman McNeil and Doug Flutie (football), Nancy Kerrigan and Nicole Bobek (figure skating), Brandi Chastain (soccer) and Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon I was a pretty good college golfer but I (basketball), and my good friend, Ann Ligouri realized early on that I would never make it to (media personality). He is currently working the tour. I decided to peruse a career as a sport with the former Yankee star Fritz Peterson.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

Soccer star Brandi Chastain or “Hollywood” is one of the super stars Ira has helped.

During our wide ranging interview I discovered that like the real Jerry Maguire, Ira Silverman is very well educated with a degree in journalism from Syracuse University and a Masters from Washington University. He described his job was to “publicize, promote and market sports figures, corporations, companies and foundations.” As the interview proceeded I asked him what the essential qualities of a great sports agent were. Here is a list of what he told me:

Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon of basketball stardom is one of Ira’s clients.

the business opportunities for my clients.” 5) Writing Skills: “My job is all about communication. I need to write well and also to speak well face to face.” 6) Legal Background: “Make sure you take classes in law and contracts because these skills are always used in my business.” 7) Intelligence: “You always need a good fund of information in order to converse with many types of people.”

1) Honesty: “One must always 8) Negotiation skills: “You need build trust and that happens when to be able to look the other guy in the yon are honest.” 2) Perseverance: “I do not use the eye and not blink. I always know the word ‘can’t ‘. One must always be parameters of the deal before I enter the room.” tenacious and positive. “ 3) Contacts: “Contacts are the backbone of my business. I have met many people over the years including athletes, lawyers, promoters and media professionals. And I try to maintain contact with them all.”

9) Love of the Game: “I love sport, I love my job and I love people.”

I have worked with Ira for many years now. When I need help with negotiations and to make a contact he is the guy I call. Over the years 4) Creativity: “My job is to he has introduced me to athletes think outside the box and to expand like John McEnroe, Joe Namath and Freeman McNeil. I appreciate what

The great running back Freeman McNeil has also been helped by Ira.

he does for others, including me! As we left the interview I asked him if he had had anything to add to the interview. He reminded me to say that if the high school athlete is really interested in sports management he ought to major in sports management in college and that they could reach out to him for guidance at smmgsports@aol.com. He then said that a career in sports management is more fun than you could ever imagine. So if your dreams of becoming a pro do not come to fruition, think of sports management and do not be afraid to contact Ira. n example of Ira’s current work is SigTape. He works with someone on the West Coast who realized that every football player on earth uses tape every game and that in fact 65% of all athletes use athletic tape during play. So why not personalize it with the team or school logo. Good idea. The photo you see is from Penn State and shows how they personalized their tape.

Story by Sandy Sarcona

oo tired to grab something to eat before your morning practice? Too rushed to eat before your afternoon game? Not fueling your body before workouts can result in a sluggish performance! In the mor ning your body is in a fasting state. Your liver glycogen (storage of carbohydrate that regulates your blood sugar) is in very low supply. Low blood sugar can make you feel dizzy and faintnot a great recipe for peak performance. By afternoon our liver glycogen is usually filled up with our morning meals, so now you need to worry about your supply of glycogen stored i n you r muscles. Muscle glycogen supplies energy throughout exercise and can become depleted after exercising continuously for more than 90 minutes. Most high school and college athletes have at least 2-hour

practices. Working out on a quarter tank of glycogen or lower may lead to an empty tank of energy, just when the practice drills start getting intense! Your muscles will not have the energy it needs to perform and you will feel weak and slow- not something you want to feel or what your coach expects from you. Fueling up for practice or competition requires eating some form of carbohydrate about a half an hour before starting time.

Pre-performance snacks include: •

•

Pretzels, crackers, or dry cereal with raisins; pre-pack in

a snack bag.

•

Plain bagel (can add a small

•

Sports drink (Gatorade®, Powerade®, or Vitamin Water®).

amount of butter, cream cheese or peanut butter, but not too much as this slows digestion) or a peanut butter and jelly sandwich (again go light on the p.b.).

Pack these snacks ahead or keep a supply

Cereal bar – choose one with in your backpack so you will always be mostly carbohydrate, lower in fiber, with just a small amount of protein; save the high protein bar for after practice. Too much protein and fat before exercise can be harder to digest.

energized to perform your best in practice and competition.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

TRAINING

MULTI-TASKING YOUR M

Do more work in less time with hy Story by Mike Mejia CSCS

t is tougher than ever to be a student athlete these days. As if trying to maintain good grades, keep up with your teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practice schedule and have at least some form of a social life were not enough, you are also expected to stay in decent shape. Trouble is, who has got time to put in long, arduous workouts in the gym when you are being pulled in so many different directions? If only there was a way to work more muscle, in less time and address all of the areas you need to strengthen to become a better athlete. Luckily, there is! Enter hybrid exercises â&#x20AC;&#x201C; lifts that incorporate multiple movement patterns to provide the ultimate athletic training stimulus! Unlike more traditional exercises that focus on specific body segments, often through a single plane of motion, hybrid lifts pose a much greater challenge to bio-motor skills such as balance, coordination and spatial awareness, meaning that they require you to develop a greater sense of the way your body moves through space. This is a key skill to improve regardless of what sport you play. They are also incredibly time efficient and offer a terrific way to increase workout intensity. About the only downside when training with hybrids is that you will be limited to using only as much weight as you can handle for the weakest part of the lift. For example, if you are doing a combination squat and overhead press, you can only use as much as you can safely push up overhead with good form. Needless to say, this may not be enough load to completely fatigue your legs. However, despite not being an effective tool for increasing maximal strength, hybrids still have plenty to offer the busy student athlete who is looking to improve their game. Try the following exercises as either paired super-sets (where you perform one exercise after the other with no rest until both are completed, then rest for 60-90 seconds), or as a grueling circuit, by doing all six in a row and then resting for 90-120 seconds before going around for a second time. Either way, you are bound to get a great workout that will give you a whole new understanding for the way your body was designed to move.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

MUSCLES

ybrid training

SQUAT TO ROW Areas trained: Lower body, with an emphasis on the posterior chain (glutes, hamstrings and spinal erectors working together), upper back and arms. Execution: Stand facing a low cable pulley with your feet spread about shoulderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s width apart, holding on to a rope handle with your arms extended towards the pulley. Begin by sitting your hips back as you descend into a squat, keeping your arms extended out in front of you. Once your thighs are parallel to the ground, push back up with your legs as you simultaneously use your upper back and arms to pull the weight towards your torso. In the top position your legs should be completely extended, with your arms bent about 90 degrees and your elbows just past your torso. Hold for a second then lower back down and repeat until you have done 10-12 repetitions.

SIDE PLANK WITH BAND PRESS

EXERCISES

Areas Trained: Core and lateral hips, along with chest, shoulders and triceps. Execution: Secure a resistance band to a sturdy object and position your body several feet in front of it. Begin by grabbing the band with your right hand and then turning away from the anchoring point. Next, set up in a side plank position, using your left arm as the support. Bridge up off the ground and with the right hand held just in front of your chest, hold the side plank position and press the band out in front of you until your arm is fully extended. Hold that position for a second before returning your arm to the start position and repeating until youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve completed 8-10 reps, making sure to stay up in the plank position the entire time.

UNILATERAL ROMANIAN DEADLIFT & REVERSE FLY Areas Trained: Posterior Chain and upper back. Also helps develop balance and coordination. Execution: Stand balancing on one leg with your knee slightly bent, holding a pair of light dumbbells at your sides. Keeping your torso upright and core engaged, hinge at the hips by driving your glutes back and leaning forward at the waist, without bending your support knee any more. As you are doing so, slowly work the dumbbells up in a wide, arcing motion out to the sides of your body by pinching your shoulder blades together. In the finish position your entire torso, along with the non-working leg, should be parallel to the ground with your arms held out perpendicular to your body with just a slight bend in your elbows. Hold for a second, then lower and repeat the sequence with the opposite leg. Continue until you have done a total of 10-12 repetitions.

BULGARIAN SPLIT SQUAT WITH UNILATERAL OVERHEAD PRESS Areas trained: Entire lower body with an emphasis on improving flexibility through the back hip and torso. Shoulders and triceps as well. Execution: Stand with your back to a bench positioned about 2 1/2 to 3 feet behind you. Begin by holding a dumbbell in your right hand and then reach back behind you and place your right instep on the bench. Now balancing mainly on your left leg, lift the dumbbell up until it is positioned just above your shoulder. Once there, begin to descend into a squat by lowering your back knee and loading most of your weight onto the heel of your front foot (allowing the front heel to rise off the ground and/ or settling your weight mainly on the ball of your foot will increase knee strain). As you are doing this, press the weight up overhead until your arm forms a straight line, right next to your ear. Pause for a second at the bottom and then press back up as you lower the dumbbell to the start position. Repeat until you’ve done 8-10 repetitions and then switch sides.

PULL-UP WITH KNEE TUCK Areas trained: Upper back, arms and core. Execution: Grab hold of a pull-up bar with a pronated (palms facing away from you) grip. Next, lift your legs up off the ground and hold them in a semibent position. Begin by pulling yourself up towards the bar with your chest out to emphasize the use of your upper back. Once your chin is just above the bar, hold there and use your core to lift your knees up towards your chest. Once you have gotten your legs as high as they will go, lower them back down and then lower yourself to the starting position. Repeat the sequence until you have completed 10-12 repetitions.

MEDICINE BALL WOODCHOP TO ROTARY LUNGE Areas trained: Core and lower body. Also helps train deceleration strength for improved change of direction mechanics. Execution: Begin by holding a medicine ball with your arms outstretched over your left shoulder and your feet about shoulder’s width apart. Begin by using your core to “chop” your arms down across your body towards your right knee. As you are doing this, pivot your feet and drop your hips into a lunge. In the finish position, you will be completely facing to your right, with the ball just outside your right knee and your arms held out across your body. Slowly return to the start position and repeat until you have done 8-10 repetitions, then switch sides.

WWW.ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

NASSAU LIONS OFF TO A STRONG SEASON Story By Kevin Freiheit // Photos By Kevin Sperandeo

NASSAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOOTBALL

In their six wins this season, Nassau has put up 240 points, an average of 40 points per game. Those numbers increased after the Lions defeated Hudson Valley Community College 68-20 in a game that got out of hand quickly. The Lions defense has allowed more than seven points in a game just twice this season and have yielded 60 points overall, through the first six games. By scoring four times more than the opponent, Nassau isn’t going to have a problem winning games. They haven’t been relying on star senior players, either. Nassau has been able to spread the wealth and possesses numerous ways to score. Sophomore quarterback Troy Jones has led the Lions to victory at every chance he has had this season. Jones has completed 56 of 97 attempts this season, along with 10 touchdowns. His longest play of the year went for 82 yards and he is averaging just over 140 per game. Jones has plenty of talented wide outs to throw the ball to, but if there’s a favorite target he has, that very well may be sophomore Antwane Grant. Grant has found the end zone six times this season, including three in the win against Hudson Valley. Grant has three 100-yard receiving games and has made at least a reception during every game, except one. When they’re not throwing the ball, the Lions have a great option in sophomore running back Travis Lock, who has been a big part of the offense this year and has made some big runs all season long. Lock has gained 423 yards and three touchdowns on 93 carries. His longest run of the season was 56 yards. With these offensive options, the Lions can be an unpredictable group, and can win games in different ways. Grant and Jones have created problems for their opponents so far because they are both so dynamic.

f there’s one word to describe the Nassau Community College football team, it’s “dominant”. The Lions are plain and simple destroying their opponents this season and have shown no signs of slowing down. The Lions are off to a 6-1 start and have proven, time after time, that they will be a team to beat going forward. Nassau has been on a roll and is building more momentum and confidence with every win, making it that much more difficult for another team to stop them.

The Lions will look to both of these players to keep doing what they have been as they continue. The Lions had their toughest game of the season recently, and the results were different this time. Nassau suffered its lone loss of the season, which snapped a six game winning streak. The Lions fell to Georgia Military College, the #1 ranked school, by a 45-22 score. Playing the top seeded school is always tough, but Nassau has the talent and mentality to bounce back. The Lions have a few games remaining on their schedule. They will take on Louisburg College, Globe Tech and ASA College to close out the regular season.

1(800)680-3213

CHOOSE FROM ANY STORY OR IMAGE

ANY 12X18 POSTER FOR $24.95

NAS SAU COMMUNITY COLLEGE LIONS

PRINT OUT AN ADELPHI UNIVERSITY

ST. JOSEPHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COLLEGE PANTHERS

Adelphi University

GOLDEN EAGLES The ADELPHI LADY Panthers are In It to WinYORK It NEW INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLO GY Story by Brian Coleman | Photos by Bill Kelly

he Adelphi Panthers womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer team rides into their 2013 season with VRPH XQÂżQLVKHG EXVLQHVV WR WDNH FDUH of following a tough loss to conclude their 2012 season. After a winning season, Adelphi upset a couple of teams on its way to the championship game in the Northeastern-10 conference playoffs. The Lady Panthers reached the championship game of the conference WRXUQDPHQW IRU WKH ÂżUVW WLPH LQ program history. The offense was led E\ WZR VHQLRUV ZKR SDFHG WKH JRDO scoring for the Lady Panthers, Emily Masiello and Kaitlin Monteith, who led Adelphi in scoring. Monteith led the team in goals with eight, while Masiello scored seven goals, including WZR LQ WKH ÂżUVW URXQG SOD\RII JDPH WR JR DORQJ ZLWK KHU ÂżYH DVVLVWV RQ WKH VHDVRQ

The Lady Panthers did just that in the opening URXQG Ă&#x20AC;LSSLQJ WKH VFULSW RQ $PHULFDQ ,QWHUQDWLRQDO DQG GHIHDWLQJ WKHP LQ WKH TXDUWHUÂżQDO ,W ZDV D EDFN DQG IRUWK DIIDLU WKDW ZDV NHSW VFRUHOHVV DOO WKH ZD\ LQWR WKH QG PLQXWH XQWLO 0DVLHOOR EURNH WKH scoreless tie. She added another goal in the 90th minute to secure the victory and the upset, as Adelphi PRYHG RQ WR WKH VHPLÂżQDOV

That was all Adelphi needed on the day as goalie Sam Whitney did what VKH KDG GRQH DOO \HDU :KLWQH\ UHFRUGHG ÂżYH VDYHV DQG NHSW 0HUULPDFN RXW of the net, posting yet another shutout as the Lady Panthers advanced to LWV ÂżUVW FRQIHUHQFH WLWOH JDPH ,W ZDV DOVR WKH WK ZLQ RI WKH VHDVRQ IRU Adelphi, notching the programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest win total since 2008.

Goalie Sam Whitney continued her excellence, VKXWWLQJ RXW WKH <HOORZMDFNHWV RI $PHULFDQ International while recording six saves en route to the victory.

'HVSLWH WKH ORVV ZDV ZLWKRXW D GRXEW D JRRG \HDU IRU WKH $GHOSKL Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Soccer program. Head coach Chris Armas led the Lady Panthers WR LWV ÂżUVW HYHU FKDPSLRQVKLS JDPH DQG QRWFKHG LWV KLJKHVW ZLQ WRWDO LQ ÂżYH years. With that, Adelphi headed into 2013 with some high expectations and goals to go even further than they did a year ago.

7KH /DG\ 3DQWKHUV WKHQ KHDGHG XS WR 0HUULPDFN &ROOHJH WR WDNH RQ WKH :DUULRUV LQ D VHPLÂżQDO PDWFKXS ,W GLGQÂśW WDNH PLQXWHV WR ÂżQG D JRDO LQ WKLV JDPH DV 'RQQD /LRWRQH IRXQG WKH EDFN RI WKH QHW RQ D SHQDOW\ NLFN WR SXW $GHOSKL XS 1-0 in the 46th minute.

Adelphi carried a 9-6-3 regular season record into the NE-10 conference playoffs in 2012, and drew a matchup with the top team in the conference, $PHULFDQ ,QWHUQDWLRQDO &ROOHJH -XVW RQH ZHHN SULRU the Lady Panthers lost to American International DQG NQHZ WKH\ KDG WR UHGHHP themselves in the playoffs.

The lone loss of the season so far came to a fantastic opponent in Saint Rose College. The 3rd ranked team in the country at the time, Saint Rose posed a big challenge than the Lady Panthers were prepared to meet head on.

Story by Jaclynkelli Kronemberg // Photos by Morgan Harrison

While the statistics of the game would show that Saint Rose dominated it, outshooting Adelphi 17-8 and winning the corner advantage 10-2, Adelphi was able to hold its own and really proved it belonged with the top teams.

nyit womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tennis

Now, Adelphi did lose its top two scorers from a year ago, Emily St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer team Masiello and Kaitlin Monteith, and had to have some players step The up this gotaoff season. With only 3 seniors, the Lady Panthers are relying on lottoofa rough start this season but is looking to turn things around with their underclassmen to carry the load this season. conference play. The Golden Eagles won Off to a 7-1-2 start, Adelphi is in very good shape at this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Skyline Conference Championship PLGSRLQW 7KHLU OHDGLQJ JRDO VFRUHU 2OLYLD &]DYDU KDV VWHSSHG XS ELJ last season and are looking to defend WLPH HDUO\ RQ &]DYDU VFRUHG IRXU JRDOV DOO RI ODVW VHDVRQ EXW KDV IRXQG their title. WKH EDFN RI WKH QHW VL[ WLPHV DOUHDG\ WKLV VHDVRQ 6KH OHDGV WKH WHDP LQ â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have been playing nonJRDOV SRLQWV DQG VKRWV RQ JRDO DQG VKH VFRUHG D JRDO LQ HDFK RI WKH ÂżUVW conference games against top level four games. teams in division three soccer to get us ready for our conference play,â&#x20AC;? said senior defender Terrence Dzus, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We did this last season and it worked well being that we won the Skyline conference and made it to the NCAA tournament.â&#x20AC;?

The Golden Eagles Looking to Defend Their Title

While the offense was consistent for the Panthers ODVW VHDVRQ WKH JLUO EHWZHHQ WKH SLSHV SOD\HG outstanding for them. Sam Whitney was a sophomore last season, and was an anchor as the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goalie. She started in 20 of the 21 games, including playoffs last year, and possessed 0.84 goals against average. Whitney recorded 104 saves on the season while allowing just 18 goals.

BEARS

Unfortunately, the Lady Panthers offense came up short and Whitney ÂżQDOO\ DOORZHG D JRDO LQ WKH 1RUWKHDVWHUQ FRQIHUHQFH FKDPSLRQVKLS game as they lost to Southern New Hampshire University 1-0.

conference play. The Golden Eagles have two wins, 10 losses and two ties so far this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This season has had its up and downs,â&#x20AC;? said junior forward Fabio Alves, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Luck has not been in our favor but we are a strong team and we wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give up. We have stayed together through the good and bad times and our goals remain the same. We will continue to be relentless and strive for perfection as the season goes on.â&#x20AC;? St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is the same every year to win the conference and get to the NCAA tournament.

This season they started off with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;We havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let our goal go,â&#x20AC;? said WRXJK VFKHGXOH SOD\LQJ ÂżYH QDWLRQDOO\ St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer head coach ranked teams in their non-conference Tim Trava, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have had a few terrible play to get the team ready for their losses against nationally ranked teams.

We now start our conference play, and WKH NLGV DUH SOD\LQJ FRQÂżGHQWO\ Â´ &RDFK Trava is entering his second year as the head coach. Last year, he took them to WKH ÂżUVW URXQG RI WKH 1&$$ WRXUQDPHQW â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coach motivates us and brings the team together like a family,â&#x20AC;? said VRSKRPRUH PLGÂżHOGHU +HQU\ 7LUDGR Âł+H LV DQ RXWVWDQGLQJ KHDG FRDFK :H are lucky to have such a great coaching staff teaching us and pushing us to play our best.â&#x20AC;? Trava went to school and played soccer for St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s college from 2000-2004. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coach understands us because he played here, too,â&#x20AC;? said Dzus, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have enjoyed playing for him and wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to play for anyone else. +H ZDQWV XV WR LPSURYH HDFK DQG HYHU\

HOFSTRA U

Âł:H VKRZHG VSLULW ÂżJKW KHDUW DQG ZHQW WRH WR WRH day, and is always pushing us to become team.â&#x20AC;? with one thewe best the of best canteams be.â&#x20AC;? in the country,â&#x20AC;? said Adelphi Alves was rookie of the year last head coach Chris Armas, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Any coach would be proud St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduated nine starters season, and is one of the captains for the of that effort and I believe wholeheartedly in the group and are playing with 15 new athletes. team this season. Alves is the leading of girls we have.â&#x20AC;? There is no doubt that Armas and the The Golden Eagles have a newer team scorer on the team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fabio is the engine rest of Adelphi should be proud and excited at the recent RI WKH WHDP Â´ VDLG 7UDYD Âł+H LV RXU JR WR made up of freshman and transfers. success of the program. Following a year in which guy on offense.â&#x20AC;? haveUHDFKHG 15 new players WKH /DG\ â&#x20AC;&#x153;We 3DQWKHUV LWV ÂżUVW 1( and &RQIHUHQFH

PRI

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love coaching here,â&#x20AC;? said Trava, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a dream come true. It is an honor to be coaching here. These kids are great they work hard and making coaching fun and enjoyable. The future is bright for this program with the talent we have in our freshman and transfers.â&#x20AC;?

Tirado is a transfer from the Air force returned game, 14 players lastbeseason,â&#x20AC;? Championship they from look to poised to return said Dzus, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The difference was felt right $FDGHP\ DQG KDG WR VLW RXW WKH ÂżUVW KDOI WR WKDW JDPH DQG WDNH FDUH RI VRPH XQÂżQLVKHG EXVLQHVV away, losing the starters from last year of the season due to NCAA regulations Since that loss, the Lady Panthers havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lost in that I have played with for the past three IRU WUDQVIHUULQJ Âł+HQU\ ZLOO EH D KXJH WKH ODVW ÂżYH FRQWHVWV 7KH\ SOD\HG D WLH DJDLQVW seasons, but after realizing the talent this FRQWULEXWRU IRU XV Â´ VDLG 7UDYD Âł+H KDV Assumption College, preventing them from carrying a team has to offer, I believe we can win extreme energy and we are a different ÂżYH JDPH ZLQQLQJ VWUHDN RQWR WKHLU QH[W RSSRQHQW the Skyline championship again.â&#x20AC;? team when he plays.â&#x20AC;? All that remains on Adelphiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s schedule are Dzus is a four year starter and the The Golden Eagles have started to 1RUWKHDVWHUQ RSSRQHQWV DQG WKH\ FXUUHQWO\ VLW DWRS captain of this team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Terrence is the turn around their season winning two those standings. It wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be easy, but the Adelphi heart and soul of this team,â&#x20AC;? said Trava, games in a row. Their last win was huge 3DQWKHUV VHHP WR EH WKH IDYRULWH WR ZLQ WKHLU ÂżUVW Âł+H LV WKH OHDGHU WKDW HYHU\RQH ORRNV XS beating the number one team in their conference championship program history. to, and helps out theinyounger kids on the conference Mt. St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

nyit tennis:

MORE THAN LOVE

HOFSTRA PRIDE

Story and Photos by Justin Mackin

hemistry, a recurring theme within the New York Institute of Technologyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tennis team, seems to be catalyzing the team towards another successful season. The Bears are coming off of a win in their season opener, and it appears that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re picking up right where they left off last year as 2012 ECC Champions. The Bears defeated Philadelphia 9-0 this past Sunday in their season opener to bring them to 1-0, and now have their eyes set on the next match, Friday 9/13 against Daemen College.

1(800)680-3213

Since Coach Chris Frusci took over as head coach in 2011 the Bears have seen a winning trend within the program. For the 2013 season the

1(800)680-3213

Bears have 5 new additions to the team and they are going to have to look to returning players like Sara Burinato, the ECC preseason player of the year, to maintain the success. This year Coach Frusci is focusing on strength, conditioning, and rehabilitation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The response has been great, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re getting more players healthy and preventing more injuries that way;â&#x20AC;? so far the coach and the players agree, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paying off.

and cohesion among the team, even from observing just one practice. The FKHPLVWU\ LV HYLGHQW LQ WKH ÂżUVW PDWFK where the bears swept the doubles with the teams of Sara Burinato & Claudia Sanchez Gonzalez, Melanie Benyadi & Gabrela Siembab, and Rocio Benavent & Madalina Florea. While Sanchez Gonzalez, Siembab, Benavent, Florea, Burinato, and Benyadi all took their singles matches to contribute WR WKH ÂżUVW PDWFK ZLQ RI WKH VHDVRQ Despite missing two key players in the ÂżUVW PDWFK &HOLD 5HVSDXW DQG $OHVVLD Rossetti, the Bears look to be off to D JRRG VWDUW 'HÂżQLWHO\ D SURJUDP WR watch as they are favored in the ECC again this year.

7))/7 '%% '32*)6)2')

The strength and conditioning regimen may be one of the recipes for success, but team chemistry could be another. With a team of such diverse backgrounds and 5 new girls this year, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quite impressive to see such team unity. One can sense a common goal

Story by Jaclynkelli Kronemberg Photos by Bill Kelly

ast year the Hofstra womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer team won the Colonial Athletic Conference, DQG PDGH LW WR WKH ÂżUVW URXQG RI the NCAA tournament where they lost to Boston College. This year they are striving for a repeat as conference champions, and make it back to the NCAA tournament.

1(800)680-3213

>>>

â&#x20AC;&#x153;This year we want to win the CAA for a second year in a row,â&#x20AC;? said senior GHIHQGHU PLGÂżHOGHU 7DUD .HUQV Âł1R RQH has ever won it two years in a row. We also want to make it far in the NCAA tournament, this program has grown competitively over the years and we have no limits on our potential as a team.â&#x20AC;? The Pride currently has eight wins,

1(800)680-3213

CALL 1-800-680-3213 OR EMAIL PUBLISH

NY ARTICLE! LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY

DOWLING COLLEGE POST PIONEERS

ST. JOSEPHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COLLEGE golden lions

Story by Kevin Freiheit Photos by Morgan Harrison

GOLDEN EAGLES DOWLING UNIVERSITY four losses and one tie overall and in conference they have two wins one loss and one tie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a fairly solid team and are playing well,â&#x20AC;? said Hofstra womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer head coach Simon Riddiough, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have good players with experience that have come back, and we are playing FRQÂżGHQWO\ :H NQRZ HYHU\ JDPH LV D battle we just have to be consistent in our games and we can win our conference again.â&#x20AC;? Coach Riddiough is entering his eighth year as the head coach of The Pride. Since he started coaching in 2005, the Hofstra womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer team has won the CAA conference three times and has gone to the NCAA tournament four

times, advancing to the second round of the tournament twice. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coach Simon is not only a great coach, but is also a great person and friend,â&#x20AC;? said Kerns, â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the main reasons I chose Hofstra is because of the coaching staff. Coach Simon and coach Tobi both know how to get the job done and how to have fun at the same time.â&#x20AC;? The womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer team only lost three seniors to graduation, one of them being a starter. The Hofstra Pride is stacked with talented players that know what it is like to play in the NCAA tournament and want to get back there. They have a strong offensive starting XQLW WKDW LV OHG E\ VRSKRPRUH PLGÂżHOGHU /HDK *DOWRQ DQG MXQLRU PLGÂżHOGHU 6DP Scolarici.

The defense is led by seniors Tara Kerns, Ruby Staplehurst and Brittany Farriella. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These three are tremendous players and great leaders,â&#x20AC;? said Riddiough. Kerns is a three year starter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tara does all the dirty work for us,â&#x20AC;? said Riddiough, â&#x20AC;&#x153;She is hard working, and is our connection between the defense and offense.â&#x20AC;? Staplehurst led the team in assists last season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ruby is a great defender and is dangerous offensively,â&#x20AC;? said Riddiough. Farriella is a three year starter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brittany works hard and keeps us organized as a unit,â&#x20AC;? Riddiough said. Hofstra is in for a challenge in the CAA conference. William and Mary and James Madison are always in contention for the conference title. If the Hofstra Pride continues to play hard, they can get back to where they ended last season.

Galton shined as a freshman last season, earning the Colonial Athletic Association rookie of the year. She also earned all-CAA rookie team, allâ&#x20AC;&#x153;We have good team chemistry, &$$ ÂżUVW WHDP DQG ZDV D 16&$$ DOO PLGDWODQWLF ÂżUVW WHDP SLFN 6KH OHG everyone is buying into the system and Hofstra in goals as a freshman, and was working hard,â&#x20AC;? said Riddiough, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m second in the CAA in goals and points. happy with the way we are playing right This season Galton was listed as the now.â&#x20AC;? conference preseason player of the year. So far this season Galton has six goals and eight assists. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Leah is big, fast and strong,â&#x20AC;? said Riddiough, â&#x20AC;&#x153;She is a very good player.â&#x20AC;? Scolarici is currently leading the nation in goals with 13 goals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sam works KDUG DQG LV SOD\LQJ ZLWK FRQÂżGHQFH Â´ said Riddiough, â&#x20AC;&#x153;She knows where the goal is and is always looking to score.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Story by Kevin Freiheit Photos by Morgan Harrison

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

IDE

Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Soccer Stands Tall We have a tremendous roster and we have already won more games this year than all of last year.

Head coach John DiRico

1(800)680-3213

UHWXUQ /,8 FDQ UHDOO\ VWDUW H[SHFWLQJ PRUH PDLQWDLQ D ZLQQLQJ DWWLWXGH DQG PDNH VXUH YLFWRULHV (YHQ ZLWK WKDW WKH 3LRQHHUV KDYH WKH IUHVKPHQ DUH VHHLQJ LW Â´ VRPH DUHDV WR LPSURYH XSRQ DQG &ROOLQV KDV 7KH FRQÂżGHQFH OHYHO IRU /,8 LV VWLOO DOUHDG\ EHHQ PDNLQJ DGMXVWPHQWV KLJK DQG WKH 3LRQHHUV EHOLHYH WKDW WKH\ DUH Âł*RLQJ LQWR WKH \HDU ZH IHOW VROLG LQ D WDOHQWHG HQRXJK WHDP WR SXW WRJHWKHU D FHUWDLQ DUHDV EXW ZH KDG FHUWDLQ TXHVWLRQ VXFFHVVIXO VHDVRQ 7KH FRDFKHV EHOLHYH LQ PDUNV LQ RWKHU DUHDV Â´ &ROOLQV VDLG Âł:H KDYH WKH SOD\HUV DQG WKH\ DUH ZLOOLQJ WR ZRUN WR WR VWRS JLYLQJ XS WKH ELJ SOD\ Â´ PDNH WKHP HYHQ EHWWHU Âł, UHDOO\ GR EHOLHYH WKLV LV D VSHFLDO JURXS RI SOD\HUV Â´ &ROOLQV VDLG Âł7KH\ÂśUH SUHSDULQJ YHU\ KDUG WR SOD\ WKHVH JDPHV (YHU\WKLQJ LV LQ SODFH IRU WKHP WR VXFFHHG DQG ZHÂśUH KRSLQJ IRU ELJ Âł7KLV WHDP LV VWLFNLQJ PRUH WRJHWKHU Â´ WKLQJV IURP WKH 3LRQHHUV WKLV &ROOLQV VDLG Âł$GYHUVLW\ FDXVHV VRPH WR VHDVRQ Â´ EUHDN DQG RWKHUV WR EUHDN UHFRUGV :HÂśUH DOZD\V ZRUNLQJ KDUG DQG ZH KDYH H[FHOOHQW UHFUXLWLQJ FODVV WKDW LV VKRZLQJ Â´ $ ELJ SLHFH RI WKH 3LRQHHUVÂś SX]]OH LV KRZ WKH \RXQJHU SOD\HUV SHUIRUP Âł,WÂśV D KXJH UROH IURP \RXQJHU SOD\HUV Â´ &ROOLQV VDLG Âł:HÂśUH YHU\ KDSS\ ZLWK WKH IUHVKPHQ FODVV :H ZDQW WR 7KH GHIHQVH KDV KDG D URXJK WLPH HVSHFLDOO\ RYHU WKH SDVW WZR JDPHV JLYLQJ XS FRPELQHG SRLQWV ,W ZDV D PDMRU GLIIHUHQFH DV WKH GHIHQVH DOORZHG MXVW LQ WKH ÂżUVW SDLU RI JDPHV &ROOLQV LV FRQÂżGHQW WKDW WKH 3LRQHHUV FDQ UHFRYHU IURP WKH ORVVHV DQG SXW WRJHWKHU D ZLQQLQJ VHDVRQ

IWHU D GLVDSSRLQWLQJ ÂżQLVK WR ODVW RQ WKH \HDU 7KH 3LRQHHUV DUH IDFLQJ he Dowling College menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer GHFOLQLQJ DQG WKH\ KDYH ORVW WKDW ZLQQLQJ VHDVRQ WKH /RQJ ,VODQG 8QLYHUVLW\ DQ HHULO\ VLPLODU VLWXDWLRQ WR WKH RQH WHDP ZDV XQVDWLVÂżHG ZLWK WKHLU WRXFK WKH\ KHOG RQWR IRU VR ORQJ 3RVW 3LRQHHUV DUH ORRNLQJ WR JHW WKDW WKH\ ZHUH LQ ODVW VHDVRQ EXW DUH results from a year ago. After 'L5LFR QRWHG WKDW WKH WHDP ORVW HLJKW EDFN ZKHUH WKH\ EHORQJ )ROORZLQJ WZR ORRNLQJ IRU D FRPSOHWHO\ RSSRVLWH SRVWLQJ D UHFRUG WKH *ROGHQ /LRQV JDPHV E\ RQO\ RQH JRDO ODVW \HDU EXW VXFFHVVIXO ZLQQLQJ IRRWEDOO VHDVRQV WKH RXWFRPH 'HVSLWH WKH WZR JDPH ORVLQJ knew that change was necessary. With UHJDUGOHVV LW ZDV VWLOO D GLVDSSRLQWLQJ 3LRQHHUV ÂżQLVKHG ZLWK D UHFRUG ODVW VWUHDN KHDG &RDFK %U\DQ &ROOLQV LV RQO\ UHWXUQLQJ SOD\HUV 'RZOLQJ KDV VHDVRQ 7KH *ROGHQ (DJOHV KDYH SOD\HG \HDU IDOOLQJ VKRUW RI WKHLU XOWLPDWH JRDO FRQÂżGHQW WKDW KLV WHDP FDQ JHW EDFN RQ WKH DOUHDG\ FROOHFWHG PRUH ZLQV WKDQ DOO RI LQ IRXU RQH JRDO JDPHV WKLV \HDU EXW KDYH ODVW \HDU E\ ZLQQLQJ WKUHH RI WKH ÂżUVW ÂżYH EHHQ RQ WKH ZLQQLQJ VLGH PRUH IUHTXHQWO\ 'HVSLWH ZLQQLQJ WKH ÂżUVW WZR JDPHV ULJKW WUDFN games this season. Story and Photos by Kevin Sperandeo RI WKH \HDU E\ D FRPELQHG VFRUH Âł, IXOO\ H[SHFW XV WR FRPSHWH Â´ :LWK DQ H[SHULHQFHG FRDFK OLNH /,8 ZDV XQDEOH WR NHHS WKH PRPHQWXP &ROOLQV VDLG Âł2XU JRDO LV WR JR +HDG FRDFK -RKQ 'L5LFR LV LQ KLV he'L5LFR 'RZOLQJ DOUHDG\ KDV D VWDUWLQJ St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Soccer Garcia, a senior from Central Islip tied JRLQJ Âł:H %ORRPVEXUJ 8QLYHUVLW\ KDOWHG RQH ZHHN XS DQG RQH ZHHN GRZQ QG \HDU RI FRDFKLQJ DQG XQGHUVWDQGV SRLQW WR JHW EDFN RQ WUDFN KDYH team has made the playoffs every forD the most goals scored on the 2012 WKH HQHUJ\ DQG WKH 3LRQHHUV VWDUWHG DQ $WWDFN WKH QH[W RSSRQHQW Â´ 7KH ZKDW LW WDNHV WR ZLQ 7KH *ROGHQ /LRQV FRPSOHWHO\ GLIIHUHQW WHDP WKDQ ODVW \HDU Â´ year since 2002 but have yet to win a team. Samantha is a two time Skyline 3LRQHHUV KDYH EHHQ EDWWOLQJ LQMXULHV XQIRUWXQDWH VWULQJ RI GHIHDWV 7KURXJKRXW ZHUH 1DWLRQDO FKDPSLRQV LQ DQG 'L5LFR VDLG Âł:H KDYH D WUHPHQGRXV championship. The 4-2 (conference All-Conference. Coach Lee says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;She is WKH UHVW ZRQ RI WKH VHDVRQ /,8 ZRXOG RQO\ GXULQJ ERWK WKLV VHDVRQ DQG WKH ZRXOG FRQVLVWHQWO\ SRVW VHDVRQ RI URVWHU DQG ZH KDYH DOUHDG\ PRUH record) Golden Eagles have brought back the smallest player on the team with the ZLQ RQH RWKHU JDPH D YLFWRU\ RYHU ODVW RQH :KLOH PDQ\ FRDFKHV ZLOO RU PRUH ZLQV +RZHYHU RYHU WKH ODVW JDPHV WKLV \HDU WKDQ DOO RI ODVW \HDU Â´ six starters from last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3rd place team. biggest heart. She is the best all around 0LOOHUVYLOOH 8QLYHUVLW\ RQ KRPHFRPLQJ QHYHU XVH LQMXULHV DV DQ H[FXVH WZR \HDUV WKHLU SHUIRUPDQFH KDV EHHQ Last year, St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s season ended after a player on the team and a two year captain.â&#x20AC;? ZHHNHQG $ ORVLQJ VHDVRQ FDQ EH ORRNHG WKH\ FHUWDLQO\ KXUW WKH RYHUDOO 1-0 loss on a penalty kick goal in the semi Samantha was also a 2012 NCSAA AllDW LQ PRUH ZD\V WKDQ RQH :KLOH LW ZDVQÂśW TXDOLW\ RI WKH WHDP ÂżQDOV Region scholar athlete. Lee describes her WKH DQWLFLSDWHG RU ZDQWHG RXWFRPH WKH Âł2XU UXQQLQJ EDFN as a not only an outstanding player butVWDUWLQJ an The Golden Eagles are lead by head 3LRQHHUV XVHG WKH \HDU WR OHDUQ UHEXLOG KDV EDWWOHG DQ DQNOH LQMXU\ EXW coach Joseph Lee. Lee has beenDQG LPSURYH around the even better and nicer person. He says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;She KHÂśV SOD\LQJ WKURXJK LW Â´ &ROOLQV game for many years, he began coaching LV RQH RI P\ ÂżYH DOO WLPH IDYRULWH SOD\HUV DW 7KLV VHDVRQ WKH 3LRQHHUV JRW RII WR D VDLG Âł:HÂśYH EHHQ VWUXJJOLQJ in 1976 with the Sachem Youth Soccer St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.â&#x20AC;? KRW VWDUW DJDLQ ZLQQLQJ WKH RSHQLQJ SDLU ZLWK LQMXULHV ,I ZH FDQ JHW EDFN League. He brought the 16 and under Junior Jennifer Martino, a forward from RI JDPHV DQG VFRULQJ SRLQWV +RZHYHU KHDOWK\ ZHÂśOO FRQWLQXH WR JHW Sachem Tomahawks to the 1987 East Patchogue, is entering her second year /,8 WRRN D VWHS EDFNZDUGV DV WKH\ GURSSHG EHWWHU HDFK ZHHN Â´ 2QFH D IHZ national championship. This is at St. Josephs. Despite battling an injury, WKH QH[W WZR JDPHV IDOOLQJ EDFN WR RI WKH LQMXUHG SOD\HUV EHJLQ WR Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 12th season coaching the she still managed to tie Garcia and Eden for Golden Eagles. Lee says, most goals scored last year. She is leading â&#x20AC;&#x153;We would like to win our the team in scoring this season. Lee says, conference and go to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;She is relentless in her desire to score. 1&$$ SOD\RIIV IRU WKH ÂżUVW She stands a good chance to be an Alltime.â&#x20AC;? Conference player this year.â&#x20AC;?

A few key players include Ashley George, Samantha Garcia, Jennifer Martino and Jamianne Eden.

6RSKRPRUH PLGÂżHOGHU DQG IRUZDUG Jamianne Eden from Ronkonkoma is another goal scorer for the eagles. She tied for most goals and led the team in assists in Senior center back, Ashley 2012. Jamianne is true student athlete with George from Bay Shore is a 2 year one of the highest GPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the team. Lee team captain. She is a 3 time all describes her as, â&#x20AC;&#x153;a very intelligent player conference player and ECAC All- with excellent skill. She shoots well with Metro team member. Excelling on both feet and can play anywhere in the DQG RII WKH ÂżHOG $VKOH\ ZDV D PLGÂżHOG RU XS IURQW Â´ and 2012 Skyline Soccer Scholar Working towards another playoff Athlete of the year and also made run and hopefully a championship, the the 2012 NSCAA All-Region Golden Eagles always manage to keep scholar team. Lee describes their composure. The team has won the her, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ashley is a solid, fast, FRQIHUHQFH VSRUWVPDQVKLS DZDUG ÂżYH WLPHV take no prisoners center in the past eleven years and the college back with the ball skills of referees association sportsmanship award D PLGÂżHOGHU Â´ three times. The Golden Eagles won their 0LGÂżHOGHU 6DPDQWKD last game against Polytechnic 5-0.

)UHVKPDQ LQÂżHOGHU $OH[ +DLOHV LV one of the new players on the team DQG LV ORRNLQJ WR JHW KLV FROOHJLDWH FDUHHU RII WR D JRRG VWDUW Âł7KLV WHDP KDV JHOOHG WRJHWKHU UHDOO\ TXLFNO\ DQG , KDYH KLJK H[SHFWDWLRQV Â´ +DLOHV VDLG +DLOHV ZKR LV IURP (QJODQG GLGQÂśW KHVLWDWH WR VD\ WKDW KH LV PRUH FRQFHUQHG WKDQ KRZ WKH WHDP LV GRLQJ than personal statistics. At the same WLPH KH NQRZV WKDW KH LV JRLQJ WR KDYH WR VWHS DQG FRQWULEXWH ZKHQ FDOOHG XSRQ Âł+RSHIXOO\ , FDQ PDNH D ELJ LPSDFW VWD\ RII WKH EHQFK DQG PDNH D GLIIHUHQFH Â´ +DLOHV VDLG

team become that successful once DJDLQ EXW KHÂśOO KDYH WR GR LW ZLWK D FRPSOHWHO\ QHZ VHW RI SOD\HUV D ORW of whom are new. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This team has the PDNHXS WKH WDOHQW DQG WKH FKHPLVWU\ WR JHW EDFN WR ZKHUH ZH DUH XVHG WR EHLQJ Â´ 'L5LFR VDLG Âł, KDYH D JRRG VHQVH RI ZKHUH WKLV WHDP FDQ JR Â´

5HWXUQLQJ VWULNHU .DUL\P %DOWKD]HU knows what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like to play for 'RZOLQJ DV KH GLG ODVW \HDU EXW ZDQWV to see the team be successful. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The VN\ LV WKH OLPLWÂ´ %DOWKD]HU VDLG Âł:H KDYH D ORW RI ZRUN WR GR EXW ZHÂśUH UHVSRQGLQJ ZHOO ,ÂśP KDSS\ ZLWK KRZ ZH DOUHDG\ EHDW RXU UHFRUG IURP ODVW \HDU Â´

'L5LFRÂśV GHWHUPLQDWLRQ WR ZLQ WUDQVODWHV WR KLV SOD\HUV DQG KH DLPV WR UHFUXLW SOD\HUV WKDW KDYH WKH VDPH PHQWDOLW\ WKDW KH GRHV Âł, UHFUXLW SOD\HUV IURP ZLQQLQJ SURJUDPV DQG my players hate to lose more than they ORYH WR ZLQ Â´ 'L5LFR VDLG

'L5LFR KDV VHW KLJK VWDQGDUGV IRU WKH *ROGHQ /LRQV DQG KH KDV HYHU\ VHDVRQ UHJDUGOHVV RI SDVW UHFRUGV RU performances. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The coach has high H[SHFWDWLRQV RI \RX DQG GRHVQÂśW VHWWOH IRU PHGLRFUDF\ Â´ %DOWKD]HU VDLG Âł, UHVSHFW KLP DV D FRDFK Â´

7KH *ROGHQ /LRQV DUH RII WR D JRRG VWDUW EXW WKH VHDVRQ KDV MXVW ,PSURYLQJ D UHFRUG IURP D VHDVRQ begun. Dowling will try to make DJR EXW WKDWÂśV MXVW WKH ÂżUVW VWHS IRU D GHHS UXQ IRU WKH ÂżUVW WLPH LQ WKUHH 'RZOLQJ VRFFHU 7KH *ROGHQ /LRQV years. PDGH D QDPH IRU WKHPVHOYHV DQG ZHUH D VWURQJ IRUFH DQG DQ LQWLPLGDWLQJ team to play against. 'L5LFR KDV SODQV RI VHHLQJ KLV

1(800)680-3213

HER@ULTIMATEATHLETEMAGAZINE.COM

DOWLING

GOLDEN

DOWLING Primed for Playoff Run Story by Brian Coleman | Photos by Morgan Harrison

hen you are the underdog and not expected to win very many games, it is sometimes a little easier to sneak up on teams. That was the case last season, when the Dowling Golden Lions men’s basketball team reached the East Coast Conference (ECC) championship game despite only having a record 13-16. The Golden Lions knocked off LIU-CW Post and the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) in the quarterfinals and semifinals, respectively. It then traveled up to Connecticut to take on the University of Bridgeport in the ECC Championship, a spot that many did not expect it to reach, but something Dowling knew it had in them. “We went into the playoffs with the mindset to take it one game at a time,” said head coach Stephen Hayn. “During the season we lost a lot of games by one or two points and I think our record was a little misleading.” Dowling did in fact lose eight games by two points or less last season, and played much better basketball then its record indicated. Unfortunately, Dowling would fall to Bridgeport 61-53, in a hard-fought and tight contest. The Golden Lions controlled much of the first half, but a 15-3 run to end the half and a 10-2 to start the second half proved to be too much for them to overcome. Bridgeport pulled away and went on to capture the ECC crown. Despite the loss, a lot of positives were able to come out of that game. Losing can be a very valuable lesson, and with a team primarily made up of underclassmen, important experience was gained that has poured over into the 2013-14 season. “As the season went on the team grew individually and as a team,” said Hayn. “I was extremely proud and happy to see how hard the guys fought throughout the year and grew closer with each other.”

1(800)680-3213

G COLLEGE

N LIONS The team was comprised of only two seniors last season, allowing a lot of the underclassmen to earn some playing time and improve on the court. That experience has paid off this season, as Dowling has been the best team in the ECC in 2013-14. One of those players who improved from last season to this is guard Darien Davis. Davis, now a junior, has elevated his level of play this season, providing the Golden Lions with an outstanding scorer and go to player. “He [Davis] has matured in a number of different ways this year,” praised Hayn. “The key is he is playing with a lot of confidence. With more game experience at this level he has improved a lot individually.” The junior from Longwood High School in Suffolk County has been the Golden Lions best player this season. He is averaging 21 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. Hayn says the most important improvement in Davis’ game is his efficiency on the offensive end of the court. “Darien has been extremely efficient this year,” said Hayn. “Not only has his point total increased but his overall and three-point percentages are both up from last season.” Davis is shooting 48% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc, both improvements from last season. He is the teams go to player down the stretch of games and has also made his teammates on the court better.

“He does not shy away from the ball when the game is on the line; he is our go to guy down the stretch,” said Hayn. “He also been a willing passer and will do anything it takes to win.” A major reason for the team’s improvement from a year ago is the ball movement. As a result of the chemistry and experience that has developed in the last year and a half, Dowling’s offensive success is based on the crisp passing. The Golden Lions have averaged 13.3 assists per game as a team and hope to carry that type of togetherness into the postseason. Dowling has played consistent basketball all season and find themselves with an overall record of 22-6, and 16-4 inside the ECC. The Golden Lions had a bit of a slip up towards the end of the season, losing two straight games to Daemen College and Roberts Wesleyan College respectively. Not wanting to head into the ECC Tournament on a losing note, Dowling rebounded nicely in its final regular season game. In a road contest in Washington, D.C. against the University of the District of Columbia, the Golden Lions coasted past the Firebirds 87-74. Davis poured in 20 points, while Justin Alexander and Leon Taylor chipped in 14 points each. Alexander and Taylor have both been key contributors this season as well. Alexander averages 11 points per game and leads the team in rebounds with 8.9 per contest, while Taylor adds 10.5 points and 2.2 assists per game. The two make up a consistent and important cast that hopes to lead Dowling to an ECC Championship and an NCAA Tournament birth. Dowling earned the number one seed in the ECC tournament and will play the winner of St. Thomas Aquinas College and LIU Post on March 7th. Because of its outstanding play in the regular season, the ECC tournament will be played in the Golden Lions gym. “It is tremendous for us to be able to play home games in the tournament,” said Hayn. “The familiarity with the gym and being in front of our fans and family is definitely an advantage and is exciting for the Dowling community. Hayn, who is now in his eighth season as head coach at Dowling, says his team needs to stick to what it has done all season long if it hopes to have a long playoff run. “We need to be willing to work and keep our humility,” said Hayn. “We are a defensive oriented team and our major focus needs to be on defense and rebounding. If we do that I like our chances.” Designed by Win-Kye Cheong

HOFSTRA U

PRI

HOFSTRA ON THE REBOUND STORY AND PHOTOS BY KEVIN SPERANDEO

ofstra Men’s Lacrosse had a poor start after falling to Marquette and Princeton University at their first two games. But, the Pride is on a rebound with four straight consecutive wins against big name opponents. The Pride’s at home win streak began against Fairfield University. Tom Varin, a senior co-captain and freshman, Briers Davis both recorded 2 goals each for the Pride. Goals were also scored by Sam Llinares, Mike Malave, Drew Coholan, Korey Hendrickson and Kris Clarke. Junior goalkeeper, Chris Selva recorded 10 saves, holding Fairfield, and allowing Hofstra to finish with a 9-7 victory. After their first win, Hofstra topped Georgetown University in an over-time win with last minute goal by Torin Varn. The senior’s game winning shot, from 11-yards with 20 seconds left sealed the victory for Hofstra, a final score of 9-8. Freshman, Brier Davis made an appearance, leading Hofstra in scoring with 3 goals. Next week, Sophmore Sam Llinares recorded 3 goals and

1(800)680-3213

UNIVERSITY

IDE

Torin Varn made 2 goals against Ohio State University. Defeating Ohio State 7-5, marking the Prides third straight victory. The Prides match against University of Delaware ended in a high scoring 9-11 victory. Torin Varn had another outstanding performance, scoring 3 goals. Drew Coholan and Lance Yapor each scored 2 goals as well. Unfortunately, the Pride fell to St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University, ending the win streak. The away game was decided by an overtime goal scored by St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior, Kieren McArdle. The final score was 11-10. Sam Llinares and Torin Varn once again lead the Pride in goals scored. Last season, the two finished tied with 32 points each. Attackmen, Sam Llinares currently leads the team with 11 goals and 12 assists, totaling 23 points midway though the season. The sophmore, from Happauge, was a nominated to the CAA All-Rookie Team last season, leading the team with 13 assists and 32 points. As a freshman, he started all 14 games for Hofstra. Llinares was recognized as an Under Armour All-American, U.S. Lacrosse All-American and Warrior All-American while playing at Hauppauge High School. He was also named Suffolk County Player of the Year in 2012. Torin Varn, an attackmen from Ithica, has scored 11 goals so far this season. He has also made an assist, totaling 12 points. The senior was voted co-coptain this year by his teammates as he finishes his forth and final year at Hofstra. After suffering season-ending injuries in both 2011 and 2012, Drew Coholan is on the field once again, after last season, starting and finishing without any serious injury. Drew Coholan is a fifth-year senior from Rochester. The midfielder has recorded 9 goals and 3 assists so far this season. Hofstra currently holds a 4-3 record with seven games left before the Colonial Athletic Association Championship. There next game is an away game against Drexel University.

MOLLLOY

LIO

MOLLOY COLLEGE

Lions Leap Towards Success Story by Cristiana Votta | Photos by Morgan Harrison

1(800)680-3213

ith a less then adequate start, the Molloy Men’s Basketball team turned their odds around and found a way to achieve success in their East Coast Conference (ECC) games. “We responded well after a slow start in the beginning of the season and have played better,” Head Coach Charles Marquardt said. Led by Head Coach Charles Marquardt (of 19 years), assistant coaches Pat Morris and Jason Fiscina, and senior captains John Pertucci and Tyler Hammett, the lions turned a losing record into a winning one well above 500. Focusing on low points in their game,

the Molloy men’s b improved over the la the supervision of Co

“Our weaknesse consistent half c rebounding,” Marqu worked on these a October.”

With hopes of an season, the lions ha strengths on the cou to stick with them i on top.

“This year, our offensive scoring, tu transition defense,” M

Y COLLEGE

ONS

basketball team, has ast few months, under oach Marquardt.

es have been having court defense and uardt said. “We have areas everyday since

NCAA bid to end the ave also found some urt and have managed in order to come out

strengths have been urnover control, and Marquardt said.

Each of the lion’s conference games have proven to be difficult and high energy driven, especially against LIU Post and Dowling which always pose a difficult match up. LIU ended up being the best performance by the team to date, according to coach Marquardt. “I believe our recent win against LIU Post was a good performance because we reacted well in high pressure situations,” he said. “We were able to get important defensive stops and execute offensively against a solid team.” Off the court, the team provides the college with strong willed and goal oriented group of students that lead their peers by example. “Our team grade point average is a 3.0 and we have a very high graduation rate,” Marquardt said. We also do extensive charity work off the court. We challenge our players to be the best people on and off the court.” The team focuses on various parts of play that will help them in future play including playing against as many highly ranked division one schools as possible through set scrimmage times. Playing up a division has proven to be helpful to the team over the years. Coach Marquardt believes that this is an

essential experience that helps the team prepare for regular conference scheduled games. “We emphasize ball control everyday at practice through various drills,” Marquardt said. “This is a team priority — Less turnovers means more shot opportunities and a better chance to win.” Among a team of very strong talented athletes, senior captain John Petrucelli constantly takes initiative and is a very intricate part of the team. Averaging at about 24 points per game, it is no surprise how much of an impact he has on the lion’s squad. “John is an honorable mention AllAmerican,” Marquardt said. “He plays every second and leads us by example. He just became the all time leading scorer in our school’s history. He is a very special player and is our motor offensively and defensively.” With the season nearly wrapped up and a complete turn around in movement, the final goal for the lions is a bid to the NCAA tournament. It will be an interesting time after the season of rebuilding and finding new strength in underclassmen in order to fill some big shoes. Designed by Win-Kye Cheong

“I think we are still trying to find our identity right now,” Smith said. “On the field, we definitely have found how to back each other up and support each other while playing. Defensively we are playing hard, we are playing solid, and overall we are playing a true team defense.”

Although the season has just commenced, the team shows promise in strength in their fully loaded team and don’t plan on taking any competition lightly. Once the team finds their niche, they can quite possibly become a force to be a CAA for to be reckoned with.

“Obviously we want to win our conference championship and get into the tournament — But right now, it is a day by day process,” Smith said. “We have to get better every day. We can’t look ahead, because it is going to catch up on us. Right now, we have to focus on getting better each day.”

The team hasn’t won a Colonial Athletic Conference (CAA) Championship since 2007. Towson has shown to be a true powerhouse winning four of the six since then, but that wont slow down the Pride in achieving their goals.

Under the supervision of Head Coach of two years, Shannon Smith, the Pride looks to build their program and find success that will be spoken about for years to come.

ith spring season preparation in full swing, Hofstra University’s women’s lacrosse team has their eye on the prize and their heart at positive acceleration.

Story By Cristiana Votta /// Photos By Adil Borluca

A BLUE AND GOLD TAKEOVER

PRIDE

HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

1(800)680-3213

“We are taking over right now — as a coaching staff we are really looking to get this program to the next level, to the next step,” Smith said. “Really looking to break through. We are definitely excited to see what is going to happen.”

With a still fairly new coaching staff in place, the Pride has one goal in mind and is anxious to see what the future holds in store for them.

“I think we are always working hard,” Smith said. “Our kids are working hard and everyday we are working to shock people and to prove that we can play with the top teams.

With this team in particular, coach Smith and her assistants see special talent and desire in the hearts of their athletes.

“Every single day is a new obstacle,” Smith said. “everyday we throw new challenges at them. At some of our games this year we’ve had our backs against the wall and we’ve overcome that.”

Coach Smith is confident that the team can overcome anything that the season throws at them and that it has already been shown, even this early on.

“Our captains are doing a great job leading this team and are doing a great job performing on the field as well,” Smith said.

There are many returning players that show promising potential this year including returning junior goalkeeper Kelsey Gregerson and senior captains Emily Corzel and Emily Von Hollen.

“On the attack end we are still trying to find the chemistry and have everything click together,” Smith said. “It is still very early on in the season. This is what it is all about though — we are trying to find our identity before we get into conference play.”

With the defensive end of their game pretty much squared away, the Pride looks to improve on its attack and form a more fluent harmony amongst each other.

Story By Brian Coleman Photo By Morgan Harrison

Sink Conference Standings

SHARKS

Armand Correa led the way for the Suffolk starters, pouring in 15

However, the season didn’t begin on such a high note. The Sharks opened up on the road at Essex Community College on November 9th, and the Sharks got ran out of the gym by Essex, who trampled Suffolk by 20 in the season opener.

In forcing its opponents to shoot a mere 36.7% from the field, Suffolk is second in the country in opponent’s field-goal percentage. That defense has kept the Sharks play at a consistent level all season, keeping them in a lot of games that it ended up winning.

With just a few games remaining in the regular season, the Suffolk Sharks find itself at 17-4 in the National Junior College Athletic Association. While the offense has been a huge part of the success, averaging over 70 points per game, the defense has been stifling all season long.

he Suffolk County Community College Men’s Basketball team came into this season with some unfinished business. Last season did not conclude the way it would have liked, and the Sharks seemed to smell blood in the water this year.

SHARKS T

SUFFOLK COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Essex had excellent ball movement, which resulted in 16 team assists, compared to just seven for Suffolk. The Sharks also had 17 turnovers, essentially giving away 17 crucial possessions. In that one-point loss to Bronx, Suffolk blew a five-point halftime lead and squandered the game down the stretch. A positive that came out of the game was another big performance by forward Chris Millender, who dropped 12 points and grabbed an astounding 19 rebounds. Armand Correa poured in 18 points and dished out four assists.

76, the Sharks won 12 of 13 games, leapfrogging a number of teams in the standings.

1(800)680-3213

The loss also exposed a breaking one point home loss to led by Millender and Correa, who weakness that needed to be fixed. Bronx Community College, 77- carried the offense. The signature

The alarming turnover rate coupled with the lack of assists and ball movement proved to be two things that needed to be addressed going forward. The following game, Suffolk beat down Queensborough Community College in an 82-49 rout and dished out 16 assists compared to Heading into the season, head coach Victor Correa knew that he While Suffolk trailed for the 12 team turnovers. That is the winning recipe that needed Millender and Correa to majority of this game, the blowout loss resulted in a learning curve Suffolk has adopted all season â&#x20AC;&#x201D; have big seasons and be the leaders for the Sharks. The 17 points from An efficient offense game to go of this team. He has received Taylor provided a ray of hope, as along with the ferocious defense that and more, as Millender and Correa have formed a tandem that it showed a potential for them to that is at the top of the nation. get good scoring off of the bench, The best stretch of the season has proved to be tough to handle something it was unable to get a so far came during the middle of for many teams thus far. season ago which hurt them in the the year in December and into During the stretch where it won playoffs. early January. Following a heart- 12 of 13 games, the Sharks were

Essex had control of this game from the early minutes. Opening up a big lead en route to a ninepoint lead at the intermission. Dion Rogers was shooting from all over the place, scoring 21 points on 26 shots. While inefficient, Rogers was the gameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading scorer and also chipped in four rebounds in the 76-56 victory.

points and grabbing 11 rebounds. The leading scorer for Suffolk came off the bench though, as Josh Taylor dropped 17 points and grabbed eight rebounds.

Correa and Millender will be the biggest factors for Suffolk as it heads down the stretch, and will need to play great basketball if the Sharks are to have a chance to make a deep playoff run.

First, however, Suffolk needs to finish out the regular season in a good fashion heading into the tournament. With three games left, Suffolk wants to continue the mini two-game winning streak it currently has in early February.

Millender was incredibly efficient, shooting 10-of-14 from the field while making all five of his free throws. The forward has been a force down low that has provided Suffolk with the interior stability that has them primed for a deep playoff run.

Suffolk traveled on the road this time to face Bronx, and this time got its revenge. The Sharks came out of the gates on fire, opening up a 35-19 lead at halftime, a lead that would not be relinquished. Millender dominated once again, scoring 25 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, while Stephen Knight chipped in 12 points off of the bench.

win during that time period came against that same Bronx Community College team.