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LI Lax Journal – Girls Super 7 Nassau Conference I – Team Previews

Posted on March 24, 2017 by FLG Lacrosse Staff

The goal of FLG’s Long Island Lacrosse Journal is to promote the sport of the lacrosse on Long Island. The LI Lax Journal will include team previews, coach interviews, rankings, top players, and much more. Follow FLG Lacrosse this Spring to get inside access to what’s happening in the world of lacrosse on Long Island!

Garden City Girls 2017 Season Preview

Garden City

Mascot: Trojans

Nassau Power Conference I

Ranking: 1st

A Twitter Poll conducted on March 20th pegged Garden City as having the best shot at winning a State Championship in 2017

Key Returners:

Jenn Medjid, Junior, BC Commit
Celia Concannon, Senior Captain, Harvard Commit, Middie
Jackie Brattan, Senior, Army Commit, Middie
Devon Heaney, Senior Captain, USC Commit, Defense
Katherine Galzerano, Senior, Michigan Commit, Defense

Key Losses:

17 Seniors graduated
3 Midfielders were All-Americans
Katie Muldoon, Harvard, All-American
Michaela Bruno, Georgetown, UA & US Lacrosse All-American
Kerry Defliese, Syracuse, two-time All-American

“Our girls work very hard. We have a very enthusiastic and dedicated group.” -Diane Chapman, Head Coach, Garden City

Garden City’s Celia Concannon is a dream for Ivy League Women’s lacrosse programs. Celia will be heading to Harvard next year. Before she makes moves to Boston this Fall, she’s got her eyes set on another NYS Class B State Championship. Photo-credit: Newsday

Best Case Scenario

This year, the Lady Trojans hope to be right back where they were last year, holding up a State Championship. Even after losing three All-Americans, this year’s team still has the components to make a State Championship run. The 2017 roster has great chemistry and feels they can play with anyone.

Worst Case Scenario

The worst case scenario for this year’s Trojans would not be making an appearance in the County Championship. Not many teams in Nassau have the talent that Garden City has. So, a quick exit from the playoffs would certainly be a disappointment.

Key Games

Away @ Cold Spring Harbor – 4/22/17

Away @ Manhasset – 4/29/17

Home vs Wantagh – 5/04/17

Manhasset Girls 2017 Season Preview

Manhasset

Mascot: Indians

Nassau Power Conference I

Ranking: 2nd

Key Returners

Madison Rielly, Junior, Maryland Commit, Attacker
Krissy Kowalski, Junior, Penn Commit, Goalie
Katie Bellucci, Junior, Penn Commit, Midfield
Madison Miller, Senior, Vanderbilt Commit, Midfield

Key Losses

Erin Barry, Midfield, three-time High School All-American, Penn
Katherine Markham, Penn, Defense

“Prove it. Prove to me, prove to your teammates, and when you get your opportunities on the field, prove it by doing right by your teammates.” -Danielle Gallagher, Head Coach, Manhasset

Madison Miller is a senior midfielder heading to Vanderbilt in the Fall. Miller will need to step-up this year for the Indians. She definitely has the athleticism and ability to do so. Photo-credit: 3sixtyathletics.com

Best Case Scenario: The Manhasset Indians have the ability to do a lot this year. They have very good individual players. However, this program is expecting more than great individual play. The Indians are looking for their athletes to prove they can play within a system, as well as, play within an offensive and defensive unit. Coach Gallagher keeps the door open every day in practice, giving her players an opportunity to show they can play hard, play selfless, and play for a championship caliber team. This mentality raises the level of play each day, making this group one to watch out for!

Worst Case Scenario: It would be disappointing for the Indians to sustain injuries and not fulfil the team’s goal of winning a County Championship.

Key Games:

Away @ Long Beach – 3/28/17

Home vs Wantagh – 4/01/17

Home vs Garden City – 4/19/17

Away @ Cold Spring Harbor – 5/02/17

Home vs Bayport-Blue Point – 5/06/17

Wantagh Girls 2017 Season Preview

Wantagh

Mascot: Warriors

Nassau Power Conference I

Ranking: 3rd

Key Returners:

Meghan Gordon, Senior, Northwestern Commit, Midfield, All-State Track
Alexandra Murphy, Senior, UMass Commit, Midfield, All-State Soccer
Taylor Carson, Senior, Attack, Arizona State Commit
Danielle Carson, Soph, USC Commit, Defender,
Anna Kaufman, Junior, Hofstra Commit, Defender
Emma Lemanski, Senior, Adelphi Commit, Goalie
Taylor Rossi, Senior, Pace Commit, Defender,
Gabrielle Cesaro, Senior, Pace Commit, Defender
Kayla Conway, Junior, Pace Commit, Midfield
Sabrina Caruso, eighth grader, Attacker

Key Losses:

Kaitlyn Ceraso, UMass, Draw-specialist
Nicky Fleewack, Maryland
Grace Beshlian, UConn, Goalie

“I was impressed with what they had, but I’m even more impressed with what’s left.” -Greg Cody, Head Coach, Wantagh

Alexandra Murphy is a stand-out athlete at Wantagh. Not only does she lead the Warriors on the lax field, but she’s an All-State soccer player as well. Can she lead this group to a County Title in 2017? Photo credit: News 12 Varsity

Best Case Scenario:

This year’s Warrior squad is filled with both athletes and excellent students. “We see a lot of togetherness from the girls. Good senior leadership and very impressed with their attitudes.” Said Head Coach Greg Cody, “But, I’m most impressed with their abilities in the classroom. All our top girls have a 90 average or better.” This is arguably the most dedicated group of girls that Head Coach Greg Cody has ever had. The Warriors goal is to capture a County Championship. Every game will be a grind this year as the conference is packed with talent, but the Warriors themselves have plenty of experience and college commits to lead the team.

Worst Case Scenario:

Not capturing a County Championship would be disappointing for the Warriors this year. This team is very dedicated and is striving for a Championship. These Seniors are looking to make their last year count, but it will not be an easy road.

Key Games:

CSH, 3/28, Away

Manhasset, 4/01, Away

Massapequa, 4/05, Home

Middle Country, 4/04, Away

Cold Spring Harbor Girls 2017 Season Preview

Cold Spring Harbor

Mascot: Seahawks

Nassau Power Conference I

Ranking: 4th

Key Returners:

Abbey Ngai, Senior, Goalie, Boston College Commit, All-County, leader and anchor of the defense
Kate Kotowski, Senior, Attacker, UNC Commit, five-year player, All-County, key to the offense this year
Carolyn DeBellis, Sophomore, Duke Commit, started as a freshman
Sophia Derosa, Junior, Brown Commit, definitely expecting her to step up this year. Key leader on field, good communicator, and good role model
Grace Tauckus, Junior, Midfielder, Princeton Commit, the best two-way player we have, she’s a true midfielder.

Key Losses:

Samantha DeBellis, two-time All-American, Duke
Ashley Lynch, two-time All-American, Louisville, 2016 LI Player of the Year, led our team in points last year, over 100 points

“Our motto this year is rise-up. We need don’t want to sweat the small stuff. We want to get up and keep moving forward all year.” -Danielle Castellane, Head Coach, Cold Spring Harbor

Kate Kotowski has the ability to take over a game. She’s a five-year varsity player and will be the key to the Seahawks offensive in ’17 Photo Credit: Newsday

Best Case Scenario

Playing all the way into June is the main goal for this year’s Seahawks as they have their eyes set on a County Championship. Some might think losing two All-Americans will cause problems for this year’s team. However, if you ask Coach Castellane, she’d say her team will be just fine. “Losing two All-Americans means more opportunity for players on our current team to step up. We have a lot of weapons and threats this year. They are just going to be used differently. Overall, I’d say we are a more balanced team across the board in 2017.”

Worst Case Scenario

The worst case scenario for this year’s team: not holding up a County Championship plaque. This team has incredible chemistry and lots of big name commits. With the talent they have, it’s hard to see many teams beating them this year.

Key Games:

Long Beach, 3/23
Wantagh, 3/28

Long Beach Girls 2017 Season Preview

Long Beach

Mascot: Marines

Nassau Power Conference I

Ranking: 5th

Key Returners:

Siobhan Rafferty, Senior, Midfield, Stony Brook*
Katie Whelan, Senior, Midfield, Hofstra*
Megan Sofield, Senior, Waiting on lots of top schools
Daisey Willard, Sophomore, Binghamton
Maggie Reznick, Freshman, Attack
Emma Pfaff, Junior, Boston University
Sarah Reznick, Junior, Goalie*, Florida
Jillian Canner, Sophomore, Attack
Hannah Lewis, Sophomore, Draw
Lexi Correia, Sophomore, Attack
Fiona Rafferty, Sophomore, Midfield
Savannah Kile, Senior, Defense
Charlotte Kile, Sophomore, Defense

Key Losses:

Katy Brellia, Bryant, Starter, Big time scorer, ran offense

“Our motto this year: Empty the Tank. It’s symbolic of giving everything you have.” -Rachel Ray, Head Coach, Long Beach

Long Beach Goalie, Sarah Reznick, has been in the cage for the Marines since 8th grade. Sarah’s thirst for knowledge of the game has allowed her to grow as a goalie each year. Watch this super-star light up the field this season. Photo Credit: Newsday

Best Case Scenario

The goal for this year’s team is to get back to the semi-finals and eventually capture a County Championship. This year’s squad is very focused and is hungry to get a chance to compete for a title. According to coach Rachel Ray, “This is one of the most competitive teams I’ve ever been around. I don’t need to ask a lot of them, they are ready to go before the coaches even get to practice. While it’s a fun group to be around, they know exactly when to dial it in and focus.” With a deep bench and lots of athleticism, the Bulldogs are primed to play a fast-paced style all year long.

Worst Case Scenario:

The worst scenario for this year’s Bulldogs would be a quick exit in the playoffs. With a difficult schedule it will definitely not be an easy road, but with the talent the Bulldogs have anything is possible.

Key Games:

Manhasset, 3/28, Home

Syosset, 4/05, Home

North Shore Girls 2017 Season Preview

North Shore

Mascot: Vikings

Nassau Power Conference I

Ranking: 6th

Key Returners:

Quinn Lacy, Senior, Lafayette Commit, Goalie, very active, picks off passes really well, been starting last two years
Alana Greene, Junior, George Washington Commit, Very quick, nearly flawless stickwork, great handles inside
Ashley Sheerin, Senior, Middie, Fast, good body position, very positive impact player, very high grades, looking at Ivy League schools
Madeline Podaras, Junior, Lafayette Commit, attacker, very quick first and second step, can dodge through defenders effectively

Core Defensive group led by Junior class

Selena Fortich
Andrea Liotta
Hannah Moran
Nicky Nanas
April Rowels
Eileen Quinn

“The work ethic and leadership is everything. The girls in our program want to do well and go far. Having that mentality really helps. Our girls are really focused. We do lots of things in the off-season and get the middle school girls involved throughout the year. I try to get everyone in the program on the same page and have them use the same language.” -Meg McCormick, Head Coach, North Shore

Quinn Lacy is an acrobatic stopper who not only makes saves a goalie should make, she makes ones that most goalies don’t make. Her active style of play puts her in positions to pick off passes and create havoc for an offence.

Best Case Scenario

After a .500 season last year in Conference I, the Vikings are hoping to capture a County Championship this year. This year’s squad is super close and have been training hard all offseason. The keys this year for the Vikings are to limit turnovers and maintain possessions. By doing this for a full 50 minutes, the Vikings are confident they can compete with anyone in Nassau Conference I. This year’s team has lots of depth, especially on the defensive side of the field. If this competitive group maintains their composure come playoff time, they might find themselves holding up a County Champion trophy.

Worst Case Scenario

Since everyone in Conference 1 makes the playoffs, the worst thing that can happen to the Vikings this year is a quick exit from the dance. The talent is there for this year’s Vikings. So, a trip to the Championship will be in the eyes of every girl on the team.

Key Games:

CSH, 4/19, Home

Manhasset, 4/27, Away

Syosset, 5/05, Away

Syosset Girls 2017 Season Preview

Syosset

Mascot: Braves

Nassau Power Conference I

Ranking: 7th

Key Returners:

Katie Igneri, Senior, Brown Commit, two-year captain, quick, super athletic, ground ball machine, never gives up
Nicole Concannon, Senior, Villanova Commit, two-year captain
Taylyn Stadler, Junior, Penn Commit, playing varsity since 8th grade

Key Loss:

Betsey Cohen, Swarthmore, Goalie

“I took 26 girls this year. This will be my biggest team yet. A majority of our girls have been with us since 8th or 9th grade. So, they know what to expect. I set the bar and the girls take it and raise it for themselves. They love each other and want to accomplish this goal together.” -Lauren Lomonaco, Head Coach, Syosset

In 2016, the last game for Nicole Concannon was a big win against Cold Spring Harbor. After being sidelined for the rest of the 2016 season, it’s safe to assume Nicole is excited to get back at it in 2017.

Best Case Scenario:

For this year’s Braves, the goal is simple: get right back where they were two years ago, playing for a Long Island Championship. This year’s team is led by an experienced core, who are committed to playing for Division I schools in the years to come. Playing in one of the hardest conferences in Public High School lacrosse, it will by no means be an easy road for the Braves. With that said, winning a County Championship is not out the realm of possibility and will be the goal for this year’s team.

Worst Case Scenario:

The bar is set high this year mainly because this team’s Senior class has been playing together since 4th grade. The chemistry for this group is the best it’s ever been. Not winning a County Championship would definitely be a disappointment.

Key Games:

Massapequa, 3/28, Home

Wantagh, 4/19, Home

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FLG Game of the Week – Garden City vs. Syosset

Posted on March 21, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

Over the past ten seasons, Garden City and Syosset have played one another in their season opener. From 2010 to 2014, Garden City started their season 1-0. However, over the past 3 seasons, from 2015 to present day, Syosset has gotten the best of the Trojans.

If you view today’s box score, you’ll notice an evenly matched game. Clears, shots on goal, turnovers, and ground balls were all very comparable. Where Syosset separated themselves was in net and in their ability to put the ball in the net. Syosset’s Anthony Celuaro made 8 saves, only letting in 5 goals on the day. Offensively, Syosset peppered 26 shots on goal, netting 9 of them. Shooting 35% isn’t spectacular, but it proved enough to beat Garden City in their home opener.

Jack Monfort (Left) celebrating after his 3rd goal of the day with teammate Matt Benus (Right) The Braves won 9-5 in their season opener against Garden City

Syosset displayed some key intangibles throughout the game. Their toughness was evident. Every player picked up ground balls with two hands, running through piles, and blowing through stick checks. They did a great job dodging downhill towards the goal and getting their momentum moving towards the cage on each shot. While GC had the edge in the GB game today, Syosset did a much better job picking up first time grounders and maintaining possession soon after.

I’m sure it won’t take long for Garden City to bounce back from this loss. Their experienced staff will look at this game as a learning experience and move forward. With an intense non-league schedule, GC will get right back at it this Saturday against Smithtown West.

Below were some stand-out players form today’s game:

Jack Monfort, Syosset #8, Midfield, FLG Offensive Player of the Game, 3G

Daniel Ochs, Syosset #13, Defense, FLG Defensive Player of the Game, 2GBs

Anthony Celuaro, Syosset #9, Goalie, 60% Save Percentage on the day, 8 Saves

Kieran Gunn, Syosset #18, F/O, 10/15 facing-off

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FLG Internship Programs

Posted on March 20, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

FLG’s Internship Programs are anything but ordinary. Coffee runs are by no means in the job description. Instead, interns with FLG Lacrosse undergo a cooperative experience in a real world environment. Students not only have the potential to get college school credit, they have an opportunity to get real working experience for a sports teams and event company, right here on Long Island.

Over the past year, interns at FLG Lacrosse have gotten experience by contributing to our company in the following ways:

Marketing lacrosse events ran by FLG Lacrosse
Operated FLG Lacrosse events
Develop social marketing campaigns
Developed content for our Long Island Lacrosse Journal
Posted on daily content on our Social Media Channels
Designed apparel, snap chat filters, and marketing materials for the company
Sales and Marketing of upcoming FLG Events
Coached youth teams within the FLG Lacrosse Program
Much More!

If this sounds like an experience that interests you, be sure to email our program director Corey Winkoff at cwinkoff@flglacrosse.com

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LI Lax Journal – Farmingdale Three-Way Scrimmage – PREVIEW

Posted on March 17, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

Tomorrow morning, the Farmingdale, Long Beach, and Sachem North High School boys varsity teams will come together for a three-way scrimmage. In hopes of preparing for the 2017 Spring season, this day will include full day of lacrosse. On the practice plan, straight scrimmages. All three teams will play two games throughout the day, each with two High School officials. Farmingdale High School will host three teams who are in the process of figuring out who is worthy of getting the start. Non-league play is set to begin next Tuesday. With little time to spare, Farmingdale, Sachem, and Long Beach must make the most of this precious turf time.

The Dalers fell short of the County Championship last year. First year Head Coach, Mike Hungerford, has big shoes to fill. With a wealth of experience coaching and multiple State Championships (2X State Championship coach at Cold Spring Harbor) on his resume, it’s safe to say the Farmingdale Boys Program is now in great hands.

Tomorrow’s scrimmage was supposed to be on the grounds of Cold Spring Harbor High School and host 6 top HS programs, including Cold Spring Harbor, West Islip, and Massapequa. Due to unfortunate circumstances aka snow covering Cold Spring Harbor’s grass and upper turf fields, the scrimmage was split into two locations. Half the teams heading to Cold Spring and the other half to Farmingdale.

Head Coach Paul Benway took over an up-and-coming Sachem North group just 1 season ago. North lost several one-goal games last year, but with this program in good hands, they will continue to push towards cracking the top of the most competitive public school conference in this country, Suffolk Class A.

FLG Lacrosse has decided to follow half those teams to Farmingdale. Tomorrow, our coverage will include interviews with each head coach, words from the captains of each program, live stats from some of the action, and video highlights (which will be posted next week.)

Long Beach was 8-8 last year. Coach Jim Kasper has been leading this group for over ten years. With an experienced head coach and some bright young talent, this team could surprise some people this season.
Photo-credit :: News12Varsity

Be sure to follow FLG Lacrosse on instagram & twitter for live updates on the action. Here we go!

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The Dangers of Competition

Posted on March 15, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

Similar to coaches, musical composers train musicians from early childhood. They encourage musicians to develop good practice habits and performance values. Musicians travel all over the world to learn from the greats and parents pay for young musicians to take part in fine summer programs. Then, musicians are thrown into a whirlpool of competitions, from which we expect these young musicians to perform great works that call upon demonstrate warmth, playfulness, generosity, reverence, and sensitivity.

However, famous educator and composer of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, Benjamin Zander says, “It is dangerous to have our musicians so obsessed with competition, because they will find it difficult to take the necessary risks for themselves to be great performers.”

Like young musicians, young athletes are too performers. Similar to musicians, it is only when athletes make mistakes in performance, do we really get to notice what needs attention.

Now, what if coaches started to look at these negative experience or mistakes as opportunities. Instead of projecting negative energy towards these mistakes, you as a coach reflect humor, generosity, or positivity. Better yet, use these mistakes as possibilities for discovering ways to express oneself in new and creative ways.

Creating an environment where young athletes can make mistakes freely and develop new positive habits is the opposite of dangerous. It’s constructive, positive, impactful, and beneficial. It will give young athletes the confidence to perform at a high level with joy, playfulness, generosity, reverence, and energy. I’d like to see more performances like this, I’d love to see more coaches work with their students like Ben Zander does.

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Get On Your Own Team

Posted on March 14, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

So many young athletes are concerned with what team they should join. Am I playing for the right club team? Which high school team should I choose? What college team should I pursue?

Before getting so caught-up with choosing a team, learn to get on your own team.

Treat your body right.

Improve your weaknesses.

Cure those bad habits.

Build on your strengths.

Work hard, rest easy.

Manage your time.

Eat foods that work for you.

Stretch.

Condition.

Get stronger.

Work on your skills.

Develop a passion for the sport.

Believe in yourself.

Once you get on your own team, then you can think about joining someone else’s.

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FLG Fusion Town Tournament All Baby Bro Squad

Posted on March 14, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

FLG Lacrosse would like to congratulate the following 16 baby bros for the FLG Town Championship All Baby Bro Squad. Great job this past weekend boys! You all have bright futures ahead.

Grade	Town	First	Last
2021	Harborfields	Ian	McGullam
2021	Manhasset	Nolan	Garcia
2021	Levittown	Matt	Schwann
2022	Manhasset	Gavin	Barnes
2022	Huntington	Robbie	Smith
2022	Brooklyn	Ronin	Bryant
2022	Farmingdale	Ryan	Woodland
2022	Port/North	Jack	Monahan
2023	Oyster Bay	Alex	Siegel
2023	Smithtown	Brendan	Mullahy
2023	Smithtown	Ryan	Rooney
2023	Commack	Richie	Wopp
2024	Floral Park	Luke	Dimaggio
2024	Cold Spring Harbor	Sam	Giarraputo
2024	Long Beach	Connor	Richards
2025	Floral Park	Jack	Dimaggio

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The 1st! FLG Fusion Town Championships – Winter ’17 Team Previews

Posted on March 10, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

The FLG Fusion Town Championships is a first-of-its-kind town tournament that will consist of a series of FLG’s Small Area Competitive Games & Drills, which we called Fusion Games. This Sunday, FLG will bring together some of Long Island’s most established lacrosse towns to compete in this unique event. Taking the tournament experience to the next level, FLG’s team of professional trainers will actually teach each team, as well as their coaches, 6 different Fusion games. After teams and coaches are taught the rules of a particular Fusion game, they will immediately walk to their field and compete against another town. This process will repeat until each town team has competed all 6 Fusion games. Teams will then be seeded and earn a chance to compete for the first ever FLG Fusion Town Championship. Only the winners of each grade will earn a special prize at the end, however, each team will walk-away learning something new. For LIVE updates, scores, pictures, promotions, and much more, be sure to follow FLG Lacrosse on instagram & twitter @FLGLAX

Below is a preview for each town competing in the Fusion Town Championships this Sunday:

Cold Spring Harbor

Adam Ghitelman is one the greats to come through the Cold Spring Harbor lacrosse program. His #8 jersey is retired and hangs in the rafters of the Cold Spring Gymnasium. An All-American, National Champ, MLL Star, and DI Collegiate coach, Ghitelman is one the CSH boys aspire to become.

CSH

Adam Ghitelman – Virginia & Pro
Johnny Orson – Hofstra
Jay Jalbert – Virginia
Guy Riccardi – Maryland
Rich Riccardi -Virginia
Colin Burke – Fairfiel
Greg Peyser – Hopkins
Stephen Peyser – Hopkins
Joe Boloukos – Cornell
Allen Winkoff – BU
Jordan Walter – Notre Dame
Jake Gennosa – Drexel
Ryan Winkoff – Binghamton

The 5th grade boys over In Cold Spring Harbor, young studletes look to write the next chapter in the program’s storied history by the time their senior season comes in 2024. All these young studletes aspire to become the next CSH legend, like Virginia standouts Jay Jalbert & Adam Ghitleman. The 2024 Seahawks hope to represent their community at the Fusion Championships by demonstrating a high level of skill, athleticism, and lacrosse IQ. Come to the Nassau Community College Field house this Sunday to witness these little baby bros strive to be known like the legends that came before them.

Long Beach

Some may not know, but the Gibson Brothers hail from Long Beach. Matt was a stand-out attackman at Chaminade and Yale. Gibby now competes for MLL Championships on the Long Island Lizards. Mesmerizing audiences with his famous Wall Ball videos on the Tube, Gibson is a great role model for young laxers everywhere.

Long Beach

Brendan Gibson – Yale
Matt Gibson – Yale
J.T. Forkin – Cuse
Peter O’Toole – Harvard

Long Beach has produced some serious studs over the last couple years, Brendan and Matt Gibson, J.T. Forkin, and Peter O’Toole to name a few. The Long Beach class of 2024 are pushing to make their mark on the program and prove they can continue to compete with the elite programs of Long Island. Head coach of the 2024 LB boys, Tony Greer, can be described as a family man, rocker for life, and avid supporter of his alma mater Cornell Big Red. Coach Greer will lead his LB group into the Fusion Arena with a slew of lacrosse knowledge. Tony’s passion for the game is infectious and it shows. FLG is really excited for the opportunity to get the Long Beach boys involved in our first Fusion Town Tourney.

Smithtown

Rob Pannell is one of the best stories to come out of Smithtown. From under the radar recruit to lacrosse super-star, this Cornell Big Red All-American recently led his MLL team to a Championship.

Rob Pannell – Cornell
James Pannell – Virginia
Dan Martinson – Siena
Gerard Arceri – FOGO – Penn State
Ryan Keenan – Penn State
Jason DeBenedictis – St. John’s
Brian Willetts – Notre Dame

Smithtown has emerged a lax factory, sending players to schools like Virginia, Penn State, Cornell, and Notre Dame year in and year out. Playing for Smithtown means you are expected to compete at a high level, keep getting better each year, and work towards one-day playing for Coach Moltisanti or Coach Lambert at the Varsity Level. Smithtown continues to prove they are a powerhouse in lacrosse and these young guns hope to keep it that way. Smithtown is bringing not one, but two teams in the same grade. They know, in order for a program to be successful the more boys that play lax, the better!

Manhasset

Jim Brown earned 13 letters during him time at Manhasset. Moving on to Cuse to excel at football and lax, Brown eventually earned a spot in NFL History Books because of his stand-out career. Brown continues to inspire the lacrosse community.

Manhasset

Tyler Dunn – UPENN
Connor English – Cornell
Chris Finn – Cornell
Gavin Petracca – North Carolina
Chris Peyser – Princeton
Jim Brown – Syracuse
Ryan Young – Maryland
James Farrell – UPenn
Drew Belinsky – UPenn

Manhasset has a bright future ahead of them and the Class of 2022 will attempt to find their next Tyler Dunn, Connor English, or Chris Finn. Manhasset has always been known for their rich lacrosse history and these young guns hope to carry on the legacy. The Fusion Town Championship this Sunday will be flooded with Manhasset Indians. From 5th grade to 8th, you’ll find a laxer from this community. Not only will Manhasset be bringing a 2022 team, free agents from the community will attend FLG’s Fusion event to take part in the action. With long time high school rivals like Cold Spring Harbor coming to the Fusion Town Championship, these games could get very interesting!

Sachem

Doug Shanahan was one of the greats to graduate from Sachem. Doug had a stand-out career at Hofstra, in the MLL, and for the US National Team.

Sachem

Joe Amplo-Head Coach at Marquette

Brian Brecht – Rutgers Lacrosse Head Coach
Randy Cox
John Calabria – Syosset Head Coach
Terry Mangan – St. John’s Assistant coach
Justin O’Connell-UPENN
Jay Mauro – Butler
Tommy Haun – Stony Brook
Doug Shanahan – Hofstra

Almost all the great alumni from Sachem have experienced playing and coaching at the collegiate level. With big shoes to fill, Sachem’s youth hopes to represent a lacrosse community filled big time coaches, big time players, and a rich history. Follow @FLGLAX on twitter for updates on how the Sachem boys far against some stiff competition.

Farmingdale

Matt Danowski is currently 3rd all-time in points for the NCAA. He was a 4 time all-american at Duke, played for several MLL franchises, and has competed for the US Men’s National Team. Matt continues to develop young men as a coach for the Duke Men’s Lacrosse team.

Farmingdale

Matt Deluca – Delaware
Tommy Mcpartland – Mercy
Steve Kunz – Albany
Joseph Ostrander-Towson
Sal Tuttle – Adelphi
Matt Danowski – Duke
Jonathon Engelke – Towson
Dennis Kelly – UMass

Farmingdale has one of the most renowned alumni base in the country. Matt Danowski, Matt Deluca, Steve Kunz, Joe Ostrander, and Sal Tuttle are some of the recent greats that the Farmingdale 2022 group has been able to look up to. Daler Nation Coach, Dennis Kelly, is a Farmingdale Alumni himself. He looks to bring a highly touted 2023 group to the Fusion Arena with the intention of winning it all. Follow FLG Lacrosse on twitter and instagram @flglax to see how the Dalers match-up to the competition.

Huntington

Shamel is the 3rd all-time in points for Virginia Cavalier midfielders. A two-time firs team all-american, Shamel is one of the best to graduate from Huntington. Shamel led H-ton to two back-to-back State Championships during his time at Huntington High School.

Huntington

Scott Kocis – Georgetown
Shamel Bratton and Ramel Bratton – Virginia
Steve Mock – Cornell
Zach Howell – Duke
Matt Howell – Notre Dame

This weekend, the Huntington Village Class of 2022 takes the field in hopes of showing other teams on the island what the Blue Devils are all about. These boys are looking to join some of the Huntington greats like Zach and Matt Howell. The Huntington Village Lacrosse program is growing in popularity and success. The Devils youth program has more and more laxers looking to take their lacrosse talents to the next level each and every year. This Fusion event will test these young athletes in different facets of the game. Do they have what it takes to be the first, Fusion Town Champs?!

Levittown

Devin Votta was a stand-out at Levittown and is currently the senior captain of Siena’s Lacrosse team. Devin coaches in the Levittown Youth Program and has worked with dozens of players throughout Long Island.

Levittown

Tom Davis-Princeton
James Davis-Princeton
Doug Hall-UNC
Eric Weeden-John Hopkins
Devin Votta-Siena Captain

With Levittown legends like Tom and James Davis, Dougie Hall, Eric Weeden, and Devin Votta, Levittown lacrosse is looking to find their next “Legend” in the 2021 class. Currently in 8th grade, it won’t be long before this Levittown group steps foot on the varsity grid-iron. With the hopes of competing for a county championship in the near future, the Levittown 2021 class will continue to focus on developing their game. Led by Ralph Votta, Levittown youth lacrosse coaching legend and founder of the TOGZ club lacrosse organization, this Levittown 2021 is in great hands. We welcome this group to our first ever Fusion Town Championship!

Port Washington – North

John Crawley is one of the best, if not, the best to come out of Port Washington. Leading his team to a County Championship in HS, Crawley is now working on leading his Hopkins team to a National Championship. Watch JC44 inspire the lax community with his all-around heads-up and selfless play this Spring.

Port Wash/North shore

Dan Grabher-Army
Joey Frocarro-Villanova
Jake Frocarro -Villanova
Jeff Frocarro-Princeton
John Crawley-Johns Hopkins
Ryan Aughavin-Brown

This weekend, athletes from both Port Washington and North Shore will take the field together. Port Washington and North Shore are both up-and-coming lacrosse towns with the resources and passion to become great at this game. Which boys from Port Washington North will step-up and show they belong on lacrosse’s biggest stage? Tune into @FLGAX on twitter and instagram this Sunday and find out!

Commack

Tim Trenkle was a great player for Commack High School. Trenkle moved on to contribute and play all four years for the SeasWolves of Stony Brook.

Commack

Commack has always been known as a baseball town. Since Jimmy Montana took over the men’s lacrosse program, Commack has transformed to being known to have quality lacrosse. This year, Commack High School will compete in one of the most competitive public school conferences in the country, the Suffolk Class A. This means Commack’s youth will need to keep getting stronger if they plan on contending at the High School level. Coach Montana himself will be marching into the Fusion arena with his Commack 6th grade group in hopes of capturing the first Fusion Town Championship.

Floral Park

Kevin Ford is one of the best to come out of Floral Park. Ford was a stand-out HS Lacrosse Player who went on to have a good career at Hofstra. Who will be that next stand-out from FP? Come to the Fusion Town Championships and find out!

Floral Park

Floral Park has an up and coming youth program with lots of talent. The Knights are developing a lacrosse culture by bringing together like-minded families that share a passion for the sport of lacrosse. The Fusion Town Championship will host the 5th grade Floral Park group that will be coached by Don Ferone. Don is heavily involved in Floral Park’s youth program and has contributed to the development of many players in the community. We look forward to hosting the Knights this Sunday at our Fusion Town Championships!

Harborfields

Mark Millon, known for his low to high cannon, continues to educate youth today. His camps have gotten a stick in the hands of thousands of kids around the country. He remains the greatest to come out of Harborfields.

Harborfields

Harborfields is a community that is desirable for many reasons. Many successful families seek the community for it’s quality schools, athletics, and club programs. The boys youth lacrosse program has a lot of quality athletes who hope to one day play for Coach Glen Lavey’s varsity team. Bill Yorio, father of the current starting goalie for Harborfields, will lead an 8th grade Harborfields group into the Fusion Town Championships this Sunday. FLG is excited to welcome a great program, great mentor/coach, and quality group of young men!

Oyster Bay

Brian Soper, Adelphi All-American and Oyster Bay Head Coach, is the reason Oyster Bay Lacrosse has been on a steady upward trend over the last several years. His passion and knowledge for the game has allowed him to take a program that was non-existent, to one that will compete this year for a Class D Long Island Championship.

Oyster Bay

As a rising lacrosse program on the island, Oyster Bay hopes to make noise in the coming future. The Oyster Bay Baymen Lacrosse Program is lead by FLG coach, Brian Soper. Coach Soper is a committed teacher and coach within the Oyster Bay community and looks to continue building a program that’s seen nothing but consistent improvement. A stout 6th grade group will walk into Nassau Community College’s field house with the intentions of proving they can run with the best towns on the island. Come watch Coach Pat Lough’s 6th grade Oyster Bay group compete for a chance to be crowned Fusion Town Champs!

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FLG Cribs – Ryan Purcell, Denver University

Posted on March 8, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

From Levittown, LI to Denver, CO, hear the story of legendary FLG Alumni, Ryan Purcell! #Studlete

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Magnus

Posted on March 6, 2017 by Corey Winkoff

In the Netflix Documentary, Magnus, Director Benjamin Ree follows the life of a childhood chess prodigy – Magnus Carlsen. This film captures Magnus Carlsen’s road from childhood prodigy to chess world champion.

As Magnus dedicates his life to becoming the greatest Chess player in the world, the support of his family becomes a vital part of Magnus’ success. Specifically, a key contributor to Magnus’ success comes through the love and support displayed by his father. This story is a shining example of how a father should approach a child who is striving to be the best they can be.

Instead of constantly:

Pushing.

Criticizing.

Worrying.

Comparing.

Yelling.

Cheering.

Magnus’ Father decided to constantly:

Believe in.

Support.

Parent.

Encourage.

Accept.

and Love his son.

A great documentary for studletes looking to be great, parents looking for a shining example of how to handle a talented child who wants to be great, or for a sibling learning how to deal with a family member who is striving for greatness.

Tune into Netflix to learn more about the amazing story of Magnus Carlsen, childhood prodigy to chess champion.

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