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FLG’s Small Group Training

Why training in smaller groups in beneficial:

  1. More repetitions with the ball in your stick
  2. Learn about nuances at each position.
  3. Focus on more advanced concepts
  4. Get more mental repetitions – players listening and absorbing information from the coach
  5. Gives players an opportunity to train while they are tired. Good simulation of playing towards the end of a game or in the 4th quarter.

Learn more about training with FLG by clicking here !

 
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FLG Cribs – Brian Ward, The Ohio State University

Hear Brian’s story about how he got recruited to Ohio State University. After getting plagued with injuries, Brian decided to make the most of his situation. Learn more about Brian’s experience and what he’s up to now by watching the video below!

 
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FLG Fusion Drill – 4v4 Rhino

Next Sunday, FLG will be launching a first of its kind, Small Area Games Town Team tournament. Below is a sneak preview for one of the drills we will be playing at this event!

For more information on our FLG Fusion Town Championships, click here.

4v4 Rhino Drill

 
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LI Lax Journal – Nassau Class A – SEASON PREVIEW

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!

Syosset 2017 Season Preview

Syosset

Mascot: Braves

Nassau Class A

Rating: 1st

With 2 straight Nassau County Championships, the Syosset Braves look to make that 3 in the 2017 Season. They are the team to beat right now in Class A. Syosset is a powerhouse and we know that. They aren’t looking to settle for anything less than an appearance in the Long Island Championship. Losing Mac O’Keefe and Lucas Kotler hurts, but Syosset being a heavy lacrosse town will be able to fill in those holes for the upcoming season. Massapequa and Farmingdale can contend with Syosset, but it would take a lot for one of them to dethrone the Braves.

“Our team has great work ethic, we work really hard. Hopefully the teams chemistry will click. Our motto this year is TODAY. Focus on getting better today, one day at a time, get better every day.” -John Calabria

Matt Benus (#21) has been on varsity longer than any one on the current Braves team. Does this old school midfielder have what it takes to bring Syosset back to the top? Benus will be going to Loyola in the fall.

2 Key Losses: Mac O’Keefe (Penn State) and Lucas Cotler (Yale)

Key Returners:

  • Matt Benus – Senior – Loyola Commit – Midfield – 4 Year Player – Captain
  • JP Lanning – Junior – Attack – 2 Year Starter
  • Liam Kalbacher  – Junior – Attack – 2 Year Starter
  • Danny Ochs  – Junior – Hofstra Commit – Defenseman
  • Max Verch  – Junior – Defenseman – 3 Year Starter

Key Games:

  • Home vs Garden City – 3/21/17
  • Home vs Cold Spring Harbor – 3/28/17
  • Away @ Farmingdale – 4/25/17
  • Home vs Massapequa – 4/28/17

Massapequa 2017 Season Preview

Massapequa

Mascot: Chiefs

Nassau Class A

Rating: 2nd

With a disappointing end to a 2016 season, Massapequa looks to get revenge against Syosset after losing 2 straight county championships to the Braves. With a talented 2016 senior class a new wave of Chiefs are looking to be the next “Ryan Tierney” or “Craig Berge.” Heavily recruited sophomore and junior classes look to help out this experienced senior class in winning its first Nassau County Championship in 3 years. Will Pequa have what it takes to get past the field and capture a county championship? That remains to be seen.

Brendan Nichten will be the QB of the Chiefs offense this year. The Chiefs look to defeat Syosset for the Nassau Class A Crown. Nichtern will be head to Army in the Fall.

Key Losses:

  • Ryan Tierney – Attackman – Hofstra
  • Casey Kimmel – Midfield – Towson
  • Chris Bacotti – Midfield – Dartmouth
  • Justin Lynskey – Attack – Holy Cross
  • Frank Callan – Defenseman – NYIT
  • James Detomasso – Defenseman – Air Force

Key Returners:

  • Brendan Nichtern – Attack – West Point Commit – Captain – 3 Year Player
  • Sal Ienna – Midfield – Binghamton Commit – Captain – 4 Year Players
  • James Hall – Attack – Adelphi Commit
  • Garrett Gibbons  – Midfield – Maryland Commit – Sophomore
  • Angelo Petrakis – Fogo – Leigh Commit – Sophomore
  • Timmy Ley – Attack – Boston University Commit – Junior – 3 Year Player
  • Mike Peco  – Defenseman – Leader of the Defense – Hofstra Commit

Key Games:

  • Away @ Chaminade – 3/22/17
  • Away @ Smithtown East – 4/15/17
  • Home vs Farmingdale – 4/21/17
  • Away @ Syosset – 4/28/16
  • Home vs. Port Washington – 5/5/17

Farmingdale 2017 Season Preview

Farmingdale High School

Mascot/Nickname: Dalers

Nassau Class A

Ranking: 3rd

For the Farmingdale Boys Lacrosse team anything but a trip to the Nassau Class A Semifinals would be considered a failure for the 2017 season. Without long time successful coach Bob Hartranft steering the ship, it’s now up to Mike Hungerford and his assistants John Campbell, Eric Dunne, and Kenny Garcia to lead this heavy upperclassman team.  As coach Mike Hungerford said “The biggest thing I learned from Cold Spring Harbor was you need to be careful not to change too much when a program has been successful the year prior. We will continue what we were doing last year and making some adjustments where needed.”  When it comes to the team’s goals this year, Coach Hungerford believes as long as they make good decisions throughout the game with the ball and improve on mistakes from last year they can compete with powerhouses like Massapequa and Syosset for a county championship.

“We are going to decide who we are going to be early, and work to be that team every day” -Mike Hungerford, Head Coach Farmingdale

Kyle Tucker is a deceptive attackman with range, skills, and great COD. He will look to QB his team to a championship season. Kyle will be attending Cabrini in the Fall.

Key Losses:

  • Tommy Mcpartland – 51 Goals and 50 Assists in Senior Season – All American
  • Steve Kunz – Albany 2016 Commit  – All County
  • Matt Deluca – All American – Delaware 2016 Commit

Key Returners:

  • Kyle Tucker – Attack – Cabrini Commit – 25 Goals and 5 Assists in Junior Season
  • Darrin Simons – Midfield – Stony Brook Commit – 20 Goals and 13 Assists in Junior Season
  • Kevin Depalma – Midfield – 10 Goals and 5 Assists in Junior Season
  • Tim Hegarty– Junior – Defenseman – Hofstra Commit
  • Brody Agres – Goalie – St. John’s Commit
  • Brian Michael – Faceoff – Air Force Commit
  • John Feiner – Midfield, Senior
  • Nick Pantorno – Defense, Senior, Western New England Commit

Key Games:

  • @ Massapequa High School, April 21st
  • Home vs. Syosset High School, April 25th
  • Home vs. Port Washington, April 29th

Port Washington 2017 Season Preview

Port Washington

Mascot: Vikings

Nassau Class A

Rating: 4th

With an experienced senior class, the Port Washington Vikings look to make some noise in a very competitive Class A Conference. It’s going to take their leadership to compete with powerhouses like Massapequa, Farmingdale, and the reigning Class A Champions Syosset Braves. Seniors like Robbie Connors, Brian Crawley, and Crew Weingard are going to have to do the heavy lifting if the Vikings want to contend for a county championship. With a very active offseason the Port Washington Vikings look to shock Nassau county with an appearance in the county championship, but with three straight games against the top three seeds on the road, it would be a big challenge for the Vikings to make it to the big dance.

“This will be the first year where I will take less kids on varsity. For me, I want with 30 kids who all contribute and play on varsity. This will get away with just the top small percentage play. Makes practice a fight every day.” -Isaac Neil, Head Coach – Port Washington

James Dalimonte is great between the lines. A tough, two-way middle who is looking to put Port back on the map.

Key Losses:

  • Christian Athanasian – Attackman, Harvard
  • Seth Obadia – Attackman – Lafayette
  • Nick Ferraro – Goalie
  • Aidan Finnerty – Defense, Quinnipiac

Key Returners:

  • Robbie Connors, Senior, Midfield, Oswego State Commit
  • Brian Crawley, Senior, Attackman, Fairfield Commit
  • James Dalimonte, Junior, Midfield
  • Andrew Turner, Junior, Midfield
  • Tommy Dover, Junior, FOGO All-County Middie as sophomore
  • Crew Weingard, Senior, Defensemen – All-County D-man

Key Games

  • Home vs. South Side – 3/21/17
  • @ Farmingdale – 4/29/17
 
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LI Lax Journal – Nassau Class B – SEASON PREVIEW

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 2017 Season Preview

Garden City High School

Mascot: Trojans

Nassau Class B

Rank: 1st

Garden City comes into the 2017 season as the number one seed following last year’s county championship.  With talent across the board and a heavy senior class Garden City expects to be right back where they were last year.  On top of that, almost every player on this year’s team is a multi-sport athlete which goes to show just how dynamic this team is.  With all this talent it is no surprise that the roster is filled with such high-level commitments.  If anyone wants to get past the Trojans this year they will have to bring their A-game as not that many teams on the Island can stack up with them talent-wise.

“Last year, I think we had a very strong group of seniors who allowed us to persevere, stay the course, and play hard. Not every town has football/lacrosse kids who have the passion, commitment to each other, and commitment the coaches. We have a hungry group of kids here.” -Steve Finnell, Head Coach, Garden City

Jamie Atkinson is a force at the midfield. He will work to lead the Trojans back to a Long Island Championship in 2017. Jamie will be attending Princeton next year.

Key Losses:

  • Brian Haeffner – Midfield
  • Tim Schmelzinger – Midfield

Key Returners

  • Jamie Atkinson, Senior, Midfield, Princeton Commit
  • J.P. Basile, Senior, Attackman, Duke Commit, All-County as a Junior
  • Finn Gibbons, Senior, Attackman, Brown Commit, All County
  • Kyle Steinbach, Junior, Midfield, Maryland Commit
  • Kiernan Gunn, FOGO, Senior, Dartmouth Commit
  • Goalie, Teddy Dolan & Eric Muller both competing for the starting job
  • Phil Puccio, Defenseman, Senior, Bucknell Commit
  • Timmy Gormley – Defense, Senior, Biggest Leader on Defense
  • Colin Hart – Defense, Sophomore, Started as a freshman

Key Games

  • March 21st @ Syosset
  • April 21st @ South Side
  • April 29th @ Manhasset
  • April 10th vs. Wantagh

Manhasset 2017 Season Preview

Manhasset High School

Mascot: Indians

Nassau Class B

Rating: 2nd

Fast, uptempo, and run and gun is the style of lacrosse that the Manhasset Indians have been known for.  With big time players and big time commitments, the Indians hope to have a successful 2017 season.  Led by Keith Cromwell, the expectations are set high as the goal is to contend for a state championship.  However, being in one of the toughest classes as well as playing an incredibly tough non-conference schedule, the goals for this year’s team will not be easy.  It seems as if the Indians have guys at every position that can get the job done and once the team chemistry clicks, the Manhasset Indians will be a force to be reckoned with.

“My goal this off-season was to get to know the guys as much as possible. Get to know strengths and weaknesses. I like to play fast, get up and down, play in transition. It’s important to understand skill sets too. We have the athletes to do that, but I’m still checking in on film to see what they can do well. I don’t want to change things too much.” Keith Cromwell, Head Coach Manhasset

Ben Cirella (Right) is the anchor of the Indians defense. They hope to hold down their competition in pursuit of a Class B State Championship. Ben will be playing at Michigan next year.

Key Losses:

  • Matt Gavin – Attackman – At UNC
  • Jack Miller – Midfield – At Richmond

Key Returners:

  • Brandon Hagerty, Villanova, Goalie, vocal leader, nice anchor, good ball stopper, good with his outlets because he can help us push in transition game, and does a nice job stopping the ball
  • Ben Cerillo, Michigan, Defenseman, has been used in many ways, wings, close, facing off, nice anchor in the past, very energy, plays hard, wears emotions on sleeve, and gives everything he has
  • Steven Schneider, UNC, Midfield, leader from the midfield, big strong, two-way athletic middie, steps up and takes charge in practices,  
  • Chris Glynn, G-town, Midfield, nice skill set to his game
  • Jack Keogh, Hopkins, Attack, very skilled, good vision, QB of offense
  • Kevin Mack, Michigan, Attack, very skilled, quick, nice dodge from X
  • John Psyllos, Lefty Attackman, good off-ball guy, tough kid, plays hard, energy guy, scrappy, nice compliment to the other two guys.

Key Games:

  • Wantagh, 4/21, Home
  • Garden City, 4/29, Home
  • South Side, 5/5, Home

Non-League Games Include

  • Commack  
  • St. Anthony’s
  • Lincoln-Sudbury
  • Chaminade  

South Side 2017 Season Preview

South Side High School

Mascot/Nickname: Cyclones

Nassau Class B

Ranking: 3rd

With a highly experienced returning offensive group, Southside lacrosse looks to bypass Manhasset and Garden City on their way to a county championship. However, an inexperienced but potentially talented defense, and uncertainty in the goal could make or break it for the Cyclones’ championship hopes.  When playing in a very competitive conference every single league game will be tremendously important. The South Side roster contains many two-sport athletes and they pride themselves on being a team not only filled with good lacrosse players but with good athletes.

“One game at a time.” -Steve Dipietro, Head Coach South Side

Jo Licalzi is the heart and soul of this Cyclones Lacrosse Team. Already committed to Georgetown Licalzi has one last ride at South Side before he heads of to the NCAA.

Key Loss:

  • Offensive Coordinator – Steve Serling

Key Returners:

  • Jo Licalzi – Long Stick Midfielder – Georgetown Commit
  • Mike Leeke – Attack – Maritime Commit – 40 points in Junior Season
  • Ryan Langton – Attack –  Air Force – 39 points in Junior Season
  • Tim Leeke –  Faceoff – Maritime –
  • Jonny Pickett – Defenseman – Cortland

Key Games:

  • Syosset (Non-League)- 3/27 Home
  • Cold Spring Harbor (Non-League)- 3/31 Home
  • Wantagh (In-League)- 4/13 Home
  • Garden City (In-League)- 4/21 Home
  • Manhasset (In- League)- 5/5 Away

2016 Nassau County Defensive Player of the Year: Jo Licalzi is the heart and soul of this Cyclones Lacrosse Team. Already committed to Georgetown Licalzi has one last ride at South Side before he heads of to the NCAA. Receiving an All-American in his junior season notching in 6 goals and 5 assists. In order for this South Side team to beat powerhouse teams like Manhasset and Garden City this year they need a healthy and consistent Jo Licalzi, if Licalzi isn’t on his game the Cyclones chances of a county championship are slim to none.

Wantagh 2017 Season Preview

Wantagh High School

Mascot/Nickname: Warriors

Nassau Class B

Ranking: 4th

With multiple key returning players and a talented senior class, Wantagh looks to make some noise in Nassau Class B in the 2017 season. Even though Wantagh might be one of the smallest Class B schools, they are always athletic and dangerous. Casey Murphy looks to be the biggest key for Wantagh in the upcoming season, but guys like Devin Kennedy, Tommy Rohan, Patrick Walsh, Sean Colbert and others look to help out Casey and lead this team to a Nassau Class B County Championship. Best Case Scenario for this team is a top three seed and a county championship appearance and worst case would have to be falling out of the top four seeds heading into the 2017 playoffs.

“Our team motto this year is two words: trust and believe.” -John Cuiffo, Head Coach Wantagh

Sean Colbert will be a team captain for the Warriors this Spring. He hopes to lead his squad through a brutal conference. Sean will be attending St. Joe’s (PA) in the fall.

Key Returners:

  • Casey Murphy (Senior) High Point Commit, All-county, Attack, over 100 goals in 4 years, 2016 Stats 38 G 22 A Team Captain
  • Matt Robbins, Midfield, Team Captain
  • Devin Kennedy, Senior attackman, Team Captain
  • Tommy Rohan, Midfield, All-Long Island in Football
  • Patrick Walsh, Stony Brook Commit, Junior, Middie
  • Anthony Teresky, Senior, Committed to Lincoln Memorial in TN, , 2G & 4A
  • Chris Tucker, Senior, 13G & 3A in Junior Season – Captain – Attack
  • Sean Colbert, St. Joseph’s, Senior, Team Captain
  • Michael Kessler, 3 year guy, Committed to Tennessee Memorial as well.
  • Joe Fitzpatrick, Senior, St. John’s Commit.

Key Games:

  • South Side (In-League)- 4/13 Away
  • Manhasset (In-League)- 4/21 Away
  • Garden City (In-League)- 5/10 Away

 
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LI Lax Journal – Nassau Class C – SEASON Preview

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!

Cold Spring Harbor 2017 Season Preview

Cold Spring Harbor High School

Mascot: Seahawks

Nassau Class C

Ranking: 1st

Cold Spring Harbor was a close favorite as the best HS boys team in Nassau County. The Seahawks lhope to compete for a 3rd straight State Championship!

The Cold Spring Harbor Seahawks have a target on their back as they go into the 2017 season trying to become state champs for the third time in a row.  Filled with talent and experience anything less than a county championship would be an utter disappointment.  With all the winning that’s been going on over the past few years, it’s safe to say that the Seahawks are the team to beat in the league.  They are led by an outstanding and extremely talented senior class that includes Dylan Guarneri (Manhattan Commit), Ian Laviano (UVA Commit), Matt Licciardi (Cornell Commit), and Taylor Strough (Fairfield Commit).  All four of these guys are expected to have monster years as they try to end their Senior years on a good note.      

“It’s not about me, it’s about us.” -Dennis Bonn, Head Men’s Lacrosse Coach

Matt Licciardi (Left) is one of the best all-around midfielders on Long Island. Will he lead CSH to another State Championship? Matt will be attending Cornell after his senior season.

Key Losses:

  • Riley Cox – Loyola
  • Eddie Fox  – SMU Club
  • Dylan Burdo (Goalie) – Bowdoin
  • Mason Marion – Gettysburg
  • James Kessler – Lincoln Memorial
  • Michael Visconti 

4 Key Returners:

  • Dylan Guarneri, 4-year varsity player, 3-year starter, Manhattan next year, Leader, Captain of the football team and All-county football player, Team Captain
  • Ian Laviano – 5-year varsity player, Starter, Committed to Virginia, 200 Career Points, First Varsity game was in 8th grade and had 37 points that season, Plays hockey in the winter. High IQ. Does a little of everything, Team Captain
  • Matt Licciardi – 4-year varsity, Captain and 3-year starter, Committed to Cornell, Point Guard on the Basketball Team. Like a point guard on the field, Team Captain
  • Taylor Strough – 5-year varsity player, Committed to Fairfield, Plays Basketball as well, Plays most of the game if not all, Team Captain

Key Games:

  • @ Syosset – 3/28/17 (Out of League)
  • @ South Side – 3/31/17 (Out of League)
  • Vs. Locust Valley – 4/28/17

Locust Valley 2017 Season Preview

Locust Valley

Mascot: Falcons

Nassau Class C

Rating: 2nd

This year for the Falcons it’s all about growing these kids into young men.  As coach Tommy Susko said, “Our boys need to know that lacrosse isn’t everything. They need to develop as leaders, their attitudes, and learn to work hard”.  But with that mindset in the forefront, it’s safe to say that Locust Valley will still be gunning for a shot to win a County Championship.  Every guy on this team expects to win and keep this program going in a positive direction.

“I want to prepare our guys for what’s next. If you’re a sophomore, than it’s becoming a junior. If you’re a senior it’s college. As long as our players bring the two things they can control, attitude and effort, each and every day, our season will be a success.” Tommy Susko, Head Coach

Angelo Caiazzo will lead the Falcons under a new regime. After what hopes to be a successful senior season, Angelo will play for the Jaspers of Manhattan College next Fall.

Key Losses:

  • Owen Trepeta, Hartford
  • Tyler Liantonio, Merrimack
  • Madson Brothers, St. John’s
  • John Pedranghelu, LIU Post
  • Reed Tansill, Hobart, Walk-on

Key Returners:

  • Cooper Trepeta, Sophomore, Middie, Hofstra Commit
  • Angelo Caiazzo, Senior, Midfield, Manhattan Commit
  • Cole Barnard, Senior, Middie, Fairfield Commit
  • Francesco Anile, Senior, Defense, Colby Commit
  • Colton Teitelbaum, Sophomore, Goalie, Loyola Commit

Key Games:

  • Home vs Port Washington – 3/25/17
  • Home vs Lynbrook  4/22/17
  • Away @ Cold Spring Harbor – 4/28/17
  • Home vs North Shore – 4/06/17

North Shore Season Preview

North Shore High School

Mascot: Vikings

Nassau Class C

Rating: 3rd

With the season closing in, the North Shore Vikings are looking to make a push in the difficult Nassau Class C.  With Cold Spring Harbor at the top of the class, it will be a tough ride for the Vikings as they try to surpass the red hot Seahawks. However, with a hole at the goalie position and an inexperienced offense, it will be a wave to sail. With an early exit in the playoffs last year the Vikings hope that this year they can at least try to compete for a Class C Nassau county championship.

“With Aughavin being our biggest threat this year it’s a great opportunity for other guys to step up and prove their worth.” -Aaron Kozlowski, Head Coach – North Shore

Ryan Aughavin is speedy, do-it-all middle. Ryan hopes to step up against a challenging Nassau Class C schedule. Ryan will be heading to Brown in the Fall.

Key Losses:

  • John Delio  
  • Matt Baldich

Key Returners:

  • Ryan Aughavin, Senior, Midfield, Committed to Brown, All-County.
  • Liam Knehr, Senior Attackman, St. Rose Commit, Lefty Attackman.
  • Andrew Kahn, Senior Attackman
  • Steve Graber, Faceoff , Sophomore, Older brother is the captain up at Army, oldest brother played at Colgate. 

Key Games:

  • Vs. Port Washington – 4/13/17
  • Vs. Lynbrook – 4/19/17
  • Vs. Cold Spring Harbor – 4/22/17
  • @ Locust Valley – 5/6/17

 

Lynbrook 2017 Season Preview

Lynbrook

Mascot: Owls

Nassau Class C

Rating:  4th

The Lynbrook Owls come into this year as a middle of the road team with no break-out studs or big D1 commits. However, the goals don’t change and that’s making it to the playoffs and competing for a county championship.  The best way to describe this year’s team is a mix of guys that have experience meshed with some fresh faces.  But nothing will come easily as the Owls play Cold Spring Harbor, Northport, and Locust Valley all on the road.  It is most certainly going to be a grind this year if the Owls want to have a shot at playing for a County Championship.

“This year, we’ll be looking to play different styles of defense. I’m really hoping the guys can mature quickly. With our program, it’s all about the brotherhood. We insist our boys hang out off the field too. We want our guys to become lifelong friends.” -Bill Leighley, Head Coach Lynbrook

Eddie Perlstein is great between the lines. He will be the key to getting possessions throughout the season, especially against Licciardi and his top-seeded Seahawks. Eddie will be heading to Rutgers in the Fall.

Key Losses

  • Zach Barrett, Binghamton, Defenseman
  • Zach Locicero,  Quinnipiac, Midfield
  • Ryan Candel, Attackman, Denison to Nassau
  • Joey Virgona, Midfielder, Pace
  • Quentin Herrmann, Defense, Alabama Student

Key Returners

  • Nick Paris, Hobart Commit, Defenseman
  • Eddie Perlstein, Rutgers Commit, Face-Off Middie
  • Kyle Yager, Oneonta Commit, Attack
  • Tom Urena, Junior, Defense
  • Ian Proefriedt, Senior, Goalie
  • Sean Barrett, Sophomore, Midfield
  • Jack Fagen, Sophomore, Midfield
  • Joe DeMonte, Sophomore, Defense
  • Johnny Dibenedetto, Sophomore, LSM

Key Games:

  • Home vs Farmingdale – 3/21/17
  • Away @ North Shore – 4/19/17
  • Away @ Locust Valley 4/22/17
  • Away @ Cold Spring Harbor – 5/10/17
 
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LI Lax Journal – Suffolk Class A – SEASON PREVIEW

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!

Ward Melville 2017 Season Preview

Ward Melville

Mascot: Patriots

Suffolk Class A

Ranking: 1st

After tweeting to over 2,000 of FLG’s followers, 79 votes came in. Ward Melville was the favorite when asked, “Who is the best HS boys team in Suffolk?” See above.

Coming off of a superb season where the Patriots captured both County and Long Island championships, they look to pick up right where they left off last year.  With a boatload of returners and big time commits the Patriots are poised to make another run for the Championship.  As head coach Jay Negus said “We are really just focused on what we need to do on a daily basis. Need to compete every single day in practice and get better. Expectations would be getting to be where we were last year.  We need to get better every day.”  The biggest thing for the Patriots this year is sticking together and becoming a tight knit group, if the team chemistry continues to grow there are very few teams on the Island that could compete with the Patriots this year. A target has been placed on this team’s back, it will be interesting to see how Ward Melville rises to the challenge of being the team to beat!

“As a coach and educator, it’s so important to coach the guys in the middle. We don’t just focus on our most talented guys. We need to make sure everyone is ready. We need our players to represent their unit so we can accomplish our goals as a team.” -Jay Negus, Head Coach Ward Melville

Andrew McKenna is the heart and soul of the Patriots. Andrew will be attending Navy in the Fall.

Key Losses:

  • Connor Grippe – Stony brook
  • John Day – Army
  • Grillo – Ohio Wesleyan
  • Kellerman – Quinnipiac

Key Returners:

  • Andrew McKenna – Navy, All-County, Captain of the defense
  • Eddie Munoz – Midfield
  • Dominic PryorMidfield
  • Zach HobbsMidfield, Harvard Commit
  • Liam Davenport – Army Commit  
  • Ryan Pallonetti – Midfield
  • Joe Larosa Attack
  • Connor McGinley Attack
  • Jack PurdieAttack
  • Kepes Attack
  • Andrew Lockhart – Cornell Commit
  • Pat O’Beuik
  • Matthew Grillo
  • Dylan Pallonetti – Attack/Midfield, UMass Commit
  • Connor Cunningham – Goalie
  • Michael Giaquinto – UPenn Commit, Face-off
  • Brandon Aviles – Syracuse, Face-off

Key Games:

  • Home vs Chaminade – 4/08/17
  • Home vs West Islip – 4/10/17
  • Away @ Smithtown West – 4/21/17
  • Home vs Smithtown East 4/27/17

Smithtown East 2017 Season Preview

Smithtown East

Mascot: Bulls

Suffolk Class A

Rating: 2nd

Smithtown East will try and take home a Suffolk Class A County Championship in the upcoming 2017 season, but they’re going to have to go through the likes of Ward Melville, West Islip, and Smithtown West to do so. It’s do or die for this Smithtown Senior class as all of them are taking their game to the next level in 2018. It all relies on this Senior class if the Bulls want to win the Suffolk Class A County Championship. In one of the toughest conferences in the country, Class A is an absolute grind for even the most talented of teams. Last year, Smithtown East lost three games by a total of three goals, including two Overtime matches.

“We are a very Senior heavy team. With 15 Seniors on the roster, we have 13 committed to play at the next level. We want to finish on a good note, we feel we can compete for a county championship. We just want to win our league and anything after that is gravy.” -Jay Lambert, Head Coach Smithtown East

Connor Desimone (#22) was an All-American as a Junior. He will look to lead his team to a Suffolk Class A Championship in 2017. Connor will be attending Johns Hopkins in the Fall.

Key Losses:

  • Gerard Arceri – FOGO, Penn State
  • Dan Rooney – Attack, Ohio State

Key Returners:

  • Connor Desimone – Johns Hopkins Commit, Attack/Middie
  • Bobby Burns – Penn State Commit, All-County
  • Luke Eschbach – Yale Commit, Middie, All-County
  • FOGOS, 4 Division I Face-off Guys on their roster this year, Steven Cuccurullo (Harvard Commit), Brian Herber (Hofstra Commit) Younger Arceri (Upenn Commit) Herber’s Younger Brother (Hofstra Commit)
  • Anthony Voelker – Fairfield Commit, LSM
  • Thomas Harkin – Goalie, 2nd year starting

Key Games:

  • Away @ Manhasset – 3/20/17
  • Home vs Smithtown West – 4/10/17
  • Home vs Massapequa – 4/15/17
  • Away @ West Islip – 4/22/17
  • Away @ Ward Melville – 4/27/17

Smithtown West 2017 Season Preview

Smithtown West

Mascott: Bulls

Suffolk Class A

Ranking: 3rd

The Bulls are looking to come into the 2017 season with a bang.  After losing a good amount of key contributors, the Bulls are hoping to rely heavily on their young guns for production.  Unlike most years where a majority of their players only played lacrosse, this year the lacrosse team is filled with multi-sport athletes.  After falling just short of a county championship appearance last year, the Bulls are looking to make a run and compete for a county championship in 2017.  However, with both Smithtown East and Ward Melville bringing back a bunch of studs, it will make for a much harder ride to the top of the conference.

“One game at a time” – Bob Moltisanti, Head Coach – Smithtown West

Kyle Zawadzki (#4 Right) will lead Smithtown West in his Junior season. Kyle is verbally committed to Yale.

Key Losses:

  • Matt Kolasinski – Western Connecticut
  • Anthony Kehrer – Suffolk Community
  • Austin Biardi – Football at Trinity
  • Danny Carello – Syracuse

Key Returners:

  • Jimmy Cattigan – Senior, 2-time all-county, Colgate University Commit, Attackman, 4 year-starter
  • Kyle Zawatzki – Junior, Yale Commit, Very high lax IQ. Very technical. Fundamentally sound. Very accurate shooter. All-county as a freshman.
  • Danny Riley – Returning 3-year starter, 2 time all-county, two-way middie
  • Andrew Arce – Junior. Binghamton Commit. Plays offense and defense. Strong shooter with both hands. Well balanced middie.
  • Brandon Meir – Junior, Binghamton Commit, FOGO
  • Conor Calderone – Sophomore, Maryland, FOGO
  • Ryan Erler – Senior, Stony Brook Commit, Goalie, 2016 DI Goalie of the Year
  • Hunter Greco – Senior, Binghamton, Very athletic. Might play some long pole as well.
  • Kyle Walker – West Point Commit

Key Games:

  • Away @ Cold Spring Harbor – 3/22/17
  • Home vs Garden City – 3/25/17
  • Away @ Smithtown East – 4/10/17
  • Home vs Ward Melville – 4/22/17

West Islip Season 2017 Preview

West Islip

Mascot: Lions

Suffolk Class A

Ranking: 4th

After finishing the season 13-1 last year, the Lions suffered a heart breaking loss in the playoffs. However, this year the Lions are looking to make a run for county and state championship. Losing 17 seniors will not make this an easy task. The Lions spent the entire year playing together. With a good core coming back and loads of college prospects, Coach Craig will have his team ready to compete as always. For West Islip, every year is a new one. Roles change, chemistry changes, but expectations remain the same.

“The best case scenario for our team is to win a State Championship. We never have expectations lower than that. Can we win a State Championship in March? No. If we evolved throughout the Spring, I think we can.” – Scott Craig, Head Coach – West Islip

Jake Nicolosi is coming off a strong off-season and will lead WI back to the top. Jake will be attending Manhattan College in the Fall.

Key Losses

  • Danny Mottef
  • Conor Smith – Penn State
  • Mike Lombardi – Manhattan

Key Returners:

  • Brendan Engel-  Quinnipiac Commit, Goalie, 3 year varsity, 2 year starter, All-Division last year
  • Vinny Raccuglia, Florida Tech Commit, Defense, Senior
  • Pat Mulchahey – Pace Commit, Middie, Senior
  • Drew Cestaro – Binghamton Commit, Senior  
  • Ryan Forcino – Cortland Commit, Senior, 2 year varsity
  • Dylan Wills – Oneonta Commit, Senior, 3 year varsity
  • Jake Richter – Mt. St. Mary’s (MD) Commit, Senior, Midfield, LSM
  • Jake Nicholosi – Manhattan Commit, Attack
  • Colin Riley – Penn State Commit, Freshman
  • Mike Alexander – Yale Commit, Sophomore, LSM, Defense,
  • Jared Paquette – Yale Commit, Goalie

Key Games:

  • Away @ Ward Melville – 4/10/17
  • Home vs Smithtown East – 4/22/17
  • Away @ Smithtown West – 4/27/17
 
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LI Lax Journal – Suffolk Class B – SEASON PREVIEW

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!

Comsewogue 2017 Season Preview

Comsewogue

Mascot: Warriors

Suffolk Class B

Ranking: 1st

After coming off of a tough loss to Shoreham Wading River in the County Championship last year, the Warriors are determined to make a run again this year as they locked up the number 1 seed for the preseason.  Furthermore, with Shoreham Wading River being bumped down into Class C it leaves the Warriors as favorites to winning the Suffolk Class B County Championship.

Senior Captain, Robert Free, hopes to lead Comsewogue to Suffolk Class B County Championship. Robert will be heading to SUNY Cortland in the fall.

Key Returners:

  • Robert Free – Defenseman – Senior – Captain
  • Ryan Dorney – Attack – Senior
  • Christopher Gross – Attack – Senior
  • John Rivoli – Defenseman – Senior
  • Justin Rivoli – Defenseman – Senior
  • William Snelders – Attack – Senior
  • Kevin Tiedemann – Midfield – Senior
  • Daniel Wright – Midfield – Senior

Key Games:

  • Home vs Hills West – 4/18/17
  • Away @ Shoreham-Wading River – 4/22/17
  • Away @ Eastport – South Manor – 5/04/17
  • Home vs Harborfields – 5/8/17

Hills West 2017 Season Preview

Hills West

Mascot: Colts

Suffolk Class B

Ranking: 2nd

After missing the playoffs last year the Colts are hungry for a chance to play for a county championship.  Since being moved to Class B the Colts are eager to prove to everyone that they are for real. With class B and C combining for regular season games it should get interesting each week as the Colts will be going up against quality opponents.  However, the Colts are up for the challenge as the team is led by an abundance of young talent.  Anything but an appearance to a county championship would be considered disappointing for this years Colts as they feel their talent can compete with anyone.

“Keep our eyes on the immediate task at hand, whether it’s one ground ball, or a big defensive stand. If we can focus on staying in the moment and never look past that one play in front of us, we can move on to the next one come late May and into June.” -Tom Rooney, Head Coach Half Hollow Hills West

Cam Mule will electrify crowds this season as the Colts look to take the #1 spot in Suffolk Class B. Cam will be heading to Duke in the fall.

Key Losses:

  • Riley Forte – Hofstra, great player, do everything middie, he was a captain and great leader, he will be missed.
  • Anthony Lucarelli – Ithaca, football, QB up there. Number 1 defenseman last year.

Key Returners

  • Cam Mule – Senior, Duke Commit, Attack.  Injured going into last season and wasn’t 100%, QB of the Offense
  • Jenson Corabi – Senior, Tufts Commit, Attack/Middie, More middie this year, leading scorer for Hills West last year
  • Christian Mule – Sophomore, Duke Commit. Starter as a freshman last year, one of the top players in his class
  • Gerald Filardi –  Sophomore, Penn State Commit, LSM. High-level athlete. QB of the football team in the fall, started as a freshman last year. Broken collarbone in last play of Long Island Championship for football.
  • Justin Brown – Freshman, Michigan Commit, Middie, 1st line middie as an 8th grader, freakish athleticism, 2 hands. Plays football/lacrosse. Got moved up from JV in football and had 3 TDs in his first game.
  • FOGO Position – 3 or so athletes who are committed to going to the face-off specialists, don’t have 1 go to guy, we will have more guys by committee.
  • Charlie Riccatoni – Senior, Cortland Commit, Goalie. Very good stopper. Excellent on outlets, good leader in the cage, DI goalie going DIII. On smaller side, but is very good all-around goalie.

Key Games:

  • Home vs East South Manor – 3/31/17
  • Away @ Bayport-Blue Point – 4/12/17
  • Away @ Comsewogue – 4/18/17
  • Home vs Sayville – 4/22/17

Eastport South Manor 2017 Preview

Eastport South Manor

Mascot: Sharks

Suffolk Class B

Ranking: 3rd

The Sharks are looking to make this 2017 season their year as they try to make a run for a county championship.  The Sharks have been working almost non-stop this offseason in hopes of playing into May.  With a solid group of guys on the offensive side of the ball, the Sharks feel confident they can compete with anyone in the goal scoring department.  It remains to be seen how ESM will hold up on the defensive end of the field. Overall, the Sharks are looking to make a statement in class B this year in hopes of obtaining a county championship.

“I think we are gonna be a really good team, especially on the offensive end. We want to make it to the playoffs and take it one game at a time.” -Kevin Huff, Head Coach ESM

Chris Clemente will lead ESM’s talented offensive group in 2017. Chris will be heading to Monmouth in the Fall.

Key Losses:

  • Zach Clemente, Monmouth, Midfield, Captain and Biggest Threat
  • Mitchell Johnson, Pace, Defenseman
  • Chris Sparacino, Western Connecticut, Midfield

Key Returners

  • Brandon Styles, C, Midfield, Cortland Commit, Senior, 5 year varsity player. Started for third straight year.
  • Chris Clemente, C, Midfield, Monmouth Commit, Senior, 4 year varsity player, Can face-off
  • Hunter Mason, C, LSM, Salisbury Commit, Varsity for 4 years, Started for 3 years. Will play some close defense as well because of his leadership abilities
  • Justin Wieck, C, Attack, Mt. Saint Mary’s in MD Commit
  • Tom Szalkowski, C, Cortland Commit
  • Andrew Child, Goalie, Senior
  • James Sherwood, Midfield, Plattsburgh Commit, Senior

Key Games:

  • Away @  Hills West – 3/31/17
  • Away @ Miller Place – 4/22/17
  • Home vs Comsewogue – 5/04/17
  • Home vs Sayville – 5/10/17

Harborfields 2017 Season Preview

Harborfields

Mascot: Tornadoes

Suffolk Class B

Ranking: 4th

This year Harborfields is looking to make a splash as they got a top 4 spot in the preseason rankings.  Last year, the Tornadoes played a lot of young guys which means this year they are coming back with a year of quality experience.  In 2016, the Tornado’s lost five one-goal games and are posed for revenge this year.  With playing against some of the top teams during the offseason the Harborfield Tornadoes feel confident about making a run to the county championship.

“We are a sum of our parts. We put a lot of guys out there that can contribute and do stuff. Not making the playoffs would be disappointing, but we have a lot of guys with game experience. We were hanging with the best teams this off-season, and feel we can beat the best teams in our Class.” -Glenn Lavey, Head Coach Harborfields

Ian is a 2-year starter for the Tornadoes at defense. He will be playing for Roanoke in the Fall.

1 Key Loss:

  • Jack Walsh, Bates, FOGO, 3-year starter

Key Returners:

  • Sam Bergson, Defense,  4 year varsity,
  • Ian White – Senior, Roanoke Commit
  • Zach Yorio – Goalie, Junior, Rookie of the year in Suffolk Class B in 2016 as sophomore
  • Aiden Costello – Middie, Sophomore
  • Thomas Sangiovanni – Middie, Sophomore
  • Andrew Loiacono – Middie, Senior
  • PJ Clementi – Attackman, Junior
  • Andrew Derrasmo – Attack, Junior, St. Joseph’s (PA) Commit
  • Ben Schwarz – Back from last year after a concussion sidelined him

Key Games:

  • Home vs Hills West – 4/04/17
  • Home vs Miller Place – 4/12/17
  • Away @ Sayville – 5/02/17
  • Away @ Comsewogue – 5/08/17
 
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LI Lax Journal – Suffolk Class C – SEASON PREVIEW

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!

Shoreham-Wading River 2017 Season Preview

Shoreham-Wading River

Mascot: Wildcats

Suffolk Class C

Ranking: 1st

Coming off a Long Island Championship last year the Wildcats are heavy favorites to recapture their title.  With a tremendous amount of young studs including five D1 commits in ninth grade, it’s safe to say that the Wildcats are set for the future. Furthermore, the Senior class is a very tight-knit group that has been together since kindergarten.  The only real concern for this year’s Wildcats would be that they lost their starting goalie and two defensmen. With a plethora of talent coming up from JV, the question remains, which one of these guys will step up on varsity?

“Being a Canadian I push the ball a ton in transition, we are a Syracuse type of team. We play fast.” -Mike Taylor, Head Coach Shoreham Wading River

Chris Gray was an All-American in 2016. He will be playing for Boston University in the Fall.

Key Losses:

  • Jon Constant – Marist, Attack/Middie
  • Puckey Brothers
  • Jason Curran – Brown, Attack

Key Returners:

  • Chris Gray – Senior, Boston University Commit, Attack, Led county in points, All-american
  • Xavier Arline – Freshman, UNC Commit, Attack, Started last year as a eighth grader
  • Joey Miller – Senior, Navy Commit, FOGO/Middie Two-way
  • Kevin Cutinello – Senior, UMass Commit
  • Danny Cassidy – Senior, Stony Brook Commit,  Rookie of the year as a 9th grader, All-county last two years
  • Jack Shertzer – Freshman, Ohio State Commit, LSM

Key Games:

  • Away @ Harborfields – 3/29/17
  • Away @ Hills West – 4/10/17
  • Home vs Sayville – 4/18/17
  • Away @ Miller Place – 5/04/17

Sayville 2017 Season Preview

Sayville

Mascot: The Flashes

Suffolk Class C

Ranking: 2nd

The Flashes are looking to make noise this year as they will strive for a spot in the county championship game.  As head coach Don Fleming said, “When I look at our team, we are a team of all-conference guys, and we feed off each other. Hopefully we will be able to do well with that. I have four interchangeable middies, five defenders that can play, and we are deep, but don’t have superstars.”  Despite playing in Suffolk Class C and being ranked second, Sayville will play more B schools than C schools in the regular season. Hopefully a tough regular season schedule will prepare The Flashes for the playoffs. Even without any big name super stars the Flashes still believe they have a good shot at playing for a county championship.

“The key to this year’s team is sharing the ball, and playing as a team, if they can do that they can compete with anyone.” – Don Fleming, Head Coach – Sayville

Jay Intermesoli (Left) is the leading scorer for Sayville, collecting over 200 points in his career. Jay will be heading to Marist in the Fall.

Key Losses:

 

  • Joey Schenzia – Ohio Wesleyan
  • Jack CoanWisconsin (Football)

Key Returners:

  • Jay Intermesoli – Leading scorer, Marist Commit, Attack, 200 points returning at attack
  • Max Fleming – Senior, Oswego State Commit, Attack
  • Matt Dimeo – Attack, Maritime Commit, Senior
  • Ashton Bradley – Midfield, Albany Commit, Senior
  • James Lyons – FOGO, Junior, Marist Commit, Midfield, Hurt last year
  • Rob Zeigler – St. John’s Commit
  • Shamus Burns – Defense, Oswego St. Commit, Senior
  • Andrew McGrathy – Defense, Senior

Key Games:

 

  • Home vs Miller Place – 3/31/17
  • Away @ Hills West – 4/22/17
  • Home vs Comsewogue – 4/28/17
  • Away @ Eastport-South Manor – 5/10/17

 

Miller Place 2017 Season Preview

Miller Place

Mascot: Panthers

Suffolk Class C

Ranking: 3rd

The Miller Place Panthers are looking to make a statement this year as it’s the first time they have D1 commits all across the board.  Coach Keith Lizzi is especially excited for this year’s group saying, “This is only the second time Miller Place has had the best athletes in the school going to school for lax. The first time was Liam Walsh’s group in 2013. It will be a small roster this year. If proven at practice, everyone on our squad will have an opportunity to step on that field.” A county championship appearance is in the eyes of every guy on this year’s team.  This year, the Panthers will be playing a run and gun style because this year’s team is filled with athletes who have high lacrosse IQs.

“This is the group we’ve been waiting for. These guys have lots of experience with starting, have had their growing pains, and they should be able to find each other.” -Keith Lizzi, Head Coach Miller Place

Joe Bartolotto (Left) is a do-it-all LSM for Miller Place. He’s heading to Cornell in the Fall.

Key Losses

  • Chris Nielson – Attack, St. Joeseph’s (PA)
  • Jake Bowrosen & Joe Kessler – Goalies

Key Returners

  • Jack Walsh – Attack, Stony Brook Commit, Senior, All-County
  • Patrick Doyen – Attack, Junior, Lefty, started last year.
  • Anthony Seymour – Attack, West Point Commit, Junior
  • Kevin Gersbeck – Middie, Lehigh Commit, Senior
  • Anthony Beck – Face-off and Midfield, Stony Brook Commit, two-way defense, Senior
  • Tyler Ammirato – Marist Commit, Junior
  • Joe Bartolotto – LSM, Cornell Commit, Senior. The best LSM in the county, will never step off the field, had 10 goals + after offense. Man-up last year and pumped 3 or 4 in. Last year, we never had anyone where their number 1 guy beat us. Shut-down defenseman, big time wrestler. MVP last year. All-county kid last year. His personal goal is to get All-American.
  • Anthony Filippitti – Defense, Marist Commit
  • Matt McApline –  Defense, Started last year, Plattsburgh Commit, Junior
  • Matt Leen – Goalie, Marywood Commit, Senior

Key Games:

 

  • Away @ Sayville – 3/31/17
  • Away @ Comsewogue – 4/06/17
  • Away @ Mt. Sinai – 4/10/17
  • Away @ Harborfields – 4/12/17

 

Mt Sinai Season 2017 Season Preview

Mt Sinai

Mascot: Mustangs

Suffolk Class C

Ranking: 4th

This year’s goal for the Mustangs is to compete for a county championship, but in order for that to happen guys on the offensive end are going to need to step up.  The strong point for this year’s team will be their defense.  With that, the Mustangs still have some big name commitments and every one of those guys are going to need to be at peak performance if they want to compete in an extremely tough Suffolk class C schedule.

“A lot of our guys play multiple sports. Good athletes. If our guys step-up this year we can compete for a country championship.” -Harold Drumm, Head Coach Mt. Sinai

Michael Hagenberger is an impact player on the defensive end for Mt Sinai. He is verbally committed to Lehigh.

Key Losses

 

  • Griffin McGrath – Albany
  • Matt BoscarinoCortland
  • Ross DibettaDefensive Leader
  • Peter Mastrorocco Goalie

Key Returners:

  • Lucas Capovinco-Hogan – Defense, Hopkins Commit, Senior
  • Mike Hagenberger – LSM, Lehigh Commit, Junior
  • Jason Schlonsky – Midfield, Skidmore Commit, Senior
  • Russel Mahr – Midfield, Syracuse Commit, Freshman
  • Joe Pirecca – Attackman, Marist Commit, Junior
  • RJ Mahr –  Lefty Attackman, Mt. St. Mary College Newberg, NY Commit, Senior
  • Nick Rose – Midfield, Geneseo Commit, Senior
  • Nick Cesario – Defenseman, Belmont Abbey Commit, Senior

Key Games

  • Away @ Sayville – 4/06/17
  • Home vs Miller Place – 4/10/17
  • Home vs Hills West – 5/04/17
  • Home vs Shoreham-Wading River – 5/10/17
 
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FLG Game of the Week

Stay tuned for a complete schedule of FLG Lacrosse’s Game of the Week spring schedule.

FLG Lacrosse wil be traveling the island to cover games, get coach/player interviews, capture photos/film, and present previews/recaps of the best boys and girls teams!

Coming soon…

For more on everything lacrosse, give us a call at 516.750.6500

 
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