baseball preview 03-28-2013

March 28, 2013

COVERAGE OF BOTH BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ TEAMS

BOTH BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ T

AGGGGGGGGGEEEEEEEEEEEE OFFFFFF

EAMS

21 SC H O O L S

21 SC H O O L S

A PREVIEW OF THE 2013 HIGH SCHOOL SEASON

PR

OSPECTS FOR THE S

EA

SO

N

PR

OR

SO

P ESE

AE

N

C THT

EHEInsideInside

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S2

389 Atlantic Avenue • Oceanside, NY 11572 516-764-0388

CONTRACTOR EXPRESS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FOR ALL YOUR MATERIAL NEEDS

FinancingAvailable

Serving Long Island for over 30 years

Visit the award winning Design Expressions Showroom of Contractor Express for:

Baseball/Softball Preview is an advertising supplement to the HERALD Community Newspapers. Copyright © 2013 Richner Communications, Inc.

Published by Richner Communications, Inc. 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 (516) 569-4000 • www.ilherald.com

Baseball/SoftballPreview

A special advertising supplement to the HERALD Community Newspapers

MARCH 31, 2011

PublishersCLIFFORD RICHNERSTUART RICHNERExecutive Editor

JOHN C. O’CONNELLSection Editor

TONY BELLISSIMOEditorial Designer

JEFFREY A. NEGRINProduction Manager

KAREN MENGELProduction Assistant

SHEAUWEI PIDDArt Director

CRAIG CARDONE Photo Editor

CHRISTINA DALYPhoto Editing

ALYSON GOODMANVice President of SalesRHONDA GLICKMANSales Administrator

JANIE FAHEY-McGEEPage Editors JEFF BESSEN

SCOTT BRINTONANDREW HACKMACK

Account Executives AUDREY COHEN

SUSANNE COLTENROBERT CUMMINGS

JANE FAIELLANANCY FRIEDMAN

ELLEN FRISCHJILL KAPLAN

JAON KURKOMELISKAREN RESNICK

ON THE COVER

Cover Design - Jeffrey A. NegrinPhotos by - Jeff WilsonCover Photos - David McClure(East Rockaway), Madison West (East Meadow)

Cover Design - frey A NegrinJeff

March 28, 2013

COVERAGE OF BOTH BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ TEAMS

BOTH BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ T

AGGGGGGGGGEEEEEEEEEEEE OFFFFFF

EAMS

21 SC H O O L S

A PREVIEW OF THE 2013 HIGH SCHOOL SEASON

PR

OSPECTS FOR THE S

EA

SO

N

PR

OR

SO

P E

SEA

EN

C THTEHE

Inside

WEATHER IS A CHALLENGE

M a l ve r n e s o f t b a l l coach Jennifer Gib-bons wasn’t quite

prepared for her team’s non-league opener at Elmont on March 14, but not because she was still trying to figure out the Lady Mules’ batting order or how to align the defense in the field. Once the final bell sounded to conclude the school day, Gib-bons made the quick drive from the high school to her home in East Rockaway to grab every-thing she needed — another layer of clothing. “I’m usually prepared for game days, but it was absolutely freezing,” she said. “The temperature gauge on my car read 39 degrees as I was driving back to Mal-verne, but it felt much colder. “I was hoping once we got to Elmont, it wouldn’t be as cold and windy, and the field would be in the sun,” she joked. No such luck. The game was played in challenging con-ditions, as the wind chill dipped into the upper 20s. “The umpires had no problem with the girls playing with jackets on,” Gib-bons said. “Just about everyone had win-ter hats; two of my three outfielders wore a scarf.” At least Malverne’s bats were hot. Juniors Racquelle Findlayter and Kayisha Ulysse both went 3-for-5 and drove in three runs apiece to lead the way in a 16-4 vic-tory. Gibbons said sophomore pitcher Syd-ney Witowski threw well in the five-inning opener. “There was no reason for her to

throw too hard,” Gibbons said. “I just asked her to keep the ball around the plate and keep the game moving. It was probably the coldest game I’ve ever been a part of.” It’s been that kind of March. Most of the opening week of softball and baseball practice was derailed by a snowstorm that dropped a minimum of three inches throughout Nas-sau County, and up to seven inches in places like Jericho and Manhasset. Some teams didn’t get outside and step on a field

until a week later than expected — March 11. “The incredible weather we had last March was a once-in-30 years thing,” East Meadow softball coach Stu Fritz said. “What we had to deal with this year is closer to the norm.” The weather hasn’t helped anyone pre-pare for when the schedule gets into full swing in April, and it impacted some teams more than others. “We started practice with so many starting spots up in the air,” Law-rence baseball coach Dennis Leonard said. “You can’t really get a good grip on things when you’re practicing in a gym.” In the majority of districts, practicing indoors became a juggling act since softball and baseball teams couldn’t share a gym at the same time. “One day we’d start at 3:30 p.m., then softball would get the gym begin-ning at 5:30 p.m.,” Valley Stream Central baseball coach Frank Alesia said. “The next day, softball practiced early and we'd go late. It's tough to get prepared that way.”

High School Sports

TONY BELLISSIMO

Baldwin Bruins ............................................3Calhoun Colts (Bellmore-Merrick) ............... 4Carey Seahawks (Franklin Square) ............. 5Clarke Rams (Westbury) ............................ 6East Meadow (Jets) .................................... 7East Rockaway (Rocks) ...............................8Elmont (Spartans) ...................................... 8Hewlett (Bulldogs) .................................... 10Kennedy (Cougars) (Bellmore-Merrick) ................................... 11Lawrence Golden (Tornadoes) .................. 14Long Beach (Marines) .............................. 15

Lynbrook (Owls) ....................................... 16Malverne (Mules) ..................................... 17Mepham (Pirates) (Bellmore-Merrick) ................................... 18Oceanside (Sailors) ................................. 19Sewanhaka (Indians) Floral Park............... 20South Side (Cyclones) Valley Stream Central (Eagles) ................. 22Valley Stream North (Spartians) ............... 22Valley Stream Central (Falcons) ................ 22West Hempstead (Rams) ......................... 23

INDEX

CONTRIBUTING SPORTSWRITERSTONY BELLISSIMO, TOM JORDAN, ANDREW HACKMACK, ANDREW McCLURE, STEVE SINISKI

BASEBALL1. Danny Aguilo (Elmont) .................. P2. John Fogarty (Clarke) .................. OF3. Joe Fusco (Clarke) ........................ P4. David Hawley (South Side) ......... OF5. Andrew Hess (V.S. South) ............ 2B6. Tom Joannou (Calhoun) .............. OF7. Lou Matarazzo (South Side) ........ 3B8. Anthony Martelli (V.S. North) ....... SS9. David McClure (East Rockaway) .. OF10. Luciano Morello (Hewlett) ........... P

SOFTBALL1. Sarah Cornell (Clarke) .................. P2. Sam Maselli (South Side) ............. P 3. Ashley Martin (Long Beach) .......... P4. Claire McNamara (Oceanside) .... SS 5. Carly Mertens (Baldwin) ............... P6. Dana Morgante (V.S. North) .......... C7. Kerri Shapiro (East Meadow) ........ P8. Toni Valeriano (Mepham) .............. P9. Amy Vitha (Hewlett) .................... SS10. Madison West (East Meadow) ..... C

TOP 10

A special adver

LOU MATARAZZOSOUTH SIDE

S3

March 28, 2013 — Spring Sports Preview - Herald Com

munity Newspapers

Nothing Wounds the Heart More Deeply than the Loss of A Loved One…

The Cecere Family has been helping families just like yours get through the unthinkable for Two Generations.

Impeccable facilities, Service beyond expectations.

Burials, Cremations, Pre Planning

2238 Grand Avenue • Baldwin • 516-223-4200www.cecerefamilyfunerals.com

Michael J. Cecere III

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

GO BRUINS

Cecere Family

F U N E R A L H O M E

6073

98

Nothing Wounds the Heart More Deeplythan the Loss of A Loved One…

Photos by Jeff Wilson

2013 HERALD High School BASEBALL / SOFTBALL Preview

BY TOM JORDAN

O ne year ago, the Bruins were so young they could have been nick-named the Cubs. Coach Frank

Esposito had a roster comprised largely of underclassmen, and on most days dur-ing the season he penciled as many fresh-men into his starting lineup as seniors. Still, Baldwin played well enough down the stretch to earn a Nassau Class AA playoff bid in a tough conference. Now Esposito has the core of that play-off team back, with the benefit of an extra year’s experience. Leading the way will be senior third baseman Danny Capone, a starter for the Bruins since he was a ninth-grader. Right fielder Ryan Mahoney and center fielder Traivis Hylton also return and they have been starters on the varsity for the last two seasons. Those three repre-sent the heart of the Baldwin lineup, and the heart of the team. “Those are our big boys,” Esposito said. “We expect them to carry the load.” Esposito also expects strong contribu-tions from second baseman Joe Bilello and leftfielder Robert DeVito. Newcomer Har-old Franco, a transfer from the Dominican Republic, has opened some eyes, and so he will likely open the season at shortstop. Pitchers Matt Lyle, Matt Kelleher, Matt Pines, Christian Sullivan and Nick Arella-no give Esposito plenty of capable options on the mound. Kelleher, who plays leftfield when he is not pitching, is probably the team’s No. 1 starter. Lyle was “very good for us in the playoffs,” Esposito said. Esposito has always favored the run-ning game, and this season will be no dif-ferent. “We have great team speed,” he said. “Our job will be to get some guys on, steal a few bases and then get them in.” The team’s goal is a return trip to the playoffs, but Esposito knows that there are no foregone conclusions, even with greater experience. “We’re in a tough conference, and there are no easy games,” he said. The Bruins will face East Meadow, Plainview-JFK, Oceanside and Hicksville three times apiece.

Lady Bruins have key components

O f the five starters returning to coach Tom Llewellyn’s Lady Bruins, two were All-County selections and

another was an All-Conference perform-er a season ago. Those players are Carly Mertens, a pitcher, Liza Ueno, a catcher, and Jessica Pulis, a center fielder and pitcher. Another returning starter, Jade Aponte, is a shortstop. It is fair to say Bald-win is strong up the middle. Mertens, in addition to her dominant pitching, is fearsome with the bat. Last season she batted over .500 for the third straight year, finished among Nassau’s lead-ers in homers and, understandably, drew walks at an astonishing rate. Her battery mate Ueno also eclipsed the .500 pla-teau in average and also hit for power. The team leader in batting average, though, was Pulis, who edged out both Mertens and Ueno. Imagine the opposition’s headache in dealing with three .500 hitters in the same lineup. Aponte is the “infield orchestrator,” Llewellyn said, the leader of the defense and a contributor to the offense. The fifth returning starter, Jill Bellovin, is the No. 5 hitter and a slick glove at first base. Third baseman Lexi Phillips, a junior, takes over the position her older sister Oliv-ia held down last season. There are competitions for the remaining spots, and Llewellyn expects to find qual-ity there, but it is clear Mertens, Ueno, Pulis, Aponte and Bellovin are the key components. Lllewellyn has every reason to believe the Lady Bruins will make a run at a conference title, a feat they accom-plished in 2011 before going 13-7 last sea-son. Every senior class is special, but this group is especially close to Llewellyn’s heart. Most have been with the program as long as he has. “These seniors are the group that was in seventh-grade when I took over,”

Llewellyn said. “This is the first group that I have seen the whole way through, so they are special to me. Our expectations are great. This will be a very exciting and emotional season.”

ScheduleBASEBALL

March 30 @ Farmingdale 10:30 a.m.

April 1 Freeport 4:30 p.m. 2 @ Uniondale 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Syosset 4:30 p.m. 8 @ East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 9 East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 11 @ East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 22 Plainview 4:30 p.m. 23 @ Plainview 4:30 p.m. 25 Plainview 4:30 p.m. 29 Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 30 @ Oceanside 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Hicksville 4:30 p.m. 6 Hicksville 4:30 p.m. 7 @ Hicksville 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALLApril 3 @ Hicksville 4:30 p.m. 5 Syosset 4:30 p.m. 8 @ Herricks 4:30 p.m. 10 @ Calhnoun 4:30 p.m. 12 Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 16 Farmingdale 4:30 p.m. 18 @ Plainview 4:30 p.m. 19 @ Oceanside 7:00 p.m. 20 Hicksville 10:00 a.m. 23 @ Syosset 4:30 p.m. 25 Herricks 5:00 p.m. 29 Calhoun 4:30 p.m.

May 1 @ Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 3 @ Farmingdale 4:30 p.m. 6 Plainview 4:30 p.m.

BALDWINStrong core returns for Bruins

RYAN MAHONEYOUTFIELD

g Ueno

pla-so hit ader in

h, was Pulis, who and Ueno. Imagine he in dealing with ame lineup.ld orchestrator,” er of the defense offense. The fifth

llovin, is the No. 5 at first base. Third

a junior, takes er sister Oliv-n. There are aining spots, to find qual-

Mertens, Ueno, vin are the key has every reason

ns will make a run feat they accom-

oing 13-7 last sea-

special, but this se to Llewellyn’s th the program as

the group that hen I took over,”

dle.n to is

LIZA UEZOCATCHER

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S4

FREE INSURANCE ESTIMATES

Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-6pmGOOD LUCK CALHOUN COLTS!

HIGH GRADE AUTO BODYAll Insurance Claims

1671 Prospect Ave. • East Meadow

FOR THOSE WHO WON'T SETTLE FORANYTHING LESS THAN EXCELLENCE

AUTO BODY COLLISION REPAIR CENTERJustin or Steve:

(516) 539-7601



BY STEVE SINISKI

I f success is defined in terms of tro-phies and assorted hardware, consid-er Calhoun at or near the top of the

class. The Colts have captured two of the last three Long Island Championships and Nassau Class AA baseball titles. If it’s the classroom that carries more weight, Cal-houn’s got that covered, too, as eight play-ers from last season’s team are now play-ing collegiate baseball on scholarship. Despite the loss of talent—11 players in all graduated from a team that finished 23-4—coach Joe Corea, entering his 42nd season in the dugout with the program, has another crop of ballplayers eager to continue the winning tradition. “It seems like we have a nice bunch of kids that really work hard and want to prove them-selves,” he said. “We have a real nice tradi-tion here at Calhoun. It looks like it will be a lot of fun for me.” Senior All-Conference center fielder Tommy Joannou and senior All-Confer-ence first baseman Kevin Hiss lead the crop of returnees for a team whose lineup has a little different feel to it for 2013. “We do have a lot of speed, so we should be able to do a little bit more,” Corea said of a pro-gram that’s been noted for its big bats over the last several seasons. Behind the plate, senior catcher Dilan Morris-Timoney is set to catch what looks to be an all right-handed staff. Senior Tommy Murphy tops the charts with senior Matt Piloti and junior Colin Lowe also expected to throw consistent innings. Flanking Joannou in center will be a combination of Murphy and junior Zach Mastrangelo in right and senior Dean Brownsworth in left. Hiss is expected to be joined by juniors Nick Fronte and Chris Molito in the middle of the infield, while junior Coey Furia, the JV catcher last sea-son, will see time behind Morris-Timoney. Calhoun’s 19-game regular season includes three-game sets with Valley Stream Central, Port Washington, MacAr-thur and Mepham and single game cross-overs with Carey, Kennedy and Elmont.

Pitching duo leads Lady Colts

T he Lady Colts have quietly been climbing the ranks of Confer-ence AA-II softball, and 2013 has

all the makings of a breakout campaign. Anchored by not one, but two aces in the circle and a lineup full of playmakers, Cal-houn is a team brimming with potential. “We have a lot of returning players that got a taste last year of being in the playoff hunt and that will help us this year,” coach Jason Boland said. A pair of senior co-captains and four-year varsity players — third baseman Gianna Saladino and catcher Marisa Mar-cigliano — lead a program that’s backed by a small army of young, but experienced returnees. Freshman lefty Nicole Imhoff, coming off an All-County campaign as an eighth-grader, teams with sophomore All-Conference right-hander Lauren Trimarco to form a potent one-two punch in the cir-cle. “Lauren is a classic ace,” Boland said. “She’s really intelligent and has such good movement on her pitches. She knows how to control a game as a pitcher. [Nicole] has so much power and velocity on her pitches and has a good number of them and knows when to throw them. She really attacks the batters.” Imhoff, who had an average better than .400 last spring, and Trimarco, also swing potent bats, with sophomore outfielder and backup catcher Joanna Marmo adding a power/speed combo to the lineup. “Of all the things we are, we have a lot of kids that can get on base, make contact with the ball and make things happen,” Boland said. “We have a lot of No. 1 and No. 2 [type] hitters that can get a single and steal a base.” A n d C a l -houn also has its fair share of defensive whiz-zes backing up Trimarco and Imhoff. Junior outfielder Lauren Savarese and sophomore second base-

man Allison Abbene are among the players that can save runs as well as produce them. “This team has had a really good atti-tude about staying in games and never giv-ing up,” Boland said.

CALHOUNColts off 23-win campaign

NICOLE IMHOFFPITCHER

more second base-

,a breakout campaign.

ne, but two aces in the full of playmakers, Cal-mming with potential. returning players that of being in the playoff

help us this year,” coach

r co-captains and four-ers — third baseman nd catcher Marisa Mar-program that’s backed young, but experienced an lefty Nicole Imhoff,County campaign as an

ms with sophomore All-ander Lauren Trimarco ne-two punch in the cir-

assic ace,” Boland said. gent and has such good

pitches. She knows how s a pitcher. [Nicole] has velocity on her pitches

mber of them and knows m. She really attacks the

an average better than d Trimarco, also swing phomore outfielder and anna Marmo adding a o to the lineup. “Of all

we have a lot of kids that ke contact with the ball

happen,” Boland t of No.

TOM JOANNOUOUTFIELD

ScheduleBASEBALL

March 27 @ Carey 10:30 a.m. 30 Herricks 10:00 a.m.

April 1 @ Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 2 Elmont 4:30 p.m. 4 Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 8 V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. 9 @ V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. 11 V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. 15 Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 16 @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m. 18 Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 22 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 23 MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 25 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Mepham 4:30 p.m. 30 Mepham 4:30 p.m.

May 2 @ Mepham 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALLApril 3 @ Plainview 4:30 p.m. 5 @ Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 8 Farmingdale 4:15 p.m. 10 Baldwin 4:30 p.m. 12 Hicksville 4:15 p.m. 16 @ Herricks 4:30 p.m. 18 Syosset 4:15 p.m. 20 Plainview 10:00 a.m. 23 Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 25 @ Farmingdale 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Baldwin 4:30 p.m.

May 1 @ Hicksville 4:30 p.m. 3 Herricks 5:00 p.m. 6 @ Syosset 4:30 p.m.

S5


munity Newspapers

Photos by Victoria Lodi


BY ANDREW MCCLURE

I t was an up and down year for the Carey nine in 2012. The then-defending Nassau Class AA champion Seahawks

had a .500 record and lost in the opening round of the county playoffs. A new con-ference with Long Beach, Herricks, Long Beach, and Bellmore JFK awaits a young, energetic team. Coach Marc Hedquist is eager to see how the Seahawks compete. "This is the youngest team I have ever coached here at Carey, so there will be some growing pains," he said. "I'm excited about this team. We had 45-50 players regularly at workouts since November. This is a great baseball community. The work ethic and enthusiasm has been outstanding." Junior Frank Liccardi will be the ace of the staff. Liccardi mixes in breaking balls with a good fastball, and has excellent mechanics. When he’s not pitching, he’ll be roaming the outfield. Expectations were high for junior Andrew Ris, who continues to battle back from injury. Junior Erick Vichez, the team’s best conditioned athlete, will be the No. 2 start-er. Vilchez has an outstanding curveball to go along with a good fastball. Vilchez will play the outfield when not pitching. The number three spot has a pair of sophomores, Ryan Hensley and Jon Heyer, looking to get the nod. Hensley will likely be the starting shortstop, and Heyer may see time at third base. James Harrison could see some relief work, and may see time at third. Junior Joe Davide is an outstanding defensive catcher with a terrific throwing arm. Sophomores Chris Stevens and Mike Castel are both vying for time behind the plate. Senior Vinny Fortunato and hard-hitting freshman Anthony Catapano will both see time at first base. Senior Nick Zuvic returns at second base. Zuvic has a great glove in the mid-dle infield. Sophomore Rob Kelly will play third base and work out of the bullpen. Junior Nick Conte is the team’s best defen-sive outfielder. Seniors Darren Rodriguez and Mike Senese, junior Joe Marinello, and sophomore Conor Colasurdo may all

see time in the outfield.

Lady Seahawks always in the mix

E xpectations are always high on the softball diamond at Carey, so losing in the quarterfinal round of the Class

AA playoffs left the Lady Seahawks very eager to get back on the field this spring. A young, but experienced team will look for better results against the likes of MacAr-thur, Massapequa, East Meadow, Mepham, Long Beach, and Oceanside. Coach Anthony Turco thinks his team will be up for the challenge in Nassau’s top conference. “We’re rebuilding the team concept, and leaving the individu-al stuff behind,” Turco said. “The girls have worked hard all winter. There’s a lot of positive energy and enthu-siasm. The effort is clearly there. There are a lot of girls who are com-mitted to this softball program.” Eric Gilroy sets the tone for the team. The senior second baseman, a three-year starter, brings a bulldog-like mentality to the diamond, and simply doesn’t accept losing. Gilroy is a tough out, and she has a little more power than she’s had in the past. Senior catcher Shannon O’Connell does a terrific job behind the dish, and is looked upon as a team leader. Sophomore Mikayla Morfesi returns at shortstop. Morfesi and sophomore Ruth Rodriguez both hit and field well. There’s usually no shortage of pitching at Carey. Sisters Ashley Turato, a senior, and Jenna Turato, a sophomore, both return in the circle. Sophomore Savannah Draud and Megan Mannle both are p u s h i n g f o r time. Sophomore Alyssa Jacobs is the whole package. Jacobs is an out-standing defensive third baseman and one of the team’s top hitters. She could bat in any of the top three spots in the order. Util-ity player Keva Moore is an integral part of the team. Ashley Kelly and Mannle will both see

time at first base. Mannle is a big power threat in the middle of the order. Seniors Alissa Schurr and Danielle Kaminski, and sophomore Dominique Morales form a strong outfield. Mary Jane D’Agostino, Emily Aviles, and Alyssa Pentrancosta will all contribute.

CAREYSeahawks full of youth, enthusiasm

FRANK LICCARDIPITCHER

kage. Jacobs is an out-third baseman and one

hitters. She could bat in e spots in the order. Util-oore is an integral part

nd Mannle will both see

y Turco thinks his team challenge in Nassau’s

We’re rebuilding the leaving the individu-

urco said. “The girls all winter. There’s nergy and enthu-is clearly there.

girls who are com-all program.”s the tone for the

r second baseman, a r, brings a bulldog-like

diamond, and simply ng. Gilroy is a tough out, e more power than she’s

Shannon O’Connell does d the dish, and is looked der. Sophomore Mikayla at shortstop. Morfesi uth Rodriguez both

y no shortage rey. Sisters

senior, and phomore, circle.

nnah n

BASEBALLMarch 27 Calhoun 10:30 a.m. 28 @ Mepham 10:30 a.m.

April 1 V.S. Central 10:30 a.m. 2 @ MacArthur 4:45 p.m. 4 @ Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 5 @ Syosset 4:45 p.m. 8 Long Beach 4:45 p.m. 9 @ Long Beach 4:45 p.m. 11 Long Beach 4:45 p.m. 15 Elmont 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Elmont 4:30 p.m. 18 Elmont 4:30 p.m. 22 @ Herricks 4:30 p.m. 24 Herricks 4:30 p.m. 25 @ Herricks 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Kennedy 4:45 p.m. 30 Kennedy 4:30 p.m.

May 27 @ Plainedge 11:00 a.m.

SOFTBALLMarch 1 @ Hicksville 4:30 p.m.

April 3 Mepham 4:30 p.m. 5 Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 6 @ Syosset 10:00 a.m. 8 @ Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 10 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 12 @ East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 18 Massapequa 4:15 p.m. 23 @ Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 25 Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 27 @ Mepham 10:30 a.m. 29 MacArthur 4:30 p.m.

May 1 East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 3 @ Island Trees 4:45 p.m. 6 @ Massapequa 4:30 p.m.

ERIN GILROYSECOND BASE

Schedule

powered by:

Visit: liherald.com/photosTo enjoy viewing

your photos by home town.

VIEW PHOTOS WE’VE TAKEN AT GAMES AND OTHER EVENTS IN YOUR COMMUNITY!

Photography

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S6

OPEN HOUSETUESDAYApril 2nd2 to 4 pm

SATURDAYApril 20th12-2pm

YOUNGER CAMPERS• Mature, Adult Staff. 1:3 Ratio• Hot Lunch • Ice Cream • Transportation• 2 Heated Pools • Red Cross Instruction• Arts & Crafts • Cooking • Music• Hockey • Handball & More• Weekly Sports Clinics• Lunch With Surprise Characters• Annual Dog Show• Science • Nature • Gardening• Weekly Speciality Activities

OLDER CAMPERSBasketball • Handball • Baseball •

Hockey • Lacrosse •Rock Climbing •

Archery • Horseback Riding •Slot Cars & Game Room • Dance •

Science • Gymnastics •Night Activities • Theme parties •

LI Ducks• Swim Instruction• Fishing •Water Slide • Hot Lunch •

Transportation •& A LOT MORE FUN, FUN, FUN!

Family Owned & Operated Since 1954

2427 N. JERUSALEM ROAD • EAST MEADOW, NY • 516-781-3900 • WWW.BIGCHIEFSCHOOLANDCAMP.COM2427 N JERUSALEM ROAD EAST M

CLARKE



BY STEVE SINISKI

T hose that say pitching and defense win ballgames may want to take a peek at what Clarke’s returning on

the baseball diamond. The Rams welcome back not one, but two potential aces on the mound and a defense that’s not only strong up the middle but anchored by a returning All-County center fielder. Coming off an All-County campaign and a 7-1 mark on the mound, senior Joe Fusco will be joined in the rotation by classmate Matt Seelinger (4-0 last season), an All-Conference honoree, and a deep crop of players battling for time in the rotation and bullpen. Both are hard throw-ers, and Seelinger’s repertoire includes a knuckle drop as well as great command. Senior Chris Caizza and Sean Dunn were battling for the last rotation spot during camp along with juniors Mike Turton and Chris Ramkinson. Senior John Hess and junior Luis Hungria are slated to pitch in relief. The starting pitcher is going to dic-tate how the defense shakes out on any given day for the Rams, because Fusco and Seelinger both play shortstop, and Seelinger could also log time at second or third base. Junior Jesse Russo is in the mix at the hot corner, and junior John Macchia is angling for time at second base. At first base, Clarke has another pair of juniors — Mike Gismondi and Mike Perez — battling for time, and junior catcher Pete Faldiano ready to handle the pitching staff. Senior John Fogarty, an All-Coun-ty honoree, returns to center field with senior Brandon Garcia, coming off an All-Conference campaign, alongside him in left. Senior Gerry DeGuida and junior Nestor Hatto were staging a battle for right field in training camp. As much as one power swing can change the complexion of a game, so too, can speed, and that’s how the Rams plan on making life difficult for opponents. “We have a lot of team speed,” coach Tom Abruscato said. “We have five guys in the lineup that [clock] under seven [seconds] in the 60-yard dash.”

Lady Rams armed and dangerous

C larke freshman pitcher Sarah Cor-nell had already turned plenty of heads with her performance last sea-

son, but the way she opened up 2013 is likely to leave a few jaws scraping the floor. She struck out a career-high 20 of 21 bat-ters to lead the Rams past the defend-ing New York State Class AA cham-pions, Farmingdale, in a mid-March non-league game, allowing just one hit and two walks. “Consistency is definitely No. 1,” coach Chrissy DeMott said of Cor-nell’s nearly perfect strikeout effort that demonstrated her development from one sea-son to the next. “You’ve definitely got to be able to hit the spots when it counts and set up hitters very well.” On days when Cornell isn’t in the circle, the Lady Rams will call on junior Nicole Randazzo, back after missing last season due to injury, and sophomore Katie Bel- fiore. Both pitchers hit the mid-50s on the radar gun and also have great movement on their pitches. The performance of Clarke’s pitching is going to be a major key to success on a varsity team that returns just one senior and is loaded with underclassmen work-ing their way into the lineup. Sophomore Selina Ruiz returns behind the plate with junior Angelica Gargiulo able to play both behind the plate and in leftfield. At the hot corner, sophomores Laura Reilly and Jessie Gibaldi are battling for time, while sophomore Julia Long is set to lineup at first with junior Amanda Gargiulo logging time there as well as the outfield. Athletic freshman Holly Romeo is making her varsity debut at shortstop. Junior Charissa Perfect slides over from left field to center where Clarke can take advantage of her potent arm, while senior Sam Rodriguez

and sophomore Lexi Zaino are also expect-ed to track down fly balls. The Lady Rams have several players that swing big sticks, namely Long and Perfect, but speed is the team’s biggest attribute and one they already used against Farmingdale, scoring nine runs with just one extra-base hit.

ScheduleBASEBALL

April 1 V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 2 Roslyn 4:30 p.m. 4 Plainedge 4:45 p.m. 8 @ Manhasset 4:45 p.m. 9 @ Lawrence 4:45 p.m. 11 Division 4:45 p.m. 13 North Shore 11:00 a.m. 15 @ Lynbrook 4:45 p.m. 16 @ South Side 4:45 p.m. 22 @ V.S. North 4:45 p.m. 23 V.S. North 4:30 p.m. 25 @ V.S. North 4:45 p.m. 29 @ Seaford 4:45 p.m. 30 Seaford 4:45 p.m.

May 2 @ Seaford 4:45 p.m. 4 Mineola 2:00 p.m. 6 @ Mineola 4:45 p.m. 7 Mineola 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALLApril 2 @ Seaford 4:45 p.m. 4 Island Trees 4:30 p.m. 6 Glen Cove 10:30 a.m. 9 @ Wantagh 4:45 p.m. 16 Plainedge 5:00 p.m. 17 @ Bethpage 4:45 p.m. 19 Seaford 4:45 p.m. 23 @ Island Trees 4:45 p.m. 24 @ Glen Cove 4:45 p.m. 27 Wantagh 11:00 a.m.

May 2 @ Plainedge 4:45 p.m. 6 Bethpage 4:30 p.m.

Rams have plenty of horses

SARAH CORNELLPITCHERJOHN FOGARTY

OUTFIELD

cham-March st one

No. 1,” of Cor-out

r

e Bel- fiore. on the radar

ment on their

e’s pitching success on a t one senior smen work-Sophomore

e plate with le to play leftfield.

s Lauraattling Julia with ging eld. eo at

o e

JOHN FOGARTYOUTFIELD

S7


munity Newspapers

6180

24

2330 Hempstead Turnpike East Meadow

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 11am-10pm Sun. 12pm-9pmFREE DELIVERY

Gluten Free Pizza & Pasta Available

For a Free Catering Estimate Call 516-796-2500

www.buongustopiesano.com $2.00 OFFAny Large Pie

10% OFFANY CATERING ORDER

of $100 or More

10% OFFLUNCH OR DINNER

CHECKWith coupon. Not to be

combined with any other offer. Expires 4/30/13.

Pick up only. With coupon. Not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 4/30/13.

Dine in only. With coupon. Not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 4/30/13.

Come Celebrate Your Next Party With Us. Our Professional Service & Exceptional Food

Makes for a Memorable Party.Private Room Available

(up to 120 people)We Cater On & Off Premise.

Nunzie and staff Thank you for 23 years of service on Long Island

O

GO JETS GO!



BY STEVE SINISKI

E ast Meadow has some familiar faces returning to the diamond, but there’s also a new wave of talent

ready to learn the ropes of varsity baseball in Nassau County’s top conference — AA-I — and keep the Jets moving forward in 2013. “It’s been fun with the younger kids,” coach Ken Sicoli said, noting that the staff has gone back to basics to get the new play-ers up to speed. The most experience returns in the outfield, with senior center fielder Robbie Bergmann joined in left by classmate Matt Sumkowski. A preseason injury to senior right fielder Nick LoCascio has opened the door for sophomores Chris Mackay, Steve Milian and Eric Gershoff to battle for playing time, but the hope is to have the veteran back later in the season. “The out-fielders are good and they’re pretty good defensive players,” Sicoli said. Junior Billy Thomas appears ready to take over at first base with sophomore Brian Kavanagh back for his second sea-son as the starting second baseman. Fresh-man Frankie Ippolito has gotten the nod at shortstop, a tough opening assignment for sure, but has already impressed with his defense at the position. “He’s a ballplayer,” Sicoli said. “He’ll have to grow into the spot.” Senior Nick Trivolis and sophomore Luis Cuello were battling for the starting job at third base in camp, while Sicoli was also looking at senior Rich Rankel and junior Jonny Keicher behind the plate. Senior Kyle Aberasturi could log time at first base and also provides a solid bat in the lineup as the designated hitter. “We’re going to have to put hits together and play some small ball,” Sicoli said of his lineup, which featured more speed than power during camp. Sumkowski, Kavanagh, Mackay and Cuello are all slated to log innings in the rotation with seniors Brian Weil and Ben Fritzen figuring into the bullpen mix for an East Meadow team that remains in Nas-sau’s top conference, AA-I. “Nobody’s an easy [win] in our league,” Sicolis said.

Lady Jets remain title contenders

T he Lady Jets have been on quite a run in Nassau Class AA softball, making three consecutive trips to the champi-

onship round and winning the title in 2010. Looking ahead to this spring, plenty of the experienced players remain on the roster. Seven starters return in all, including All-County junior catcher Madison West and junior pitcher Kerri Shapiro, who’s added a few miles per hour to her fastball. “I expect we’ll be very competitive,” coach Stu Fritz said. “They are all moti-vated and working very hard. Their experi-ence [is a key], because we’ve been to the finals the last few years. We’re very solid defensively and have wonderful senior leadership.” Along with the outstanding battery — West and Shapiro also swing heavy bats — East Meadow welcomes back senior Taylor Conti at third base, senior All-Conference honoree Dina LaRosa at first and senior Ariel Cornfield at second. Senior Dani-elle Cutuli, who missed last season due to injury, returns at shortstop. Senior Marissa San Antonio is the anchor of the outfield in center, where her speed lets her cover plenty of ground into the gaps. Strong-armed junior Claire Travis is set to flank San Antonio in right, with juniors Mary Hosey and Sandra Fos-ter also pushing for playing time in the outfield. Tianna LaRosa, a junior and jack-of-all-trades, played shortstop last season and can also slide back into the outfield. Freshmen Crista San Antonio and Jessica Laird, like LaRosa, are capable of playing multiple positions and in the mix for play-ing time. “We just tell the girls that if we work hard and do our best everything else will fall into place,” Fritz said. West, Shapiro and Dina LaRosa are pen-ciled in as the heart of the batting order, with Marissa San Antonio batting leadoff. “Our whole league is pitching dominated,” Fritz said. “Everyone’s looking for ways to scratch out runs and we’re in that group. In our league it’s [tough] to push across one, two or three runs.”

ScheduleBASEBALL

March 27 Uniondale 10:30 a.m. 30 @ Freeport 9:30 a.m.

April 1 Massapequa 10:30 a.m. 2 @ Syosset 4:45 p.m. 4 @ Farmingdale 4:45 p.m. 8 Baldwin 4:30 p.m. 9 @ Baldwin 4:45 p.m. 11 Baldwin 4:30 p.m. 15 @ Hicksville 4:45 p.m. 16 Hicksville 4:15 p.m. 18 @ Hicksville 4:45 p.m. 29 Plainview 4:30 p.m. 30 @ Plainview 4:45 p.m.

May 2 Plainview 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Oceanside 2:00 p.m. 6 Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 7 @ Oceanside 4:45 p.m.

SOFTBALLMarch 27 @ Island Trees 10:00 p.m.

April 3 MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 5 @ Long Beach 4:45 p.m. 8 @ Mepham 4:45 p.m. 10 Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 12 Carey 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Massapequa 4:45 p.m. 20 @ MacArthur 10:00 a.m. 23 Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 25 Mepham 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Oceanside 4:45 p.m.

May 1 @ Carey 4:30 p.m. 3 Massapequa 4:15 p.m. 6 @ Plainedge 4:45 p.m.

EAST MEADOWMix of veterans, newcomers lead Jets

ROBERT BERGMANNOUTFIELD

KERRI SHAPIROPITCHER

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S8

6196

85

(516) [email protected]

HARBOR SEALS ARE BACK!!!and March & April are the best months to see them

Ask AboutGroup

Discounts 6196

85

$2 OFFANY TOUR

Valid Thru 2013 SeasonFREEPORT WATER TAXI & TOURS

516.521.7744With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or special events

Weekday Tours Also Available During Spring Break

Visit Our Website for Details: www.freeportwatertaxi.com

LEAVING AT 11 AM & 2 PM EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAYFROM FREEPORT’S FAMOUS NAUTICAL MILE

Photos by Ron Manfredi


BY ANDREW MCCLURE

J ames Hickey, who coached first base as East Rockaway brought home its fourth county championship in 2012,

takes over as head coach for the Rocks. Despite losing a slew of players to gradua-tion, they return a strong group of seniors who expect to be in the title hunt. As it did during basketball season, East Rockaway will play all of its games away from home, which remains unavailable as a result of Hurricane Sandy. "We've prac-ticed at four different locations, but the guys have been terrific about it," Hickey said. "The senior leadership has been the key. There hasn't been any griping, despite a pretty challenging situation." Senior Billy Humes, an All-Conference recipient in 2012, returns as the ace of the pitching staff. The southpaw has increased his velocity, and is primed to have another big season. When he's not on the mound, Humes will play first base. David McClure, a four-year varsity starter, will patrol center field. McClure, who earned All-County and All-State rec-ognition as a junior, led the team in home runs and RBI a season ago. He’s also likely to see time on the mound. Senior Cameron Ralph earned All-Con-ference honors last spring. Ralph can play all three outfield positions, and does a ter-rific job of getting on base. Senior outfield-er Dylan Delury has a solid bat and will be a big part of what should be a strong outfield. Senior Chris Mulato adds outfield depth. Eddie Carneglia was 3-0 on the hill as a junior, but an injury caused him to miss the second half of the season. Carneg-lia should be an excellent complement to Humes. Junior Damian Amiruddin has the inside track on the third starter slot. On days they're not pitching, Carneglia and Amiruddin will each likely man a corner infield position. Ben Giliberti returns at catcher. Fel-low senior Thomas Scagnelli will back up Giliberti and see time at other positions. Senior Anthony Filoteo is the most experi-enced middle infielder returning.

Changes in store for Lady Rocks

T he defending Nassau County Class C softball champions will face a chal-lenging schedule with a bevy of new

faces. The Lady Rocks are experienced in the circle and behind the plate, but boast a lot of newcomers and some returnees will be playing new positions. Head coach Joe Lores will lean heavi-ly on his upperclassmen. “We’ve turned the page from last year,” Lores said. “This will be a young, relatively inexperienced team. We’re raw at a few positions. The Seniors are going to have to lead the way, and the girls who are playing varsity ball for the first time are going to have to adjust to this level.” Gianna Cilluffo, a two-time, All-Conference honor-ee returns in the pitching circle for the Lady Rocks. Cilluffo doesn’t blow peo-ple away, but she’s one of the league’s most sea-soned pitchers, and knows how to get people out. The senior right hander hits for power and average, and should be a tough out in the middle of the order. All-Conference catcher Jess Deptulski, a four-year starter, is solid behind the plate and has a strong throwing arm. Expect the senior backstop to bat in the No. 3 spot. Senior Jess Cerasoli is a steady middle infielder with two years of starting experi-ence at second base. She’ll likely begin the season at shortstop as junior Gina Skelly recovers from an injury. Senior center fielder Samantha Man-tovani gives East Rockaway strong defense up the middle and speed at the top of the order. Freshman Caitlin O’Mara’s ability to play both infield and outfield gives the Lady Rocks added versatility. Senior Domi-nique Halek adds depth in the outfield. Senior Dorianna Gross has the edge at first base, with sophomore Emily Galligan expected to handle the hot corner. Junior Tiffani Parrente will see time at first base and in the outfield, and will be Deptulski’s

backup behind the plate. The Lady Rocks will compete with Sewanhaka, West Hemp-stead, Cold Spring Harbor, Valley Stream South, Manhasset, and Wheatley.

ScheduleEAST ROCKAWAYSenior-led Rocks can contend

GIANNA CILLUFFOPITCHER

Ph b R M f di

r uld of the

ss Deptulski, hind the plate m. Expect the

he No. 3 spot. teady middle arting experi-

kely begin the r Gina Skelly

mantha Man-trong defense he top of the

Mara’s ability ield gives the Senior Domi-

e outfield. as the edge at mily Galligan orner. Junior e at first base be Deptulski’s

xperienced in ate, but boast

me returnees

l lean heavi-’ve turned es said. ively

raw ors hee

G

BILLY HUMESPITCHER

BASEBALL

April 1 @ Locust Valley 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Malverne 4:30 p.m. 5 Locust Valley 4:30 p.m. 8 Malverne 4:30 p.m. 9 @ Wheatley 4:30 p.m. 11 Wheatley 4:15 p.m. 15 @ C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m. 16 C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m. 18 @ Mineola 4:30 p.m. 22 Carle Place 4:30 p.m. 23 @ Carle Place 4:30 p.m. 25 Carle Place 4:30 p.m. 29 Oyster Bay 4:30 p.m. 30 @ Oyster Bay 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Oyster Bay 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Friends Aca. 2:00 p.m. 6 Friends Aca. 4:30 p.m. 7 @ Friends Aca. 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALLMarch 28 Hempstead 4:00 p.m.

April 2 Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m. 4 V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 6 West Hempstead 10:00 a.m. 9 @ V.S. North 4:15 p.m. 11 @ Wheatley 4:30 p.m. 15 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 17 @ C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m. 19 @ Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m. 22 @ V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 24 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 30 Wheatley 4:15 p.m.

May 2 Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 6 C.S. Harbor 4:15 p.m.

S9


munity Newspapers

(516) 889-33141 Pettit Place • Island Park

www.jordanlobsterfarms.com

OPEN 7 DAYS 9AM - 9PMUNDER THE LONG BEACH BRIDGE

LOBSTER STEAMED ON PREMISES AT NO EXTRA CHARGE PHONE ORDERS GLADLY ACCEPTED

WE HONOR ALL COMPETITORS COUPONSJordan LOBSTER FARMS GO SPARTANS

INDOORLOBSTER BAR

NEWEXPANDED!!NOW OPEN

Late Till 9pm

Photos by Janette Pellegrini


BY ANDREW MCCLURE

C oming off a 14-5 record, and back-to-back appearances in the Nassau Countywide Conference title game,

Elmont will take a big step up in 2013. The Spartans will play in Conference AA-III with Carey, Bellmore- JFK, Long Beach, and Herricks. Among those they’ll face in crossover games are perennial powers Cal-houn and MacArthur. Coach Robert Gates is excited about the challenge of playing against Class AA opponents. “If I didn’t think we could com-pete at this level, we wouldn’t have made the switch,” Gates said. “I’m sure there will be games where we’ll take our lumps, but this is a tough group. They have the ability to bounce back after losses. They’ve worked very hard to get to this point.” Four-year varsity starter Danny Aguilo will be the ace of the Elmont pitching staff. Aguilo, who earned All-League recognition as a sophomore, and was an All-Confer-ence honoree as a junior, will move to the outfield when he’s not on the mound, and will hit either first or second. Senior Michael Braun, the team’s everyday center fielder, will follow Aguilo in the rotation. Braun is likely the team’s most athletic player. Gates expects Braun to hit third. Junior southpaw Elisio Aybar will round out the starting rotation. Aybar is a crafty lefty, and an outstanding defen-sive outfielder. Seniors Nick Walton and Clarence Walton will also play the outfield for Elmont. Three-year starter Kevin Peguero receives and blocks well behind the plate, and has worked hard on his footwork and release. Peguero, who caught every inning in 2012, is a solid hitter who will hit in the middle of the order for the Spartans. First baseman Malik Todd had a break-out season at the plate as a sophomore and will likely bat cleanup. Hard-working senior David Berrios will man the hot cor-ner. Chris Rodriguez and Darius Velez, a pair of sure-handed juniors, will play sec-ond base and shortstop, respectively. Gates hopes to use Velez on the mound later in the year.

Lady Spartans quick on basepaths

I t was a tough season on the softball dia-mond for Elmont in 2012, but the Lady Spartans have a good mix of experience

and talented young players that should enable them to be very competitive in a conference composed of Port Washington, Uniondale, Westbury, Valley Stream Cen-tral, Hempstead, Great Neck South, and Freeport. Port Washington is likely the team to beat. Elmont coach John Squillace likes the makeup of his team. “We graduated a lot of players, but this a real good group of hard-working girls,” Squillace said. “I like to tell people that we’re going to run the West Coast offense. We have a lot of speed, so we’re going to try to take advan-tage of it by bunting, using the hit and run, and making things happen on the bases. I think we’ll be a lot better than we were last season.” A pair of pitchers are competing for the starting role. Junior Shelby Escobar and sophomore Paloma Velez are both capable hurlers. With a strong lineup behind them, Squillace would like his pitchers to be consistently around the plate, and let the defense do the rest. Velez handles the bat well, and, if not pitching, she can occupy a spot on the infield. Junior Jammy Ayala is a terrific defen-sive catcher, and has plenty of pop in her bat. Ayala will likely hit cleanup. Fresh-man shortstop Amy Vidal has excellent softball IQ, and should be a tough out. Vidal will probably hit in the three or five hole. Senior second baseman Alexis Chung joins Vidal in the middle of the diamond. Chung is a good contact hitter and has speed on the base paths. Junior first base-m a n J o a n

Janvier, the only lefty on the roster, is another solid two-way player. The outfield comprises three fleet-foot-ed players. Senior Natalie Santiago, and juniors Mariah Robles and Onome Ogob-voh, are all very quick on their feet, and can track down balls with the best of them.

ScheduleBASEBALL

March 27 V.S. Central 10:30 a.m. 30 @ Port Washington 9:30 a.m.

April 1 Mepham 10:30 a.m. 2 @ Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 4 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 9 @ Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m. 15 @ Carey 4:30 p.m. 16 Carey 4:30 p.m. 18 @ Carey 4:30 p.m. 22 Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 23 @ Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 25 Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Herricks 4:30 p.m. 30 Herricks 4:45 p.m.

May 2 @ Herricks 4:30 p.m. 4 Kennedy 2:00 p.m. 6 @ Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 7 Kennedy 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALLApril 3 G.N. South 4:30 p.m. 5 Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 8 @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m. 10 @ V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. 12 @ Freeport 4:30 p.m. 16 Westbury 4:30 p.m. 18 Uniondale 4:30 p.m. 20 @ G.N. South 10:00 a.m. 23 @ Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 25 Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 29 V.S. Central 4:30 p.m.

May 1 Freeport 4:30 p.m. 3 @ Westbury 4:30 p.m. 6 @ Uniondale 4:30 p.m. 6 C.S. Harbor 4:15 p.m.

ELMONTSpartans to run with big dogs

g girls, Squillace said. I ople that we’re going to run t offense. We have a lot of

e going to try to take advan-bunting, using the hit and ing things happen on the

we’ll be a lot better than we on.”itchers are competing for the Junior Shelby Escobar and loma Velez are both capable a strong lineup behind them, uld like his pitchers to be round the plate, and let the

e rest. Velez handles the batot pitching, she can occupy a ield.

mmy Ayala is a terrific defen-nd has plenty of pop in her ll likely hit cleanup. Fresh-p Amy Vidal has excellent nd should be a tough out.

bably hit in the three or five

ond baseman Alexis Vidal in the

diamond. od contact as speed paths. se-

NATALIE SANTIAGOOUTFIELD

DANNY AGUILOPITCHER

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S10

6179

23

Learn To Eat Healthy!

Understanding Portion Control • Engaging in Mindful Eating Realistic goals to lose and keep weight off

516-728-2851www.nutritionbypam.com • Twitter: @nutritionbypam

Medical Nutrition Counseling for Adults and ChildrenUn

Med

Pamela Gerstman, RD, [email protected]

GOOD LUCK

BULLDOGS

Photos by Kathy Leistner


BY TONY BELLISSIMO

H ewlett baseball coach Andy DeBernardo is looking for a deep pitching staff to give the Bulldogs

a chance to win what he believes is a total-ly wide-open conference. “We’re deep in pitching and pretty much have every position set,” DeBernar-do said. “On paper, we look like we have the talent to make the playoffs.” The Bulldogs, who won five confer-ence games a year ago, will take on Beth-page, Glen Cove and Great Neck North three times apiece in addition to crossover games against each of five opponents. “It’s my feeling that any of the four teams can win our conference,” DeBernardo said. The top dog for Hewlett is senior pitch-er/first baseman Luciano Morello, an All-County selection who excels on the mound as well as at the dish. In 2012, he had four wins, including three shutouts, a 1.16 ERA, 49 strikeouts and hit .400. “He does it all, and he’ll go against everyone’s No. 1,” DeBernardo said. “Offensively, he’s always in the middle of our rallies.” Senior Tyler Schanker has great stuff, the coach said, especially a wicked curve ball, and will follow Morello in the rota-tion. Junior lefty Matt Brodsky, up from JV, is a control pitcher with a strong pick-off move, while freshman Aaron Kadach has all the tools to make the jump from middle school ball to varsity. Seniors Jason Ceccetelli (shortstop) and Matt Isaac (second base) not only comprise the middle of the infield but also the top of the batting order. Ceccetelli sets the tone from the leadoff spot, and a single or a walk usually means he’ll soon be on sec-ond base. “It’s close to an automatic steal when Jason’s on base,” DeBernardo said. Junior Zach Metz is a tremendous fielder at third, and senior catcher Zach Smilow-itz enters his third varsity campaign. Junior Alex Messados can also catch and provide an offensive spark as a designated or pinch hitter. In the outfield, sophomore Bradley Per-lzweig starts between seniors Zach Stem-pler and Logan Grossman. All are strong defensively.

Heart of order to lead Lady Bulldogs

T he lack of a local youth league in recent years has contrib-uted to a

decline in par-ticipation in Hewlett’s soft-ball program, h oweve r t h e varsity should once again chal-lenge for the playoffs after falling one win shy last spring. “We’re facing a tougher schedule, but I think we’ll be able to compete,” coach Vinnie Lospinuso said. “We’re breaking in a young pitcher and should have a pretty good lineup.” At 3-4-5 in the batting order, the Lady Bulldogs feature junior All-County short-stop Amy Vitha (.417 average), senior Nicole Rizzo (first base), and senior All-Division catcher Sam Cancellarich. Vitha is a three-time award winner and the team’s leading hitter a year ago, and someone Lospinuso counts on heavily for offense and defense. Rizzo can “hit the ball a mile and play solid defense”, he said, and Cancellarich not only makes noise with the bat but can shutdown an opponents’ running game with a strong, accurate arm. Accuracy is the main thing Lospinuso would like sophomore pitcher Margaret Feldman to provide. Feldman helped lead the JV team to 10 wins last season. “We have a good defense behind her to take some pressure off, so throwing strikes is the priority,” he said. “Margaret can throw with pretty good speed and has some confi-dence from last year’s success on JV.” Junior Carly Rivlin brings three years of experience to third base, and she’s also the leadoff hitter. “She can get on base and do damage,” Lospinuso said. Junior Sammi Kenny, who played a utility role a year ago, is stepping into the full-time job at second base. Senior Sydney Rosenblum, the former starter at second, is now the anchor of the outfield in center. She’ll hit behind Riv-

lin in the No. 2 spot. “Sydney has a take-charge attitude and is quick,” said Lospi-nuso, who expects sophomores Jamie Gold-berg, Elisha Maloney and Diana Minerva to also contribute in the outfield. Hewlett faces Conference III rivals Carle Place, Garden City, Jericho, North Shore, Roslyn and Valley Stream North twice apiece.

Schedule

HEWLETTPitching provides Bulldogs with bite

SAM CANCELLARICHCATCHER

l -yoffs n shy

tougher nk we’ll be coach Vinnie We’re breaking and should have a ”batting order, the Ladyunior All-County short-(.417 average), senior

rst base), and senior her Sam Cancellarich. ime award winner and g hitter a year ago, and o counts on heavily for e. Rizzo can “hit the ball id defense”, he said, and only makes noise with utdown an opponents’ th a strong, accurate

main thing Lospinuso more pitcher Margaret e. Feldman helped lead wins last season. “We

nse behind her to take so throwing strikes is id. “Margaret can throw

peed and has some confi-r’s success on JV.”

ivlin brings three years hird base, and she’s also

“She can get on base Lospinuso said. Junior o played a utility role a ng into the full-time job

Rosenblum the former

Carle Place, Garden City, Jericho, North Shore, Roslyn and Valley Stream North twice apiece.

LUCIANO MORELLOPITCHER

BASEBALL

March 27 Plainedge 11:00 a.m.

April 1 @ New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m. 2 @ Garden City 4:30 p.m. 4 Wantagh 4:30 p.m. 8 Island Trees 4:30 p.m. 9 @ Floral Park 4:30 p.m. 11 North Shore 4:30 p.m. 15 @ Jericho 4:30 p.m. 16 West Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 22 @ Glen Cove 4:45 p.m. 23 Glen Cove 4:30 p.m. 25 @ Glen Cove 4:45 p.m. 29 Bethpage 4:30 p.m. 30 @ Bethpage 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Bethpage 4:30 p.m. 4 @ G.N. North 2:00 p.m. 6 G.N. North 4:30 p.m. 7 @ G.N. North 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALLApril 4 @ North Shore 4:30 p.m. 6 @ Jericho 10:00 a.m. 9 @ Garden City 4:30 p.m. 11 Carle Place 4:30 p.m. 15 Roslyn 4:30 p.m. 17 V.S. North 4:30 p.m. 22 North Shore 4:30 p.m. 24 Jericho 4:30 p.m. 26 Garden City 4:30 p.m. 30 @ Carle Place 4:30 p.m.

May 2 @ Roslyn 4:30 p.m. 6 @ V.S. North 4:30 p.m.

S11


munity Newspapers

6192

57

Hours: Wed.-Thurs. & Sun. 11:30-Midnight • Fri & Sat. 11:30 am - 1:00 am

A Long Island Family Tradition Since 1955

1580 Hempstead Turnpike • East Meadow794-0190

www.borrellisrestaurant.comDeliveryAvailable

g y

Borrelli’s

Come check out our NEW private roomthat holds up to 80 people!

The Original

$5On Purchase of

$30 or moreBORRELLI’S

Must present coupon before ordering. Cash only, no credit cards, with this coupon, one per table, not to be comined with any other offer. Expires 6/30/13.

Borrelli’s Borrelli’s

FREELarge Pie

TAKE OUT ONLYWith $25

minimum purchaseValue $13.50

OFFITALIAN RESTAURANT CAFE & PIZZERIA

T

All The WayKennedy Cougars



BY STEVE SINISKI

S uccess has become commonplace on the diamond where the Kennedy Cougars have advanced as far as

the Nassau Class AA Final Four in two of the last three seasons and earned playoff berths in six straight campaigns. Despite the loss of a large graduating class and the return of just three starters, however, the goals for the Cougars — 17-4 last year — haven’t changed. Much of that is because the program appears to be once again retooling, rather than rebuilding. “Once you start winning the kids real-ize there’s something to be said about what [the coaches] are talking about,” coach Eric Passman said. Senior lefty Jake Schwartz, who pitched a shutout against Carey to clinch the Con-ference AA-III title last season, is now a full-time member of the rotation where he’ll be joined by senior Michael McCor-mick, a spot starter as a junior. Senior Jus-tin Penchuck and junior Phil Basile are also vying for time in the rotation. It’s not going to take opponents long to discover Kennedy’s strength on offense, and giving people an advanced scouting report may not make much of a difference. “We have speed, speed, speed,” Passman said. “This is the fastest team I’ve ever had at Kennedy.” From top to bottom, the Cougars appear capable of generating runs with their legs. Junior John Austin Emory, eyeing time at second base or third base, looks to be one of the tablesetters for junior right field-er Justin Garcia, a slugger slated for one of the power slots. Junior John Cutinna, the fastest player on the team, is vying for time in left with sophomore Eric Pauly, while sophomore Joe Correo is in the mix at second and third base. McCormick plays shortstop. The Cougars also have a pair of catchers that have already turned some heads in sophomore John Hulkhower and freshman Reid Oreste, the latter a whiz with the glove. “We have a lot of good, young players that have impressed tremendously,” Pass-man said. “We’ve had a very good spring and good workouts.”

Experience a key for Lady Cougars

T he Lady Cougars return all but three players to a softball team that missed the Nassau Class AA playoffs because

of the tiebreaker rules. Of the 14 players on this year’s roster, seven play in an out-side league together meaning any success from that familiarity could be enough to push the team into the postseason. “The girls are motivated and I don’t question that in them,” coach Tom Pic-cirillo said. “They want to win.” Junior center fielder Lauren Sus-tad, an All-Conference honoree, returns not only one of the best arms in Confer-ence AA-III but also one of its biggest bats. The power hitter is slated to bat cleanup. The middle of the lineup is also expected to include senior third baseman Jamie Bennett, junior Alli-son Jones, a returning All-Conference first baseman, and freshman shortstop/pitcher Syd-ney Yormack, who also earned All-Conference honors. “We have a couple of power hitters mixed in [to the lineup] but every girl can hit,” Piccirillo said. The entire infield is back with fresh-man Sam Klein and Yormack forming a solid double-play combo on the days the shortstop isn’t pitching. When Yormack is in the circle, freshman Sam Simon will team up with Klein. Sophomore Missy Mavrogian is back in left, and the Lady Cougars have several players battling for time in right. Senior catcher Rebecca Tistocchi, who filled in behind the plate last season, is back as the starter where she’ll catch Yor-mack and senior Rebecca Ellison. Each of the pitchers gained experience in the circle last season and have similar strengths. Rather than relying on one pitch, both Yor-mack and Ellison have a mixture of pitch-es to keep batters off-balance. Kennedy remains in Conference AA-III but does gain a pair of new opponents with Herricks and Syosset coming aboard. “You have to be able to become a team even before you win that first game,” Piccirillo

said, noting the Lady Cougars have been focused on the campaign since the start of offseason training programs.

Schedule

BASEBALL

March 27 Mepham 10:30 a.m. 30 @ MacArthur 9:30 a.m.

April 1 Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 2 V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 8 Herricks 5:00 p.m. 9 @ Herricks 4:45 p.m. 11 Herricks 5:00 p.m. 15 @ Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 16 Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 18 @ Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 29 Carey 4:45 p.m. 30 @ Carey 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Care 4:45 p.m. 4 @ Elmont 2:00 p.m. 6 Elmont 4:30 p.m. 7 @ Elmont 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALLMarch 28 Port Washington 10:30 a.m.

April 3 Herricks 5:00 p.m. 5 Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 8 @ Syosset 4:30 p.m. 10 Hicksville 4:30 p.m. 12 @ Baldwin 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Plainview 4:30 p.m. 18 @ Farmingdale 4:30 p.m. 20 @ Herricks 10:00 a.m. 23 @ Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 25 Syosset 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Hicksville 4:30 p.m.

May 1 Baldwin 4:30 p.m. 3 Plainview 4:30 p.m. 6 Farmingdale 4:30 p.m.

KENNEDYCougars could be tough to catch

MIKE MCCORMICKSHORTSTOP

eason.and I don’t

ch Tom Pic-in.”auren Sus-ree, returns

ms in Confer-s biggest bats. o bat cleanup. also expected

seman

rs.power hitters every girl can

ck with fresh-ack forming a n the days the

When Yormack am Simon will omore Missy and the Lady rs battling for

Tistocchi, whoast season, is

he’ll catch Yor-lison. Each of ce in the circle lar strengths. itch, both Yor-

xture of pitch-.nference AA-

new opponents oming aboard.

me a team even ” Pi i ill

LAUREN SUSTADOUTFIELD

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S12

ADOPT A PETNORTH SHOREANIMAL LEAGUEAMERICA

North Shore Animal League America has the largest selection of animals for adoption.

OPEN DAILY FOR ADOPTIONS

25 Davis Avenue, Port Washington, NY

AnimalLeague.org516.883.7575

AA

6188

07

LAWRENCE

Photos by Kathy Leisnter


BY TONY BELLISSIMO

L awrence steps on the diamond this spring with many more questions than answers, and with a challeng-

ing schedule calling for three games apiece against conference rivals Lynbrook, Valley Stream South and Manhasset. Versatility is going to be a key, Golden Tornadoes coach Dennis Leonard said, as well as the leadership seniors Mike Papalardo, Michael Fragner and Florian Capobianco are expected to provide. “Over-all we’re very young, and most kids are going to be tested at a different level than they’re used to,” Leonard said. “They’re working hard, and we’ll see where all the pieces are going to fit. Where our most experienced guys are going to play will come down to what the new guys show at certain spots.” One thing is certain — Papalardo will serve as the ace of an otherwise unproven starting pitching staff. He’ll also start at shortstop or center field on non-throwing days and batted .333 last spring. “Mike’s a little big bigger and stronger, and he’s effective when he change speeds,” Leonard said. “He’s a competitor. He’s an accom-plished player and an obvious key to every-thing we do.” Fragner was the starting left fielder a year ago, but there’s a chance he could see time to first base and provide a big target for the rest of the infielders. He cracked a few homers in 2012 and brings gap power to the batter’s box, Leonard said. Capobianco, who wasn’t 100 percent healthy at this time last year due to a knee injury, is fully recovered and slated to start at catcher and hit in a run-producing spot in the lineup. “He’s a natural leader and our field general,” said Leonard, who has options to give Capobianco a rest at times with junior Joe Montilli, who can play third base, and sophomore James Notar-nicola, the JV starting catcher last season, in the fold. Junior Matt Greenwald is pushing for a spot in the starting rotation after a solid showing at the JV level. He’s not inclined to help the competition by issuing walks.

Lady Golden Tornadoes could make noise

S econd-year softball coach Matt Wynn is optimistic about Law-rence’s chances of a return to

the playoffs after it earned the No. 16 seed in Class A with a .500 con-ference record. “I think we can be better,” he said. “It was nice to get a taste of the playoffs, and we want to get back” Lawrence is set to face conference rivals Great Neck North, Lynbrook, Malverne and Roosevelt three times apiece. “We have a good mix of power, speed, pitching and defense,” Wynn said. Seniors will comprise the majority of their starters, but young hurler Emily DiNardi is sure to have an impact for the Lady Golden Tornadoes after adding some off-speed pitches to her arsenal. “She’s throwing harder with better location and can mix it up even more,” Wynn said. “She played a lot during the offseason and has thrown well since practice began.” The coach likes the chemistry between DiNardi and senior catcher Michelle Canales, a contact hitter with speed who’s worked hard to improve defensively. Of the other infield positions, only second base appears set with senior Stephanie Kendal returning. Senior Nikki Trento and freshman Gabby Jan are candidates at shortstop, seniors Sarah Noble and Alexa Lerman are in the mix at third base, and junior Rachel Golan and sophomore Bri-anna Curra are both likely to see time at first. “We’re a deeper team than we were last season,” Wynn said. The outfield is an area of strength. Senior captain Marisa Bou started every game last spring and anchors the group in center. “She’s a great athlete with a great attitude,” Wynn said of Bou, who is also a key to the lineup as the No. 3 hitter. Senior Kathryn Olmedo is a defensive standout in left and offensive table-setter near the top of the order, while Trento, Jan and fresh-man Dahlia Silverstein are possibilities in right. Trento and Noble are expected to contribute to an offense that produced con-sistently down the stretch a year ago.

Schedule

BASEBALL

April 1 Roslyn 4:30 p.m. 2 @ Mineola 4:30 p.m. 4 South Side 4:30 p.m. 8 @ V.S. North 4:30 p.m. 9 Clarke 4:45 p.m. 11 @ Seaford 4:30 p.m. 15 @ Division 4:30 p.m. 16 Plainedge 4:45 p.m. 22 @ Lynbrook 4:30 p.m. 23 Lynbrook 4:30 p.m. 25 @ Lynbrook 4:30 p.m. 29 V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 30 @ V.S. South 4:30 p.m.

May 2 V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 6 Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 7 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 2 Malverne 4:45 p.m. 4 @ Lynbrook 4:30 p.m. 6 Roosevelt 10:00 a.m. 8 @ G.N. North 4:30 p.m. 12 @ Malverne 4:30 p.m. 16 Lynbrook 4:30 p.m. 18 @ Roosevelt 4:30 p.m. 20 G.N. North 10:00 a.m. 25 Malverne 4:45 p.m. 29 @ Lynbrook 4:30 p.m.

May 1 Roosevelt 4:30 p.m. 3 @ G.N. North 4:30 p.m.

Golden Tornadoes lean on senior trio

MARISA BOUOUTFIELD

y ily he

me e’s nd he as

en lle o’s Of nd

nie to at xa nd ri-at

ast

h. ry in

eat o a or in op sh-es to

on- MIKE PAPALARDOPITCHER

S13


munity Newspapers

Call Frank Pignataro Today. 516-652-4233Let My 18 Years of Experience Work for You!

*Special Rates Offered For Those Affected by “Sandy.”

1025 Atlantic Ave. Baldwin, NY 11510Frank Pignataro

Broker/OwnerParlo Italiano

Spring is Here!Great Time to Sell or Buy a Home



BY TONY BELLISSIMO

L ong Beach climbed the ladder on the baseball diamond last spring, secur-ing four wins against conference

foes, and coach Jason Zizza is looking for the Marines to build off that mild taste of success. “Everyone’s positive about what’s going on,” Zizza said. “We’ve got a motivated group of kids and leadership in important areas. We’re excited to see what we can do against a little more manageable of a schedule.” The Marines will play conference rivals Carey, Bellmore-JFK, Herrick and Elmont three times apiece, and Zizza likes the idea of having a pair of seniors at the top of the pitching rotation as well as a veteran behind the plate. Andrew Judge is the No. 1 starter, Stephen Suskind is No. 2, and Matt Firpo returns at catcher. Judge is the workhorse of the staff and coming off a season where he not only threw well but also batted .300 with 10 RBIs and eight stolen bases. “He throws strikes and is resilient,” Zizza said. “We’re looking for him to go deep in games.” Suskind is a southpaw who can paint corners and fea-tures a strong curve ball. Like Judge, he’ll contribute in the outfield on non-pitching days. The third spot in the rotation will be up for grabs heading into April. Sophomore Eric Zeppa and junior Vin McParland were key parts of the JV pitching staff a year ago. Zeppa can also spell Firpo behind the plate or play third base. Junior Alec Der-narbeo, who had 15 hits and a .302 average, starts at the hot corner and will be the closer out of the bullpen. The coach expects a breakout year from Firpo, who will play football and base-ball at Wagner. According to Zizza, senior shortstop Jack Fagan was the team’s best overall player in 2012. He batted .339 and knocked in 13 runs. Junior Anthony Bianchini fills a void at second base, while senior Seamus Monghan and sophomore Tim Brosnan are in the mix at first.

Lady Marines face challenging road

T he first half of what promises to be a challenging schedule will serve as a learning experience for

a handful of newcomers for the Lady Marines, who return six players from a team that reached the Nassau Class AA semifinals. “Our roster is a mix [of veterans and new players],” coach Carmine Verde said. “It’s going to take a little time for the first-year varsity kids to get used to the speed and pressure of games.” Long Beach will once again tangle with the best competition the county has to offer, such as defending champion MacAr-thur, East Meadow, Massapequa, Mepham and Oceanside. “No matter what year it is, there’s never an easy game in this confer-ence,” Verde said. Having a two-time All-County perform-er in the pitching circle makes the Lady Marines dangerous. Senior captain Ashley Martin, who is bound for C.W. Post, has all the tools. “She’s got five different pitches and as much experience as anyone,” Verde said. “She’ll keep is in every game, and I told her to enjoy the ride.” Martin has a new receiver, junior Bri-anna Rivera, who played a solid first base last spring and hit well in the clutch. “I’m confident she’ll do a nice job behind the plate,” said Verde, who added Rivera is slated to bat in the clean-up spot. Leading off will be sophomore short-stop Kelsey Larson, who already has two years of varsity experience and All-County honors under her belt. She hit .350 last season and played near-flawless defense. “Kelsey’s a great hitter and fielder,” Verde said. Junior Heather Weinstein returns at second base after earning All-Division honors. She’s a steady fielder and hits the ball hard. Sophomore Rachel Brenner and eighth-grader Toniann Larson will both see innings at first base, while third could be handled by junior Jamie Morgenstern, sophomore Marisa Scandole or sophomore Emma Rovitz. Scandole, Rovitz and fellow sophs Lily Hornung and Casey Muirhead could also

fit in the outfield along with junior Tara Shouldis, a captain entering her third

year on varsity.

Schedule

BASEBALL

March 27 MacArthur 10:30 a.m. 30 @ V.S. Central 9:30 a.m.

April 1 Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 2 @ Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 4 @ Mepham 4:30 p.m. 8 @ Carey 4:45 p.m. 9 Carey 4:45 p.m. 11 @ Carey 4:45 p.m. 15 Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 18 Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 22 @ Elmont 4:45 p.m. 23 Elmont 4:30 p.m. 25 @ Elmont 4:45 p.m.

May 4 Herricks 2:00 p.m. 6 @ Herricks 4:45 p.m. 7 Herricks 5:00 p.m.

SOFTBALLMarch 28 @ Island Trees 10:00 a.m.

April 1 @ Seaford 4:45 p.m. 3 Massapequa 4:15 p.m. 5 East Meadow 4:45 p.m. 6 @ Hicksville 10:00 a.m. 8 Carey 4:30 p.m. 12 Mepham 4:30 p.m. 16 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 18 @ Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 20 @ Massapequa 10:00 a.m. 23 @ East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 25 @ Carey 4:30 p.m. 27 @ Syosset 10:00 a.m.

May 1 @ Mepham 4:30 p.m. 3 MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 6 Oceanside 4:30 p.m.

LONG BEACHMarines hope to continue climb

MATT FIRPOCATCHER

b R M f di

th to

Ar-am is, er-

m-dy ey all es de

d I

ri-se m he is

rt-wo ty

st .

”

s on he nd th

uld n, re

ily so

y yo

ASHLEY MARTINPITCHER

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S14

EIGHT TIME CONTRACTOR OF THE YEARE T CC YY

R.A. KrendelCONTRACTING, INC.LICENSED GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Major RenovationsBathrooms & Kitchens

Siding, Roofing, WindowsNARI Certified Remodeler &

NARI CertifiedKitchen & Bath

Remodeler

GoodLuckOwls

Photos by Susan Grieco


BY TOM JORDAN

E very spring brings change. That’s part of the cyclical nature of life, and a very big part of baseball.

A year ago, Lynbrook baseball coach Al Marazzo knew he could scribble Brian Bilello’s name onto his lineup card, and he’d be set behind the dish. Now, with Bilello having graduated, Marazzo has to choose between Joe Cappadona, Timmy Yale and Neil Connors as his new back-stop. Cappadona was outstanding for the junior-varsity last season, while Yale and Connors each spelled Bilello with the big club. All three are talented, hard work-ing and polite, which doesn’t leave much by which to distinguish them from one another. “It’s been that kind of spring,” Marazzo said. Just around the corner awaits regular-season competition, and this year the Owls play a brutal crossover schedule, includ-ing meetings with defending Nassau Class A champion Plainedge, Clarke, Valley Stream North, Seaford and Division. But the early part of the spring has been all about a different kind of competition, as several players vie for starting positions. The three catchers, along with Anthony Mackie, Matt Hardgadon, David Nunez, Eduardo Martinez and Brian Pavone are among those hoping to carve a niche, if not a starting assignment, on the 2013 Owls. “I just hope I’m smart enough to put them all in the right places,” said the self-effacing Marazza. “We have great kids, solid workers. They’re all positive repre-sentatives of our school.” It is not all question marks for the Owls, who count Austin Bilello, Chris and Nick Roepken, Paul Papandrew and Ian Reid among their core. Austin Bilello, who will start in right field and get some time on the mound, is a middle of the order threat with homerun power. Chris Roepken is a left-handed starter, his brother Nick a first baseman-pitcher-designated hitter. Both will bat in the heart of the order. Papandrew is a middle infielder who came up to varsity last season and, according to Marazzo, “made every play.” Reid pitched

in a lot of big games, and will again.

New conference for Lady Owls

K risti Tuzzio was a player Lynbrook coach Pete Toscano hoped would step into a prominent role last sea-

son, though the team was loaded with prominent stars. Tuzzio played outfield early, moved over to third base and con-tinued to impress. Now Tuzzio is one of Toscano’s stars. When the Lady Owls come to bat for the first time this season, their leadoff hitter will be Tuzzio. Batting second will be junior center fielder Megan Montine, a speedster, an excellent bunter and one of the team captains. She’ll be followed by some combination of Bridgette Greene, Kristy Harvey, Erica Con-nors, Julia Cusack, Izzy Sarlo and Georgia Krendel. The lineup is a lethal collection of speed and power. Lynbrook was a play-off team two years straight and won the Conference A-V championship before being bumped to A-III last season. This spring it will tangle with the likes of Law-rence, Malverne, Great Neck North and Roosevelt three times apiece. Greene, also a captain, was an All-Conference selection while playing outfield, first base and pitch-er. Harvey is the team’s short-stop and perhaps its hardest hit-ter. Connors, like Tuzzio, was just a hopeful at this time last year. Like Tuzzio, she went out and earned a starting spot – catcher. Cusack is a second-year starter at second base. Sarlo and Krendel are fresh-men ready to contribute. Sarlo is expected to grab a starting spot in the outfield, and Krendel plays first base. “We have enough talent to compete for the conference,” Toscano said. “We have some returning players from when we went to the playoffs two years ago, as well as some new players.” Toscano has a set squad, with the exception some spots in the outfield that have not yet been claimed. What

he does not have is a big-time pitcher. “We’re going to use a couple of girls there. We’ll have to move people around,” he said. “It’s all about throwing strikes.” Toscano also expects his team to help the pitchers by playing well defensively.

Schedule

BASEBALL

April 1 @ Mineola 4:15 p.m. 2 Division 4:15 p.m. 4 @ V.S. North 4:30 p.m. 8 @ Plainedge 4:30 p.m. 9 @ Roslyn 4:15 p.m. 11 South Side 4:30 p.m. 15 Clarke 4:45 p.m. 16 Seaford 4:45 p.m. 22 Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 23 @ Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 25 Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 30 Manhasset 4:30 p.m.

May 2 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 4 V.S. South 2:00 p.m. 6 @ V.S. South 4:15 p.m. 7 V.S. South 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 2 @ G.N. North 4:30 p.m. 4 Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 6 @ Malverne 10:00 a.m. 10 Roosevelt 4:30 p.m. 12 G.N. North 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 18 Malverne 4:45 p.m. 23 @ Roosevelt 4:15 p.m. 25 @ G.N. North 4:30 p.m. 29 Lawrence 4:30 p.m.

May 1 @ Malverne 4:30 p.m. 6 Roosevelt 4:30 p.m.

LYNBROOKOwls have plenty of pieces

BRIDGET GREENEOUTFIELD

rt-t hit-as just a Like Tuzzio,

tarting spot – ear starter at del are fresh-lo is expected outfield, and

o compete for id. “We have

om when we ago, as well

with the e outfield

med. What

zio is one of Lady Owls

this season, zzio.nior center peedster,

e of the llowed dgette Con-and

p is nd y-

ht V

AUSTIN BILELLOPITCHER

S15


munity Newspapers

Super Storm Sandy Victim? We Can Help!

A U T H O R I Z E D

P R O V I D E R

Wolfsohn Financial Services, Inc.153 Broadway • Lynbrook, NY 11563 • (516) 887-7380 •www.wolfsohn.biz



BY TONY BELLISSIMO

T he Mules took some steps forward last season and were not only com-petitive but reached the Nassau

Class B baseball playoffs. Now coach Tim Young will try to keep the success going after the graduation of nine players, many of whom were starters. “It was a good year and we’re looking to build off it,” Young said. “The work ethic of the group we brought back is tremen-dous. The kids are determined and want to make their own mark. Every day, they want to do what it takes to be successful.” Malverne’s roster is loaded with youth but still headlined by a senior. Pitcher/outfielder Dominick Gandolfo picked up two wins on the mound last season with an ERA under three runs per game. The three-year varsity performer features a fastball and several off-speed pitches, Young said. Gandolfo, who smacked a few homers a year ago, also serves as the No. 3 hitter in the lineup. Big things are expected this spring and down the road from sophomore pitcher/shortstop Steven Berry, who despite miss-ing half of last season with an injury picked up two wins and swung a smooth bat. “Defensively, he’s a mainstay,” Young said. “He’s very strong with the glove and arm. He grew about four inches in the past year and is developing as a hitter.” Tyler Michaels moved into the rota-tion after Berry was hurt last season and is expected to spend his senior year as the No. 3. “Tyler has a rubber arm and can eat up a lot of innings,” Young said. “He’s got a real good curve and relies on location.” Junior Tyler Zimmerman is a return-ing starter at second base and a key to the middle of the lineup. Sophomore Kyle Richard gets the nod at third, while junior Steven Gandolfo takes over at first. Junior Michael Merola and sopho-more Wyatt Michaels are likely to share catching duties, and the outfield added juniors Tyler McKeever and Bryan Rung, as well as sophomore Brendan O’Reilly.

Lady Mules fueled by young talent

Y outh is served on Malverne’s softball field, where coach Jennifer Gibbons is likely to have only one senior con-

tributor — Kelana Walters —among a line-up loaded with juniors and sophomores. “We only have four returning play-ers, but a lot of promise,” Gibbons said. “It’s a great group of kids who are easy to work with. We’ve got some tough non-league games to get us ready for the conference schedule.” The Lady Mules will face Lyn-brook, Lawrence, Great Neck North and Roosevelt in conference play. The outfield is their biggest area of strength, Gibbons said. The starting group returns intact and has speed to burn. From left to right, it’s juniors Jes-sica Findlayter, Shantell Oliver, and Rac-quelle Findlayter. “They played out there last year and cover so much ground with their speed,” Gibbons explained. “Offen-sively, I’m looking for them to get on base and be aggressive runners.” Opponents won’t have an easy time reaching base with sophomore pitcher Sydney Witowski dialing up the strike zone. Already in her third varsity cam-paign, Witowski has more zip on the fast-ball and plenty of diversity in her arsenal. She’ll also look to help her own cause by anchoring the offense from the No. 3 or clean-up spot. “She’s a serious competi-tor,” Gibbons said. “I think she’ll do great again.” Sophomore shortstop Kym Danns assumed a starting role early last season and made the most of it. She cracked a couple of clutch homers and will bat in the heart of the order — either No. 3 or clean-up depending where Witowski is slotted. “Kym is more comfortable and confident this year,” Gibbons said. “I’m expecting big things.” The rest of the infield is young but screams potential. Sophomore Ash-ley Marshall is at first base, sophomore Courtney Moore takes over at second, and sophomore Michelle Kretz will be at third. Moore is slated to be the team’s leadoff

batter. Behind the plate, it’ll be Walters or junior Kayisha Ulysse.

Schedule

BASEBALL

April 1 Friends Aca. 4:30 p.m. 2 @ Friends Aca. 4:45 p.m. 4 East Rockaway 4:30 p.m. 8 @ East Rockaway 4:45 p.m. 9 Carle Place 4:30 p.m. 11 @ Carle Place 4:45 p.m. 15 Oyster Bay 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Oyster Bay 4:45 p.m. 22 @ Locust Valley 4:45 p.m. 23 Locust Valley 4:30 p.m. 25 @ Locust Valley 4:45 p.m. 29 C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m. 30 @ C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m.

May 2 C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m. 4 Wheatley 2:00 p.m. 6 @ Wheatley 4:45 p.m. 7 Wheatley 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 2 @ Lawrence 4:45 p.m. 4 Wheatley 4:30 p.m. 6 Lynbrook 10:00 a.m. 8 @ Roosevelt 4:45 p.m. 10 G.N. North 4:30 p.m. 12 Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 18 @ Lynbrook 4:45 p.m. 20 Roosevelt 10:00 a.m. 23 @ G.N. North 4:45 p.m. 25 @ Lawrence 4:45 p.m.

May 1 Lynbrook 4:30 p.m. 3 @ Roosevelt 4:45 p.m. 6 G.N. North 4:30 p.m.

MALVERNEMules seek more of the same

DOM GANDOLFOOUTFIELD

f g to

Jes-Rac-here with ffen-base

ime cherrike

cam-fast-

enal. e by 3 or peti-great

nns ason ed a

n the ean-tted. dent g big

but Ash-more

and hird. doff

SYDNEY WITOWSKIPITCHER

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S16

SIGN UP FOR

SUMMERCAMP NOW!



BY STEVE SINISKI

T here’s a bit of a transformation at Mepham, where the Pirates, own-ers of six straight appearances in

the Nassau Class AA baseball playoffs, are becoming a little more reliant on pitch-ing and small ball rather than the home run. “It’s a different approach,” coach Bill Murphy said. “We may be more active out on the basepaths because we do have guys that can run, and execution will be a key.” Senior Joey Pedone, entering his third season as the starting shortstop, is among the speedsters ready to create trouble for opposing pitchers, as is senior Tommy Brodsky, who’s slated to play a corner infield position. Senior Shane Agostino, a returning starter and one of 10 Pirates back from last season, is also among the burners along with senior center fielder Tyler Beale. First baseman Dominick Bove is a perfect fit for the offense because he’s a good contact hitter. The pitching staff has some promising arms with senior All-Conference returnee Brian Helft leading the way. To say control is his strength would be an understate-ment after he issued just five free passes in 36 innings with a healthy 20 strikeouts. “He has [strong] control and is able to hit his spots and change his speeds very effec-tively,” Murphy said. Senior Jason Foley is a perfect comple-ment, because he’s a power pitcher that will give opponents quite a different look the day after Helft takes the mound. Senior Steven Troise, logged innings as a spot starter and out of the bullpen and is in the mix for work in the rotation. The Pirates also have a trio of juniors battling for time on the mound in Reed Gonsowski, Patrick Leonard and Dylan Stock, all of whom pitched for Mepham’s JV squad last sea-son. Murphy has three players battling for playing time at catcher in senior Ryan Baranek, Stock and junior Ben Hoffman. “I think we’re going to rely more on pitching and defense and we’re excited about what we see,” Murphy said. The Pirates will compete in a confer-ence with Calhoun, MacArthur, Valley Stream Central and Port Washington.

Returnees hold key for Lady Pirates

T he Lady Pirates welcome back sev-eral key components on the softball field, including junior Toni Marie

Valeriano, an All-Conference honoree, in the circle. Senior Mary Galgano, an All-Division catcher/outfielder, and senior Alexis Ferrero, an All-Conference desig-nated hitter, also return to a Mepham team that faces some of the stiffest competition in Nassau County while playing in Confer-ence AA-I. “We hope all the pieces fall in the right spot and we get some hitting,” coach Mike Muscara said of his team, which also features a host of younger play-ers that gained experience last season as underclassmen. “It’s a world of dif-ference between junior varsity and var-sity pitching, and some of the girls found that out last season so they have that year under their belt.” After missing a chunk of last season because of an injury, the goal is to keep Valeriano fresh and healthy, while also working in several newcomers across the field. “She’s the key to the pitching staff,” Muscara said of his ace. When Valeriano isn’t pitching, she’ll play first base, with returning junior Christine Rizzacasa at second base. Kelcey Taylor, another veteran junior, is back at shortstop, and classmate Amanda Fucci, whose playing time increased as last sea-son unfolded, is slated to again lockdown the hot corner. “Our infield is pretty good, and we’re strong up the middle,” Muscara said. The outfield has a number of play-ers ready to contribute both offensively and defensively, including senior Kikki Jones, who missed most of last sea-son because of injury, and potentially Galgano if she isn’t behind the plate and Rizzacasa, also capable of play-ing multiple positions. Ferrero is the big bat anchoring a Mepham lineup that’s going center more on manufacturing runs than waiting for the big home run, in a conference that’s loaded with frontline starting pitchers. “If the kids hit and we can get some good

defense [we’re on the right track], “ Mus-cara said. “Hopefully we’ll be right in the middle of the pack.”

Schedule

BASEBALL

March 27 @ Kennedy 10:30 a.m. 28 Carey 10:30 a.m.

April 1 @ Elmont 10:30 a.m. 2 Herricks 4:45 p.m. 4 Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 8 MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 9 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 11 MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 15 @ V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. 16 V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. 18 @ V.S. Central 4:30 p.m. 29 Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 30 @ Calhoun 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Port Washington 2:00 p.m. 6 Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 7 @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 3 @ Carey 4:30 p.m. 8 East Meadow 4:45 p.m. 10 Massapequa 4:30 p.m. 12 @ Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 18 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 25 @ East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 27 Carey 10:30 a.m. 29 @ Massapequa 4:30 p.m.

May 1 Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 3 Oceanside 4:30 p.m. 6 MacArthur 4:30 p.m.

MEPHAMPirates will rely on pitching

TONI VALERIANOPITCHER

a e r s .

-m n -

o e ”

l r y t , -

n ,

a

-y

JASON FOLEYPITCHER

S17


munity Newspapers

- FULLY LICENSED and ACCREDITED STAFF AVAILABLE 24 HOURS DAY

- PRE-NEED COUNSELING and PRE-ARRANGEMENTS- OVERSIZED PARKING AREAS

- RESPECTFULLY SERVING FAMILIES OF ALL FAITHS- PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AT ANY HOUR- LOUNGE and GARDEN AREAS

Stay Strong Oceanside~ Family Owned and Operated ~

Lets Go Sailors

Traditionally Serving the Families of Oceanside and Long Island With Personal Care and Dignity Since 1933

towersfuneralhomeny.com



BY TONY BELLISSIMO

C oming off a rare non-playoff sea-son, Oceanside will try to get back to its winning ways on the baseball

diamond with a mix of returning starters and newcomers up from the JV level. Also making a move to the varsity field is coach Mike Postillo, who coached the majority of Sailors in recent years and is excited about this year’s outlook. “I’m very optimistic,” he said. “We have a lot of tal-ented and experienced seniors along with a strong junior class. Our goal is to win the co nference.”The starting pitching staff is a work in progress, with senior James Long the lone hurler with varsity innings under his belt, but Postillo is confident it’ll come together nicely. “We don’t want any of our pitchers going deep in the count,” he said. “James is our most experienced pitcher, and I think all the juniors coming up will be fine. The staff has good charac-ter and works hard as a whole.” The 6-foot-5 left-handed Long features an array of pitches and keeps the ball down in the strike zone. Junior Jake San-tamaria, the No. 2 starter on last year’s JV, is another lefty with a style similar to Long, who is headed to C.W. Post. Last year’s top JV arm, junior right-hander Chris Hood, brings a solid fastball and curve. Junior southpaw Thomas Pallatto could crack the rotation or be a key out of the bullpen, while junior righty Patrick Broder can start or work in relief. Helping the pitchers’ cause will be senior Brian Lau, who Postillo said is one of the most accomplished catchers to come through the program. “He’s got a rifle arm and is a smart hitter,” Postillo said of the St. Joseph’s (PA) bound Lau. Five starters return between the infield and outfield. Seniors Connor Pas-etti (second base), Francis Rapp (third base) and Andrew Hauser (first base) are joined in the infield by junior short-stop Tom Moran, while seniors Jason Weiner (.320 average, three homers) and Dan Lombardo spearhead the outfield.

New battery for Lady Sailors

T he departure of their All-County bat-tery from a year ago — pitcher Ash-ley Davis and catcher Nicole Milano

— presents the Lady Sailors with quite a challenge but the cupboard isn’t bare for coach Joe Supple. “We have some young players stepping into big spots and probably only two senior starters, but this is a team that’s going to grow as the season moves on,” Supple said. “We’ll compete in every game.” Junior Paige Seitz gets the nod in the pitching circle and pos-sesses a strong and accu-rate arm. A three-sport athlete, she had an excel-lent 2011 season at the JV level before serving as Davis’ back-up last spring. “Paige is throw-ing with confi-dence,” Supple said. “She knows how to mix pitch-es and keeps the ball around the plate.” F l a s h i n g t h e signals to Seitz will be freshman catch-er Grace Bandini, who’ll also bat third in the lineup. “We’re ask-ing a lot of Grace, but I think she’ll handle the pressure well,” Supple said. “Talent-wise, she’ won’t be out of place. The ceiling is very high for her.” Five full-time start-ers return for Oceanside, which will again dance with the best teams in the county again. Sopho-more shortstop Claire McNamara comes off a phenomenal rookie

campaign that saw her earn All-County honors, thanks in large part to stellar defense. She’ll also spark the offense from the leadoff position. Twin sister Megan moves from left field to center, where her speed is sure to come in handy. “They’re both tremendous athletes,” Supple said. Senior Kristen Gallub moves from right field to left after earning All-Division hon-ors. A left-handed spray hitter from the No. 2 spot, she wielded a hot bat down the stretch last season and is expected to pick up where she left off. Freshman Taylor

Eisel takes over in right. Juniors Ellen Derr and Jeannie Callanan are returning starters at sec-ond and third base, respectively, and also keys to the lineup. Senior Ange-

la Grassi’s strong glove moves from behind the plate to first base.

Schedule

BASEBALL

March 27 Syosset 10:30 a.m.

April 1 Uniondale 4:30 p.m. 2 @ Farmingdale 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Freeport 4:30 p.m. 11 @ Massapequa 7:30 p.m. 15 @ Plainview 4:30 p.m. 16 Plainview 4:30 p.m. 18 Plainview 4:30 p.m. 22 Hicksville 4:30 p.m. 23 @ Hicksville 4:30 p.m. 25 Hicksville 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Baldwin 4:30 p.m. 30 Baldwin 4:30 p.m.

May 2 @ Baldwin 4:30 p.m. 4 East Meadow 2:00 p.m. 6 @ East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 7 East Meadow 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

March 28 Oyster Bay 10:30 a.m.

April 5 @ Carey 4:30 p.m. 8 @ Massapequa 4:30 p.m. 10 @ East Meadow 4:30 p.m. 12 MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 16 Mepham 4:30 p.m. 18 Long Beach 4:30 p.m. 19 Baldwin 7:00 p.m. 23 Carey 4:30 p.m. 25 Massapequa 4:30 p.m. 29 East Meadow 4:45 p.m.

May 1 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 3 @ Mepham 4:30 p.m. 6 @ Long Beach 4:30 p.m.

OCEANSIDESailors eye return to playoffs

BRIAN LAUCATCHER

n k-

ut I the

ppleshe’ . The

r her.”start-nside, dance

n the ho-re ff kie

Eisel takes over in right.Juniors Ellen Derr and Jeannie

Callanan are returning starters at sec-ond and third base, respectively, and also keys to the lineup. Senior Ange-

la Grassi’s strong glove moves from behind the plate to first base.

Ma 28

Ap 5 8 10 12 16 18 19 23

2525222 2222299

MMMMa 1 3 6

accu-sport xcel-

KRISTEN GALLUBOUTFIELD

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S18

Morania EnergyPremium Heating Oil • Service Plans • Est. 1937

GO SEWANHAKA INDIANS

Call Today!!

516.679.2000

PRE-SEASON

SPECIAL & AC Too Any Air Conditioning Job

including Ductless Systems!Must book job before 4/15/13

20% OFFPhotos by Janette Pellegrini


BY ANDREW MCCLURE

S ix seniors return for Sewanhaka on the baseball diamond in 2013. The Indians, who finished with a record

of 10-8 in the Nassau Countywide Confer-ence, will battle Hempstead, Great Neck South, Westbury, and Roosevelt in league play. Sewanhaka and defending conference champion Great Neck South should both be in the hunt for league supremacy. Despite having only 13 players on the roster, coach Mike Ryan is hopeful his strong group of seniors will carry the team. “I’m counting on the seniors to propel us to a little better result than we came up with last season,” Ryan said. “We return a group of players who have experi-ence, and who have performed well at the varsity level.”

Captain Mike Zunno, who hit over .320 as a junior, returns at shortstop for the Indians. Zunno will bat leadoff and serve as one of Sewanhaka’s table setters. Senior second baseman Brian Murphy forms a solid middle infield with Zunno. Murphy, who is the number two starter, will be counted on to knock in runs from the three hole.

Nicholas Dempsey is the ace of the pitching staff. Dempsey, who went 5-2 as a junior with an ERA slightly over 2.00, has an excellent fastball and good command of his curve. Dempsey is versatile enough to play infield or outfield when he’s not pitching. He will likely bat second. Sopho-more southpaw Michael Parasconda will be the third starter and the everyday cen-ter fielder.

Junior catcher Kevin Ocampo hit .350 in 2012. He’ll occupy a spot in the middle of the order. Ocampo is a solid backstop with improved arm strength. The Indians expect to get power from Manny Nunez. The senior left fielder should be one of Sewanhaka’s top RBI guys.

Ryan Byrne, a senior right fielder who hit over .400, and senior third baseman Nick Bevilaqua, a player who came on strong in the second half of the season, both should have plenty of opportunities to knock in runs.

Strong battery charges Lady Indians

S ewanhaka softball returns its start-ing battery and a few young starters with varsity experience under their

belts. The Lady Indians, who compiled a 9-3 record and won the Conference ABC-IV title in 2012, move to a new league. They will battle with East Rockaway, Valley Stream South, Cold Spring Harbor, Wheat-ley, Manhasset, and West Hempstead. Despite having to fill numerous holes, and not having a lot of depth, coach Deirdre Kelly is optimistic about her team. “The girls know that expec-tations are always high on the softball field for Sewanhaka,” Kelly said. “If we’re going to be successful, we’re going to have to play very well on defense, play some small ball, be smart on the bases, and be one of those scrappy teams that hang around every game.” Senior catcher Rachel Wisniewski, an All-Conference honoree in back-to-back seasons, is an outstanding defensive player with a big bat. Wisniewski hit .375 and led the Lady Indians in extra-base hits and RBI last spring. Senior pitcher Cassidy Johnson, a sev-en-game winner in 2012, doesn’t blow bat-ters away, but is always around the plate, and keeps hitters off-balance with crafty pitching. Freshman Jancarla Herrera, an All-Conference honoree as an eighth-grader, is a tremendous center fielder, and will be the catalyst for Sewanhaka’s offensive attack. Herrera is a switch hitter who likes to slap and run, and she has a little more pop in her bat compared to last year. Kelly will use a platoon system at first base. Junior Jenna Sanfilippo and senior Kari Mavrovouniotis, who are both solid with the glove and can handle the bat well, are both very capable at first base. Kelly was hoping for big things from Sabrina Spiridigliozzi, but the junior outfielder is out with a knee injury suffered during soc-cer season. Spiridigliozzi hopes to return to the lineup midway through the season.

Senior Taylor Filippi steps in at short-stop, and sophomore Jill Filippi is an excellent defensive third baseman and a good contact hitter.

Schedule

BASEBALL

March 27 @ Hempstead 10:30 a.m. 30 Hempstead 9:30 a.m.

April 1 @ Roosevelt 4:30 p.m. 2 Roosevelt 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Roosevelt 4:30 p.m. 9 Elmont 4:30 p.m. 15 Westbury 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Westbury 4:30 p.m. 18 Westbury 4:30 p.m. 22 @ G.N. South 4:30 p.m. 23 G.N. South 4:30 p.m. 25 @ G.N. South 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 30 Roosevelt 4:30 p.m.

May 6 @ Westbury 4:30 p.m. 7 G.N. South 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 2 @ East Rockaway 4:30 p.m. 4 Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 6 @ C.S. Harbor 10:00 a.m. 9 @ Wheatley 4:30 p.m. 15 V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 17 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 19 East Rockaway 4:30 p.m. 24 C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m. 26 Wheatley 4:30 p.m. 27 @ Manhasset 10:00 a.m.

May 2 @ V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 6 West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

SEWANHAKASeniors hold key for Indians

RACHEL WISNIEWSKICATCHER

y ”ski, an o-back player

and ledts and

a sev-w bat-plate,

crafty

an All-ader, is

be the attack. to slap pop in

em at and

re

h

Wheat.holes, ch r

MIKE ZUNNOSHORTSTOP

S19


munity Newspapers

6161

30

GUYS CAN SHINE ON PROM NIGHT TOO

234 Sunrise Hwy, Rockville Centre • 516.678.3555Shop Early for Best Selection!

Limited Quantities for this Promo

$6999 Jacket, Pants, Shirt,

Black Vest & Tie

FOR MONEY SAVING COUPONS:advanceformalwear.com • rvctux.com

Includes:

Starting At

Advance Formal WearOPEN 7 DAYS

SOUTH SIDE



BY TONY BELLISSIMO

A fter spending six years as an assistant on South Side’s baseball coaching staff, Tim Smith takes

over a varsity team coming off a big sea-son and loaded with talent. The Cyclones won a conference title and 13 straight games, and reached the Nassau Class A semifinals where they lost a tough series to eventual county champion Plainedge. “We had an outstanding season,” said Smith, who worked under Keith Lessuk, “and we’re looking to make another run for the county title. We have a great deal of offense with the top half of the lineup returning, and our pitching can be very good.” Few teams, if any, will be able to match South Side’s hitting prowess in the No. 3 and leadoff spots. Senior third baseman Louis Matarazzo, an All-County and sec-ond team All-State selection, batted .474 and drove in 20 runs in 2012 despite being walked 18 times, including 10 intentionally. He’ll have plenty of run-producing oppor-tunities again with senior center fielder David Hawley, an All-Conference selection, setting the tone at the top of the order. “Lou is one of the most feared hitters on Long Island,” Smith said of Matarazzo, who will serve as the closer out of the bull-pen. “Fourteen of his 22 hits were extra bases.” The coach expects Hawley to “drive pitchers crazy” and wreak havoc on the bases after swiping 24 bags a year ago. “David’s always on base and gets to every-thing in the outfield,” he said. Senior Eddie Tamarro is another speedy outfielder with all the tools. He earned All-League honors and returns to right, while senior Jeremy Ramirez and junior Dan Iavronne work in left. Senior All-Conference shortstop Ed Farington heads the pitching staff (5-1 record last year) and anchors the infield defense along with senior second baseman Ben Hoefer, who had three homers and 20 RBIs. Senior Harrison Park takes over catching duties. Hard-throwing sophomores Sal Miran-da and Andrew Misiaszek were standouts at the JV level last spring and join Faring-ton in the starting rotation.

Tougher tests for Lady Cyclones

L ast season was a roller coaster ride on the softball field for the Lady Cyclones, who finished 5-7 in con-

ference play and just missed the Class A playoffs because of three losses by the slimmest of margins. Still, they’ve been bumped up to face tougher competition in 2013. “The numbers in the program are up to about 30, so we’ve started off on the right foot,” coach Shannon McEntee said. “We don’t have any seniors, but we’ve got some promising young players and a tremen-dous pitcher.” Junior hurler Sam Maselli is the big-gest reason South Side moved up to Confer-ence ABC-II, McEntee said. “Other coaches viewed her as one of the better pitchers coming back and thought we could han-dle facing stronger teams,” McEntee said. “Sam’s a huge asset. She’s got a perfect game and a few no-hitters already, and she’s a strikeout pitcher.” Maselli’s control improved last spring, and she dominated at times. She also pos-sesses good bat control at the plate and will be asked to help her own cause at the top of the lineup. Her bat-tery mate, sophomore catcher Lia Stamile, also returns and made a name for herself last season. McEntee said both players are captains. “Lia’s passionate about the sport and contributes a lot offensively and defen-sively,” she said. “Not a lot gets by her behind the plate, and she’s a solid left-handed hitter with power to drive the ball.” While star ting spots at first and third base are up in the air, the Lady C yc l o n e s w i l l count on junior Allison DeNic-ola to anchor t h e m i d d l e of the infield from the short

stop or second base position. “She’s a ver-satile fielder we can use in either spot,” McEntee said. “She’s aware of game situa-tions and always makes a smart decision.” One outfield spot is up for grabs, and two may be filled by sophomores. Speedy Caroline Joyce is a returning starter capable of playing center or left, and Tara O’Leary comes off a tremendous year with the bat for the JV team.

Schedule

BASEBALL

April 1 Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 2 V.S. North 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 8 Seaford 4:45 p.m. 11 @ Lynbrook 4:30 p.m. 12 @ V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 15 @ Mineola 4:30 p.m. 16 Clarke 4:45 p.m. 22 @ Division 4:30 p.m. 23 Division 4:45 p.m. 25 @ Division 4:30 p.m. 29 Plainedge 4:45 p.m. 30 @ Plainedge 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Plainedge 4:45 p.m. 4 @ Roslyn 2:30 p.m. 6 Roslyn 4:30 p.m. 7 @ Roslyn 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 2 @ Oyster Bay 4:45 p.m. 6 Mineola 10:30 a.m. 9 Division 4:45 p.m. 11 Floral Park 4:30 p.m. 13 @ Garden City 2:00 p.m. 15 @ Locust Valley 4:45 p.m. 17 @ New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m. 19 Oyster Bay 4:45 p.m. 24 @ Mineola 4:15 p.m. 26 @ Division 4:30 p.m. 30 @ Floral Park 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Locust Valley 4:30 p.m. 6 New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m.

Cyclones boast talented lineup

thought we could han-r teams,” McEntee said. set. She’s got a perfect no-hitters already, and tcher.”ol improved last spring,

at times. She also pos-ntrol at the plate and elp her own cause lineup. Her bat-ore catcher Lia rns and made f last season. h players are

passionate d contributes and defen-Not a lot nd the solid

with the

ng nd in y

15 @ Lo 17 @ Ne 19 Oyste 24 @ Mi 26 @ Div 30 @ Flo

May 2 Locus 6 New H

LIA STAMILECATCHER

DAVID HAWLEY OUTFIELD

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S20

SUNDAY MORNING • SUNDAY EVENING • WEEKNIGHTSLIGHTED FIELDS • OUR 35th YEAR!

MEN’S SOFTBALL Inwood Park • N. Woodmere Park • Bay Park

CALL Tony @516-256-7799 or 516-707-4061www.classicsoftball.com

CLASSIC SOFTBALL LEAGUENASSAU COUNTY DIVISIONS

GO E

AGLE

S!

Hit a H

ome R

un

to a

Win

ning

Seaso

n!



BY ANDREW HACKMACK

T he Valley Stream Central base-ball team graduated eight seniors, including seven starters. Normally

that might concern a coach, but Frank Ale-sia is thrilled about his young talent. The Eagles will have four sophomores starting. Of them, only one has experi-ence on varsity. Vito Friscia, previously a first baseman, will be the starting catcher as well as the cleanup hitter. “He’s just an unbelievable hitter,” Alesia said. “He’s going to be the premier player for the next three years.” Alesia said it was group decision to move Friscia behind the plate, largely because of his potential to someday play at a Division I college. Friscia has put full effort into learning the position, the coach said. Friscia’s classmates Joe Picillo, Cain Ruiz and Michael Ciullo are also slated for everyday play. Picillo pitches and plays center field. Alesia said what Picillo lacks in size, he makes up for in ability and heart. “He’s going to be dirty every game,” Alesia said. “He’s one of those kids that you just love when he puts on the uni-form.” Ruiz, a shortstop, possesses a strong arm and loves the game. Ciullo, the third baseman, has soft hands, plays great defense is a gap-to-gap hitter, Alesia said. Also new to the team is Kevin Goldman, a transfer from South. Alesia envisions Goldman splitting pitching and center field duties with Picillo. Junior Angel Acevedo and senior Bran-don Wilder round out the pitching staff and both also play first base. Acevedo is an unknown and could be a threat, Alesia said. Wilder is the senior leader, but the coach says this year’s Eagles belongs to the young players. “These guys that are com-ing up are serious baseball players,” he said. Central opens the season against Elmont. Alesia is particularly excited for matchups against Class AA powerhouses MacArthur and Calhoun, which Alesia says will be the true test for the young

Eagles. “I’m looking forward to those two series,” he said, “because that’s going to kind of let us know where we are.”

Playoff aspirations for Lady Eagles

T he Lady Eagles return most of their starters to the softball field, when the team fell a win short of making

the playoffs. Coach Artie Riccio says he is excited for the upcoming season because of the team’s ability to score a lot of runs, and believes a playoff run is in the cards. “This is probably the best hitting team I’ve had in years,” he said. “I don’t have a weak batter in the lineup.” It will all start with lead-off hitter Randi Ruderman, a soph-omore. This is the shortstop’s second year on varsity and Riccio praised her leadership and knowledge of the game. “She’s another coach out there,” he said. Riccio expects freshman Tiffany Lon-garzo to pitch every inning. He said she has developed a solid drop pitch and screw-ball, and is working on her curve. Not only should she a force on the mound, he said, but opposing pitchers should fear her bat. Catching Longarzo will be Jasmine Gar-den, a sophomore with a strong arm. Rounding out the infield will be senior Jessica Malfa at first base, senior Veronica Bulbalo at second and junior Nia-Mia Out-law at the hot corner. All are returning players. Malfa scoops the ball well, Bulbalo is a slick fielder and Outlaw has a power bat, Riccio said. The outfield consists of two returning players and one newcomer. Seniors Prisci-lia Pena and Ashley Garcia will be in left and right, respectively. Sophomore Kayla Diedrick, in her first year on varsity, will patrol center. Riccio said he has not yet determined the clean-up hitter, but it will be between the power bats of Garden, Longarzo or Diedrick. He plans to bat the speedy Pena ninth to turn the lineup over to Ruderman, who bunts well and usually puts the ball in play. The Lady Eagles will play two games

against each of seven conference oppo-nents. Riccio said he is looking forward to seeing how the Lady Eagles stack up against Freeport, Port Washington and Uniondale.

Schedule

BASEBALL

March 27 @ Elmont 10:30 a.m. 30 Long Beach 9:30 a.m.

April 1 @ Carey 10:30 a.m. 2 Kennedy 4:30 p.m. 4 Herricks 5:00 p.m. 8 @ Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 9 Calhoun 4:30 p.m. 11 @ Calhoun 4:45 p.m. 15 Mepham 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Mepham 4:30 p.m. 18 Mepham 4:30 p.m. 22 @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m. 23 Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 25 @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m.

May 4 MacArthur 2:00 p.m. 6 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m. 7 MacArthur 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 3 @ Freeport 4:30 p.m. 5 @ Uniondale 4:30 p.m. 8 Westbury 4:30 p.m. 10 Elmont 4:30 p.m. 12 @ Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 16 Port Washington 4:45 p.m. 18 @ G.N. South 4:30 p.m. 20 Freeport 10:00 a.m. 23 Uniondale 4:30 p.m. 25 @ Westbury 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Elmont 4:30 p.m.

May 1 Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 3 @ Port Washington 4:30 p.m. 6 @ G.N. South 4:30 p.m.

V.S. CENTRALYoung talent to lead Eagles

RANDI RUTTERMANSHORTSTOP

shortstop’s sity and Riccio praised knowledge of the game. h out there,” he said.

freshman Tiffany Lon-ry inning. He said she d drop pitch and screw-

g on her curve. Not only on the mound, he said, ers should fear her bat. o will be Jasmine Gar-ith a strong arm.e infield will be senior

st base, senior Veronica nd junior Nia-Mia Out-ner. All are returning ps the ball well, Bulbalo nd Outlaw has a power

nsists of two returning wcomer. Seniors Prisci-y Garcia will be in left vely. Sophomore Kayla st year on varsity, will

has not yet determined but it will be between Garden, Longarzo or to bat the speedy Pena

neup over to Ruderman, usually puts the ball in

s will play two games

oming season because y to score a lot of runs, off run is in the cards. the best hitting team

he said. “I don’t have a

VITO FRISCIACATCHER

S21


munity Newspapers

11 Sunrise Plaza, Valley Stream • 516-872-3575

Golden Rule Jeweler Since 1948

Good Luck VS North Spartans

6193

30

V.S. NORTH



BY TONY BELLISSIMO

C oming off a 10-win campaign and with 14 returning seniors, Valley Stream North brings high expecta-

tions to the baseball diamond in 2013. The Spartans, who lost a 9-8 heartbreaker to Seaford in a Nassau Class A first-round playoff game last spring, will rely on their experience and depth to lead the way. “We’re excited,” coach Phil Sanfilip-po said. “The core of the team has been together for three years, and we have high hopes for ourselves.” North’s schedule isn’t an easy one to navigate, Sanfilippo said. Just like a year ago, it faces Clarke, Mineola and Seaford three times apiece. That’s challenging in itself. Throw in one-game crossovers against defending county champion Plainedge, South Side, Lynbrook, Law-rence and Division, and the road, on paper, is that much more difficult. “When you play that tough a schedule, you’re not going to cruise through it,” Sanfilippo said. “But at the same time, there’s not a team we’re not capable of beating.” The Spartans’ starting pitching staff mirrors that of last season. Seniors Antho-ny Martelli (four wins, 45 strikeouts, 3.40 ERA), Kevin White (three wins, 2.40 ERA) and Greg Garcia (two wins) comprise a tal-ented trio, and durable senior Glen Carey will be the go-to arm in relief. Senior Bran-don Salem is back behind the plate and a major asset on defense. “The pitching will keep us in every game,” Sanfillipo said. Martelli will anchor the defense at shortstop on non-pitching days. He earned All-County honors as a junior after batting .373 with three homers, 21 RBIs, 23 runs and 16 stolen bases in as many attempts. Senior James Capoziello (.386 average) is an All-Conference second baseman, senior Jeff Lantigua is an All-Division third base-man, and senior Pio Bonfitto steps into a starting role at first. The outfield is loaded with speed and experience. The coach said gaps will be difficult to find with Garcia and fellow seniors James Celeberti, Billy Patsos and Stephen Giuliante covering lots of real estate.

Seniors driving force for Lady Spartans

T he Lady Spartans have a few holes to fill after a rough go in Conference ABC-II, but they’re returning some

key pieces of the puzzle and are back in familiar territory in ABC-III where they’ll face Jericho, Garden City, North Shore, Roslyn, Carle Place and Hewlett twice apiece. “I thought we were a good fit for Confer-ence II last season, but we didn’t play up to our potential,” said coach Corey McNa-mara, who guided North to back-to-back conference titles in 2010-11. “Now we’re back in III and have some great players leading us. I expect to finish near the top and make the play-offs.” The roster fea-tures a mix of expe-rienced seniors and promising sopho-mores. It all starts with two-time All-County catcher Dana Morgante and All-Divi-sion center fielder Lauren Collura. Mor-gante, entering her fifth varsity season, is like having another coach on the field, McNamara said. “She takes command out there and pays attention to small details,” he noted. Morgante, who led the Lady Spartans in batting average and slugging percentage, will hit in the leadoff or No. 3 spot. Collura, the clean-up batter, is a gap hitter with power and “a vacuum” in the outfield, the coach said. The left side of the infield returns. Senior Amanda Ferraro flashes a tremendous glove at first base and contributes at the plate, while senior Gianna Nasso returns to her natural position at second base. Nasso is another qual-ity defender with a good arm. The coach has options on the right side. Senior Tori Patti can han-dle shortstop or third base, and senior Drew Beaubian has experience at the hot cor-ner. In the mix to contribute at shortstop and the pitching

circle is sophomore Kaylee Nariane. Soph-omore Jenna Abruzino is working as an outfielder and can provide offensive pop. “Everyone has to do their part on defense,” said McNamara, who is undecid-ed on a starting pitcher but has sophomore Tori Dugan and others as possibilities. “I think we’ll be able to score runs.”

Schedule

BASEBALL

April 1 Plainedge 4:45 p.m. 2 @ South Side 4:30 p.m. 4 Lynbrook 4:30 p.m. 8 Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 9 Division 4:45 p.m. 11 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 15 @ V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Roslyn 4:30 p.m. 22 Clarke 4:45 p.m. 23 @ Clarke 4:30 p.m. 25 Clarke 4:45 p.m. 29 @ Mineola 4:40 p.m. 30 Mineola 4:30 p.m.

May 2 @ Mineola 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Seaford 2:00 p.m. 6 Seaford 4:45 p.m. 7 Seaford 4:45 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 2 Jericho 4:30 p.m. 4 Garden City 4:30 p.m. 6 North Shore 10:00 a.m. 11 @ Roslyn 4:30 p.m. 13 @ V.S. South 10:00 a.m. 15 @ Carle Place 4:30 p.m. 17 @ Hewlett 4:30 p.m. 19 @ Jericho 4:30 p.m. 22 @ Garden City 4:30 p.m. 24 @ North Shore 4:30 p.m. 30 Roslyn 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Carle Place 4:30 p.m. 6 Hewlett 4:30 p.m.

Experienced Spartans have high hopes

i-uren Collura. Mor-th varsity season, coach on the field, akes command out n to small details,” who led the Lady erage and slugging the leadoff or No. an-up batter, is a nd “a vacuum”

h said.nfield returns. aro flashes t first base plate, while returns to at second her qual-d arm. The the right can han-

d base, ubian ot cor-ribute

pitching

Apr 2 4 6 11 13 15 17 19 22 24

10-11. Now we re ome great players

30

Ma 2 6

LAUREN COLLURAOUTFIELDER ANTHONY MARTELLI

SHORTSTOP

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S22

Tree & Shrub Care Services:Removal Of Roots & Branches

Stump Grinding & Removal Pruning & Trimming

Deep Root Feeding (Shrub Injection),Spring/Fall Granulated Fertilization

Horticultural Dormant Oil Spraying (Spring/

Fall) • Insect Control Treatment/ Disease

Control Treatment • New Plantation &

Design, Transplant Shrubs,

Seasonal Monthly Spraying

Complete Gardening Services:Cleanups & Debris Removal Gutter Cleaning And Repairs,

Property Management, Mulch, Retaining Walls

Rocks • Stones Flower BoxesAnnuals & Perennials

Lawn Care Service:Thatching, Top Soil, Aeration, Weekly

Maintenance Fertilization Treatments,

Reseeding, Sod Installation • Soil Testing

• Lawn Recovery & Restorations

TEL.: (516) 791-6241 • www.acelandscapingservices.com

V.S. SOUTH



BY TONY BELLISSIMO

A fter falling one win shy of reach-ing the Nassau Class A baseball playoffs a year ago, Valley Stream

South should be part of a wide-open race for the two spots allotted to Conference V. “All four teams are going to be pretty competitive,” said coach Ken Ward, who guided the Falcons to nine wins in 2012. “We’re relatively young, but we could be better than last season. It all depends how the younger players come along.” South is led by one of the premier play-ers in the county, senior Andrew Hess. The class Valedictorian and second-year cap-tain batted .457 with 20 RBIs a year ago and has reached base in 23 of the last 24 games. Depending on the day, he’ll play second base, shortstop or outfield. “His work ethic on the field and in the classroom is second to none,” Ward said of Hess, who earned All-County and All-State honors. “He’ll hit third and anchor our defense wherever he plays.” Hess is slated for shortstop on days junior Andy LaBeck takes the mound. LaBeck won all three of his decisions last spring and had a 2.17 ERA and 23 strike-outs. He’s also the team’s leadoff hitter. “Location is a big part of his repertoire,” Ward said. Sophomore pitcher/outfielder Tyler Gill is another double threat for the Fal-cons, who have Lynbrook, Manhasset and Lawrence as conference foes. Gill (3.30 ERA) features a strong fastball and will bat either third or fourth in the order. Junior Jesse Blouin, the top pitcher at the JV level last spring and starting quarterback on the varsity football team, is expected to round out the starting rotation. Junior Manny Pizarro takes over catch-ing duties and brings solid defensive skills and a strong arm. The infield has been boosted by senior first baseman Chris Infantino, a reliable two-way player who sat out last season. Senior Andrew Cas-tano returns at third base, and sophomore Marino Sorbara can play second and third. The outfield is spearheaded by seniors Frank Reichert and Frank Vasquez.

Rebuilt Lady Falcons up for challenge

V alley Stream South lost most of its key contributors from a team that upset defending Nassau Class A

champion Seaford in the first round of last year’s playoffs, but coach Demetri Adrah-tas continues to set the bar high. “Our goal is to win the confer-ence,” he said. “We’re playing all new teams we don’t know much about, but if the conferences were designed the right way it should be wide open.” Many of South’s play-ers are inexperienced at the varsity level, but a move to Conference ABC-IV could help their transition. “We’re start-ing over in a sense, but it’s fun and exciting,” Adrahtas said. The Lady Falcons will have an unproven, albeit capable, pitcher in the circle. Senior Cassie Howley is likely to work the bulk of innings, with freshman Brianna Schippel also in the mix. Both are three-year varsity players. Howley, who had three hits in the playoff win over Seaford, threw well during the offseason. “Cassie plays a lot of softball and loves the sport,” Adrahtas said. “If she throws strikes, we’ll be fine.” Schippel anchors the infield defense from shortstop, and the batting order from the leadoff or No. 3 spot. She already has All-Conference and All-Division honors under her belt. “Brianna’s an elite travel ball player and the total package,” Adrah-tas said. “She hit around .400 last year and has an outstanding arm.” With Schippel at short and senior Jen Pace at second, the coach has no worries when it comes to grounders up the middle. “Jen has a phenomenal glove and arm,” he said. “She makes a huge defensive play every game.” The infield corner spots will be handled by senior Kaitlyn McCarty, who has quick hands at first base, and freshman Katie Shields, who has unlimited upside at third base after a big season at the JV level.

Junior Amanda Tkacsik starts behind the plate, while the outfield consists of sopho-mores Kayla Shields and Jen Schoch, and

freshmen Melanie Morales and Vic-toria Martuciello.

Schedule

BASEBALL

April 1 @ Clarke 4:30 p.m. 2 @ Seaford 4:30 p.m. 4 Mineola 4:30 p.m. 11 @ Plainedge 4:30 p.m. 12 South Side 4:30 p.m. 13 Roslyn 10:00 a.m. 15 V.S. North 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Division 4:30 p.m. 22 Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 23 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 25 Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 29 @ Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 30 Lawrence 4:30 p.m.

May 2 @ Lawrence 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Lynbrook 2:00 p.m. 6 Lynbrook 4:15 p.m. 7 @ Lynbrook 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 2 Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 4 @ East Rockaway 4:30 p.m. 6 Wheatley 10:00 a.m. 9 C.S. Harbor 4:15 p.m. 11 West Hempstead 4:30 p.m. 13 V.S. North 10:00 a.m. 15 @ Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m. 19 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 22 East Rockaway 4:30 p.m. 24 Wheatley 4:15 p.m. 26 @ C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m. 30 @ West Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

May 2 Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m.

Falcons seek a playoff appearance

CASSSIE HOWLEYPITCHER

ave , pitcher in the ley is likely to with freshman the mix. Both

ayers. Howley, layoff win over

the offseason. ball and loves “If she throws

nfield defense ting order from he already has vision honors an elite travel

ckage,” Adrah-00 last year and

and senior Jen has no worries

up the middle. ove and arm,” defensive play

will be handled who has quick

reshman Katie upside at third

t th JV l l

high.e confer-

ng all new about, but esigned the de

ANDREW HESSSECOND BASE

S23


munity Newspapers

12X10 ROOM FOR $599

12X10 ROOM FOR $240 HARD WOOD FLOORING

12X16 ROOM FOR $1100

12X16 ROOM FOR $380

INSTALLED

BURBER OR PLUSH • BEAUTIFUL CARPET • INSTALLED WITH PADDING

WITH PURCHASE • EXP 4/30/13

SQ. FT. INSTALLED

WOOD LAMINATE FLOORS

MOHAWK HIGH TRAFFIC

SENIOR CITIZENS SPECIALFREE Rip Up & TAKE OUT

OF YOUR OLD CARPET

2 WEEKS ONLY

Must mention coupon to get discounts. Exp. 4/30/13

Must mention coupon to get discounts. Exp. 4/30/13

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Must have coupon. Cannot be combined. Exp. 4/30/13

$599

332 Broadway, Bethpage, NY(exit 8 off Rte. 135 - Next to BK Sweeny’s)

516-933-2588Visit Our Website at:

www.allaboutfloorsbethpage.comHours: Mon-Sat: 10-6pm • Sun: 11-5pm

• Thursdays till 8 pm

Licensed & Insured

SPRING TIME SAVINGS

FINANCING AVAILABLE

NO INTEREST FOR 1 YEAR

WE DO ALL TYPES OF FLOORS

CARPET • LAMINATE HARDWOOD • LINOLEUM

619781



BY ANDREW MCCLURE

I t was a tough 2012 on the baseball field for West Hempstead, however, the Rams finished strong and picked

up wins against Island Trees and Floral Park over the last week of the season. They are hoping for a little carryover from last spring in a conference that once again includes North Shore, Floral Park, and Island Trees. Bill Cloughessy, in his third year as head coach, is hopeful his team will be stronger. "I would certainly like to take a step forward," Cloughessy said. "We really don't have any glaring weaknesses, and we're a little deeper than we were over the past few years. We had a nice finish to the season a year ago, so we're hoping to pick up where we left off. We should be better defensively, and I think we'll put the ball in play more often." Brandon Sherman, a three-year varsity performer, returns as the ace of the pitch-ing staff. The senior left-hander features an above average fastball and mixes in good breaking stuff. When he's not on the hill, Sherman can play first base and any of the three outfield positions. Junior Hardvis Batista, the everyday shortstop, will be No. 2 in the rotation. Batista handles the bat well, and will likely hit second. Batista is a terrific at playing small ball, but Cloughessy expects him to drive the ball a bit more. Junior Yolbalyn Canela will start behind the plate for the Rams, and will also be the third starter. Canela adds pop to the middle of the bat-ting order. Senior outfielder Joe Palladino is another player who will land a spot hitting among the meat of the order. Palladino, who may be used out of the bullpen, is a contact hitter who hits the occasional long ball. Junior James Valerio started slow in 2012, but came on strong and ended up hit-ting .315. Valerio will play outfield and first base. Another senior returnee is outfielder Joe Bitetto.

Many new faces for Lady Rams

C oming off a solid season, which included a seven-game winning streak, a young and inexperienced

softball team will take the field for West Hempstead. The Lady Rams return their catcher, a starting pitcher, and center field-er, but they have numerous holes to fill. Coach Chris Van Kovics’ team will be com-peting in a conference with East Rockaway, Valley Stream South, Cold Spring Harbor, Wheatley, Sewanhaka, and Manhasset. Despite a slew of new faces, Van Kov-ics believes the game plan is always the same. “It always comes down to following the blueprint, which means pitching well, playing solid defense, and finding ways to score,” he said. “We have to avoid giving up big innings. If we can get it done with pitching and defense, we should be able to stay in every game.” Center fielder Angela Graci is West Hemp-stead’s top hit-ting threat. If the table setters get on, the athletic junior should knock in a ton of runs, She’s also the team’s best defensive player. With youth and inexpe-rience at corner outfield positions, Graci will be counted on to be a leader in the outfield. Senior Emily Esposito and sophomore Briana White handle the pitching duties for the Rams. Esposito won five games in 2012. Like Esposito, White is capa-ble of mixing it up and keeping hitters off balance. White will play first base when she’s not in the circle. Jackie Tartaglia returns behind the plate. The senior catcher works the batters well, and does a good job blocking balls in the dirt. Tartaglia is a tough out, who wreaks havoc on the base paths. Junior Nicole Christenson takes over at shortstop. She figures to bat in one of the top two spots in the order. Van Kovics gets plenty of flexibility from Jackie Christenson. The junior third

baseman/outfielder can play multiple posi-tions, and at the plate, she likes to slap and bunt. Junior Jamie Rodriguez is a smart, athletic player who makes things happen at the plate and on the bases.

Schedule

BASEBALL

April 1 Bethpage 4:30 p.m. 2 G.N. North 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Glen Cove 4:30 p.m. 9 @ Garden City 4:30 p.m. 11 Jericho 4:30 p.m. 12 @ Wantagh 4:30 p.m. 15 New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m. 16 @ Hewlett 4:30 p.m. 22 Floral Park 4:30 p.m. 23 @ Floral Park 4:30 p.m. 25 Floral Park 4:30 p.m. 29 North Shore 4:30 p.m. 30 @ North Shore 4:30 p.m.

May 2 North Shore 4:30 p.m. 4 @ Island Trees 2:00 p.m. 6 Island Trees 4:30 p.m. 7 @ Island Trees 4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL

April 3 Wheatley 4:15 p.m. 4 C.S. Harbor 4:15 p.m. 6 @ East Rockaway 10:00 a.m. 9 @ Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 11 @ V.S. South 4:30 p.m. 17 Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m. 19 @ Wheatley 4:30 p.m. 22 @ C.S. Harbor 4:30 p.m. 24 East Rockaway 4:30 p.m. 26 Manhasset 4:30 p.m. 30 V.S. South 4:30 p.m.

May 6 @ Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m.

WEST HEMPSTEADRams aiming to be improved

mes down to following h means pitching well, se, and finding ways to e have to avoid giving

we can get it done with e, we should be able to

junior should knock e’s also the team’s best th youth and inexpe-tfield positions, Graci

to be a leader in the

posito and sophomore dle the pitching duties sito won five games in White is capa-and keeping White will en she’s

a returns he senior atters well, ob blocking

rtaglia is a tough avoc on the base paths.

stenson takes over at es to bat in one of the order

M

JACKIE TARTAGLIACATCHER

JAMES VALERIOFIRST BASE

Mar

ch 2

8, 2

013

— Sp

ring

Spor

ts Pr

eview

- He

rald

Com

mun

ity N

ewsp

aper

s

S24

Orlin & Cohen’s TeamOf Subspecialists Help You Get

Back On The Field Fast.

Offi ces in Rockville Centre, Lynbrook, Cedarhurst, Merrick,Massapequa and Bohemia (Woodbury offi ce coming soon)

To schedule an appointment visit www.orlincohen.com or call 516.536.2800

Orlin & Cohen is Long Island’s leading orthopedic practice. Our subspecialty focus means that athletes – and all patients – get the very best care from nationally renowned orthopedists who specialize exclusively in your area of concern: shoulder, foot and ankle, elbow and more. Our board-certifi ed, fellowship-trained team features some of the country’s top Sports Medicine subspecialists for expert care of all baseball and other sports-related injuries.

Available by appointment six days a week, we offer the most advanced orthopedic treatment with comprehensive diagnostic services, including the latest in digital X-ray and MRI technology.

baseball preview 03-28-2013

Documents

girls teamsboth boys

high school seasonprospects

baseballsoftball preview

school day

richner communications

coach jennifer gibbons

covercover design jeffrey

special advertising