Preview: Eagles Boys Lacrosse Chases Division Title

The Eagles boys lacrosse team has begun its hunt for a Division II title with a narrow 10-9 win over Easthampton on March 26. It's the first win in what will be a tough season for the team.

The Eagles were the talk of the division in 2010, going 17-2 overall and making it into the division championship game.

Jerry Goodfellow, in his 20th year as head coach, said the Eagles’ biggest challenge this year will be overcoming inexperience after losing eight starters to graduation. Two-time All-American Zach Losco, goalkeeper Richie Akapnitis and midfielder Tyler Chin are among those who graduated.

“We want to build the program back to the point where we can win games and be competitive. I think we’re once again going to have a winning record and make it back to playoffs," Goodfellow said. "I know this team is going to give it all they’ve got. We’re improving each day and by the middle of the season, we should be ready to make a real run."

The Eagles will rely on the experience of two returning stars from last season. All-County junior Sam Llinares will be anchoring the starting midfield lineup.

“Sam’s a very highly skilled athlete who gives us great speed and stick skills, as well as being able to shoot accurately on the run,” Goodfellow said.

Junior attackman Dan King will step onto the turf for the Eagles as a captain this season.

“Dan’s a tremendous off-the-ball worker who has great ability to get his shot off, and he’s excellent on ground balls,” the coach said. 

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First-time varsity players include senior Mike Ford, junior Tom Kelly and sophomore Rob Longo.

Joining Llinares in the midfield will be sophomores Chris Jacobino and Max Chin, juniors Frank Scoczari and Kory Zellen with senior Tom Galarza.

The team's offense is supported by a strong and speedy defense, Goodfellow said, led by senior captain Luke Wolmer. He’ll be joined by seniors Joe Jacobino and Charlie Lloyd, and sophomore Dacota Chin.

Hauppauge’s goaltending will be a tandem effort by seniors Tyler Donovan and Chris Grote, as they look to establish their presence in the lineup.

Goodfellow,with the help of his assistant coach of four years Greg Foster, hopes to keep the relatively inexperienced team focused and disciplined throughout the course of the season. 

“They know last year’s team was a really talented, successful team and that’s a goal that they want to obtain for themselves,” Goodfellow said. “We want to earn the respect of the rest of the teams in our division, but we’re realistic and we know what we’re up against."

Watch the Eagles boys lacrosse take on Comsewogue at their home turf  on Thursday at 4 p.m.