SPORTS PREVIEW

NEW CANAAN HIGH SCHOOL SPRING 2013

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NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER, NEW CANAAN, CONN., THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

The Rams, including Bea Eppler (6) and Lily Citrin (18) celebrate a goal by Olivia Hompe (22) during their 9-6 win over Darien in last years Class M quarterfinals.

Dave Stewart

Experienced Rams ready to defend the crown

New Canaan looks for third state title in four years, and elusive FCIAC championship
By Dave Stewart Sports Editor The New Canaan Rams girls lacrosse team has featured a dramatic one-two punch with Olivia Hompe and Sarah Mannelly during the past couple of years. The two all-stars werent just a jab, either, it was more like a roundhouse which left even the best of opponents reeling on the turf. Mannelly, the Rams field general, has headed north, graduating last spring and now attacking the cage as a member of the Boston College Eagles womens team. The loss of Mannelly leaves some huge shoes to fill, but head coach Kristin Woods isnt worried. Shes been through this before. After Jenny Simpson graduated (in 2009), I thought no one would ever score as many goals as she did as a senior, but Anjalie Christie stepped right in and tied her the year after, Woods told the Advertiser. It just goes to show that when the opportunity is there, kids step up and take advantage. This years Rams certainly appear ready, willing and able to make a run at FCIAC and state championships in 2013. New Canaan is coming off a phenomenal campaign which included a perfect 16-0 regular season record, a 21-1 overall mark, and its second Class M title in three years. The Rams suffered their only loss to Darien in the FCIAC semifinals, but rebounded with four straight wins in the state tournament, outscoring their opponents 57-27. They also avenged their loss by beating the Wave 9-6 in the quarterfinals, and then pounded Wilton 17-9 in the title tilt. This season, New Canaan returns numerous key cogs from last years machine and the result figures to be another big year at Dunning Field. We have high expectations as always. FCIACs and States would be ideal, Woods said. And we bring back quite a few starters. After the first scrimmage, its interesting to see how different a team is when youre just missing three or four kids (from last year). But we have great kids and weve got great leadership with Kelly Armstrong, Liz OSullivan and Olivia. That trio has assumed the role of senior captains for 2013 and also offer the experience of being threeand four-year starters to the team. Defensively, the Rams are stacked as they return four starters. In the net is Liz OSullivan, a three-year starter who will continue her career at Notre Dame next season. Liz OSullivan in goal is sort of our quarterback getting everybody organized, Woods said. Shes very responsible and on top of things. Shes definitely a force in the cage and were glad to have her back for a third year in a row. Armstrong is a three-sport standout, having played soccer, basketball and lacrosse for four years at NCHS. A fast and tough defender, Armstrong will make life difficult for opposing attackers. Kelly is a spectacular defender, Woods said. She sort of runs things defensively for us and does a great job clearing the ball. Shes a strong athlete and I usually have her on the other teams best attacker. Shes a strong kid. Also returning to the defensive side of the field are Wheatley Raabe, who will play collegiately at CalBerkeley, and Brianna McEwan. Senior Abigail Sawabini, who saw

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Kristin Woods (7th year)
2012 Record: 21-1, FCIAC semifinalists, Class M champions Captains: Olivia Hompe, Liz OSullivan, Kelly Armstrong Others to watch: Wheatley Raabe, Kelly Armstrong, Lily Citrin, Bea Eppler, Isabel Taben, Brianna McEwan, Abigail Sawabini, and Elizabeth Miller Coachs Comment After the first scrimmage, its interesting to see how different a team is when youre just missing three or four kids (from last year). But we have great kids and weve got great leadership with Kelly Armstrong, Liz OSullivan and Olivia. Kristin Woods
plenty of playing time last season, will slide into a starting spot with the graduation of Julia Tuttle. Sophomore Elzabeth Miller will play defensive midfield. Its veteran experience and the seniors that are back there all have a strong, athletic build, Woods said. That will help is in the big games. Also figuring into the defensive picture are senior Jessica Karl, who is injured at the start of the season, and Elizabeth Burke, a junior returnee. Junior Nathalie DeNey, fresh off a spectacular season with the Rams girls ice hockey team, will back up OSullivan in the goal, with sophomore Bailey Pindar giving New Canaan a trio of solid optins in betwen the pipes. Hompe will be a focal point on offense and defense, after scoring a team best 84 goals last spring. She also led the Rams in draw controls and groundballs, and was named the MVP of the state final when she scored nine goals and dished out two assists. In the midfield, weve got Olivia and shes all over the place, Woods said. Were going to look for her not only defensively, but in transition and on offense. Theres going to be a lot more focus on Olivia, but I think itll open up a lot for kids who never had the opportunity before because Sarah and Olivia have been such a big force. New Canaan features several players who are capable of becoming scoring leaders. Starring on the attack are returning starters Bea Eppler and Lily Citrin, both seniors, and Isabel Taben, a sophomore who netted 32 goals as a freshman last spring. Sophomore Grace Freyre is also back with the varsity team this season. In the mix for playing time are three freshmen: Katie DeMarino, Catherine Granito, and Sammy Stewart, each of whom has impressed the coach and earned a spot on the big club. New Canaan wont have much time to relax once the season begins this week as they host Wilton in a rematch of last years Class M final at 3 on Saturday, April 6. They wont face FCIAC power Greenwich this year, but rival Darien, Loomis Chaffee, Newtown and Fox Lane on New York are on the schedule, along with Farmingdale from Long Island, and Longmeadow from Massachusetts. Woods said playing top-flight teams get the Rams ready for the playoffs. Its good to play good teams and teams you havent seen, Woods said. You dont know who they have, who their big players are or what to expect, so you have to make gametime adjustments. You never know when it comes to FCIAC and state play what everyones going to throw at you, so this gets you ready.

Girls Lacrosse

Brianna McEwan, a senior, returns to a veteran Ram defense which should give opposing teams fits this spring.

Dave Stewart

NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER, NEW CANAAN, CONN., THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

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New Canaan senior Andrew Casali follows through on a hit during a game at Mead Park last spring. Casali and Casey Ouellette will be team captains for the second year.

Dave Stewart

New Canaan roster filled with diamond gems

Ram baseball team looks to build on historic 2012 state tournament performance
the FCIAC playoff bubble last year, going 10-10 during the regular season, but they bounced back in the The New Canaan Rams came Class L tournament, winning four within four outs of capturing a state straight games before falling in the championship last spring, a perfortitle game. mance which was historical even Last year was a good experience without the final trip to the winners for them getting to within four outs circle. (of a state championship), and kind New Canaan was making its first of playing with the houses money, appearance in a state title game since Hoffman said. 1972, and was looking to win its first Headlining the Ram nine are championship since 1950. The Rams seniors Casey Ouellette and Andrew fell just short, as Fitch of New Haven Casali, both experienced veterans rallied for three runs in the bottom of and two-year captains. Ouellette has the sixth inning for a 6-4 decision. spent four years as New Canaans Despite that defeat, New Canaan starting catcher, while Casali, who made some tremendous strides, and was injured as a freshman, has is looking to get back to the promised played varsity for three years as a land again this year, and perhaps centerfielder and a pitcher. even take that one final step to a We consider our captains as coaches, Hoffman said. Its not just okay, youre the captain; we expect them to lead the team. We give a lot of freedom to our guys and Casey and Andrew help with the whole atmosphere based on experience and the people that they are. Ouellette is the on-field quarterback, directing the game and the pitchers from behind home plate. He also has atypical speed for a catcher, and will leadoff at the plate, giving the Rams a potent stolen base threat to start things off. Being a catcher myself, Casey and I can think along the same lines. Hes been with me for four years, so Im sure going to miss him, Hoffman said. Uniquely enough, hes a catcher and a leadoff hitter, which typically fit, but hes the spark of the team behind the plate and at bat because he starts it for us. I couldnt ask for anything more out of him than what Ive seen so far in terms of his demeanor, his leadership and his guidance. Casali will bat the three-hole and has the biggest power bat the lineup. Like Ouellette, Casali is a threat to steal, and also has great range in centerfield. Andrew looks phenomenal, Hoffman said. Hes very loose and relaxed and hes having fun. Hell pitch, play center and hit third. Andrew is a very complete hitter. Being who he is, hes not going to see a lot of great pitches so he needs to make sure that hes patient. Hes a kid that if you try to pitch around him and he gets on base, hell turn it Dave Stewart into a double or a triple because hes Junior J.R. Anderson, who emerged as an ace during his sophomore sea- going to steal. He can hit the ball and he can run as well. By Dave Stewart Sports Editor crown. There has been a tremendous amount of carry-over, Hoffman told the Advertiser. The biggest thing for us is the experience. The experience of having the ability to deal with winning, what it takes, and how it feels. Were playing to win games and I can see it in their attitude. Theyre looser and theres a confidence factor behind them in a positive way. The Rams have good reason to be optimistic this spring. With a deep lineup loaded with talented hitters, plenty of speed on the basepaths, a strong stable of pitchers, and a good deal of experience, the skys the limit for New Canaan. Thanks to a midseason hitting slump, New Canaan finished outside

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Mitch Hoffman (4th year)
2012 Record: 14-11, Class L runner-up Captains: Casey Ouellette and Andrew Casali Others to watch: J.R. Anderson, Brian Moran, Nick Cascione, Dan Rajkowski, Alex LaPolice, Matt Toth, Henry Lavieri, Brandon Abate, Grady Amrhein, David Giusti, and Erik Jager Coachs Comment The biggest thing for us is the experience. The experience of having the ability to deal with winning, what it takes, and how it feels. Were playing to win games and I can see it in their attitude. Mitch Hoffman
The Rams can also boast of a strong and deep pitching staff, with three varsity veterans on the mound. Junior J.R. Anderson earned a starting role last year and made the most of it, working his way into the role of ace. J.R. is our inspirational leader, Hoffman said. Hes extremely vocal, he has tremendous tenacity and he goes after it every single time hes out there. Even when hes sitting on the bench because hes not pitching, hes still a leader in terms of getting the team where its supposed to be mentally. I cant speak higher of J.R. Junior Dan Rajkowski, who came up big during the state tournament, is also back, but has been dealing with an injury during the preseason. Hoffman said Rajkowski is on a pitch count for the time being, and hopes to have him back at full strength for the second half of the schedule. Sophomore David Giusti moved up from the J.V. team and will start this season, with the third and fourth spots going to Casali and sophomore Alex LaPolice, a left-hander. Junior Jeff Chen, another lefty, and Luke Montgomery, a righty, will also see time on the mound. Pitching is the name of the game, Hoffman said. We teach getting the ball to the right parts of the plate, understanding how to pitch ahead, and pitching with confidence. This year, we have the ability to let the older pitchers we have teach the sophomore pitchers we have what they need to do. The Rams will have a new look on the infield with the losses of Doug Reilly, Gogo Jones and Willie Burger. Seniors Henry Lavieri and Brian Moran will split time at first base, with Moran serving as the DH when hes not in the field. Moran, the Rams cleanup hitter, was a star during the state tournament, coming with numerous clutch hits. Brians going to hit in the four spot for us and he knows his role, Hoffman said. Hes hitting behind Andrew, so they cant pitch around Andrew, they cant pitch around both. Brians got some experience under his belt and hell be fine there. Sophomore Brandon Abate and senior Grady Amrhein will be at second base, with juniors Matt Toth at shortstop, and Erik Jager at third. The outfield will feature Casali in center, with junior Nick Cascione in right, and LaPolice in left. Seniors Alex Curto and Ned Galluzzo are also in the outfield mix. Backing up Ouellette behind the plate are senior C.J. Altman, who saw time last year when Ouellette was sidelined with an injury, and junior Griffin Donnelly. Hoffman said the influx of new talent coupled with the veterans has been a potent combination for the Rams this spring. Theres a lot of older faces here, but theyve been welcoming the new faces as well, the coach said. Last year, we were good, but we sometimes looked for the next guy to hit the ball. Now, were playing where if everybody just does their job, were good.

son, will be back at the top of the rotation this spring.

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NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER, NEW CANAAN, CONN., THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

Senior Kate Howard keeps her eyes on the ball during a match last spring. Howard and fellow senior Sara Greene will be team co-captains for the 2013 campaign.

Dave Stewart

Decade of excellence: Ram girls roll with nine titles

By Dave Stewart Sports Editor New Canaans Kate Howard was the eye in the middle of the storm during the Class L girls tennis finals last spring. Trailing 5-2 in a third set which would determine a state championship, Howard rallied for five straight victories to claim her singles match and secure a 4-3 win over the Greenwich Cardinals at the Yale tennis courts. Its a moment which head coach Erin Gildea will never forget. Thats something Ill remember for the rest of my coaching career not just because it was such a great comeback but also for the way she conducted herself on court, Gildea said. It got very tense and there were some things that happened that were not on line with good sportsmanship, and Kate kept it together. She really proved a lot to herself and her teammates that she can be counted on. The victory was a fine ending to a 21-2 season for New Canaan, and helped put two earlier losses to Greenwich, including a 5-2 defeat in the FCIAC final, in the rear view mirror. It was also a great lesson for the Rams. It just proved that if you work hard and youre persistent, good things can happen, Gildea said. We lost to them twice but they were close matches and we knew we had

Girls Tennis

to play our best. They were a deep team like we were, and they were a strong team individually, but I think we showed we were a stronger team. As they turn the corner into a new season, the Rams are without two of their top guns Courtney Gallagher and Phoebe Wilks but return a host of veterans for another run at conference and state titles. Leading from the top will be senior co-captains Howard and Sara Greene. Howard will likely be moving up a spot to No. 2 singles, while Greene will likely team with senior Kristin Laub in doubles, after going unbeaten as the No. 2 tandem last season. Gildea said both captains were people the team could rely on. (Kate Howard) really does put the team first and thats all you can ask for in a captain, Gildea said. Shes worked extremely hard at her game, she played hard over the winter and shes worked hard off the court. I expect her to be someone that we really rely on this year. Sara is a coachs dream and shes as steady as they get. Its so wonderful going into big matches knowing you have someone reliable like Sara out there for you. Shes played in a ton of big matches and shes a great example for the other players. Jensen Lee, a four-year starter in singles, will also be making a move, as she takes over the No. 1 singles

spot from Gallagher, who graduated last spring. Lee has been a steady performer throughout her high school career and Gildea feels shes ready to take on rival teams aces. Thats whats tough about No. 1 singles, the coach said. You play someone whos struggling as a team, but almost every school has that one tournament player whos ranked high and can play at the collegiate level. No. 1 never gets an easy match. Jensen worked as hard as anyone on the team, she really wants that No. 1 spot and shes ready for it. I have a lot of faith in her and I think shell do a great job, but she definitely has some battles ahead of her. The next two spots will go to Howard and Emily Brand, a junior

who played at No. 4 last season, while senior Emma Gruber and junior Jackie Milisits are in contention for the fourth position. In doubles, three of the players are clear, but the teams havent been hammered out yet. Laub and Greene were exceptional in the second doubles spot, and Laub has had two straight unbeaten seasons in doubles. Kristin has had two amazing years and its great to have her back, Gildea said. Shes one of the strongest net players on the team and really knows how to finish points at the net, which is what you want in a doubles player. Senior Amanda Merjian, Laubs doubles partner when they were

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Erin Gildea (2nd year)
2012 Record: 21-2, FCIAC runner-up, Class L Champions Captains: Kate Howard and Sara Greene Others to watch: Jensen Lee, Kristin Laub, Amanda Merjian, and Emily Brand Coachs Comment First and foremost I want the girls to have an enjoyable season. All I can hope for is that they play their best tennis, focus on being a close-knit group. That team chemistry can come in handy down the stretch. Erin Gildea

sophomores, shifted to No. 1 doubles and teamed with Wilks last year, giving the Rams another formidable tandem. Amanda is also a fantastic doubles player and she too has been undefeated the past two seasons, Gildea said. Whoever she ends up playing with will be very lucky because theyll be getting a very strong doubles partner as well as someone who has experience in big matches. Junior Sara Lovejoy, who joined the varsity team midway through the season last season and played at No. 3 doubles spot, and Caroline Gordon, a freshman with a strong background in doubles, are in contention for the No. 2 doubles team. Senior Giuliana Savini, and juniors Tyler Kendall and Caroline Pratt are all in the mix for doubles play. New Canaan will be hunting for its 10th consecutive state championship this year, but Gildea said, above all, she wants the players to have fun playing as a varsity team. First and foremost I want the girls to have an enjoyable season, the coach said. All I can hope for is that they play their best tennis, focus on being a close-knit group. That team chemistry can come in handy down the stretch. Of course it would be wonderful to defend the state championship and contend for the FCIAC, but were taking it one match at a time. I want to make sure the seven seniors go out on a high note. I think were in for another great season.

New Canaan court kings hunt fifth straight crown

By Dave Stewart Sports Editor Dan Borgman has begun his 42nd season as the head coach of New Canaans boys tennis team. To put that in perspective, the Rams other 10 spring coaches have been with their teams for a combined 36 years. So, having coached New Canaans tennis stars since 1972, what is it that keeps Borgman coming back for more? I dont know what else to do with myself, Borgman laughed during a preseason practice at NCHS. I just love the sport. I love playing it, I love the kids and I love coaching them, he said. The success has been high for Borgmans Rams. Theyve won 26 state championships, including a current streak of four, and theyve also cap-

Boys Tennis

tured 11 FCIAC titles, the last coming in 2010 when they defeated Staples in the final. New Canaans 2013 lineup will feature four returning singles players and a new look in doubles, as three of the four Ram starters graduated. Leading the team will be senior co-captains Will Burger and Tommy Worcester, who will be in the top two spots in singles. The graduation of last years singles ace, Nick Laub, leaves some big shoes to fill. Laub was a three-time AllState player and is now a member of the Colgate Red Raiders mens team. We only lost one starter, Nick Laub, in the singles, so we have experience, Borgman said. But anytime you lose a No. 1 player that good, it affects everybody. Everyone has to move up and that No. 1 guy is going to face some very

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Dan Borgman (42nd year)
2012 Record: 16-4, FCIAC quarterfinalists, Class L Champions Captains: Will Burger and Tom Worcester Others to watch: Spencer Lambdin, Devin McVeigh, Tim Casavant, Andrew Penchuck, Jack Howard, and Digby Philpott Coachs Comment

Were going to be very competitive. And I think we have a very good chance at winning states again for the fifth straight year. Dan Borgman

strong players. Borgman said Burger and Worcester have been playing solid tennis this spring. Theyre both looking very strong. To have them all four years and see them become more and more aggressive, and see them hitting harder and playing so well, is great, the coach said. Burger was a solid No. 2 player last season and is looking to take over the No. 1 spot. He was also a quarterfinalist in singles during the Rams drive to the state title. Borgman said Burger seems to get better every season. Will was a lobber, but he was steady as a clock so he was able to win a lot of matches, the coach said. Now hes got a lot of power and hes really looking good. Burger seems to have the inside track for the top singles spot, but Worcester has given him a run for the money while moving up from the No. 3 position he played last spring. Worcester is more aggressive and when you watch him, you say, how could he lose?, Borgman said. He doesnt have quite the steadiness on critical points that Will has, but hes a very strong player. Physically, hes right there and hes become a real competitor. Worcester was also a quarterfinalist in Class L singles last year and was the only player to win a set in the tournament against Wilton freshman Noah Farrell, the eventual champ. Farrell ended up edging Worcester 7-6, 1-6, 7-6. Slotting in at No. 3 looks to be Spencer Lambdin, a junior who played some doubles and some singles last spring. Right

Senior Will Burger returns a shot during a tennis match at New Canaan High School last spring. Burger and senior teammate Tom Worcester will be team captains and the Rams top two singles players this spring.
behind him are seniors Devin McVeigh and Tim Casavant, both probable singles players, although there is a chance McVeigh could end up in doubles after finishing as a state runner-up with the graduated Jacob Reiss last spring. In doubles, the picture isnt close to being complete, as New Canaan graduated the No. 1 team of Reiss and Patrick Newton, along with Luke McDermott from the No. 2 tandem. McDermotts partner, junior Andrew Penchuck, will be Borgmans top doubles player, with the rest of the lineup yet to be determined. Andrew is definitely going to be my No. 1 in doubles, but who will play with him, I dont know yet. Jack Howard would like to and hes a senior, so thats a possibility. Jack has also improved over last year. Leading the competition for the second doubles spots are juniors Digby Philpott and Michael Hartnett, with freshman Carlos Mauleon also in the mix. Borgman had a chance to see some of his players in action last fall when he lined up opposite Lambdin and Hartnett during the annual Allan Jay Memorial

Dave Stewart

Tournament at Mead Park. Its the kind of moment that keeps things fun for Borgman after all these years. The poor guys, they looked so tight, Borgman said. Can you imagine playing your coach in a tournament? I couldve let them win, but its not in me to do that, so we beat them. It was a lot of fun. For Borgman, a 42nd season is underway, and the goal remains the same. Were going to be very competitive, he said. And I think we have a very good chance at winning states again for the fifth straight year.

NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER, NEW CANAAN, CONN., THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

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Junior Ali Reilly (left) and senior Cydney Ventura give the Rams a potent one-two punch in the pitching circle

Dave Stewart

New Canaan softball has the look of a contender

By Dave Stewart Sports Editor During a light moment at a recent preseason softball practice, the New Canaan Rams began musing about the countless hours theyve spent with each other for the better part of the past decade. Playing together for the first time about seven years ago, the New Canaan softball players are about to embark on their final season together before college, and theyre aiming to make the most of it. There is a chemistry, head coach Danielle Simoneau said. The majority of them have been together since they were 11. That helps because they know what makes each other tick. But overall, theyre extremely talented. Its rare that you get nine girls this talented who have been together for so many years. Theyve also had an impact from day one. Joining a program which had struggled to qualify for the postseason, theyve helped New Canaan earn three state playoff and two FCIAC playoff berths in three seasons. Last year, they were 12-10, but lost in the first round of both the FCIAC and state tournaments. Theyd certainly prefer a longer postseason stay this spring. Leading the way are the Rams five senior co-captains: Cydney and Jordan Ventura, Courtney Rogers, Marlee Ready, and Brittany Overacker. Thats a lot of leadership on a team which will likely carry 10 players most of the time, but all five players have earned the honor of wearing the captains C. Its their senior year and they all deserved it, Simoneau said. Theyve worked hard

Softball

and if you can keep the five motivated, that will motivate the rest of them and well be fine. While New Canaan carries a lineup which is chock full of hitters, and boasts some steady glovework in the field, its biggest strength is in the pitching circle, as Cydney Ventura and junior Ali Reilly are both good enough to start on most area teams. Ventura has been pitching since her freshman year, while Reilly moved in and earned some time the following spring. Last year, they both had their shining moments, and Simoneau plans on using both again this year. Its a blessing, the coach said. Usually, you get one girl and she becomes your horse and you hop on her back and let her get you to the finish line. But this year and last year, weve had two girls and its an added bonus. Both are very strong and if one gets into trouble, you dont have to worry about who am I going to put in now. The other one is

right there to pick it up. Both pitchers bring something different to the table, the coach added. They both throw the ball very hard. Alis a little bit quicker than Cyd, but Cyd is very consistent with her spots. Ali has more movement and speed, but Cyd is fast and she has a little bit more finesse. Shes very accurate when she throws. Catching the two stars will be four-year starter Jordan Ventura, Cydneys twin sister. Her familiarity with the two hurlers will be a boon for the Rams. Jordans going to the majority of not all of the catching, which helps because she knows both of the pitchers, Simoneau said. Shell keep both of them in the game. Around the infield, the Rams have three returning starters with Ready at third, Overacker at short, and Rogers at second. Its not often that you have girls who have played those positions together for so long, Simoneau said. They know the range of the person next to

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Danielle Simoneau (3rd year)
2012 Record: 12-10, FCIAC quarterfinalists, Class L qualifiers Captains: Cydney Ventura, Jordan Ventura, Marlee Ready, Brittany Overacker, and Courtney Rogers, Others to watch: Ali Reilly, Collette Pellgrini, Abby Jenkins, and Amanda Frattroli Coachs Comment Its rare that you get nine girls this talented who have been together for so many years. Danielle Simoneau

them and they know when the backup needs to be there. Its a strong defense. They need to believe in themselves and Id put that defense against anybodys defense. Overackers return after missing most of last season with a concussion was a big plus for the team, and she basically slid back into the infield and hasnt missed a beat. When we played the (Darien) jamboree last weekend, it was as if she never left, Simoneau said. She still has the range, and she got a couple of hits. The Rams also received a boost from the addition of senior Amanda Frattaroli, who took last season off. Shell be starting at first base this spring and provides another power bat in the lineup. The only one we have to adjust to is Frat at first and thats only because she hasnt seen the girls throw as much. But shes making the adjustment fine, Simoneau said. She took last year off, but then she decided to finish out her high school career with us, so thats good for us. When she isnt pitching, Cydney Ventura will be patrolling either left or right field, with junior Collette Pellegrini in center, and senior Abby Jenkins in a corner spot. Cyd has deceiving speed, Simoneau said. When we played at St. Lukes the other day, she tracked down a ball that I dont think Ive ever seen someone track down before. Shes fearless out there. Collette is a phenomenal outfielder, she reads the ball off the bat well, and Abby will probably see the outfield, too. Thats a good group and a strong outfield. A great sign for the program is the addition of a junior varsity team after a

In addition to being a top pitcher, senior Cydney Ventura also carries a powerful bat for New Canaan.
two-year absence. A few players will float between the two teams, including junior Rachel Kortman and sophomore Grace Wagner, along with Claire Conley, a freshman who will spell Jordan Ventura behind the dish at times. The Rams lineup should produce a lot of runs this season, with Cydney Ventura and Rogers at the top, Jordan Ventura in the threespot, Reilly at clean-up, and Frattaroli and Ready at five and six. Overacker, Jenkins, and Pellegrini, all speedsters with decent bats, will fill the bottom third, although Simoneau said one of them could end up leading off, which would shift some of the bats around. Those top four are strong and its contagious, the coach said. Then Amanda has such a strong bat and shes a powerful girl. Abbys been lacing the ball and Ali is confident with her hitting. Its just an added bonus to have those girls hitting so well. The Rams are opening the season against Harding, with a non-FCIAC match-up against Woodland before facing perennial conference contenders Trumbull and St. Joseph next week. The usual suspects such as Darien, Westhill and Stamford will again be strong, although the league looks to be extremely competitive this spring. You cant say were the team to beat or someone else is the team to beat, Simoneau said. Its going to be pretty close like it was last year.

Dave Stewart

Spikers head into second season with momentum

By Dave Stewart Sports Editor On April 9, 2012, the New Canaan Rams boys volleyball team rallied from a 2-1 deficit and defeated the Danbury Hatters 3-2. It was a storybook moment for the Rams, giving the fledgling program its first varsity victory in its first official home match. New Canaan finished 4-12 and now, as the Rams get set to serve up their second season, the focus is on moving forward. Our goal is to keep getting better individually, as a team and as a program, head coach Katie Bakes told the Advertiser. Every point, every game and every practice, the focus is on improvement. New Canaan returns a lot of players who gained experience last spring, but they will have to deal with the graduation of several starters, including Zach Edwards and Nick White, who were the heart and soul of the team. Edwards and White were the catalysts for getting the program started in 2011, and were able to see their vision become a reality last year. Taking over for their former leaders are seniors Kevin Hall and Chris

Boys Volleyball

Gutierrez, who will assume the roles of co-captains. Hall played on the back row, but will move up front as an outside hitter this season. A wrestling captain the past two years, Hall is also experienced as a leader. He has a good voice and he knows how to rally the guys, Bakes said. Hes a tough kid, hes extremely focused and he knows how to keep the guys on task. He really takes the sport seriously and that drive, whether its in a game or a practice or off the court, really helps the team from a leadership role. Were looking forward to seeing his improvement in front row hitting, which is a new position for him, and in jump serving. Gutierrez as played right side and middle back for the Rams, and will be a libero this season. Chris is 100% heart, Bakes said. He puts in his effort full-blast every day, and goes for every ball no matter if its a drill or a game. He understands the game really well, assistant coach Amy Warren said. Chris is really good about making sure the younger players understand it as well and being patient with them. The competition

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Katie Bakes (2nd year)
2012 record: 4-12 Captains: Kevin Hall and Chris Gutierrez Others to watch: Tyler Edwards, Isaac Fishman, Keith Griffin, Sean McCloskey, and George Herde Coachs Comment Our goal is to keep getting better individually, as a team and as a program. Every point, every game and every practice, the focus is on improvement. Katie Bakes
really brings him to the table. Also returning to the starting lineup is sophomore Tyler Edwards, a standout as a freshman last spring. Hell be in the outside hitter role. Tylers looking good, Bakes said. We moved him from the middle to the outside position and his swing is getting better. He played a little bit in the offseason so his swing is getting more developed. Hes a nice, humble, sweet kid, and he wants to get the points and crush the ball. Isaac Fishman, a junior and returning varsity player, is being tried out as the teams setter, with another veteran, junior Keith Griffin, fitting in the lineup on the right side. Also in the mix for starting time are senior Sean McKloskey and junior George Herde, both middles. Coming off the bench will be senior Peter Baran, another outside hitter, and senior Dichen Yin on the right side. Bakes said shes seen a steady confidence in the players this year, something which undoubtedly comes from having a year of experience

under their belts. Theyre a little bit more confident in terms of knowing the game, knowing how to move, and understanding the mechanics of the game, Bakes said. They really came into this season pretty excited and they really want to get better. We have some new blood with a couple of freshmen coming out. Thats exciting because we wanted newer players and younger guys to help build the program. Well have them for a few years. The Rams are still getting things in order this week, working on all aspects of the games, trying different combinations of players, and ironing out the kinks for the start of the regular season. New Canaan will begin its second varsity campaign on Monday, April 8, when it hosts the Danbury Hatters at 4 p.m., in the NCHS gym. At least in the early part of the schedule, Bakes and the Rams will be looking to take a small strides. Wed like to start putting the team chemistry together, which usually doesnt happen until mid-season, Bakes said. But if we could start off working on that, that would be great for the rest of the season. We want them to work on the team because thats the most important thing in volleyball.

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NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER, NEW CANAAN, CONN., THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

Captains guide New Canaan track

With Martin at helm for outdoor season, Rams have plenty of senior leaders
By Dave Stewart Sports Editor George Harvey, Devaun Bovell, Kalan Lysenko, George Bennett, and Nick Musicco have all been important parts of the New Canaan Rams track and field program the past few years. Theyre about to take their last lap through the FCIAC this spring, and as senior co-captains, theyve taken on even bigger roles as the Rams continue making a transition under new head coach Bill Martin. Martin, a veteran coach who came to NCHS after more than a decade with the Norwalk Bears cross country and track and field program, took the Rams reins from Steve Bedard, who stepped down last spring after eight years at the helm. Having five team captains isnt something Martin would typically go with, but this year, the time was right. When youre new to a team like I am, you want to try and highlight the seniors, Martin said. I dont know that Ill ever have five captains again, but for the first year, it made sense to have that kind of leadership. It gives them confidence that as a coach I believe in them and then the team will believe in them as well. Martins Rams are a relatively small squad this spring, with 47 athletes in the ranks. Theyre wellstocked with throwers for the shot put, discus and javelin, and have 12 runners for the middle distance and distance races. Harvey will be featured among the throwers alongside junior Brendan Hill. Both performed wel during the indoor campagin, as Harvey was seventh at the FCIAC finals and eighth in Class L, while Hill was ninth in the FCIAC. George Harvey is a captain and he had a good season throwing indoors, Martin said. He threw over 43 feet in the shot and Brendan Hill threw over 40 feet. So theyre the two guys who threw indoors who are back for the outdoor season and theyve attracted other kids. Junior Beau Santero, a lineman on the football team, has also joined the throwing ranks and adds a little more depth to squad. Everybody whos a field event guy is going try all three disciplines, Martin said. Hopefully, between the three, well find something that theyre strong in and hopefully its

Boys Track & Field

New Canaan senior captain Devaun Bovell goes up and over a hurdle during a track meet at Darien High School last spring. Bovell had a magnificent junior campaign, finishing third in the hurdles at the FCIAC, Class L, and Open meets, and second in the New Englands.
different for everybody. The throwers have been working with new assistant coach Eric Pellini, a former thrower for the Temple Owls and is also a certified strength coach. Pellini and veteran NCHS coach Mary Ann Cohen provide some strong guidance for the field event athletes. Her experience and wisdom and Erics youth and affirmation will be great for the guys, Martin said. Hes got some things going on with mini-competitions between the kids in terms of doing some of the core stuff. Hes developed a nice group of kids that way and the kids have really taken to him. Its my belief that we help everybody regardless. So Eric is working with the girls as well as the boys. The Rams are also hoping for big things from Bovell, who had a spectacular junior season in the 110meter hurdles. Bovell was third at the FCIAC, Class L, and State Open meets, before taking second place in the New England championships. He also competes in the high jump and the sprints. Hes had the misfortune of having to struggle with some trail leg injury this year and it just keeps hampering him, Martin said. Were hoping he can have a good spring season. He is a multi-eventer and he likes to do that, so we want to allow him to do that. Despite the injury, Bovell was able to win the 55-meter hurdles crown at the New Haven Invitational and the FCIAC meet during the winter, while also taking third place at the Class L finals. Bennett and Musicco will join Bovell in the sprints. Nick came to us from football and hes a great kid, great personality and hes a good team leader, Martin said. Hes one of those kids you want to have on your team. George Bennett is probably the only guy whos been on the team for every season in every year. George represents the continuity of the program. My understanding is hes come out of his shell more and more as he got older and hes stepped up. Also sprinting for the Rams is junior Austin Deery, a runner who Martin said is right on the age of becoming something great. Deery could stretch out into the middle distances given his seemingly effortless running style. Another veteran, junior Max Wilson, returns in the high jump after a solid junior year. The jumpers and sprinters will be working with Chris Blackwell, a Norwalk High School graduate and former decathlete from Norfolk State. Assistant coach Rob Frangione will again be working with the pole valuters, including promising junior Eben Jones, who qualified for the FCIAC meet during the indoor season. The middle distance corps will be led by Lysenko and sophomore Spencer Lyman, both part of the FCIAC champion 4x800 relay team during the winter. Kalans a great kid and he will head up our middle distance, distance corps, Martin said. Hes probably our best miler, but right on his heels is Spencer Lyman, a sophomore. Kalan not only has some competition on the team, but a reason to lead too. We want to make sure that Spencer learns what he needs to learn so he can progress to the next level. The distance races will include senior returner Tucker Radecki, and freshman Ryan McGough, who emerged during the cross country season.

Dave Stewart

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Bill Martin (1st year)
2012 Record: 10-2 Captains: George Harvey, Devaun Bovell, Kalan Lysenko, George Bennett, and Nick Musicco Others to watch: Spencer Lyman, Brendan Hill, Austin Deery, E.J. Jones, Max Wilson, and Tucker Radecki Coachs Comment When youre new to a team like I am, you want to try and highlight the seniors. I dont know that Ill ever have five captains again, but for the first year, it made sense to have that kind of leadership. Bill Martin

New Canaan girls track finds strength in numbers

With over 80 athletes on the roster, Rams look well-stocked for the present and future
By Dave Stewart Sports Editor From a logistical standpoint, having 80-plus high school athletes on a track and field roster can be difficult to sort through and manage. But a theres definitely strength in numbers and, for the New Canaan girls track and field team, there is enough budding young talent in the ranks to give the Rams hope for both the present and future. We encourage kids to come out and we dont cut anyone, head coach Art Brown said. Everyone participates. Its a popular sport in the school and we have a good group of upper classmen who make it fun for the kids. I have some new kids with a lot of potential, so its just a matter of working and staying with it. The ones who stay with it seem to do well. Four of those athletes who have stayed with it will be leading the Rams this season, as seniors Eileen Dinnie, Katie DiFazio, Julie Spinde and Sydney Czech take over the role of team captains. Dinnie, DiFazio and Spindel are sprinters who have been in the track and field program for four years. Theyll form the core of the 100and 200-meter dash events, and will also play a big part in the relays. Dinnie, Spindel and DiFazio are all sprinters and theyve all had decent careers here, Brown said. Theyll probably run the 100, 200, 4x1, and 4x4 and theyre capable of doing all those events. Theyve been really good leaders. Sydney Czech is a thrower who is also experienced a good leader. I expect her to do really well this spring. Czech leads a strong group of throwers, who are coming off a solid winter campaign and should be a team strength this spring. The ranks include senior Isabel Herde and junior Tess Decker. All three of the throwers finished in the top 13 in the shot put at the Class L championships in February. Herde had the highest finish, taking fifth place at 32 feet, 1 inch, while Decker was eighth (3004.5), and Czech was 13th (30-4.5). Another standout in the field events is Beth Kelley, a sophomore, who took third place at nine feet during the Class L championships.. We have an excellant pole vaulter with Beth Kelley, who scored in the state class meet. Shes a great athlete and I expect her to have another strong season, Brown said. The high jump will feature junior Alex Naughton, a veteran of the squad, and newcomer Maddy Brust, a freshman. Brust will also compete in the long jump and triple jump with junior Maureen Schott. Schott will be the Rams top gun in the sprints, and Brown said she looks strong after being slowed by an injury during the winter. New Canaan also returns a strong middle distance corps, which includes three members of last years Class L champion

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Art Brown (3rd year)
2012 Record: 7-4 Captains: Eileen Dinnie, Katie DiFazio, Julie Spindel, and Sydney Czech Others to watch: Isabel Hetherington, Maureen Schott, Isabelle Herde, Alex Naughton, Emily Wood, Liz Gordon, Tess Decker, Beth Kelley, Maddy Brust, Emma Rosenstein and Keaton McAuliffe Coachs Comment We have a good nucleus and theyve all looked good so far. We should definitely be competitive. Art Brown
4x800 relay team. That quartet included Stephanie Benko, a star runner who graduated in the spring, along with juniors Isabel Hetherington, Emily Wood and Liz Gordon, all of whom are back. The middle distance races will include Wood, Gordon, Naughton, junior Azadeh Amir-Aslani, and freshman Jane Reed, a standout during the cross country season last fall. Reed could also see some time in the jumps. In the distance races, Hetherington leads the way, along with sophomore Emma Rosenstein, senior Sarah Luke and freshman Sarah Endres. Browns been impressed with Rosenstein, who joined

Girls Track & Field

the track team after helping the Rams win a state championship in hockey. Emma Rosenstein, an ice hockey player, came out and shes looking really good in the mile. I think as the season goes on, she could definitely qualify for states, Brown said. The Rams will also feature junior Keaton McAuliffe in the 300 hurdles, and Brown has said shes been looking good in that event. New Canaan will have a tough schedule, facing several of the top teams from the FCIAC, widely considered the best conference in the state for track and field. Brown said his team is gaining experience and looks to be competitive. We have a lot of kids, but I think were about a year away from being at full strength, the coach said. We have a good nucleus and theyve all looked good so far. We should definitely be competitive. We have a lot of girls and some new girls with potential, so itll be interesting to see how we do as the season goes along.

NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER, NEW CANAAN, CONN., THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

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Ram golfers set sights on retaking crown

By Dave Stewart Sports Editor Back in 2000, Bill Brown first assumed the mantle of head coach of the New Canaan High School varsity boys golf team. Its been a fast 14 years. I remember the day that (then athletic director) Vinnie Iovino asked me to be the golf coach like it was y e s t e r d a y, Brown told the Advertiser. Its crazy that its been so long and that weve had the success weve had. Its been a good ride. And the Rams ride appears ready to roll once again this spring. With Will Essigs as the ace at the top of the lineup and plenty of senior depth on the roster, New Canaan should be in contention for FCIAC and State championships, two annual goals it fell just short of last spring. The Rams were 16-2 last year and earned one of eight berths in the FCIAC championships, finishing fourth overall. They then had their three-year reign as CIAC Div. II champs ended despite shooting an impressive 314 in the final at Timberlin. Daniel Hand came in with a 313 to swipe the DII crown by a single stroke. Were very excited about this season, Brown said. We lost by one shot in the state championships last year and the kids were upset by that, but were looking to get back there, make the FCIACs and hopefully win the states again. Were ready to go. Seniors Essigs, Michael Swift, and Michael Slattery will lead the Rams as team tri-captains. Essigs will play at No. 1, moving up after a strong year as the second-spot golfer behind the graduated Ben Katz. Essigs had the Rams best score in the state championship match, shooting a 4-over par 76. A strong tournament golfer, Essigs won the 12th annual Stan Trojanowski Northern Junior with a 1-under 143 at Ellington Ridge Country Club, last July. Hes already committed to Gettysburg College, and will play for the Bullets mens golf team next year. I could see he had the talent right from the beginning in his freshman and sophomore years, Brown said. Hes really improved and worked hard and hes going to Gettysburg to play golf next year, which hes excited about. Hes another one of the great kids Ive had over the years who has worked at improving and is very positive with his teammates. Hes an excellent young man and a great golfer. He epitomizes what a

Boys Golf

New Canaan senior Will Essigs follows the flight of the ball during the FCIAC boys golf championships last season. Essigs and fellow seniors Michael Slattery and Michael Swift are captains of the team this season.
good captain is. Right behind Essigs in the lineup are Slattery and Swift. Both saw some time at the varsity level last year and Slattery competed in both the FCIAC and state championships. They both played some last year, Brown said. Slats played in the state championship, so he has that experience. Hes sort of a late bloomer. He came out his first couple of years, but he really got serious about the game of golf between his sophomore and junior years last summer. Once (Slattery and Swift) found out that they are good players and they have a chance to be even better, they worked at it very hard. Brown said hes been impressed with how dedicated the players are to the sport of golf. We had a team dinner at the Slatterys house late in the season and Will Essigs, Michael Swift, and Michael Slattery were sitting there going over their summer schedules for junior golf tournaments. Its really quite amazing how much these kids play now, the coach said. The rest of the lineup features five options, as the Rams varsity squad will carry eight golfers. Leading that group is senior Tyler Sands, who figures to fill the No. 4 spot. Tyler Sands is another one who takes the game seriously and wants to do well, Brown said. He goes up to Great River in Milford and has lessons and stuff up there. So hes another hard worker. Seniors Peter McKeever and Trip Means are also in the mix for varsity time, and Brown said theyd both play in some matches this year. Jack Jeffrey, a junior with a great swing, according to Brown, and freshman Justin Clark round out the varsity roster. Brown said that Clark is a strong golfer with a great future. Justin is an excellent player, the coach said. Hell be starting with the JVs at the beginning but hes going to have an opportunity to play some varsity matches. The Rams have been hampered during the preseason, as poor weather and melting snow has kept them off their home course at the Country Club of New Canaan. Theyve been limited to the driving range and some time on the putting green. New Canaan will open the season against Stamford at E. Gaynor Brennan on April 10, before playing its home opener against St. Joseph the following day. While the usual suspects, including defending league champion Greenwich, Wilton, Darien, Ridgefield and Staples among others, figure to be in contention again this year, there will be a new challenge during the postseason, as the FCIAC championship match has moved to Heritage Village in Southbury. The venue is a great one for the high caliber of play in the confer-

Dave Stewart

ence, and will put everyone on an equal footing, as few of the players are familiar with the course. The final is a long way off, but Brown is looking forward to another season of solid golf from the Rams. Im so fortunate, he said. We have 20 kids trying out and they all know the game. Were going to be right in the mix with everything and Im convinced were going to have another terrific season.

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Bill Brown (14th year)
2012 Record: 16-2, 4th in FCIAC, State D2 runner-up Captains: Will Essigs, Michael Slattery, and Michael Swift Others to watch: Tyler Sands, Peter McKeever, Trip Means, Jack Jeffrey, and Justin Clark Coachs Comment We lost by one shot in the state championships last year and the kids were upset by that, but were looking to get back there, make the FCIACs and hopefully win the states again. Were ready to go. - Bill Brown

Girls golf team ready to tee off with new coach

Priscilla Schulz takes over senior-heavy New Canaan varsity squad
By Dave Stewart Sports Editor When Dave Fine stepped down after seven years as the head coach of the New Canaan girls varsity golf team, the hunt began for a suitable replacement. How about an FCIAC Hall of Famer? Priscilla Schulz, who has coached varsity volleyball, girls basketball and softball at NCHS, has taken over the reins of the girls golf program and is finding the commitment well worth the time. Jay (Egan, NCHS athletic director) asked me to do it and he knows how much I love golf, so I said what a great opportunity. I had to think about it a little, because it is getting back into coaching after so long, but its been a great experience. Im lucky enough to have Mary Montanus as my assistant coach. Shes been a great mentor, shes showing me the ropes and she has a good relationship with the girls, so Ive walked into a good situation. Schulz also had a pair of varsity veterans to lead the Rams, as Bridget Falcone and Ember Parker are team co-captains. Both played for Rams last spring, and Falcone already has experience as a captain, having led the field hockey team in the fall. Both of them are great leaders, they love golf, and theyve had varsity experience, Schulz said. It was basically a no-brainer choosing them as captains. They display such great leadership and enthusiasm, and theyre great role models for the younger girls and the girls who dont

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Priscilla Schulz (1st year)
2012 Record: 6-8-2. FCIAC & State qualifier Captains: Bridget Falcone and Ember Parker Others to watch: Madison Seger, Sammy Esposito, Madeline Diamond, and Katie Perry Coachs Comment Its a senior-laden team and while not all of them have varsity experience, theyre good leaders and its a great group. Priscilla Schulz
have varsity experience. Theyve very different. Embers more out-going and Bridget is quieter, but they both have great personalities and theyve been wonderful to work with. Falcone and Parker are two of five seniors on the team, which gives the team a veteran feel. The senior corps includes Madison Seger and Sammy Esposito, along with Madeline Diamond, a newcomer who moved to New Canaan from California. Junior Katie Perry will also be in the mix for

Girls Golf

playing time. The girls are absolutely wonderful, Schulz said. Its a senior-laden team and while not all of them have varsity experience, theyre good leaders and its a great group. The Rams also boast a good group of younger golfers who will play junior varsity. Sammy Johnson, Danielle Meyers, and Katie McNolte are sophomores, and Claire Perry is a freshman on the roster. New Canaan opened the season with a match against Trumbull We open up at Tashua on Wednesday and itll be both varsity and JV so all 10 girls will get an opportunity to play, Schulz said. Im really excited to see them in actual match competition. I really cant wait to see these girls play. Schulz said the team has received a tremendous amount of support from the Country

Club of New Canaan and head pro Dan Phillipon, as well as Fine, and boys golf coaches Bill Brown and Paul Gallo. Between Dave, Bill Brown, and Paul Gallo they have been just wonderful, the coach said. Theyre a great group to be involved with and theyre a big help for me. We cooperate and work well together, so thats been a great experience as well. With the inclement weather limiting Schulzs opportunities to see her players in action, the final lineup with which the Rams will go to battle isnt set in stone, and things could change as the season progresses. Were not set entirely with the lineup, Schulz said. Things might change from match to match and some people might be in one spot more consistently. Well see how it goes. Everyones going to get an opportunity and you cant ask for more than that.

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NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER, NEW CANAAN, CONN., THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2013

New Canaan senior cocaptain Eric Persky (37) slams the brakes on a Ridgefield attacker during the Rams 11-9 win in the FCIAC championship game last spring.

Dave Stewart

Laxmen turn the page into new season

With Buzzeo at the helm for first year, Rams look promising for 2013
and being ready for anything that comes the teams way, something he learned while playing for coach When it comes to the 2013 New Howard Benedict at NCHS. Canaan Rams boys lacrosse team Its not only learning what your and its new head team does best, but also learning coach Chip Buzzeo, what other teams do so you can the only thing to counter, Buzzeo said. Its not a be expected is the coincidence that theres New Canaan unexpected. alums coaching in the college ranks Were doing a with Andy Towers, Mike Murphy lot of different things, Buzzeo told and Dave Campbell. A lot of that the Advertiser. Our main focus is comes from the way coach Benedict being prepared for every game and taught us how to play the game and every situation. Youre not going see his focus on fundamentals, Xs and us run one offense or one defense. Os, and understanding the game. We are going to have a multi-variable The Rams will feature four senior approach when it comes to offenses, captains in defensemen Eric Persky defenses, clears, special situations, and John Rhudy, and attacks Puck man-up, man-down. Richardson and Pete Johnson. That type of approach should Persky, an All-America player, come in handy in the talent-laden and Rhudy return to a defense which FCIAC, which boasts many of the should again be a strength. Theyll top teams in the region. team with senior Thomas Costigan To be sure, the Rams have graduto create a formidable unit which should give opposing offenses fits. The three of them are playing extremely well, Buzzeo said. Theyre big, theyre strong, and theyre fast. Our defense is certainly a strong point for our team. The graduated Carey left some of the biggest shoes to fill, but the Rams appear to have two capable athletes in the goal with senior Griffin Falvey, saw time last season, and junior Trent Nader, who is coming off a strong hockey campaign. Both have looked solid in the preseason and will see plenty of action in the net this year. The defensive midfielders will include senior Jack Isherwood, juniors Jack Gilio and Graham Wagner, sophomore Teddy Dumbauld, and Phil Arliss, another senior. Sophomore Frank Cognetta and junior Seth Neeleman will be long pole middies, with three or four other players fighting for one or two more spots. The midfield line is fast and furious with senior Duke Repko, and juniors Teddy Bossidy and Cole Turpin, all football players. Repko and Bossidy both began last season in the starting lineup, but were quickly sidelined with injuries. Theyre both healthy now and should be key for the Rams on both ends of the field. The Rams also have a second Dave Stewart midfield line including senior Austin Senior co-captain Puck Richardson (18) controls the action during a Nader and junior Robby Paul, both Ram win over Ridgefield at Dunning Field last spring. converted attacks, senior Griffin By Dave Stewart Sports Editor ated a lot from last years squad, which went 19-4, reached the finals of the Class M tournament, and won New Canaans first FCIAC championship in nearly a decade. The Rams defeated Ridgefield 11-9 in the conference title game, rallying from a four-goal deficit at halftime and giving former head coach Alex Whitten his first championship with the Rams. New Canaan graduated many stars, including defenseman Kevin McDonough, attacks Peter Kraus and Matt Blasco, midfielder John Brainard, and goalie Thomas Carey, the MVP of the FCIAC final. In their wake, however, the Rams return plenty of veterans, with numerous others who will now get their time to shine in the spotlight. As far as Buzzeo is concerned, the name of the game is preparation

Rams at a glance
Head Coach Chip Buzzeo (1st year)
2012 Record: 19-4, FCIAC champions, Class M runner-up Captains: Eric Persky, John Rhudy, Puck Richardson, and Pete Johnson Others to watch: Duke Repko, Teddy Bossidy, Tom Costigan, Cole Turpin, Harry Stanton, Michael Kraus, Griffin Falvey, Trent Nader, Jack Gilio, Graham Wagner, and Jack Isherwood Coachs Comment Our main focus is being prepared for every game and every situation. Youre not going see us run one offense or one defense Chip Buzzeo

Boys Lacrosse

White, and promising freshman Kyle Smith, a top-flight athlete. Up top, New Canaan will go with four attackers, including captains Richardson and Johnson, junior Harry Stanton, and sophomore Michael Kraus. As far as our strongest qualities as a team, I would say its our athleticism, Buzzeo said. We can flat out run fast, were quick, were strong, and were extremely tough. A lot of them are also multi-sport athletes which is great. Theyre hockey players, wrestlers, football players, and basketball players. One thing is certain: Buzzeo plans on getting as many players on the field as possible during the course of games. I believe in playing more players throughout the game, the coach said. You cant play your star players for an entire game because if you do, theyll burn out and they wont be fresh for the fourth quarter. So instead of 16-17 players playing, hopefully well get above 20 and maybe even above 22-25 players in a game. The Rams have had an eventful preseason, nearly beating Avon Old Farms, the ninth-ranked team in the country, before falling 9-8 in a scrimmage last week. New Canaan opened the season with a Wednesday night game against the Wilton Warriors in the latest chapter of Connecticuts oldest

lacrosse rivalry. For some, having such a highprofile game early in the season may seem out of place, but Buzzeo doesnt see it that way. In 1996, his senior year at NCHS, the Rams defeated Wilton on opening day and then again for the state championship in June. Its great, Buzzeo said of the season-opener. When I was a senior in high school we started against Wilton and we won that game and then we ended up playing against them in the last game of the season, the championship game, and we beat them. Both programs are entering their 39th year of lacrosse. Its a great rivalry and its the most historic lacrosse rivalry in Connecticut lacrosse. The book on the 2013 season is just beginning to be written, but the talent and depth are in place. The main thing to come is experience and knowledge of the game. What we need to work on the most is what lacrosse coaches call lacrosse IQ, Buzzeo said. Its learning the game and taking that athleticism and turning it into better lacrosse, not only skills, but play on the field. With the way we can run up and down the field and the athletes that we have, if we can grasp the technical part of the game in terms of how to move together on offense and how to work together on defense, we will be a good team.