Nassau News: East Meadow getting defense in gear

After allowing 15 goals in 15 games (five shutouts) in 2009, East Meadow got off to a rocky start in 2010. The team allowed five goals in its first two games, going 0-1-1 to start the season. Since then, things have looked a lot more like last year.

“We’re pretty young and a little inexperienced in the back,” coach Adam Hananel said. “But we changed up what we were doing back there, as far as formations. We tried to put people in better spots to help them be successful. Tried to do what was more conducive to the talent that we have.”

In their last four games the Jets have given up just two goals and posted two shutouts, while going 3-1

Julia Caparotta has started each win in net, nabbing 13 saves and allowing just one goal. Tracy Mitzelman had 9 saves (one goal allowed) on Sept. 27 against East Meadow, her first action of the season.

But the team defensive leader is Jessica Widmann, a first team All-State player in 2009.