Sports

High School

High school fall sports preview 2010

There is a theme here. This fall promises to give us more of the same in so many sports across the Long Island landscape. Our champions will repeat and the critical experience of underclassmen on some teams will show in this year's state playoff run. 
That's right, we're going to see the continuation of some of Long Island's most dominant programs. They're going to win county, Long Island and in some cases state titles again in field hockey, boys and girls soccer, football, and girls volleyball. 
South Side graduated Crystal Dunn, who was arguably the greatest girls soccer player to grace our fields. Dunn took her magical skills to the <a href="/topics/University_of_North_Carolina">University of North Carolina</a>. 
But if you believe that an era has ended, forget it. The South Side girls soccer program is just as strong as ever and will battle for the state Class A championship. Remember this name: Jackie Cifarelli. Count on the Cyclones to vie for the school's fifth state title in the past six years. 
The nationally ranked boys soccer teams at St. Anthony's and Chaminade are guaranteed to give us two entertaining games. St. Anthony's is the defending CHSAA champions and is ranked fifth nationally in the FAB 50 <a href="/topics/ESPN">ESPN</a> Rise poll. 
Chaminade is ranked ninth in the same poll. The schools just can't seem to get out of each other's way. 
If all goes to form, the teams will split their two regular-season games, increasing the intensity in the impending battle for the CHSAA championship. The hope here is that St. John the Baptist or Holy Trinity can give the semifinal round some electricity. 
It'll be a typical season for the field hockey teams at Ward Melville and Garden City. They both could go undefeated in their respective classifications but to the coaches' credit, they scheduled a non-league showdown for Oct. 2 at Garden City. The Patriots hosted and won last year's contest. Can the Trojans return the favor? 
Ward Melville won its third straight Long Island Class A championship last year, and led by All-American midfielder Abby Beltrani, is on course to make it four in a row. 
Garden City returns standouts like Mikaela Rix and Caroline Tarzian to do the same in Class B. 
Both teams were upended in the state tournament and hope that this season's journey ends with a state crown. 
While the girls volleyball team at Ward Melville gets ready to roll over the competition for the school's seventh Suffolk crown in eight years, it's the change in boys volleyball on Long Island that has grabbed everyone's interest. 
For the first time, a Long Island boys volleyball champion will be crowned. Nassau moved its program from the spring to the fall season, giving the two sections, Nassau and Suffolk, an opportunity to compete for the state title. 
Half Hollow Hills, the two-time defending Suffolk champ, returns Chris Kaimis, arguably the best player on Long Island. The Thundercolts will get the chance to win a state title for the first time. 
So while we sit back and watch the dynasties that have been built at Ward Melville and Garden City field hockey and see South Side hammer opponents in girls soccer, maybe we'll witness the start of something big in boys volleyball. 
Are the boys volleyball players at Half Hollow Hills good enough to get to the next level beyond the county and win a Long Island title - or how about a state championship? 
It's their serve.

Columnists

Gregg Sarra

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Sarra: Dominant programs will add to dynasties

No more trying to remember who plays in what month. Nassau boys volleyball has joined the rest of Long Island as a fall sport.
This paves the way for a small-school and large-school Long Island championship, which will give the winners the opportunity to play in the state championships, something many coaches and fans have wanted for years.
No more wondering whether Massapequa would beat Half Hollow Hills in a title game. Or how Port Washington would fare against Ward Melville if both reached the championship.
"It's the best thing to hit volleyball on Long Island," Half Hollow Hills boys coach Craig Berini said. "And in the long haul, it will put Long Island volleyball on the map."
Now, all volleyball on Long Island, save for the CHSAA boys, will be played in the fall.
But there is discord among coaches regarding the decision made by Nassau's Section VIII athletic directors in July. 
"I am not in favor of us moving to fall," Port Washington boys coach Maria Giamanco said. "I'd rather Suffolk move to the spring. There are tremendous problems because there will not be enough officials, referees and coaches."
Problems aside, the switch sparked passionate reactions from the Island's volleyball coaches, all of whom are weighing the benefits of an expanded postseason against inevitable logistical issues. 
Smaller schools that have boys and girls varsity and JV teams will contend with a lack of gym space. That will force some teams to practice later in the afternoon. Todd Heimer, executive director of Section VIII athletics, said some matches might be postponed or altered from its scheduled date to accommodate the dearth of gym space and officials.
Heimer acknowledges that is one of the many obstacles facing Nassau volleyball.
"We will have to go through the trials and tribulations of this brand new thing we are facing," Heimer said.
The greatest obstacle, according to most coaches, will be lack of officials. Not all officials are licensed to referee both girls and boys, and with a more cluttered match schedule, finding suitable referees for each match might be challenging.
"Gym space will be a big problem," said Plainview JFK boys coach Russi Villalt, who said he also is concerned about the availability of qualified officials.
 Regan Koch, chairperson of the Nassau Boys' Volleyball Officials, said this year's training class increased to 16, up from 14 the previous two years. Certain officials will have to "double up'' on JV and varsity matches the same evening, but he believes in the collective competency of his officials.
"Some of these people we added will be blue-chip officials," Koch said. "We have had some coaches who have changed professions come over to officiate."
Villalta also expressed concern over what she believes will be a dwindling talent pool in Nassau. She said two of her student-athletes are playing soccer in the fall. Hicksville boys coach Rory Lawlor said she lost two of her returning starters to soccer. 
Lawlor said she felt the effect of the switch on a personal level. After 15 years coaching both the boys and girls, she had to choose between the two. She went with the boys, leaving Danielle Sekasan in charge of the girls. Despite having to give up one of her coaching jobs, she approves of the switch.
The question remains: Will this experiment go awry? Did Section VIII, in the name of a Long Island and state title, bite off more than it could chew?
Said Massapequa boys coach Steve Mariano: "Long term, it will be better. In the short term, it will be crazy and chaotic."

Volleyball

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Volleyball's now a sport for one season

The secret to Olivia Chan's success is no secret.
She'd love to be a kid having fun, but she'd rather be a champion. And that drive is what took her from someone splashing around in the pool to one of the top talents on the Island.
Chan, a sophomore who swims for Sewanhaka District and attends <a href="/topics/New_Hyde_Park%2C_NY">New Hyde Park</a> High School, emerged into the <a href="/topics/Long_Island%2C_NY">Long Island</a> spotlight in 2008, when as an eighth grader she broke two <a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">Nassau</a> records at the county finals. 
Now, she has her sights set on county records in the 200 IM and 100 breaststroke.
Last season she won the 200 IM (2:06.35) and 100 breaststroke (1:04.48) at the state public high school championships. She placed first in the 100 free (52.91) and 50 free (24.73) at the 2009 <a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">Nassau</a> finals and was part of the first place 200-medley relay (1:51.2). 
Chan possesses graceful but ferocious speed in the water and has the concentration of a seasoned champion. 
What's easy to overlook is what she, and many other elite athletes, had to give up to compile that kind of resume. 
"Definitely it's really hard work," Chan said. "Sometimes it just gets in the way of personal life and school. But over time you just learn to balance it out. And if you just want to achieve a personal best or record, you've just gotta work harder than others."
When athletes talk about working harder it generally brings to mind active images: running on treadmills, lifting weights or endless laps in an indoor pool. But what can get lost in the translation is what they don't get to do.
"When I was younger, [the training] was definitely in the way. I would feel left out, and like I had less time to finish my school work, or less time to be with my friends," Chan said. "Obviously, school comes first, and then I would try to make all the practices I could for swimming. But that definitely cuts out relaxing or hanging out times.
"Right now I feel like I'm planning it out pretty well with things like the movies or the beach. But sometimes I still have to make that sacrifice. I know what I want in terms of swimming and records and best times, and I've definitely let my want for having a regular life get in the way sometimes. But you learn from your mistakes."

Swimming

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Hard work, sacrifices have paid off for Chan

In Nassau, boys soccer switches from ability-based conferences to enrollment-based. Suffolk uses enrollment-based conferences, the standard practice across New York State. The move is supposed to help build rivalries but some traditionally strong soccer programs now have historically weaker programs on their schedule. Some conferences are stacked with strong programs, as is the case with Conference VIII, which includes Class B powerhouses Cold Spring Harbor and Carle Place as well as the defending Class C state champion, Friends Academy. 
Class AA 
Hicksville, the defending champion, is led by All-Long Island senior defender Timmy Parker, who has committed to St. John's. New Hicksville coach Scott Starkey emphasized Parker's importance. "His success will determine a lot of how our season will go,'' Starkey said. Senior defender Sal <a href="/topics/Geneva">Geneva</a> and junior defender/midfielder Ian Gallagher are other key returnees. 
Farmingdale could start 10 seniors, including defender Michael Doller, midfielder Austin Wertheimer and forwards Chris Giordano and Victor Montano. Farmingdale will host nationally-ranked Chaminade and St. Anthony's as part of its non-league schedule. 
Massapequa returns several seniors, including forward/midfielder Brian Bartichek, goalkeeper Sean Brailey, defender Nick Fetzer and defender/midfielder Chris Balzano. 
Oceanside returns a fairly young but experienced team. Junior midfielder Casey Densing leads the way and senior forward Nick Iadevio returns after missing most of last season with a back injury. 
Syosset is going to be a young team with five returning starters. Senior defenders <a href="/topics/Steven_Davies">Steven Davies</a> and Ross Kennedy along with junior midfielder Eric Bold and sophomore defender/midfielder Thomas Burrei are the key players. 
Bellmore JFK returns several experienced players. Senior defender Drew Satnick is a four-year starter and is joined by senior forward <a href="/topics/Justin_Harrison">Justin Harrison</a> and senior goalkeeper Tom Anagostou. 
Baldwin returns many key players from the team that went undefeated last season. Senior goalkeeper Vincent Pelliegrino led the county in shutouts last season. Seniors Stephen Tang, Jarek Babb and Phillip Flores make up the defense and seniors Tana Weekes and Chris Walsh are in the midfield. 
Class A 
South Side, the defending champion, brings back seven starters. Senior <a href="/topics/Jeff_Cohen">Jeff Cohen</a> is the anchor of the defense. Sophomore forward Mark Romanowski led the team in goals and assists last season. 
Garden City returns four starters from its team that lost in the county final. Senior midfielder John Tarzian and senior forward Vincent Taversnese lead the way. Non-league games against defending Class B champion Cold Spring Harbor and Class AA runner-up Calhoun will be early tests. 
Mineola returns eight starters, including junior defender Denis Lazo-Cruz, the only sophomore to be named All-County last season. Junior midfielder Christian Lird also returns. 
Jericho has experience on the back end with senior goalkeeper Ben Rechler and senior defender Wesler Mehr. Junior midfielder Glenn Hyams is also a key returning player. 
Roslyn returns nine starters, including junior forward Matt Sherr, and senior defenders Jason Bergman and Sam Sherr. 
Class B 
Cold Spring Harbor, the five-time defending champion, has a lot of holes to fill. Senior defenders Chris Pontisakos and Ben Lebowitz solidify the back end. Senior midfielder Justin Suter and senior forward Nick Moquin make up the rest of the core of the team. 
Carle Place, county finalists for the last four years, returns seven starters. Senior goalkeeper Stephen Laurino and senior midfielder Stephen Brown lead the way. Look for junior midfielder Dom Pereira to make an impact as well. 
Class C 
Friends Academy, the defending state champion, is the lone Class C school in Nassau. Senior defender Christopher Campbell has committed to Colgate. Senior midfielder Colin Heffron is a key returnee as is senior forward Matt Slotnick, the county's leading scorer.

Boys Soccer

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Nassau boys soccer preview

Many people think the run of Brentwood boys soccer is over. Appearing in four state Class AA championship games in the last five years, the Indians graduated 16 players. They do return 15 players and the core of the team has played in two Long Island title games. 
Those players will take on bigger roles, but there still is plenty of talent. It certainly won't be easy because there are many good teams in Suffolk Class AA. 
According to most coaches, Sayville is the favorite in Class A. In Class B, defending state champion Center Moriches returns most of the team. Port Jefferson, Southold, and Stony Brook should battle for the Class C crown and Smithtown Christian and Ross are the lone Class D programs. 
Class AA 
Brentwood returns 15 players. Senior forward Julio Olivares will be joined by senior midfielder Frank Guzman, who is an excellent playmaker. The defense is anchored by senior Irvin Flores and big things are expected from 6-2 sophomore Jonathon Interiano and senior goalkeeper Herson Guzman. Brentwood will have a different look compared to recent teams with four starters at least 6-2 or taller. 
Half Hollow Hills West returns eight starters, including junior forward Donovan Fraser (10 goals, 25 assists), senior forward Justin Connor (16 goals, 10 assists) and freshman forward Dylan Greenberg, who was on the Under-15 U.S. team. West will score a ton of goals. 
Ward Melville has just three returning starters and is composed of mainly sophomores and juniors, but the Patriots are one of the most talented teams. Leading the way are senior goalkeeper Matt Kerman, senior midfielder Christian Marcel, and senior forward Alex Guadagno. The Patriots have a lot of speed. 
Newfield is a senior-laden team. Junior midfielder Sam Durkot is a three-year starter who had eight goals and 10 assists last season. He often set up senior forward Steven Lopes (11 goals). Senior goalkeeper Brandon Hiltz is also someone to watch. 
Commack won the League I title and ended Brentwood's 78-game unbeaten streak last season, but lost to the Indians in the semifinals. Commack returns just three starters, but has depth. The top players are junior forward Jack Miller, senior defender Alex Joseph, and senior midfielder Adam Tamburello. 
Don't sleep on Northport, which has senior forward Chris McBride and senior defender Taylor Lawshe. 
West Islip has a young team with lots of talent and more depth than usual. Junior midfielder Sean Sepe is the top player along with senior goalkeeper Kyle Carrick and junior midfielder Phil Denara. 
East Islip has a lot of experience with senior forward Keith McKenna (11 goals), senior midfielder Kyle Knoth, and junior goalkeeper Evan Maxwell. 
Class A 
Sayville has made the postseason 15 straight seasons. Leading the way is junior midfielder Dakota Edwards, one of the top players in the county. The defense is very strong, anchored by junior Jared Van Brunt and senior goalkeeper Dan Scheck. 
Miller Place returns most of the team and has high expectations. Senior midfielder Jake Scavetta (10 goals, 11 assists) is the playmaker, senior forward Nick Parrella (18 goals) is the finisher and senior goalkeeper Kevin LaBarbera helped lead the team to the semifinals last season. 
Glenn has 17 seniors on the roster, including midfielders Tim Caputo and Matt Toich, and defender Kyle Madden. Defense and the midfield are the strength of Glenn. 
East Hampton should be able to score a lot of goals behind senior midfielder Jonathan Pineda and junior midfielder Mario Olaya. 
Junior midfielder Matt Peixoto and senior defender Sean Brady hope to bring Kings Park to the playoffs for the first time since 2002. 
Senior midfielder Brian Intemann and junior forward Andy Maldonado are the linchpins for a young Harborfields team. 
Class B 
Center Moriches returns 16 players from a state championship team. Harvey Houpe, a senior midfielder who had 12 goals and 16 assists and senior forward James Whelan (14 goals, 14 assists) form a good offensive tandem and the defense is anchored by senior Jack McGarrity. 
Mattituck hopes to win its second county championship in three seasons with a team boasting plenty of size and a strong defense. Cody Huntley, a 6-4 senior goalkeeper, and senior defender Matt Waggoner anchor the Tuckers. 
Southampton brings back most of the team, including junior midfielder Matias Ruiz and senior midfielder Ansley Quiros. 
Class C 
Port Jefferson won its first county title last season and senior forward Alex Carlacci and senior defender A.J. Racanelli lead a team that moves the ball well on the ground. 
Southold's streak of four consecutive county championships came to an end last season and senior midfielder Jacob Ellis and senior defender Chris Suskevich hope to start a new streak. &nbsp;

SKSBSOC10

Suffolk boys soccer preview

As usual, there should be no surprises in CHSAA boys soccer. St. Anthony's and Chaminade, both ranked nationally in the top 10 to open the season, are expected to meet each other in the final once again. Last season, St. Anthony's prevailed, 1-0, on a penalty kick in the final minute. 
St. Anthony's returns most of the team. Senior midfielders Andrew LoManto and Henry Tirado and forward John Ugar pace the offense and seniors Matt Wendelken and Kyle Arestivo lead the defense. 
Chaminade has a lot of experience with 18 seniors. Senior goalkeeper Ricky Berotti is one of the best at his position on Long Island. The defense is anchored by seniors Mike Lobben and Kory Seibt and the midfield is anchored by seniors Tom Roulis and Jon Stallone. The Flyers allowed just eight goals last season and five two years ago. 
St. John the Baptist returns just one starter, but has a lot of young talent. Senior Emmett O'Hara led the team in scoring last season. The midfield is strong with seniors Thomas O'Connor and Connor Beisner. 
Kellenberg is a senior-laden team and returns 10 starters. Leading the way are seniors Ryan McDermott (midfielder), Andrew Stephens (goalkeeper), and Cameron Pugach (midfielder).

SKCHSAASOC10

CHSAA boys soccer preview

The more things change the more they stay the same. While the Nassau conferences have been reorganized from ability-based groupings to enrollment-based, the powers that have ruled Nassau continue to churn out talented and strong teams. 
Massapequa has won Class AA seven straight times; South Side had won Class A 10 straight; Cold Spring Harbor has three straight Class B titles; Friends Academy is an eight-time winner in Class C. 
But those dominant teams won’t go unopposed in 2010, with plenty of talented underclassmen seeing their potential transformed into results and numerous upperclassmen taking one last swipe at a Nassau title. 
CLASS AA 
Massapequa: Center Midfielder Amanda Reverberi (three goals, eight assists) is a tenacious defender who knows how to set the tempo and will be key as the Chiefs try to win their first Long Island Championship since 2005. Sophomore Rosie DiMartino led the team in scoring last year (13 goals, five assists). 
MacArthur is led by forward Jillian Mulholland, who scored 22 goals in 2009, and midfielder Kelly Kempf. 
East Meadow's key to returning to the county finals will be to replicate a 2009 defense - led by first team All-State player Jessica Widmann - that allowed just 15 goals in 15 games (five shutouts). Luisa Echeverry (nine goals) and Gabriella Fuduli (five goals) solidify the midfield. 
Great Neck South's Sapir Edalati (29 goals, 11 assists) was second in Nassau in total points and goals. 
CLASS A 
South Side ended last season with a state title and a No. 9 ranking on the <a href="/topics/ESPN">ESPN</a> Rise Fab-50 poll. And though it didn't make the list to start this season, it's still the Nassau Class A favorite. Forward Jackie Cifarelli (eight goals, nine assists) is a goal creator and Caitlin Wallace will transition from midfield to more defensive work, where her playoff experience could pay dividends. The team counts seven state titles in the past decade. 
Levittown, which lost to South Side in the county finals, will depend on sister forwards Julie and Suzy Ballantyne and midfielders Krista Fitzpatrick and Maggie Carew to get back. 
Jericho: Midfielder Amanda Epstein (13 goals, five assists) and forward Taylor Katz (11 goals, five assists) provide the offense for <a href="/topics/Kansas_Jayhawks">the Jayhawks</a>, who lost in the 2009 semis. Goalie Farrah Waldman had five shutouts in 2009. 
North Shore sophomore Brie Ruane scored 34 goals to lead Nassau last season. Her combination of speed, control and ability to use both feet to shoot make her dangerous. Amanda Johansen was second in Nassau with 14 assists. 
Manhasset: With midfielder Ashley Peter, sweeper Nicole Sockett and midfield-forward Catherine Avallone in their senior years, the Indians have enough experience to go deep in the playoffs. Goalie Halle Majorana, in her second year in net, should show a much-improved maturity on the field. 
Mineola: Alicia Mercurio (11 goals) and All-County sweeper Erica Antonison lead a talented upper-class core. West Hempstead: Olivia Czavar had eight goals as an all-county player. 
Valley Stream South hopes a strong attack, led by Christie DeMarco and Alexa DeLaTorre, will bring a postseason berth. 
CLASS B 
Cold Spring Harbor is counting on a mix of aggressive youth at forward and lockdown defense in 2010. Midfielder Attie Schubauer was the team MVP last year and Ali Napoli is a shutdown defender who will take over at sweeper. 
CLASS C 
Friends Academy is hoping to win its first Long Island Championship since 2006. Center halfback Michelle Babicz has strong ball control and great passing ability while powerful lefty Krystina Iordanou is an explosive player at forward and halfback.

Girls Soccer

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Nassau girls soccer preview

Four of the five Long Island representatives at the state tournament in Cortland last season — West Islip, Center Moriches, Stony Brook, and Smithtown Christian — were a product of Suffolk County. 
With a new season just under way, determining which representatives will emerge from the county later this fall has become harder to predict. Many coaches attribute the unpredictability of the upcoming season to the parity and competitiveness that has developed throughout the county in recent years. The disparity between teams has closed considerably and many leagues are available for the taking. It makes for what should be an intriguing road through Suffolk County to Cortland. 
Class AA 
For the past two seasons, the Class AA Long Island championship has gone through Islip. Two years ago it went East, last year West. The rivalry renews this season as West Islip and East Islip reunite in League III. 
"If we go 2-15 and the two wins are against EI," West Islip coach Nick Grieco said, "everyone is happy." 
While midfielder Lauren Bellone leads a young West Islip offense, the defense returns intact led by goalkeeper Samantha Whitney and sweeper Melissa Fegreto. East Islip hopes to return the title to the opposite side of town with a healthy Cari Roccaro on the attack in center-midfield and Katelyn Koslosky in net. 
Smithtown East and West: Another crosstown rivalry will take place in Smithtown where forward Erin Froehlich and center-back Katie Lamanna lead West and goalkeeper Michelle Conrad and defender Stephanie Kollmer lead East. 
Sachem East features a pair of all-state players in Alyssa Gutierrez and striker Kelsey Ferguson. 
Ward Melville will be in contention with goalkeeper Ally Ramos and midfielder Morgan Governale. 
Patchogue-Medford hopes to be more offensive minded behind Michelle Kawko and Kendel Collins in midfield. 
Connetquot will be strong up the middle in League II with all-state Deanna Murino alongside Raychel Diver in center-midfield. 
Northport's Kristi Abbate, first-team all-state and Suffolk Player of the Year, will move from center-midfield to forward in order to be closer to the attack while Rosie Hayes moves to the backfield. 
Sachem North: Center-midfielder Courtney Cohen and keeper Erin McNulty hope to avenge a heartbreaking loss in the county championship. 
North Babylon will be the favorite in League IV with all-state forward Casey Filippone leading an offense that includes Emily Ude and Emily Greco. 
Hauppauge and Huntington: Last year's Class A county finalists move to Class AA and join a competitive League V. Hauppauge returns the core of its championship team led by all-state center-midfielder Stephanie Peragallo and keeper Diana Poulin. Huntington will field a strong offensive team with forwards Emma Hayes-Hurley and Emilee Pugliese. 
Class A 
Islip, in League V, has a game-changer in Katie Hyland who will combine with Paige Costantino and Ashley Nieves. Kings Park: Meghan Eckel will dictate the flow of the game in center-midfield while keeper Nina Ottaviano controls the defense. 
Sayville seniors Kelly Santangelo and Dariann Sellitti will run the offense for a deep team in League VI. 
Shoreham-Wading River has an aggressive attack fueled by all-state midfielder Kari Quinn and forward Meghan Seabrook. 
Miller Place: Forwards Emma Davis and Ashlyn Stiles lead the Panthers. 
Mt. Sinai: In League VII, a young team will be led by two senior veterans in midfielder Sarah O'Brien and defender Amanda LiRosi. 
Bayport-Blue Point is strong at center-midfield with Rebecca Raber and Danielle Heyder. 
Class B 
Center Moriches, coming off a trip to the state semifinals, will look to be more offensive minded behind midfielder Emma Whittle but remains strong on defense with Alexis Parlato and keeper Kelsey Glanzman in League VII. 
Mattituck, with all-state Amber Mello in center-midfield and Courtney Birkmier in net, is solid all around. 
Southhold/Greenport: Seniors Emily Metz, Megan Knapp, and Emma Richter will lead a young team. 
Class C 
Stony Brook: The state champion Bears are primed for a repeat. Top three goal scorers - Player of the Year Donna Liotine, all-state Michelle Hennessy and striker Kelsey Wentling - are returning, as is the heart of the defense with keeper Danielle Pappas and sweeper Brianna Stiklickas. 
Class D 
Smithtown Christian: Talented forwards Christina Casamassina and <a href="/topics/Chelsea_F.C.">Chelsea</a> Bellini lead the defending LI champs.

SKSGSOC10

Suffolk girls soccer preview

St. Anthony's has a frightening thought for the rest of the CHSAA. 
"On paper, we should be strongest team we've had in last few years," Friars coach Dave Prutting said. 
Imposing words for a team whose only loss last season came on penalty kicks in the semifinals. With a strong class of call-ups from junior varsity joining forces with a dominant Ariana Aston-led defense, St. Anthony's should be the team to beat in the CHSAA. 
St. John the Baptist: After winning a state championship last year, SJB - the lone team to defeat St. Anthony's last season - will incorporate some talented freshman into the lineup in what could be a rebuilding year. Returnees include keeper Jackie Ubert, defender Taylor Groth, and midfielders Megan Attanasio and Jackie Roth. 
Kellenberg will field a young but fast team featuring midfielders Kirsten Wosleger and Amanda Barroca, defender Jacqui Valentine and keeper Kathleen Early. 
Sacred Heart, last season's runner-up, returns 15 players but none more dynamic than Meredith Speck. The senior can play anywhere in midfield and possess the "intangibles to change games around and carry a team," according to her coach. She is joined by fellow captains Gabby Codispoti and keeper Taylor Higgins.

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CHSAA girls soccer preview

In Nassau, the three-way struggle atop Class A is like an annual game of "rock-paper-scissor" between Massapequa, Baldwin and East Meadow: one beats the other which beats the other. Last season was Massapequa's turn as they captured their second county title since 2007. The Chiefs did, however, graduate 11 and dropped from League I to II this year. 
"It's not all about the championship," said coach Barbara Lowell, who expects somewhat of a shift from clampdown defense to up-tempo offense with this inexperienced group. "Our focus is getting the new girls to jell early on . . . Once we get into October, if we've gotten going, then we can look ahead." 
Class A 
Massapequa will feature All-County midfielder Katie Cooney, Taylor Hein, Amanda Brody and Kelsey O'Brien. 
Baldwin reached the final last year, toppling defending champ East Meadow in the semifinals on penalty strokes. They'll return most of their starters including Moira York, Courtney Berg, Valerie Giovanelli and Gianna Navarro. 
East Meadow's roster remains intact. The Jets will be led by All-Long Islander Toni Turrisi along with Catherine Masterson, Marie Minutoli and goalie Ariana Ovadia. 
New Hyde Park, which reached the Class B semifinals, moved up to Class A. The roster will feature 10 seniors including All-County goalie Priscilla Paulose, All-County midfielder Paige Sferrazza and Kerri-Leigh Heesemann. "We'll definitely be competitive," coach Kori Brocking said, "but it will be challenging because we're walking in blindly." 
Sewanhaka enters its second season as a varsity program. The Indians are led by lefty Michelle Mongiello, who could be poised for a big senior season. 
Class B 
Garden City, the perennial superpower, is again the favorite after reaching the state semifinals last season. The Trojans graduated two All-Americans (Mariah Pewarski and Eleni Andromidas) but still have a loaded roster that includes Mikaela Rix, Alex Bruno, Caroline Tarzian and Catherine Dickson. They've won 13 Long Island championships since 1991 and three of the last five state titles. 
Manhasset, which reached the county final, will likely be the Trojans' biggest rival again. The Indians are led by star midfielder/defender Jenny Vlahos, Cali Mantikas and Ali Perez. 
Cold Spring Harbor has emerged as one of the elites in this class the last two seasons, having come up just short in the playoffs against Manhasset and Garden City. The Seahawks are a contender and a dangerous team with good speed. They lost standout Isabella DeLiso but return senior midfielder Michelle Adrancyzk. 
North Shore, which reached the quarterfinals, has forward Evelyn Yeung, Demi Shanahan, Jelysa Fuertes and Caroline Kosiba. 
Seaford went undefeated in League III last season and this year makes the jump to League I with 12 returning seniors. The Vikings are led by All-State standout Laura Murphy, forward Amanda Bausert, goalie Amanda Lipari, and Katherine Grebosz, who led them with 15 points in 2009. "Last year was the first time we'd ever won our league," coach Tricia Foley said. "It's a pretty big jump for us. We were ranked 14th in the county, now we're in the top 5. It's a lot of pressure, but we're optimistic." 
Class C 
Friends Academy is the five-time defending champion and the Quakers return most of last year's squad. The high-scoring Quakers lost All-Long Islander Mindy Weiss, but they're now led by senior midfielder Taylor Ross along with Savannah Sebesh, Erica Sklar and sophomore Bridie Gahan, who was the third leading scorer in Nassau with 23 points. 
Carle Place, which reached the final, graduated 12 and has a tough schedule that includes East Meadow, Baldwin and Massapequa. The Frogs return All-County forward Taylor Martello, but it's almost entirely a new team. "We'll be competitive; we always are," coach Carol Nesdill said, "but we're very young and we've got a lot to learn." 
Friends Academy coach Christine Botti said that fact doesn't alter the Quakers' outlook much. "You can never underestimate [Carle Place]," she said. "We'll have to work just as hard as we do every year." 
Wheatley and Oyster Bay, both of which have new coaches, also will compete.

Field Hockey

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Nassau field hockey preview

SKGirlsLacrosse11

Ward Melville marched to its third straight Long Island Class A championship relatively unimpeded, suffering its only league loss to Smithtown East in the regular-season finale. 
Along the way, the Patriots took a step toward claiming Island supremacy, topping Garden City, 1-0, in a non-league matchup last year. The Patriots, however, were dethroned as state champs, falling in the state semifinals on a last-minute goal. This season, heavy competition is expected to come from Sachem East, which is ranked No. 2 in the Suffolk preseason poll after reaching the quarterfinals last season. 
Class A 
Ward Melville returns All-American and junior national team standout Abby Beltrani. The Patriots also feature star midfielder Callie Vitalo along with Vanessa Pryor and Sam Jacobson. Goalie Lauren Tarantino had 15 shutouts and a .915 save percentage last year. 
Sachem East returns all but two players. The Flaming Arrows are led by midfielder Katie Trombetta, right wing Jill Donadeo, Melissa McKevney and goalie Samantha Alvino. 
"We had 18 new players last year, so we're still a young team," coach Tina Moon said. "There is pressure being the second seed and you can never take Ward Melville lightly, but we're looking to go as far as possible, and that's a championship." 
Smithtown East, which was the top seed entering the playoffs and reached the final, has been the biggest threat to Ward Melville the last couple of years. But the Bulls did lose a few seniors including regional All-American Amanda Danziger. The Bulls, a strong defensive team, do return All-Long Island goalie Lauren Brennan along with forward Dani Ackerman, Megan and Shannon Rooney, Alyssa Greco and defender Alexis Annitto. 
An upstart team a year ago, Northport reached the semifinals and returns most of a strong cast. The Tigers' offense will feature Gabrielle Sullivan, Kellyann Walley and Victoria Polla, and the defense is led by Lexie Nieri and goalie Gabby Gallo. 
Bay Shore reached the quarterfinals last year and returns star forward Sarah Fuchs (23 points), Erin Corcoran and talented sophomore midfielder Courtney Syrett. 
East Islip, which has reached the quarterfinals the last two years, returns Christine Woodrich and <a href="/topics/Laura_Hill">Laura Hill</a>, now two years removed from shoulder surgery. 
West Islip returns Alyssa Gatto, Jessica Boden and Jessica Honan and, in an odd mix, the team is comprised almost entirely of seniors and freshman. They're motivated by their 9-0 loss to Ward Melville in the quarterfinals. 
Whitman lost eight seniors after an 11-4 season and has a new coach in Karen Schmitt, but the Wildcats do have back Lauren Kobel, Anna Robinson and Haley Danzig. 
West Babylon got to the semifinals but must go forward without Long Island's leading scorer Courtney Baranek. Forwards Melissa Prunzion, Alexa Goebel and goalie Kelly Weisenseel lead a senior-laden roster. 
&nbsp; 
Class B 
Shoreham-Wading River has won three straight county titles and its only loss last season came to Garden City in the L.I. championship. The Wildcats will be led by Debi-Michelle Jantzen (a member of the bronze medal-winning junior national team), Demi Lopez, Kristin Torres and Empire State team members Kaitlyn Taddeo and Stephanie Sorrentino. 
Sayville lost nine seniors but remains one of the favorites with Olivia Cabral (captain of the Empire State team and U-16 national team member), Shannon Litvin, Taylor Mills and Emily Crawford. Kerry Swike will be a first-year varsity goalie. 
Miller Place, which reached the final, should again be strong with star midfielder Mary Moore, forwards Brea Greene and Kate Pouder, and defender Sam Rivera. 
After a strong 2009, Rocky Point enters a rebuilding year having lost nine starters, coach Katie Bittner said. But they'll return midfielder Courtney Supper, goalie Casey Heely and talented sophomore forward <a href="/topics/Alyssa_Milano">Alyssa Milano</a>. 
East Hampton has reached the semifinals in back-to-back seasons and should again be in the mix. Bayport-Blue Point, with midfielder Loren Generi and forward Bri Rubenstein should also contend after going 11-4 and making the playoffs. 
&nbsp; 
Class C 
Port Jefferson made it to the state final for the first time but lost eight seniors. Because of that, the Royals will have to rely heavily on returnees Anastasia Lennon and Karen Holvik and defenders Gen Hydek and Aly Klinging. The Royals are led by All-Long Island goalie Maura Boehm, whose save percentage was .900 last season. 
This could be the year for Pierson/Bridgehampton, which has twice taken Port Jefferson to overtime in the county final. Pierson/Bridgehampton returns most of last year's team, including senior captain Alexa Lantiere, Lindsay Warne and Sariah Cafiero.

SKSFH10

Suffolk field hockey preview

Abby 
Beltrani 
Ward <a href="/topics/Melville%2C_NY">Melville</a> Midfield
Sr.
 
Jenny 
Vlahos
<a href="/topics/Manhasset%2C_NY">Manhasset</a> Def./Mid.
Sr.
 
Lauren 
Brennan
<a href="/topics/Smithtown%2C_NY">Smithtown</a> East
Goalie
Sr.
 
Mikaela 
Rix 
<a href="/topics/Garden_City%2C_NY">Garden City</a> 
Midfield 
Sr.
 
Mary 
Moore 
<a href="/topics/Miller_Place%2C_NY">Miller Place</a>
Midfield 
Sr.
 
Maura Boehm 
<a href="/topics/Port_Jefferson%2C_NY">Port Jefferson</a> 
Goalie
Sr.
 
Taylor Ross Friends 
Academy
Midfield
Sr.
 
Lauren 
Tarantino Ward Melville Goalie
Sr.
 
Toni Turrisi <a href="/topics/East_Meadow%2C_NY">East Meadow</a> Forward
Sr. 
 
Debi-Michelle Jantzen
SWR
Midfield
Jr.
 
Olivia Cabral <a href="/topics/Sayville%2C_NY">Sayville</a>
Mid./Fwd.
Jr.
 
 
Katie Cooney <a href="/topics/Massapequa%2C_NY">Massapequa</a> 
Midfield 
Sr.

SKFHWATCH10

Field hockey players to watch

<a href="/topics/Massapequa%2C_NY">Massapequa</a> is keeping it in the family. After going 22-0 last year en route to the Class A boys volleyball title, the Chiefs will have to repeat with the same names, albeit different faces. 
They lost six seniors and four starters from the undefeated campaign, most notably star setter <a href="/topics/Brian_Smith">Brian Smith</a>. Junior setter <a href="/topics/Christian_Smith">Christian Smith</a>, <a href="/topics/Brian_Smith">Brian</a>'s brother, must fill his sibling’s shoes. 
Frank DelGiudice will replace his brother, Vinny, as the libero. Head coach Steve Mariano says DelGiudice has been groomed for this opportunity. 
“He has known since last year that he would have to step up,” Mariano said. “The older siblings tend to have a positive impact on the younger ones.” 
<a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">NASSAU</a> 
CLASS A 
<a href="/topics/Massapequa%2C_NY">Massapequa</a> is the consensus favorite, with <a href="/topics/Plainview%2C_NY">Plainview</a> JFK looming as its greatest threat. JFK returns senior middle hitter Greg Rankel, and coach Russi Villalta expects a breakout season from senior opposite hitter Matt Benjamin. 
Last year's Class A runner-up, <a href="/topics/Port_Washington%2C_NY">Port Washington</a>, which extended Massapequa to five games in the county finals, lost its top three players from last year's team. Sophomore Jong-Ho Byun, Senior middle hitter/right side Ben Adler and senior outside hitter Daniel Chu are its top returners. 
To earn another shot at Massapequa, some new faces must emerge. 
"We definitely are capable, but it's a quantum leap up from the jayvee level," <a href="/topics/Port_Washington%2C_NY">Port Washington</a> coach Maria Giamanco said. 
&nbsp; 
CLASS B 
Two-time defending champions <a href="/topics/Bellmore%2C_NY">Bellmore</a> JFK returns four starters from last year, including All-County outside hitter Ben Hirschler and All-County middle blocker Brian O'Gorman. It has vacancies at both setting positions, but its deep reservoir of varsity veterans leave it in prime position for a three-peat. 
<a href="/topics/Jericho%2C_NY">Jericho</a>, <a href="/topics/West_Hempstead%2C_NY">West Hempstead</a>, <a href="/topics/Roslyn%2C_NY">Roslyn</a> and <a href="/topics/Floral_Park%2C_NY">Floral Park</a> are expected to contend with JFK for the Class B crown. 
<a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">SUFFOLK</a> 
LEAGUE I 
Despite returning only two starters from the '09 squad, two-time defending <a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">Suffolk</a> champion Half Hollow Hills has been tabbed by opposing coaches as the county's pre-eminent team. It returns middle blocker/outside hitter Chris Kaimis, arguably the top player in <a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">Suffolk</a>, and senior outside hitter Michael Degrazia. 
Ward <a href="/topics/Melville%2C_NY">Melville</a> will vie for the top spot, with <a href="/topics/Lindenhurst%2C_NY">Lindenhurst</a> and Sachem North also capable of authoring some upsets. 
"Hills is number one, and everybody else is fighting for two," Ward <a href="/topics/Melville%2C_NY">Melville</a> coach Enrico Chacon said. 
&nbsp; 
LEAGUE II 
<a href="/topics/Smithtown%2C_NY">Smithtown</a> East, considered the class of League II, returns a stacked squad, including senior outside hitter Tyler Donofrio, setter Sean Baxley and libero <a href="/topics/Jason_Carroll">Jason Carroll</a>. After falling to Hills in last year's Suffolk finals, it might have the manpower to get it done in done in '10. 
"<a href="/topics/Smithtown%2C_NY">Smithtown</a> East is the team to beat," Smithtown West coach Mike Legge said. "They are a factory over there." 
<a href="/topics/Northport%2C_NY">Northport</a> is considered an upstart program and returns five starters. Smithtown West is an inexperienced-yet-talented group that might be capable of competing with the top teams. 
&nbsp; 
LEAGUE III 
<a href="/topics/Eastport%2C_NY">Eastport</a>-South Manor leads the small-school charge, featuring a blend of youth and experience. Junior setter Ryan Brisson leads the <a href="/topics/Eastport%2C_NY">Eastport</a> attack. 
"He'll be a threat when he is at the net," Eastport coach Bruce Stiriz said. 
Stiriz believes his depth, which features four defensive specialists and outside hitter Ryan Brandow, should help his team earn a trip upstate. 
"Hopefully, we could win our league and get a shot at <a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">Nassau</a>," Stiriz said. "It's been hard to keep my guys down."

SKBVB10

Boys volleyball preview

There was quite a shakeup in cross country as the NYSPHSAA altered its enrollment numbers. Defending overall <a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">Nassau</a> champ Calhoun moved up from Class A to Class AA, while reigning Class B champ <a href="/topics/Manhasset%2C_NY">Manhasset</a> made the jump to Class A. <a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">Suffolk</a> also felt the change as perennial power <a href="/topics/Shoreham%2C_NY">Shoreham</a>-<a href="/topics/Wading_River%2C_NY">Wading River</a> made the move from Class B to Class A. 
The CHSAA should be interesting this season also, as its top three teams -St. Anthony’s, Chamiande, Kellenberg- each return at least two of its top runners five from last season. 
<a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">NASSAU</a> BOYS Class AA 
Tim Campbell, James Panetta and Kenny Woo gives reigning <a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">Nassau</a> County overall champ Calhoun three big reasons to think it can repeat. 
<a href="/topics/Port_Washington%2C_NY">Port Washington</a>’s run of success should continue with Taylor Titcomb, Sidharth Kakkar and Paolo Bertolotti. <a href="/topics/Massapequa%2C_NY">Massapequa</a> has enough talent with Andrew Valenski, Ryan Buttigieg, Timmy Callahan and Nick DeLuna to emerge. 
<a href="/topics/Herricks%2C_NY">Herricks</a> could surprise with Aakaash Pillalamarri, Jack McGuire and Gabe DaSilva. Sophomore Alex Bertrand returns with senior Tyler Moritz and junior <a href="/topics/Koei">Koei</a> Uchida for <a href="/topics/Syosset%2C_NY">Syosset</a>. 
Class A 
<a href="/topics/Wantagh%2C_NY">Wantagh</a> could emerge in Class A with talented senior Marty Egan, Danny Reilly and <a href="/topics/Mike_Darnell">Mike Darnell</a>. 
<a href="/topics/Manhasset%2C_NY">Manhasset</a> moved up from Class B to A, but should be just as competitive with Charlie Morris, Stephen Bourguet, <a href="/topics/Jonathan_Thomas">Jonathan Thomas</a>. <a href="/topics/Great_Neck%2C_NY">Great Neck</a> South's big three of Daniel Siegel, Nicholas Ross and Jose Madrigal could make this season special. 
Mepham's talented three of Nicholas Spear, Brendan Donohue and Nick Gangi will be tough to beat. 
Class B/C 
Matthew Savino, Scott Selltitz and Sam Peck will make <a href="/topics/Seaford%2C_NY">Seaford</a> a threat in Class B . <a href="/topics/Valley_Stream%2C_NY">Valley Stream</a> North, led by Visal Mohanan, Zachary Bugge and John Peterson, will be in the mix for the Class B title. <a href="/topics/Oyster_Bay%2C_NY">Oyster Bay</a> is the team to beat in Class C with Joe LaCorte and Steven Tortora. <a href="/topics/Carle_Place%2C_NY">Carle Place</a> will challenge in Class C with C.J. Madey. 
<a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">SUFFOLK</a> 
Class AA 
Alex Saavedra, Joe DiRienzo and Phil Rascona could lead Sachem East to its second straight Class AA title. Connetquot is expected to make a run to the top with seniors Tyler Murtha, Zach Krause and Dom Costanzo. 
<a href="/topics/Smithtown%2C_NY">Smithtown</a> is loaded with Robert Calamia, Mark Valentino and Patrick Ginty. <a href="/topics/Northport%2C_NY">Northport</a> will be a factor with seniors Tim Odin and Steven Suozzi and sophomores David Hatch and James Dickinson. 
<a href="/topics/Commack%2C_NY">Commack</a>'s trio of Justin Tampellini, Joshua Gittleman and Conner Gray could be the real deal. 
Class A 
Defending Class A champ Harborfields has an experienced group with twins Austin and Cameron Coneys and senior Colin Davis. Junior Anthony DeMatteo and senior threesome Kyle Fitzgerald, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Kyle Sammis lead Hills West. 
<a href="/topics/Sayville%2C_NY">Sayville</a> has a nice mix with sophomore Kieran Harrison and seniors Alex Nolan and Dan Ryder. <a href="/topics/Shoreham%2C_NY">Shoreham</a>-<a href="/topics/Wading_River%2C_NY">Wading River</a>'s trio of John Lee, Kevin Sanders and Evan Purdy will make things interesting in Class A. 
Class B 
<a href="/topics/Bayport%2C_NY">Bayport</a>-<a href="/topics/Blue_Point%2C_NY">Blue Point</a> will again be strong with Erich Grosse, Joe Ray and Connor Crowley. Mt. Sinai could challenge with seniors Chris Linkletter and Zack Kollmer. 
Class C/D 
<a href="/topics/Babylon%2C_NY">Babylon</a>, led by Tyler McGarvey and James Capie, is the Class C favorite. Carl Johnson, Andrew Keresztes and Sean Swords leads <a href="/topics/Port_Jefferson%2C_NY">Port Jefferson</a> in Class D. 
CHSAA 
Defending CHSAA champ St. Anthony's has three of its top seven back, including Thomas Flynn, junior <a href="/topics/Brian_Smith">Brian Smith</a> and senior Matthew Fortino. Will Slattery, who took third at the CHSAA Intersectionals last year, is back with Tom Awad and Matt Woop for Chaminade. 
Matt Zampariello, Brandon Camenzuli and Christian Rojas lead a St. John the Baptist squad that could make things really tight in the title race. James Gati and David Bransfield are the top two returnees for Kellenberg.

Cross Country

SKBCROSS12

Boys cross-country preview

Girls cross country programs will feel the heat of the state enrollment-based changes, which will cause some schools to move up or down in class. 
Reigning overall <a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">Nassau</a> champ North Shore, which returns six of its top seven runners, moved from Class B to Class A. Other schools effected include Calhoun (Class A to AA), <a href="/topics/Manhasset%2C_NY">Manhasset</a> (B to A) and <a href="/topics/Shoreham%2C_NY">Shoreham</a>-<a href="/topics/Wading_River%2C_NY">Wading River</a> (B to A) . 
The depth of talent in <a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">Suffolk</a> should make for tight races, as 17 of the county’s top 20 runners from last season return. 
<a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">NASSAU</a> 
Class AA 
<a href="/topics/Syosset%2C_NY">Syosset</a> returns six of its top seven runners, including Rachel Ngu, Christina DiBernardo and Hayley Leviashvili. June Ilowite, Shire Polan and Henna Rustami will also contribute. 
<a href="/topics/Massapequa%2C_NY">Massapequa</a> has the talent to challenge with Amanda Schmidt, Shannon McBrien and Caitlyn Krug leading the way. 
<a href="/topics/Farmingdale%2C_NY">Farmingdale</a> will contend with Katelyn Spadalik and Stephanie Charalambo. 
MacArthur has a strong junior trio in Lindsey McLaughlin, Christina Coiro and Jessica Race. 
Calhoun could be a force with Ava Fitzgerald, Taylor Cassidy and Danielle Wilson. 
<a href="/topics/East_Meadow%2C_NY">East Meadow</a> is rebuilding with juniors Nilam Patel and Rachel Levy. 
Class A 
Reigning overall <a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">Nassau</a> champion North Shore is the team to beat again with Samantha Nadel, Elizabeth Caldwell, Brianna Nerud and Jessica Donohue, who all finished in the top 13 at the state qualifier last year. 
<a href="/topics/Wantagh%2C_NY">Wantagh</a> lost Kaleigh Craig (torn ACL), but still has seniors Jamie Wandzilak, Shaylyn Stehl, Erin Lavin and Jen McNally. 
Class B 
<a href="/topics/Mineola%2C_NY">Mineola</a> will be a contender with seniors Cindy Gabbay, Jessica Shi and sophomore Katie Cappeller. 
<a href="/topics/Valley_Stream%2C_NY">Valley Stream</a> North's sophomore crew of Shanice Johnson, Tara McElroy and Victoria Ennab should make things interesting. 
Class C 
Kira Garry, who took fourth at the state qualifier last season leads Friends Academy. 
<a href="/topics/Oyster_Bay%2C_NY">Oyster Bay</a> has a talented group with sophomores Lauren Burke, Brook Mahoski and Christine Drexler. 
&nbsp; 
<a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">SUFFOLK</a> 
&nbsp; 
Class AA 
Defending Class AA individual champ Brigid Brennan, along with seniors Elizabeth Fierro and Anna Corrigan gives <a href="/topics/Northport%2C_NY">Northport</a> an excellent chance to grab its second straight overall title. 
Ward <a href="/topics/Melville%2C_NY">Melville</a> has three of <a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">Suffolk</a>'s best runners in Caroline O'Hea, outdoor 2,000-meter steeplechase national champ Mary Kate Anselmini and Sami Reilly. 
<a href="/topics/Smithtown%2C_NY">Smithtown</a> returns its top five, including Victoria Lowe, Alyssa Knott and Dierdre Connor. 
Ali Foote, Julie Laudenschlager and Marleana LeMaitre could make <a href="/topics/West_Islip%2C_NY">West Islip</a> a factor. 
<a href="/topics/Commack%2C_NY">Commack</a> has a great one-two punch with Allison Stapleton and Erin Neville. 
Class A 
<a href="/topics/Miller_Place%2C_NY">Miller Place</a>, paced by sophomore twins Talia and Tiana Guevera could repeat as Class A champ. 
<a href="/topics/Sayville%2C_NY">Sayville</a>'s hopes rest with sophomores Kerri Culhane and Kim Grabow and senior Mageret Verspoor. 
Harborfields has the Class A champ Michelle Gaye, along with Kelsey Margey, <a href="/topics/Chelsea%2C_NY">Chelsea</a> Farinacci and Kelly Mahoney. 
<a href="/topics/Shoreham%2C_NY">Shoreham</a>-<a href="/topics/Wading_River%2C_NY">Wading River</a> could shake things up with Codi Mullen, Corrine Wiederkehr and Kaitlin Suarez. 
Class B 
Defending Class B champ Janie Turek leads <a href="/topics/Mount_Sinai%2C_NY">Mount Sinai</a> with sophomore Julia Dooley and junior Stephanie Sheehan. 
<a href="/topics/Bayport%2C_NY">Bayport</a>-<a href="/topics/Blue_Point%2C_NY">Blue Point</a> has a talented sophomore in Katie Saroka and freshmen Courtney Dooley and Tori Moretti. 
Class C/D 
<a href="/topics/Center_Moriches%2C_NY">Center Moriches</a> has three of the Class C top runners in Ryleigh Donegan, Molly Schaefer and Georgie Nicholes. 
<a href="/topics/Hampton_Bays%2C_NY">Hampton Bays</a> will keep pace with sophomore duo Nicole Noa and Sarah Reed. 
<a href="/topics/Stony_Brook%2C_NY">Stony Brook</a>'s trio of Kathy Kim, Ayana Aron and Allie Damianos will be tough to deal with in Class D. 
Class D contender <a href="/topics/Port_Jefferson%2C_NY">Port Jefferson</a> is led by Sandi Woodhead and Katharina Ross, while reigning Class D champ Ivy Croteau is back for <a href="/topics/Southold%2C_NY">Southold</a>. 
CHSAA 
St. John the Baptist, looking to win its third straight CHSAA Intersectional title, has junior Anne Carey, seniors Alyssa Dorney, Anne Marie Zigrosser and Victoria Folz. 
St. Anthony's Veronica Leddy, Victoria Ciotti and newcomer Gabriella Vezza will make the CHSAA battle great to watch. 
Kellenberg will have something to say with Kim Mackay, Kylie Pearse and Mary Hutchinson.

SKGCROSS12.A

Girls Cross Country: North Shore is the team to beat

<a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">NASSAU</a> 
<a href="/topics/Syosset%2C_NY">Syosset</a> again looks to be the dominant force in the county behind junior Hannah Camhi. Senior Ashley Sandler returns after going 12-2 last year, while doubles will be anchored by the improved team of Lisa Petruzillo and Rithaka Reddy. <a href="/topics/Roslyn%2C_NY">Roslyn</a> will challenge them in Conference I on the strength of the doubles team of Paige Mintz and Missy Edelblum. <a href="/topics/Garden_City%2C_NY">Garden City</a> will be led by Jacqueline Raynor. 
Conference II champion <a href="/topics/Plainview%2C_NY">Plainview</a> graduated six seniors, with Leah Green moving up into first singles. As the new team is young, it may leave some wiggle room for <a href="/topics/Manhasset%2C_NY">Manhasset</a> to move up. It returns Emily Lattner and Kaitlin Miller. South Side has a strong singles lineup and could be a surprise team to watch behind Deana Davoudias and Rachel Senker. <a href="/topics/Great_Neck%2C_NY">Great Neck</a> South boasts good depth and will ride All-Division first singles Emma Brenner. Carey/Sewanhaka will be strong in Conference III. 
<a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">SUFFOLK</a> 
County champion Half Hollow Hills West graduated eight players and, despite returning Carly Siegel at first singles, probably will not be as dominant as it was last year. It might be enough for Hills East to take over. East will be led by Samantha Elgort and Ali Nemeth, who likely will play doubles. Harborfields makes its debut in League I and has outstanding depth, led by junior Sara Tane. 
<a href="/topics/Smithtown%2C_NY">Smithtown</a> East returns Sara Finger, who missed last year, but lost Nicole Danigellis to an ACL injury. 
<a href="/topics/East_Islip%2C_NY">East Islip</a> will be a team to watch behind the strong play of All-County eighth grader Karen Serina. <a href="/topics/East_Islip%2C_NY">East Islip</a> also has three returning seniors: Monica Lobo, Devin Tracy and Elaina Tornincaso. Coming off a strong season, League III <a href="/topics/Sayville%2C_NY">Sayville</a> is in transition after graduating most of its team. The state doubles team of Diana Vamvakitis and Jamie Hann also will play singles and lead <a href="/topics/Westhampton%2C_NY">Westhampton</a>, which is expected to have a strong season. 
CHSAA 
It's been 12 years. There's a pattern. St. Francis Prep will look to win its 13th consecutive Class AA title, behind Kathleen Uy. It'll take heavy improvement all around to dethrone the defending champs. Even so, St. John the Baptist could be strong competition behind Courtney Line. 
St. Anthony's is stronger this year with Courtney Keating and Emily Bentley, both only sophomores. Kellenberg will be led by Jessica Hoefer and Michelle Strack. Holy Trinity, led by consistent Angela Lupo, will try to take down St. Mary's in Class A.

High School Tennis

SKTENNIS10

Girls tennis preview

Syosset's Hannah Camhi

<a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">NASSAU</a> 
CONFERENCE IV Matt Lowe and Kyle Brey aren’t the only talented golfers leading <a href="/topics/Farmingdale%2C_NY">Farmingdale</a>. Senior Mike Zalanzy is expected to provide ample depth for the defending county champion Dalers. <a href="/topics/Massapequa%2C_NY">Massapequa</a>, led by <a href="/topics/John_Nolan">John</a> Conlon, hopes to be in the conference title mix. CONFERENCE V <a href="/topics/Garden_City%2C_NY">Garden City</a> is loaded with Charlie Garcia and Steve Jozkowski, both four-year players, as well as <a href="/topics/John_Nolan">John</a>-Paul Aldaine-Paiewonsky and Jack Fisher. South Side has freshman Sean Byrne and all-conference performer Greg Savrou to keep it in the mix for the conference title. <a href="/topics/Oceanside%2C_NY">Oceanside</a> has three of its top six back, including juniors <a href="/topics/Lawrence%2C_NY">Lawrence</a> Maurello and Adam Weber. CONFERENCE VI <a href="/topics/Cold_Spring_Harbor%2C_NY">Cold Spring Harbor</a> returns five golfers who were all-county or all-conference last season, including senior Luke DeNigris and sophomores Anthony Wagner and Chris Gabriele. <a href="/topics/East_Meadow%2C_NY">East Meadow</a>, with Timothy Kearon, and <a href="/topics/Roslyn%2C_NY">Roslyn</a> are expected to be competitive. 
<a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">SUFFOLK</a> 
LEAGUE III 
Half Hollow Hills East's Steve Mincone and Steve Chung could emerge as <a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">Suffolk</a>'s top 1-2 punch. 
Last year's county runner-up, Hills West, lost several seniors to graduation, but has potential All-County performer Eric Domain to keep it in contention. 
LEAGUE IV 
Jack Maerki, a state championship qualifier last spring, and Kevin Cockerill lead <a href="/topics/Bay_Shore%2C_NY">Bay Shore</a>. 
<a href="/topics/Lindenhurst%2C_NY">Lindenhurst</a>, led by Brandon Hauser and <a href="/topics/Sean_McDermott">Sean McDermott</a>, should also be a factor in league play. 
Whitman is led by Theo Goodman and Billy Nelson. 
LEAGUE V 
Reigning league champ <a href="/topics/East_Islip%2C_NY">East Islip</a> has the potential to repeat with seniors Brian Allmendinger and Tom Bishop. 
<a href="/topics/Sayville%2C_NY">Sayville</a> figures to be right on <a href="/topics/East_Islip%2C_NY">East Islip</a>'s heels with freshman Kyle Burke and junior <a href="/topics/John_Nolan">John</a> Farese. 
LEAGUE VI 
Ward <a href="/topics/Melville%2C_NY">Melville</a> has every reason to think it can repeat as league champ with Tim Mirocco leading the charge. 
<a href="/topics/Shoreham%2C_NY">Shoreham</a>-<a href="/topics/Wading_River%2C_NY">Wading River</a> will be in the hunt with Sean Sanders. 
LEAGUE VII 
<a href="/topics/Mattituck%2C_NY">Mattituck</a> has three all-league golfers, including Connor Davis and female members Marie Santacroce and Morgan Gildersleeve, back for another run. 
Trevor Jones and Anthony Bonsignore will help <a href="/topics/Eastport%2C_NY">Eastport</a>-South Manor challenge <a href="/topics/Mattituck%2C_NY">Mattituck</a>. 
LEAGUE VIII 
<a href="/topics/East_Hampton%2C_NY">East Hampton</a> hasn't lost a home match since 2003 and will be tough again with the return of Zach Grossman, who moved back from <a href="/topics/South_Carolina">South Carolina</a>, Ian Lynch, <a href="/topics/John_Nolan">John Nolan</a> and Cameron Yusko. 
It won't be easy for <a href="/topics/East_Hampton%2C_NY">East Hampton</a> as <a href="/topics/Southampton%2C_NY">Southampton</a>, led by top returning golfer, senior Ryan Ricca and his brother Scott figure to fight it out for the League title. Peter Barnaby and Jake Frankenbach will provide depth.

Golf

SKGOLF10

Boys golf preview

SUFFOLK 
Any discussion of swimming in Suffolk starts with Ward <a href="/topics/Melville%2C_NY">Melville</a>. The Patriots have won 18 straight county titles with depth as their primary weapon. Freestyle specialists Taylor DaSilva and Shannon Lampe (who won the 100-yard backstroke at the Suffolk finals) and distance swimmer Jessica Fabrizio lead an experienced group primed for No. 19. 
If there are rough waters ahead, Connetquot presents the biggest challenge. Mikaila Gaffey, who swam the lead leg of the winning 200-free relay (1:37.99) and was part of the third-place 200-medley relay (1:50.16) at the state Federation meet, returns to lead a talented squad. She also finished third in the 50-free (24.24). Nicole Hetzer swam the anchor leg on the 200-free relay and also was part of the 200-medley team. She won the 200-IM at the Suffolk finals. The program has added depth to its flourishing stars. 
A young nucleus led by Kayleigh Toth and butterfly specialist Selina Ng helped Half Hollow Hills to a League I crown in 2009 and the team could be a sleeper at counties. 
Carolyn Koch finished fourth in the 100-free (52.92) at the Federation meet for <a href="/topics/Babylon%2C_NY">Babylon</a> and took first in the 100 free (52.92) at counties. Heather Glenday placed second in the 500 free (5:10.98) at counties. 
<a href="/topics/Huntington%2C_NY">Huntington</a>'s Molly Arceri won the Suffolk diving championships in 2009 (411.75), securing her first trip to states. Still just a junior, her confidence and gymnastics background make her tough competition. 
<a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">NASSAU</a> 
<a href="/topics/Garden_City%2C_NY">Garden City</a>, winner of 11 straight county titles, is <a href="/topics/Nassau_County%2C_NY">Nassau</a>'s resident dynasty. Despite winning just one event, the Trojans ran away with the 2009 title thanks to a deep team led by Megan Zarriello (third in 100 backstroke, second in 100 butterfly) and Kelly McGrath (second in 200 IM). 
<a href="/topics/Long_Beach%2C_NY">Long Beach</a> returns distance swimmer Cady Zawatson, who was third in the 200 freestyle and 500 freestyle at counties. 
Gabbie Toback (fourth in 100 backstroke, third in 100 butterfly) is just a sophomore for <a href="/topics/Bellmore%2C_NY">Bellmore</a>-<a href="/topics/Merrick%2C_NY">Merrick</a>. 
Sophomore Trudiann Patrick, a state qualifier in the 50 and 100 freestyle, is a young swimmer on the rise for <a href="/topics/Jericho%2C_NY">Jericho</a>. The deep squad is looking to move into the top three at counties. 
All eyes are on Sewanhaka because of Olivia Chan. The sophomore won the 200 IM (2:06.35) and 100 breaststroke (1:04.48) at the state public high school championships. 
Angela Sun took second in the 100 backstroke (57.57) and placed fourth in the 100 butterfly (56.84) at the state federation meet for <a href="/topics/Great_Neck%2C_NY">Great Neck</a> South. Julia Festa won the 500 free (5:02.33) and anchored both the winning 200 free relay and 400 free relay team at counties. 
Alexa Aliprantis and Kelsey Brown are impact players for <a href="/topics/Manhasset%2C_NY">Manhasset</a>. 
<a href="/topics/Herricks%2C_NY">Herricks</a>' Nicole Honey finished sixth in diving at the state championships (421.40), and as the highest scoring returning <a href="/topics/Long_Island%2C_NY">Long Island</a> diver, she inherits the mantle of LI's top diver in 2010. 
Sophomore Lauren Cecco finished third in diving at counties (252.15) for <a href="/topics/Hicksville%2C_NY">Hicksville</a> and could be Honey's biggest challenge. 
CHSAA 
Sophomore Casey Francis, who placed ninth in the 200 IM and 500 free and swam the lead leg on the fourth place 200 free and 400 free at Federations, keeps Sacred Heart afloat. She will be helped by Emily Tan and Francis Warren. who could have a breakout year. Twin sisters Chandler and Shannon Lulley were state qualifiers in the 100 free, team co-MVPs and will try to lead St. Anthony's to a title.

SKSWIM10

Girls swimming preview

For two years, the name in <a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">Suffolk</a> gymnastics has been <a href="/topics/Bay_Shore%2C_NY">Bay Shore</a>'s Olivia O'Connor. While the level 10 sophomore has certainly made her presence known in individual contests, <a href="/topics/Bay_Shore%2C_NY">Bay Shore</a>'s ascension to League I poses an interesting question for long-time mainstays like <a href="/topics/Kings_Park%2C_NY">Kings Park</a> and Half Hollow Hills. 
How high can they rise? 
Coach Jeff Reid has modest goals: A decent finish, a middle- of-the-pack standing, and a postseason qualification. Bay Shore will be led by the O'Connor sisters: Olivia, who came in first in the <a href="/topics/Suffolk_County%2C_NY">Suffolk</a> state qualifier and fourth in the state championships, and twins Mackenzie and Brenna, now seniors. Tenth-grader Kerry Maerki and freshman Lydia Taylor round out the team's core. 
Will it be enough to rattle the defending champs,&nbsp;Commac? 
<a href="/topics/Kings_Park%2C_NY">Kings Park</a> has proven its ability to reload. This year, <a href="/topics/Kings_Park%2C_NY">Kings Park</a> will be led by Tara Greco and All-County gymnast Kaitlin Finin, both captains. Pessa Barkan will also contribute. 
Half Hollow Hills, meanwhile, graduated only one senior and may have what it takes to leap-frog <a href="/topics/Kings_Park%2C_NY">Kings Park</a>. <a href="/topics/Paris">Paris</a> Ryder, who came in 10th in the state championship, returns, but a recovering ankle injury will limit her in the first few weeks. Hills boasts excellent depth, including around six new recruits. 
<a href="/topics/Commack%2C_NY">Commack</a> will be led by Alyssa Burns, who took second in the Suffolk state qualifier. Look to Shannon VonBraunsberg to also make a heavy contribution. <a href="/topics/Babylon%2C_NY">Babylon</a> is also back stronger this year. 
Sachem and <a href="/topics/East_Islip%2C_NY">East Islip</a> are expected to make a strong showing in Leagues II and III. 
Kellenberg again returns as a favorite in the CHSAA. Its led by Gabby LoMacchio, who took second in the league individual championship last year and will look for gold after the graduation of reigning champion, St. John the Baptist's Jasmine Johnson. 
All-County gymnast Kelly Cosgrove rounds out a squad that graduated seven seniors. Still, Kellenberg has two promising incoming freshmen, level seven and nine. 
The Firebirds will get heavy competition out of St. Francis Prep, which only graduated one senior. Its led by level 10 gymanst Aleiny Cordova and senior captain Nicole Sideris. 
St. John the Baptist is handling Johnson's graduation well, despite a small squad of eight players. Kristen Hennessey will lead the young team, including promising freshman Mary-Catherine Guardino. 
Holy Trinity looks to have a solid season, with seniors Briane Lanier and Amanda Schweitzer leading the way.

Gymnastics

SKHSGYM10

High school gymnastics preview

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