Volume 6, Issue 1 | march 23, 2009

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OpiniOn-TheseasonisstartingandIhavesomequestions ByGregNormand

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COllege RepORt-2009Men’sCollegePreviews-2009Women’sCollegePreviews(p.14)

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6 Be OuR guest -U.S.Eliteteam’sKristenKjellmangetsreadyforseason

-ProAnthonyKellyoncorrectshootingform

WaRRiOR HigH sCHOOl RepORt

-2009Girl’sPreviews-2009Boy’sPreviews(p.10-11)

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inside_03.23.09STAFFEditor-in-Chief....................................................Philip D. Colvin

Advertising ..............................................................Lucia Zuzga ...........................................................................Philip D. Colvin ........................................................................... Lauren Kovacs Design Editor/Cover Design .............................. Chuck Stevens

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Controller .......................................................... David J. Klavon

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Circulation: 5,000 - 8,000 copies with estimated readership of 15,000-18,000 per issue

Contributing Writers: John Raffel, Susannah Nichols, Terry Jacoby, Carl Chimenti, Ryan Doherty, Courtney Welch, Greg Normand, Jamie Munro, David Mitchell, Larry O’Connor

Photographers: Tom Turrill, Dave Reginek, Brian Dudek, Michael Knoll, Mike Ruccolo

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Cover photo: University of Detroit Mercy women’s program opens first season as only Division 1 program in the state by Tom Turrill/Michigan Lacrosse. this page (from top): Adrian College and Michigan get women’s college season started courtesy Adrian College athletics; Kristen Kjellman by Michigan Lacrosse and Brighton senior captain Chris Irish courtesy Brighton Lacrosse.

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be our guesT

Elements of proper shooting formFirst off, I would like to say that it is very important for players to

work on shooting on the run. This is one of the hardest things for a young player to master, and it requires hours of practice.

But during in this column I will strictly cover shooting standing still because you must first master proper shooting form before you can do it on the run.

There are seven key components to shooting: Hands – You want to make sure you have your bottom hand

all the way at the bottom of the shaft, and your top hand about 12-15 inches from the bottom of the stick. When I shoot, I tend to put my top hand much closer to my bottom hand which helps me generate a lot more power. You will have to find what works for you as everyone is different.

Load pHase – Think about taking the stick “up and back”. You want to drive your hands and elbows away from your body. Punch your back elbow up and towards the sky – if you leave this down, you won’t generate any power, and you will twist and fade away on your shots. Drive everything so far away from your body that you can drop a basketball between your shaft and your body. When practicing, it’s always better to over-exaggerate the load, and think about trying to drop the ball out of your stick behind your back because you are loading it so far.

stick – When you start with a proper “load”, your shaft should be parallel with the ground, and your butt end should be pointed to your target. I talked about taking the stick “up and back” already, but you also want to think about driving the head of your stick “up and away” behind your body to ensure that your hands are away from your body. If you keep your hands in tight to your body (I call it “T-Rex arms”), you can’t generate any power, and by driving your stick “up and away” you will hide it from the goalie giving you a huge edge.

Body – While doing this entire process, it is imperative that you turn your side to the cage - you never want to be facing the goal head on. You want your front shoulder perpendicular to the goal line. Also, have your feet about shoulder width apart. When you load your stick, think about twisting your body back like a spring, starting with your back foot and leg, twisting through your hips and core, and all the way back to your hands.

sHot – Most people have a false belief that only big strong players can have a hard shot. It helps when players have that advantage, but some of the best shooters I know are little guys – they just have

amazing form and they use their entire body when they shoot. It’s very important to use your legs and core, more so than your

arms and shoulders. By having a proper load, it will force you to use these two key components.

UncoiL tHe spring - When I take a shot, I start it all the way at my feet first, before I even think about bringing my hands and stick into motion. You should begin your step with your front foot, stepping towards your target (like a baseball pitcher), and pointing your toes directly at the cage.

If you find you’re not pointing your toes to the target, you will find yourself missing the cage over and over. Always make a mental note to point your toes on your front foot!

There is one major point that I think is ultra important – when you step, drive your front knee and your hips up and towards the

goal. This sounds weird, but this where all the power comes from, and it will force you to use your core, and begin to “uncoil the spring” which is your entire body!

As you begin the shot and step to the target and drive your hips up towards the goal, begin pulling with your bottom hand on the shaft and thrusting your front elbow (which should already be pointed towards the goal) towards your target. At this point, you should feel your body uncoiling and generating power.

FinisH tHe sHot – As you are shooting, you want everything to work in unison. Continue to step towards the goal, pull the shaft by leading with your front elbow, and follow through with your head and shoulders. As you finish the shot, I want you to think about the following points:

• Each one your shoulders should be aligned with each of the pipes on the goal – your right shoulder should be in line with the goalie’s left pipe, and your left shoulder

should be aligned with the goalie’s right pipe. By thinking about this, it will keep you square to your target, following through with your body, and not fading away.

• Follow all the way through to your target with the head of your stick. If the stick head ends up past the goal that probably means you “pull” a lot of your shots and miss the cage to your body’s far left. If you don’t follow through with your stick head and leave it “open”, this probably means that you fade on a lot of shots and miss the cage on the short side to your body’s far right.

• To help with the previous point, think about taking your bottom hand, and placing it on your opposite hip as you shoot. I tell players to think about putting their sword back into the sheath. So for a Righty shot, the shooters left hand should make contact with their left hip as they follow through.

A native of Cleveland, Anthony Kelly was a four-year starter at Ohio State. After graduating in 2003, Kelly played for the L.A. Riptide of Major League Lacrosse and the N.Y. Titans and Rochester Knighthawks of the National Lacrosse League. He is currently on the pre-season active roster of the MLL’s Chicago Machine.

At the 2008 Major League Lacrosse All-Star Game in Denver, Kelly scored three times and tied the event record at the halftime Skills Competition with back-to-back shots of 109 MPH.

Kelly, the Midwest Sales Manager for STX Lacrosse, is one of 84 players selected to tryout for the 2010 U.S. men’s team that will compete in the Federation of International Lacrosse (FIL) World Championship in Manchester, England from July 10-24, 2010.

In his next column Kelly will cover proper form shooting drills to help you practice and perfect your shooting.

ANTHONY KELLY

As a member of the L.A. Riptide, Anthony Kelly (left) gets ready to let go a big shot during a Major League Lacrosse game against the Chicago Machine last season.

Tis the Season!

KRISTENKJELLMAN

The new season is upon us and everywhere people are gearing up for another exciting time of year!

Heading into the season, there are several ways you can prepare for the competition. There are also a number of things you should remember as your schedule progresses through the spring.

As a lacrosse player, I set several goals for myself every new season. I think this is a great idea for all players and constantly reminds you why you’re playing and what you’re playing for.

I like to set both tangible and un-tangible goals. For example, in the World Cup this summer I am setting a goal for myself to win at least three draws, three ground balls and get one assist in every game.

But I also want to make sure that I cherish the moment and every day that I’m there with my teammates, family and friends. We can only win as a team, and each girl needs to be accountable for her self.

Therefore, until June I am making sure I fulfill my role on the team by training hard and constantly working to sustain and improve my stick skills.

I hope that you can modify some of these ideas to fit your game, your style, and your outlook.

Every day you’re at practice, try to learn or improve on a new skill. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone by working on skills that feel awkward or difficult. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because that’s what practice is for and that’s what will make you a better player when it comes to game-time.

And remember to always stay positive, because the best players are confident players.

Lacrosse is a great game so enjoy every opportunity that you get to play! Work hard, play smart and have fun!

Best of luck with your season!

A Massachusetts native, Kjellman graduated from Northwestern University in 2007 after winning three straight NCAA national titles and numerous records and awards.

Kjellman won the Tewaaraton Trophy, awarded to the top player in college lacrosse in both 2006 and 2007 to become the first athlete, male or female, to win the award in consecutive seasons.

She is the only four-year All-America choice (three-time first-team selection) in Northwestern history. A three-time American Lacrosse Conference (ALC) Player of the Year and a three-time National Midfielder of the Year, Kjellman holds the record for 39 goals in NCAA championships and also owns the all-time Northwestern record for goals (250) and points (349) - both good for sixth on the NCAA all-time annals - and is second on the school’s all-time list with 99 career assists.

Kjellman is a member of the U.S. Elite Team and currently lives in Chicago, where she is Nike Lacrosse Specialty sales representative.

Three-time national champion and two-time Tewaaraton Trophy winner Kristen Kjellman had a great career at Northwestern and will represent the U.S. at this summer’s World Cup.

US Lacrosse Michigan Youth Festival Tryouts

US Lacrosse Michigan will be helping send U 13 and U 15 Boys and Girls to the US LacrosseYouth Festival Tournaments . The U 13 Festival is June 12-14 in Kings Island, Ohio. The U 15Festival is June 19 - 21 in Lake George, NY. USLM is having trryouts for both the boys and girls teams . The fee to tryout is $20.METRO DETROIT : BOYS LOCATION- OAKLAND YARD - Waterford, MISunday, March 29th www.oaklandyard.com 7-9AM - U-13 9-11 AM - U-15 METRO DETROIT :GIRLS LOCATION Sunday, March 29th- ALL AMERICAN LACROSSEPontiac, MI 1:30-2:30pm - U-13 www.all-americanlacrosse.com 2:30-3:30pm - U-15 and U15 National Champion team

LANSING: BOYS AND GIRLS LOCATION- THE SUMMITSaturday -MARCH 28th www.CapitalCentre.com 4:00-5:00pm U-13 BOYS 4:00-5:00pm U-13 GIRLS5:00-6:00pm U-15 BOYS 5:00-6:00pm U-15 GIRLSGRAND RAPIDS LOCATION: BOYS AND GIRLS-MVP SPORTS COMPLEXSATURDAY -MARCH 28th www.mvpsportsclubs.com11:00 - 12:00 pm U-13 BOYS 11:00 - 12:00 pm U-13 GIRLS12:00 - 1:00 pm U-15 BOYS 12:00 -1:00 pm U-15 GIRLSContact:Girls-Nickey at nicmart@aol.com Boys-Owen at odblank@yahoo.com

Michigan Chapterwww.MichiganLacrosse.org

US LACROSSE MICHIGAN AWARDS GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPSDid you know that US Lacrosse Michigan awards grants for lacrosse programs in Michigan? Grants for 2009 are currently available to new and expanding lacrosse programs for many purposes. Grants are generally utilized for equipment or other start up expenses. Grants are also available for regis-tered Michigan Lacrosse Officials or Coaches. Deadline for Grants is: April 15, 2009.

For 2009 US Lacrosse Michigan will also be awarding up to 4 -$500 scholarships to male and female Lacrosse Scholar Athletes. You must be a senior to apply. Application available on our website.DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION IS: APRIL 24, 2009.

Please visit ourwebsite: www.michiganlacrosse.org for information on procedure, qualifications and to download the applications for grants and Scholarships.

Coming Events : June 2009 - Hall of Fame Game Fall of 2009 - Annual 7 v 7 Tournament

For the latest info on games, events and camps visit www.michiganlacrosse.org

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Girl’s high school teams are ready for a successful 2009 seasonWith the season starting on March 9, Michigan Lacrosse asked

girl’s high school coaches for an assessment of their teams. Here are their responses:

BRigHtOn BulldOgsWith 10 returning seniors, including First-Team All-State attacker

Kelly LaChance, the Brighton Bulldogs are banking on depth to go deeper into the playoffs this season.

The team has veterans on offense while last season’s Honorable Mention All-State midfielder Hannah Krocker is back for her fourth season. Junior attacker Katelyn Scott will ensure not all the goal-scoring duties fall on LaChance. Senior Brooke Shelton, who has great feet and deceptive hands, will also be back at midfield.

Similarly, the defense is fortified with fourth-year defenders Rachel Wentz and Kelly Slominski. They will be aided by junior Megan Bryers, who is known for honing in on the ball.

New coach Mike Staruch is busy teaching his charges new techniques. How quickly the Bulldogs adapt will determine how they fare in the Kensington Lakes Activities Association.

“We are going to give everything we have from the opening whistle to the final horn,” Staruch says. “Win or lose, it won’t be because of a lack of effort.”

FaRmingtOn FalCOnsAs a second-year program, the Farmington Falcons want to reach

the pantheon of the mighty Birminghams and Troys.The team has a solid scorer in senior Sheridan Salcedo, who

collected 48 goals and 38 assists from the low-attack position last season. She is considered strong around the goal and a team leader.

The midfield features sophomore Natalie Petrella, who provided 12 goals and 13 assists last season; and junior Ali Dixon, who has emerged as a team leader despite taking up the sport a year ago.

On defense, junior Sarah Miller makes up for a lack of size with a savvy understanding of the game while junior goalie Anna Monkmeyer is expected to make the jump from JV to the varsity.

Last season, the Falcons finished 9-5-1 overall and 5-2-1 in the rigorous Oakland Activities Association. The team has set lofty goals for this campaign.

“As the team matures, we will challenge in the OAA,” coach Michael Mehall says.

gROsse pOinte sOutH lady Blue devilsAfter a sterling 11-2 showing last season, the Lady Blue Devils

have a clear objective this time around: Finish higher than sixth place at the Midwest Schoolgirls Tournament and advance past the first state playoff round.

“If we play as a unit, rather than individual players, we will be extremely successful,” says second-year coach Lauren Germaine.

Few would bet against Grosse Pointe South, which returns Christie Greiner, Katherine Palms, Annie Hartz and Molly Smith. Hartz anchors a stern defensive unit that also includes sophomore Hayley Altschuler and junior Torrie Palffy.

HOlt RamsAfter finishing near bottom, the Rams are ready for a season of

renewal. Senior center and wing Abbey Dutkiewicz joins junior goalie

Marina DePew as vital cogs in the Holt side, which returns nine seniors this season.

Coupled with a strong supporting cast, the Rams will rely on a balanced offense and stout defense to navigate through treacherous terrain that is the South Central Michigan Lacrosse League, which includes Lansing Waverly, Okemos and East Lansing.

“Our players are a great bunch of young ladies that are solid in both athletics and academic areas,” coach Paul Carr says. “We expect a strong showing this season.

In order to ascend the ladder, the team may need to incorporate a couple of freshmen into this season’s squad.

maRian mustangsCoach Ginny Heth’s Mustangs are young with just four seniors

and lost its entire starting defense from last year. Marian will be led by four captains - junior Julie Hemphill and seniors Julie Adamo, Katie Obee and Nicole Turner.

“We have great girls who have great potential,” said Heth.

OkemOs CHieFtainsAs defending champions, the Chieftains remain the envy of

the South Central Michigan Lacrosse League with their bevy of returning talent.

That includes two-time All-State attack wing MacKenzie Lawler, three-time All-State defender Darby Dudley and All-State goalie Breanne Stockall.

The supporting cast is strong, too, with defensive wing Olivia Hudson, home Sarah Lowe, defender Casey Hall, center Mallory Flanders, midfielder Kristen Hall, defender Grace O’Brien, and home Carly King.

Defender Morgan Brehm is a newcomer on a team that relies on its defense and transition game. She’s joined by new team member Sophie Bright.

“To be a complete team, we must always play with speed, strength and cunning,” coach Bill Prahler says.

pCs unitedThe combined team of Canton, Salem and

Plymouth high schools will seek to erase last season’s first round playoff exit to Ann Arbor Huron and live up its greater potential

Six senior captains anchor the Ladywarriors, who are in their third year and finished 11-4-1 last season. Edra Burris will be the set-up player while Emily Cox is expected to emerge to the forefront this season.

Chelsea Olson, who has signed to play with Indiana Tech, will serve as primary sniper since she scores on half of all shooting attempts. Junior Lauryn Ebersole is expected to return to form that saw her lead the team in scoring as a freshman.

Senior Stephanie Pettovello, who played on the defensive side last season, moves to the O-wing slot due to her powerful shot. Senior Natalie Sitko will use her size and speed to shut down opposing players.

Senior Nicole Rottell, who served as goalie, will move up front to play offense. Coach Dave Medley is confident a new netminder will step forward, which underscores his overall optimism entering the season despite heavy losses to graduation.

The team is ready to break the South Lyon and Brighton stranglehold on the D-1 East Central League.

“Many have said we will not be as good as we were last year, and frankly I don’t expect us to be as good as last year either,” Medley said. “I expect us to be better.”

ROCkFORd RamsRockford exemplified the state’s west side lacrosse prowess,

making it to the state semifinals where the Rams were derailed by eventual-champion Birmingham United.

Andi Raymond, who was Second Team All-State as a sophomore, returns as the team’s leading scorer. Second-leading scorer and top

draw player, junior Abbey Neerken, is also back as is the ground ball vacuum cleaner junior Meagan Emery. The trio will get some assistance from sophomore Alyssa Neuman, who is a well-rounded player with speed.

The backline is fortified by senior defender Shelby Smith and goalie Gabrielle Twiest.

The Rams play a fast, high-pressure style off offense that averaged nearly 20 goals a game. That’s likely to continue as Raymond, Neerken and Emery, who have played together since the seventh grade, remain the team’s heart.

sOutH lyOn liOnsDeanna Radcliffe is preaching patience this season, but the fourth-

year coach may be setting a big bear trap.After all the Lions went 22-1, captured league and regional crowns

and finished runners up in the state last season. Several key players, notably three-time leading scorer senior Kelsey Kaminsky, return to improve on last season’s near perfection.

In addition to being an All-State selection as a sophomore and junior, Kaminsky has received a scholarship to play Division I lacrosse at the University of Delaware.

Also back is senior Rachel Curmi, who led the team in assists last season; junior midfield/attacker Ashley Glenn; junior defender Hannah Gorman; and senior goalie Shannon Kennedy.

“We have a younger team this year,” Radcliffe says. “Everyone needs to be patient and willing to help one another.

“We need to have continued dedication, desire, and determination to improve.”

teCumseH indiansIn its 10th year, Tecumseh expects to

capitalize on its veteran leadership and erase last season’s 7-9 performance in Division II of the South Central Conference.

Six-foot-two senior Jessie Manwaring, who holds the school record for goals scored, returns at center. She’s be joined by fellow honorable mention All-State selection Heather Major on defense and Autumn

McMillin at attack.Another veteran senior Brit Rice anchors the point while junior

goalie Nicole Palm will be counted to start attacks with her Herculean-style throws. Jessie Stotler, Nikki Hedges and Katelynn Braunschneider provide the depth and experience needed to make the Indians solid contenders.

“The more you sweat at practice, the less you bleed in battle,” says coach Cindy Hill, who is in her eighth year.

univeRsity liggett knigHtsThe Knights are counting on a staunch core of juniors to navigate

the Southeastern Michigan Lacrosse Division 2 this season.Their ranks include last season’s leading scorer Liz Smith (27

goals and 9 assists) on attack, midfielder Natalie Boll, who has a knack for creating turnovers; midfielder Maggie Zinkel, who’s a draw specialist; midfielder Kelly Usakoski, who fills in at goalie; and midfielder Ai Yamasaki, who is also very versatile.

Sophomore Nozomi Yamasaki also provides an offensive spark with her attack skills.

“Hopefully we can be competitive against our opponents,” fifth-year coach Tamara Fobare says. “With a small team, it will be a challenge to keep up with the bigger teams.”

South Lyon returns several key players from last year’s team that made it to the state finals, including playmaker Rachel Curmi (above) and leading scoring Kelsey Kaminsky.

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Michigan’s boy’s high school programs are off and runningMichigan Lacrosse put out the call to the state’s high school coaches

to tell us about their teams. Here is what they told us:

BRigHtOn BulldOgsCaptain Tyler Staruch will move from defense to attack to bolster

the offense as the Bulldogs enter their sixth season.The team returns three attackers from last year’s 11-5 side,

including 6-foot-3 senior Bennett Estey, who led the Bulldogs with 25 goals. Junior Kyle Redilla also returns up front after a stellar sophomore campaign.

The midfield is patrolled by senior captain Chris Irish, who has a great outside shot. Junior Victor Progar drops back to defense from midfield and joins wily senior Ben Griscom who’s a stalwart in front of goal. In net, junior Alan Kimball makes the transition from back-up to starter.

“We have an experienced offensive with the confidence to run multiple sets,” says Charlie Estey, who is in first year as head coach. “This year’s group has been together since middle school and have the moxie to go with the enthusiasm.”

ClaRkstOn WOlvesThe Wolves continue to develop as an emerging force in the rugged

Oakland Activities Association and will rely heavily on three-year starter Kevin Giaier at long-stick middle.

Giaier, who also serves as captain, is described as the heart and soul of the Wolves, who finished 7-9 last season. He’s adept at reading opposing offenses and players, coach Brian Kaminskas says.

Jon Avery provides the team with an offensive spark while newcomer Jeff Turner will man the Wolves’ goal.

The team needs to come together and work towards developing a bedrock program, Kaminskas says.

“We are a young team looking for an identity,” Kaminskas says. “We have a number of players who are emerging as strong reliable players and others that are starting to find their way and contribute to the program.”

davisOn CaRdinalsDavison returns 14 seniors, including the last season’s top-three

scorers Craig Schaepkens (43 goals), Mike Dudash (32 goals) and Jay Lenz (28 goals).

Their talents are supplemented by a skillful midfield that includes senior long-stick middle Michael Bourne and sophomore Tyler Hayden.

However, the Cardinal fortunes will rest largely on a hard-nosed defense, which is expected to create turnovers and generate offensive charges. Senior captain Patrick Ryan, who stands 6-foot-5, leads the defensive corps with senior goalie Julian Dortman, whose quick hands and overall zeal for the game wards off opposition scoring attempts.

“This season we are focusing on doing the right thing,” second-year coach Robert Hatten says. “Our players will be helping out in the community and teaching the game at one- day clinics and lessons during halftimes of the home JV lacrosse games.”

detROit CatHOliC CentRalWith a core of seven seniors, the Shamrocks’ expectations remain

high as the team seeks to better last term’s 11-8 record.The upbeat outlook is largely due to returning players like

senior midfielder Chris Nemes, who possesses a high lacrosse IQ and provided 30 points last season. He’s joined at midfield by fellow captain Josh Walters, who mixes blazing speed with an uncompromising work ethic. Scott Mato is another senior and captain who fortifies the Shamrock defense.

Junior Jeff Janer provides depth and an ability to score at midfield while junior netminder Kevin Lerg is a standout shotstopper.

“It all falls on the leadership of our seniors and the underclassman’s willingness to follow their lead,” said fourth-year coach Dave Wilson.

“If we get our head right, everything will follow into line.”

deWitt laCROsse CluBThe club program enters its fifth season with high hopes of

improving on last term’s 8-6 record and fifth place finish in the Capital Areas Activities Conference.

“This is the year to exceed expectations and establish ourselves in the mid-Michigan area,” second-year coach Ian Broughton says.

Back are juniors and captains Matt Knoy at midfield, Jeff Zamiara on attack and Alex Gorton. A stout defense will remain the core of DeWitt’s strength as the team seeks to exceed last season’s eight-win total and advance past the first round.

east lansing tROjansThe Trojans will seek to restore the program’s luster this campaign

by bouncing back from last season’s dreadful 1-11 performance.Second-year coach Jonathan Brooks sees a potential leader in

senior attacker Bryan Rogerson while junior Max Mittleman is primed to develop into one of the best players in the area. Senior Joe Tyler heads the class of long sticks on defense while junior goalie Colin Ragan is untested but has the smarts to excel, his coach says.

“We will be very young and enthusiastic,” Brooks says. “We will be young and enthusiastic.”

Flint pOWeRs CatHOliCThe Chargers have a solid offensive nucleus of returning players

in Luke Goyette, Jonah Spurlin and Kevin Beer. The team’s midfield is also firmly settled with 6-foot-4 First-Team All-State selection Austin Vickrey.

A few holes remain on defensive and in net, which fourth-year coach Travis Perry needs to plug in order for the Chargers to capture the Catholic League B Division title. Last season, the team finished

second with a 14-6 record and lost to East Grand Rapids in the state regional final. The team is also looking to avenge being knocked off its perch by rival Notre Dame Prep.

“If we play as a team and older players can be mentors to the rookies, we should have a successful season,” Perry says.

gRand Rapids nORtHvieWMike Malloy enters his first season as head coach as the Wildcats

look to rise above the .500 mark after finishing 8-8 last year.Senior Keegan Ferris is a team leader at midfield where he’s

earned a reputation as a skilled two-way player. He’s joined by fellow captain and senior Marshall Selzemnieks, who is a tenacious defenders and not afraid to mix it up physically.

Malloy sees strength in his youthful charges, which includes last-season’s leading scorer, junior attacker Kyle Stelter, sophomore midfielder Sean Carter and sophomore defender Dom Parise.

“Our biggest strength is that we are a young, hungry team,” Malloy says. “The players are very coachable and want to work to become a strong, cohesive unit.

gROsse ileWhen it comes to boy’s lacrosse, the Red Devils are an island

onto themselves. The school belongs to the Huron League for other sports, but

Grosse Ile’s is the only lacrosse program, leaving the Red Devil to ply their skills in the 11-team Division 2 circuit. The four-year program is looking to improve on last season’s lackluster 6-8 record with a solid core of returnees, including defender C.J. Scheiber, midfielder Kevin Scheiber, and attackers Kevin Dwyer and Ian Lawrence. The Red Devils are light on veterans as only four seniors return with 18 underclassmen, which fourth-year coach Butch Ryan is why terms this as a rebuilding year.

gROsse pOinte nORtHWith three starters returning at attack, Grosse Pointe North

shouldn’t have any problems scoring.Additionally, the team features senior midfielder Brandon

Davenport, who has signed to play Division I at the University of Detroit. The First-Team All-State selection last season is an excellent draw man and a standout two-way player.

Davenport is joined by junior midfielder Jeremy Payton, who possesses shifty speed and a deadly accurate shot.

What could be seen as a question mark – in this case defense with two new starters – may also be a strength as the Norsemen return three-year starter goalie Nick Rochte, who boasts a career save-percentage of .687. Chris Maks has also been added as a defensive coach.

“We have big expectations with eight returning starters and some great talent on both sides of the ball,” says third-year coach Dan Preston. “If our defense comes together, we will have a good and hopefully long season.”

HOlland West OttaWaWest Ottawa is sturdy on defensive and in goal, but eighth-year

coach Brad Vredevoogd wants to see a quicker trigger finger from his charges.

Junior Steve Grant and sophomore Desmond Morgan provide stability in the midfield while senior Nick Fredricks and junior Will Franken navigate easily between midfield and attack roles. Newcomer junior A.J. Smith offers plenty of promise in both midfield and attack slots.

“For us to be successful, our young, talented squad will have to move the ball well,” Vredevoogd says. “Our main goal is to simply improve on our previous seasons’ successes. I am excited to see what this young and talented team will produce once they start truly working together.”

Brighton captain Tyler Staruch will move from defense to attack this season to bolster the Bulldogs’ offense this season.

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HOlt RamsThe Rams’ drop to Division 2 this season is not indicative of poor

play. The team finished 10-5 – good for third place in the Capital Area Lacrosse Association - and was barely squeezed out of the regionals in a one-goal loss to Holland West Ottawa last season.

Junior attacker Tommy McKee provides offensive fireworks, setting a school record for goals (55) and points (66) last season. At midfield, the Rams possess some grit with juniors Ryan DeClercq and Mike Andring. The pair is joined by junior Jake Majeske, whose athleticism has impressed fifth-year coach Mike Van Antwerp.

The Rams, who have only five seniors, will be looking for new players to step up and fill voids due to graduation losses.

“We are starting to establish the program and as this grows, the expectations and abilities of the kids grow,” Van Antwerp says. “The team chemistry is great and will translate into success on the field.”

lake ORiOn dRagOnsDespite playing a rigorous schedule, the Dragons believe they

can overcome last season’s 4-12 performance with athleticism and a will to succeed. The third-year team is inexperienced at the varsity level and playing in the demanding Oakland Activities Association doesn’t help.

The Dragons are counting junior Matt Kuehl at long stick middle and a senior attacker Adam Chapie to provide offense. On defense, juniors Jon Hill and Matt Gattinger should emerge as leaders on an otherwise untested group.

“No one on this team will ever quit on themselves or their team,” says third-year coach Nik Banda. “They know they are building a great future for themselves in the next two seasons.”

lansing WaveRlyThe Warriors won’t let inexperience deter their goal of becoming

the first team to capture back-to-back Capital Area Activities Conference titles.

Last season, the 18-year program won the CAAC but lost to Rockford in the divisional semifinals. The Warriors have a strong group of seniors with midfielder John Duckworth, long-stick middle Tadas Anuzis, senior midfield Danny Becker, midfielder Kirk Dunlap and senior long-stick midfielder Marcus Canady.

A slew of untested newcomers include: junior attacker Mike Purdy, junior midfielder Andrew Dolenhanty, senior goalie Jordan Pier, junior midfielder Frank Liesman, and junior defender Chase Kiefer.

“We have a lot of unproven players with high end potential,” says seventh-year coach Jonathan Edgerly. “Whether those players realize their potential will be the difference between a mediocre season and a great one.”

nOtRe dame pRepThe Fighting Irish lost 12 seniors to graduation from last season’s

stellar 19-2 team but remain optimistic they can achieve similar success.

Back is senior long-stick midfielder Joe Koterba, who remains the team’s spiritual leader. Junior midfielder Tommy Sardelli, who led the team in assists last season, also returns with junior defender Nick Garippa and sophomore attacker Brandon Beauregard. Garippa is a vocal leader on and off the field while Beauregard is known for his great speed and elusiveness.

“Our kids are hungry to pick up where we left off last year,” says third-year coach Ben Ingram. “With a much harder schedule this year, we looking to have strong season that prepares us for the playoffs.”

OkemOs CHieFtains

The Chieftains have set lofty goals for themselves and for good reason. The team returns its attack unit led by junior Jack Grady, who led Okemos in assists last season. He’s supported by Cody Eggenberger, who can drive the net.

Okemos is particularly strong in the middle with senior Matt Tague, who has a cannon for a shot; senior Parker Banas, who is a savvy veteran; and Sam Swanson, a talented performer.

Seniors Cole Miller and Sam Collier hold down the defense. In an effort to repeat as Capital Areas Lacrosse champs, Okemos faces a stiff challenge from Lansing Waverly as well as Holt, Haslett and Williamston. The team finished 11-5 last season and lost in the regionals.

“If we can replace the holes left by graduation, this could be one of our best teams ever,” says seventh-year coach Shawn Grady. “How our young players step in will dictate how far we go.”

ORCHaRd lake st. maRySt. Mary’s returns 24 letter winners from last year’s squad that

won eight of their last 10 games before losing to Liggett in the first round of the playoffs.

And they’ll need it as the Eaglets have a tough schedule – including a five-game stretch in late April when they face defending champion Birmingham Brother Rice, state-finalist Forest Hills Central, state finalist, the University of Detroit, perennial power Ann Arbor Pioneer and league foe Warren De La Salle.

The Eaglets have some offensive firepower with Ian Brambs (39 goals) and Drake Chwalibog (31 goals) and Tom Pellerito, who scored 17 goals in the last six games a year ago. Speedy Scott Koenigsknecht (68 points), juniors Alex Houck and Drew Schupbach are joined by transfer Taylor Docking, an all-state midfielder from Adrian, sophomore Doug Boyd and senior James Mahar.

Defensively OLSM will count on junior Nick Gondek, seniors Stephan Knoblock and Joey LaFlamme, sophomore PJ Walters (6-3, 200) and midfielder Josh Abbott and Keegan Dupack.

Returning starter and captain Adam Hatchard and newcomer Cameron Schulze will battle for time in goal.

“We have some talent, but we haven’t accomplished anything yet,” said Eaglets second-year coach Greg Normand. “We need to play every shift like it’s our last.”

plymOutH WildCatsThe Wildcats are going to amp up the speed of play this season

while hoping they don’t surrender too much at the back. The second-year program is poised to improve on last season’s

dreary 8-11 mark (5-7 in the KLAA) with a solid cast of returnees, which include seniors midfielder Chris Hoffman, defender Alex Turfe and goalie Jordan Caverly. Sophomore Brad Finch is also back to provide the Wildcats with a sturdy riding attackman.

New faces expected to shine include freshman attacker Phil Flesch, who is described as a tough player and hard worker; sophomore Nick Russ, an elusive midfielder; and junior Mike McGarry, who returns after a year hiatus.

“If we can improve every day and be responsible for our work ethic, behavior and focus, we will give ourselves the opportunity to do well,” says coach Mike Costello.

pORtage CentRalFour-year assistant Chris Sizemore assumes the helm as Mustangs

head coach this season as the team transitions from a high-powered offense to clamp-down defensive style.

The team finished a perfect 8-0 in the Southwest Michigan Lacrosse Conference and 12-6 overall last season.

Junior attacker Tony Berank assumes the offensive duties this season with four-year player Cody VanderVeen. Berank is a third-year player with excellent hands and burning speed while VanderVeen has a scorer’s touch around the net.

Senior mid Brett Bergy is a fourth-year player who transitions between defensive and offensive roles but will be asked to step up his scoring chances this season. Senior mid Kyle Schram is another reliable two-way player who gives the Mustangs an edge in the defensive end.

Senior Patrick Shields at an offensive dimension at midfield while, on defense, junior Robert Thomas is as dependable as they come.

Defender/long-stick middle Kevin Duplissis and mids Zack Grussell and Cody Scuglik lead a gaggle of newcomers.

“The 2009 season is an opportunity for the players to embrace our tradition, learn from past success and create their own history,” says Sizemore about the seven-year program.

saline HORnetsThe seven-year program is building a reputation for outstanding

play to match its state-of-the-art facilities.Tthe Hornets return a chunk of personnel from last season’s

laudable 14-5 outfit, including seniors, Bob Bianchi, attack; Brad Crimmins, defense; Preston Mueller, defense; Rob DeHaan, midfield; and Evan Kourtjian, midfield. Crimmins and Mueller had a strong defensive corps that is expected to keep Saline on track to achieve its goal of winning a regional title.

“We’re anxious to get off to a good start,” says second-year coach John Harris. “I expect us to be strong on defense and have our offense be effective as the season progresses.”

tRaveRse City st. FRanCis St. Francis finished 6-12 in the YMCA Lacrosse League a year ago

with a team made up of mostly sophomores and freshmen. But head coach Bill Grombala is anticipating a better return this year.

One of the reasons is the squad has more depth – including defenseman Sean Paquet, senior Ryan Farley, two midfielders, Nick Pothoff and Reid Klintworth, and Justin Olm and Joel Carriage. Sophomore Brian Rasmussen and freshman Colin Schmuckal have showed promise. Grombala hadn’t settled on a starting goalie, but was excited about the three or four guys competing for the job.

“This year we figure we have 28 guys,” said Grombala. “Our goals are to start fast, score early, play good defense and stay out of the penalty box.”

tRaveRse City CentRalThe Thunder won the YMCA League with a 14-1 record last year

and return 13 players from that team, including goalie Billy Bash and team captains Kyle McLaughlin and Cameron Hodges. Also back are attackman Matt Shetler and Ryan Gerstner, who plays everywhere. Tyler Marble, a transfer from Detroit Catholic Central, will also suit up.

“We have a lot of depth, and a good amount of experience,” coach Liberty Provost said. “Our defense is really looking tough but I feel we can score some goals, too.”

tROy atHensThe Red Hawks are looking to venture deep into the state

tournament after finishing fourth last campaign.They will do so at the behest of top returning players like captains,

sophomore Joe Kemp, midfield; junior Matt Lining, midfield; senior John DeMaggio, defense; and, senior J.J. Sperry, attack.

Sophomore Dan Kreza will also feature prominently in the Red Hawk attack.

“Our development will rely on each player working as hard as they can,” says third-year coach Nick Stensen.

tROy COltsThe Colts will largely rely on an infusion of youth to traverse the

Oakland Activities Association.Senior attacker Lyle Parks heads the cast of returnees from last

season’s 6-10 team. The three-year starter orchestrates the Colt attack, but will be expected to finish with a share of goals and assists.

A pairs of juniors, Chris Labadie and Chad Michaels, conduct the midfield while junior Andrew Carlson is the team’s lone returning defender.

Junior Andrew Birkett assumes the netminding duties after playing junior varsity last season. Other newcomers include: junior Alberto Guerra, defense; junior Jimmy Short, midfield; and junior Dylan Sugg, midfield. Short and Sugg were standout leaders on the JV squad last season and will be expected to bring a similar demeanor to varsity.

“We have a young squad with only a handful of seniors returning and we’ll look to use the energy and intensity of a group trying to prove themselves,” says nine-year coach Matt Jantz. “Instead of looking at this as a rebuilding year, we expect to do well in our league and build a lot of confidence and experience that we’ll draw from next year.”

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When the phone rang in mid-February and a team mom wanted to know if it would be all right for her son to miss a partial practice on an abandoned Monday in early May the conversation absolutely stumped me for a moment.

“There won’t be snow in May,” was the only thought that jumped into my brain.

No snow in May. That seems reasonable.When the lacrosse mother called me I was standing atop a prep

alpine ski course at Boyne Mountain and my brain wouldn’t release the thought process to the recesses of my lacrosse cortex.

Whether it was the frigid temperatures or the warming visions of spring lacrosse I immediately jumped into coaching mode and told her ‘that wouldn’t be a problem for her son to miss that Monday practice.’

The only problem with the brief conversation was identifying who was on the other end of the phone that day. But the phone call did get me to thinking about the upcoming lax season.

We managed to finish the ski race that day, but during my drive home that night my thoughts quickly turned to all the tasks that needed to be accomplished for the spring campaign.

As I cataloged in my mind each and every issue that would need attention from our coaching staff, I began to wonder if every other

lacrosse coach I knew was this manic?Did they stress about uniforms?Did they ponder about their starting lineups?Would the spring rains hurt the playing fields for those without

turf?Do we really need three pairs of game socks?What am I going to do with parents who think I am a full-time

lacrosse coach at their beck and call… even in the off-season?“Coaching lacrosse in high school is not a full-time job.”So by the time I hit the Oakland County line, driving down Interstate

75, the migraine was enough for me to hand over the driving duties to another passenger.

“It shouldn’t be this hard.”Or should it?The next day, I needed to clear the air and I called Lake Orion coach

Nik Banda, who is a close friend. Nik and I played college hockey

in a remote part of the world during the Nixon administration, so it’s always calming to talk to a guy who grew up listening to the same music.

I told Nik I was losing my mind. I explained to him that all these lacrosse thoughts kept creeping into my head and it wasn’t even lacrosse season at that point.

I asked if he thought the economy would hurt our sport? I mentioned something about uniforms… and we were off to the races.

Nik was worried about his stating lineup and finding enough ‘lacrosse players’ among his athletic Dragons. He even mentioned he spent some of his afternoons sketching out a starting lineup and he even daydreamed about the warm breezes that the lacrosse season brings.

I reminded him that the toasty weather of spring has something to do with Mother Nature.

Nik and I talked for 20 minutes on exactly the subjects I was trying to avoid.

“Hey, wait a minute, I called you to get away from lacrosse,” I said rather pointedly.

Nik reminded me that coaching is a ‘24/7’ proposition and my spring ‘addiction beat the heck out of smoking Marlboros.’

Nik was right. Nik is usually right.

Now, sitting here, in my office, three weeks later trying to formulate a season opening column for Michigan Lacrosse about the upcoming season, I can’t help but think about my conversation with Nik.

What am I going to write about? I do have some other questions about this season:

Will Rob Ambrose have Brother Rice ready to duplicate last year’s season?

Will the referees call more slashing this year to calm those who don’t know the difference?

How many teams will have ‘legal’ lacrosse uniforms?How long will it be before somebody complains about the Michigan

High School Athletic Association’s 300-mile travel rule?Will a new prep program emerge this year and challenge the

perennial powers that dominate in late May and early June?Will we continue to grow this sport we all love or is the economy

going to hurt us?

It’s that time of year and I have a few questions

GREG NORMANDGREG NORMANDDo we have enough ‘quality coaches’ directing high school

teams?Who is the strongest lacrosse conference this year?Can East Grand Rapids repeat in Division II?Is this the year that Sean Leary has his University of Detroit

charges ready to challenge for state supremacy?Can Forest Hills Eastern creep up on neighboring Forest Hill

Central?Will my St. Mary’s squad duplicate their off-season success?And what will Rockford do after a mediocre season?Can Traverse City and Petoskey finally gain the varsity status

that we all want them to have this year? I would love to play on the Grand Traverse Bay in early May.

Will Brian Kaminskis see progress at Clarkston?Who is the dominant team in the Midwest Conference?Will the likeable and helpful Detroit Country Day head coach John

Kenney be the brunt of another vicious rumor mill?How many lacrosse ‘lies’ do you think will surface on MLive this

spring?Will Darren Millman have Ann Arbor Pioneer’s offense ready this

year to equal that great defense?Will Jeff Daniels at Ypsilanti Lincoln finally beat a ranked team

this season?Is it possible for the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News,

not to mention the Oakland Press and Macomb Daily, to cover prep lacrosse like it’s a legitimate spring MHSAA activity?

How many Michigan high school players will receive college scholarships to play at the next level?

How many parents will lie about their “All-Americans” receiving college offers?

Who is going to tell Michigan high school players that the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA) is a great league, but its not scholarship lacrosse?

Is it possible to attract thousands of folks to the state finals instead of hundreds?

Can you see where I am going? I could easily add another 50 entries, but I am trying to quit thinking about lacrosse.

And apparently, that’s impossible. The idea of lacrosse keeps the brain engaged… just like every other player, coach and parent I know.

Will it stop? I am guessing the flow of lax information will stop Sunday, June 7, the day after state finals.

But no it won’t. Summer lacrosse camp opens in the middle of June.

Have a great season folks.

Greg Normand is a regular contributor to Michigan Lacrosse. He also writes for MCLA, The Lax Magazine, Inside Lacrosse and coaches the lacrosse squads at Orchard Lake St. Mary’s and Eastern Michigan University.

I have a few questIons: wIll the referees call more slashIng thIs year to calm those who don’t know the dIfference? how many teams wIll have ‘legal’ lacrosse unIforms? how long wIll It be before somebody complaIns about the mIchIgan hIgh school athletIc assocIatIon’s 300-mIle travel rule?

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coLLege preview

Men’s college squads are up and running all across the stateDeTRoiT MeRCy TiTANS KiCK off fiRST DiviSioN 1 SeASoN AS AN iNDepeNDeNT

Michigan Lacrosse asked the state’s college programs for a rundown on their team’s this season and this is what they told us:

After more than a year of preparation, Detroit Mercy starts the season as the state’s only Division 1 program. Head coach Matt Holtz has 27 players and the Titans will play their inaugural season as an independent.

“There is going to be a lot of ups and downs, but we have a solid group built around some transfers and a talented freshmen class that we feel will improve throughout the season,” said Holtz.

The Titans’ attack is led by senior Kevin Demorest and junior Pat O’Shea. Demorest, one of the three UDM captains, injured his knee in a pre-season game and missed the opening of the season.

“He will be back for us at some point,” said Holtz. “He is a talented offensive player as well as our emotional leader on the field. A healthy Demorest will really have an impact for us.”

O’Shea, also a Titan captain, is a proven offensive player who scored 17 goals for Dominican college last year. Senior Michael Schumacher’s moved from the midfield to attack and freshmen John Nowicki and Ty Maruyama will also contribute.

Detroit is young in the midfield with nine true freshman and four sophomores in the mix for playing time, including freshmen Scott Harris, Vince Wigdahl, Jon Bemben and Danny Preston.

Sophomores Matt Gregson and Tim Lehto will also be key midfielders. Gregson notched 21 goals and picked up 41 groundballs last year while attending Adrian College. Sophomore Jeff Julius (Birmingham Seaholm) and freshman Brad Janer (Catholic Central) add depth and sophomores Tim Shoemaker and Adam Nolan along with freshman Max Gowins will handle the long stick midfield.

The Titans defense will feature three players with collegiate games under their belt, led by senior captain Riley Turchetti. The Grand Rapids native played three years of club lacrosse at Michigan State, including two years under coach Holtz, and was twice named an All-CCLA performer. Junior Chris Butts played the last three years at Dominican College, but missed all last season with an injury leaving him with two years of eligibility. Sophomore Matt Clugston and freshmen Jason McDonald and Nik Hoye will round out the defensive unit.

The Titans start the season with two goalies, junior Vince Diana and freshman Mike Lioi, battling for the starting job. Diana is a transfer from Mercyhurst-Northeast, where he was a two time National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-Region. Lioi won back-to-back MIAA-B championships at Archbishop Curley High School and ended his final season as the Friars’ team MVP.

adRian COllegeAfter going 8-6 in their first season, coach Chris Delfausse’s Adrian

College squad will play as an independent this year in preparation of joining the Midwest Lacrosse Conference (MLC) next season.

“Our schedule is more challenging this year than it was last season,” said Delfausse. “Our team is more experienced this and I expect a big jump from last year in overall competitiveness and maturity.”

Offense in a strong suit for the Bulldogs with returners Ryan Knautz (63 points), Jeff Ivey (53) and Josh Maluta (53) back. DJ Clevely, David Monroe and TJ Cook will also see playing time.

Goalie Eric Lindstrom returns, while the Bulldogs’ midfielders and faceoff men will be young. The freshman trio of Trevor Synek, Ryan Werhane and Cody Wright will all fight for playing time taking draws.

But the defensive unit returns all starters from a year ago, including sophomore Andrew Suitor, the team’s best on ball defender. Joining Suitor will be the teams only senior, Sean Richards, and team captains Robert O’Meara and Adam Hague.

aquinas COllegeLuke Griemsman’s squad competes in the MCLA D2 and top

players include senior goalie Nick Avendt and sophomore midfield/attack Matt Schelter.

Top newcomers include five freshmen: defensemen James Burkhardt and Jonathan Sawkin and midfielders Jacob Jeffers, Nate McCorry and Jordan Matheny.

Griemsman believes his young squad has a lot to prove.“We have a very competitive schedule, and if we are ready to

finish each game we will do well. Every scrimmage we played this fall taught us a lot. We have made it a goal to play a complete 60 minutes in every game this spring. With proper conditioning and intensity we should keep our games close and build respect for our new program,” Griemsman said.

CentRal miCHigan

The Chippewas, led by first year head coach Brad Thomas, plan to improve on last season’s 3-9 record.

Top returning players include senior goalie Casey Beinlich, a four-year starter, junior captain Kevin Burroughs, sophomore midfielder and captain Brad Dickerson and sophomore attackman Justin Schauffler, who led the Chips in goalscoring last season. Newcomer Chris Cooper, a senior attackman, will also contribute up front.

“This is one of the hardest-working and most dedicated teams I have ever been around,” said Thomas. “They have done all that we ask of them. This team lost quite a few games in the 4th quarter last year and we have stressed finishing this year. If we can finish the games out this year, we will have a very successful season.”

davenpORt After finishing 11-2 last season, coach Bob

Clarkson’s squad joined the MCLA and is made up of 16 veterans and 16 freshmen.

The Panthers attack is led by returning top scorer Shawn Beer (59 goals), Gavin Morris and Nick Travers. New players include Jordan Costa and Jordan Richtsmeier.

Middies include captain Jordy Sayers, a transfer from Saginaw Valley, along with Oliver Wade, Fabian Morales, and newcomer Jeff Samuels. Additional players that will see action are sophomore Chuey Mares, Taylor Keyworth, Jordan Steger and Steve Chiappelle. The Panthers faceoff specialist is Jeremy Simms.

The defensive midfield is led by returning captain Adam Bower, along with Aaron James, Kyle Anguilm, Chris Kendro and Micka Ravuth. On defense, the Panthers are anchored by captain Dan Catzere, Kyle Detmers, RJ Bogdanski and newcomer Bryan Schramm. Additional defenders are Collin Hampel and Ken Logan.

Goaltending should be a strength with sophomore Jake Stricker and newcomer Zach Higgins.

“One of our goals is to take on the best teams in the country,” said Clarkson. “Our 2009 schedule is very demanding and our team will need to be ready every time we take the field.”

easteRn miCHigan Under new E-Board president Nick Thurber and coach

Greg Normand, the Eagles started the season with a 24-player roster and wins over Xavier, Bowling Green and Toledo.

“These guys have done a lot of work to make sure this program runs right,” said Thurber. “(Former EMU coach and current Michigan State coach) Dwayne Hicks started us out on the right path and we’re trying to build on that direction.”

Eastern Michigan has a deeper offensive unit and a simplier defensive scheme this season.

“We’ve had a good start and we’ll see what that means when we play Michigan, Grand Valley and Michigan State at the end of the month. That should give us some idea of our ability,” Normand said.

Romaine Will, who led the Eagles in scoring last season (32-12-44) should be even better this season. Eastern will needed additional offensive help from Thurber (Northville), who scored 22 goals last season and moves from middie to attack.

Other offensive contributions will come from the South Lyon brother contingent of Lee and Chad Wright.

EMU has good depth at offensive middie where Joe Laird, a Lanse Creuse product, and Ryan Crawford, a Saline native who scored nine goals as freshman last season, anchor a solid first line.

Newcomer and speed demon Tyler Hockey will join Laird and Crawford on the first line. The second middies line will include newcomers Nick Hersey and Sami Yanikoglu. Michael Lapham will see considerable action at attack.

The Eagles veteran defense is anchored by Bryan Respondek and Yusef Yanikoglu, but gets strong backup from Daniel Stevens, Alan Keicher, Gaylon Clark and Michael Heppler.

Eric Hoffman and newcomer David Hylko will stand between the pipes this year. Hoffman is considered one of the best goalies in the league despite his advancing age of 31.

“If we do all the work and stay focused, things will work out fine,” Normand said.

miCHiganMichigan is coming off a 20-0 season,

the best season in the history of the MCLA, and the program’s first national championship.

The Wolverines graduated nine seniors, but return a talented squad – including junior face off man David Reinhard of East Lansing.

Up front, Michigan has senior captain Riley Kearns (Bloomfield Hills), junior attackman Kevin Zorovich and sophomore attackman Trevor Yealy, who had a team high 70 goals last season.

In the midfield the Wolverines have seniors Peter Vasher (Ann Arbor) and Anthony Hrusovsky.

Defensively, Michigan returns every starter from last year, including All-American and senior captain Zach Elyachar.

In goal, sophomores Mark Stone and Andrew Fowler (Grosse Pointe) will compete for time.

miCHigan-deaRBORnThe Wolves, led by first year head coach Jason Watts, compete

in the MCLA Division 2 and want to improve on last season’s 2-8 record.

Top return players for UMD include junior captains Matt Laurinec (defense), Joel Rosen (goaltender) and senior captain Mike Prokic (LSM).

Freshman attack Pat Downey was the leading scorer at Plymouth High School, and first year middies include Scott Wisniewski, who will also take faceoffs, and Erik Scharboneau will also contribute.

“The offense needs to play as a team as we cannot rely on any one player like seasons past,” said Watts. “If the offense can gel and defense can play like they are capable of I think we will have a very successful season.”

UM Dearborn junior Matt Laurinec (right) is one of the Wolves captains this season.

Michigan will count heavily on senior attackman Riley Kearns (right, battling teammate Harry freid) this season.

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coLLege preview

Hard work pays off for Detroit Mercy womenCoLLege TeAMS ACRoSS THe STATe ARe off AND pLAyiNg

A foundation has to be laid when something is being built, which is exactly what has happened the past year and a half with the University of Detroit Mercy’s women’s program.

S ince September 17 , 2007, when UDM’s Director of Athletics Keri Gaither introduced Mary Ann Meltzer as the first head coach of the Titans women’s team, the construction has been non-stop.

UDM opened their first season with a win at Howard University in Washington, D.C. but then dropped their next four games to Navy, Niagara, Le Moyne and Duquesne.

The Titans first recruit, high school all-american Brett Yenger of Cincinnati has provided solid goaltending and was named the Independent Player of the Week in late February.

“We believe Brett has the potential to be great,” said Meltzer.Senior leadership came early to the new program when Titan

soccer players Megan Canty and Liz Hardy decided to join the program after completing their soccer eligibility. Both players, who combined to play in 168 varsity soccer games for the Titans, are fifth-year seniors. Though neither played high school lacrosse, both have the athleticism Meltzer was looking for and have provided the type of leadership the coaching staff assumed they would have to wait years to get as young players deem experience.

That is no simple task when you consider that besides the two seniors, Detroit’s squad is comprised of 11 freshmen and two sophomores.

Joining Canty and Hardy from other Detroit teams is Lauren Memmer, a redshirt freshman and former Michigan Miss Softball, who originally came to the Titans to join their softball team.

Sophomore Olivia Mendoza transferred from Ferrum College, and was a former high school All-Michigan defender in 2007. Both Memmer and Mendoza are slated to play attack for the Titans along with freshmen Anna Eidem, Rachel Iturralde and Alyssa Shaver.

“We do not have an unstoppable scorer,” said Meltzer. “It will definitely be points by committee.”

The Titans midfield is patrolled by some of the best athletes on the squad – several of whom have played together previously. Canadian

prep stars freshmen Emily Boissonneault and Corina Mahorn competed on several Ontario select teams together, as did freshmen Kandice Bogatz and Megan Wallace in their native New York.

In front of Yenger on defense will be Canty, sophomore Alycsa Valentine and freshmen Melanie Hicks and Maya Thomas.

“Offense, defense, midfield, it goes without saying we are young,” stated Meltzer. “But these girls have done everything our staff has asked of them. They are working hard. This is all new to everyone – the college experience for our freshmen, the college lacrosse experience for the entire team. I’m thrilled with the

preparation the team has put in.”By Maggie Walsh

adRian COllegeAfter going 6-7 in their first-ever season, there

is a lot of optimism around the Adrian College women’s program for 2009.

The Division III Bulldogs return four letter winners from a year ago and welcome 16 freshmen to the roster.

“Our first year was really trial and error,” said head coach John Sung. “We just needed to field a team and we had players who picked up a lacrosse stick for the first time in preseason practice. Despite that we had a great season and several players really surprised me with how quickly they picked up the game.”

The Bulldogs had a recruiting class, deploy a fast-paced offense and have the depth to play the up-tempo style. Sophomore midfielder Mariana DiGiovanni is back after leading the team with 41 goals in 13 games. Sophomore attacker Andrea Soloko has moved from defense after scoring 17 goals last season.

Sophomore goalie Amanda Faraone played

every minute for the Bulldogs last season and will battling for the starting spot with freshman Laura Finfrock.

Freshman midfielder Amanda Lambert is “probably the best all-around player on the team” according to Sung. Freshman attacker Rachel Johnston is a native of Canada and was a member of the Canadian Under-19 National Development Team. Freshman defender Amy Merson is a draw specialist and one of the best defenders on the team.

CentRal miCHiganJD Chapman’s Chippewas play in the WCLL’s Division A and look

to make the playoffs again this season.Central Michigan returns senior captains Audrey Carrasco and

Kristy Chiano up front, and also have senior Ashley Rogers back to provide scoring punch.

A relatively inexperienced midfield group is bolstered by freshmen Nicole Steffes and center Leah Witkowski, along with sophomores Sierra Roberts and Amada Beger.

Chapman makes defense a priority for our team and plans that as a strength come playoff time.

CMU’ schedule includes trips to Buffalo and St Louis and games against preseason nationally ranked top 15 teams U of M, MSU and

Lindenwood.”We have focused on getting

better everyday and maintaining our commitment in all facets of our game,” said Chapman.

davenpORt Coming off a 7-4-1 season and a trip to

the Regional Tournament, the Davenport women’s team returns a wealth of experience in their second year.

Leading the all freshmen and sophomore Panthers squad is goalkeeper Shaye Bradley (Cascade), who played in all 12 games last season. Returning in front of Shaye are Helena Stieg (Reed City), Jordan Sinclair (Clarkston) and Lisa Brown (Greenville).

Sophomore midfield attackers Kendra Stieg (Reed City) and Lydia Bedford (Jenison) gained valuable experience last year.

Up front new attackers include Jessica Talcott (Cascade) and Brittanie Bond (Rockford).

Valerie Carr (Holt) and Kelly Prince (McBain) should also contribute.

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Detroit Mercy’s Division i women’s team opened their first-ever season with a win over Howard University.

The second-year Adrian Bulldogs are still young and include freshman midfielder Amanda Lambert.

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