Wellesley's Superko throws no-hitter
April, 25, 2013
Apr 25
12:27
AM ET
By
Brendan Hall | ESPNBoston.com
During lunch today at school, Kevin Superko jokingly approached his Wellesley High teammate Brian McMahon, who was selling tickets to the upcoming prom, about getting his hands on a pass for free. McMahon joked back, “Maybe if you throw a no-hitter today”.
One-hundred seven pitches, nine strikeouts, four walks and zero hits later, McMahon is suddently changing his tune.
“Now he’s claiming he said perfect game,” Superko laughed.
The senior righthander tossed his first no-no of the season this afternoon in a 4-0 win over Milton, but the feat came as a surprise to himself. Superko felt he didn’t have his best stuff today. In his last start on April 16 against Medfield, a 6-4 loss, he said his arm “didn’t feel good the whole time, I was all over the place”.
Today, he says he only felt good with his comfortable with his fastball, and it showed, using the heat on roughly 75 percent of his 107 pitches. Efficient as he was on the mound, Superko says, “I got lucky”.
“He just covered the zone with a lot of fastballs,” Wellesley head coach Rob Kane said. “He was spotting real well, working guys in-out. At one point he threw 10-15 fastballs in a row, then one curve, then 10 more fastballs in a row. It was his control of the fastball that allowed him to do that today.”
So how did he do it? Credit the defense behind him for coming up with some terrific plays, though Superko had arguably the best one of the day to save his own cause. Early in the third inning, a Milton batter placed down a well-timed bunt that went about 10 feet up the third base path, hugging the line. Superko scampered off the mound and bare-handed a throw to first base, beating the base-runner by a foot.
Leftfielder Ned Holmes sealed it in the seventh with a running catch in the left-center gap, stretching out with good reach to make the play.
If the last name rings a bell, you’re not alone. His older brother Tim was arguably one of the state’s most efficient lefties a season ago, ringing up 85 strikeouts as the ace of Kane’s staff. Currently playing a post-graduate season at Philips Andover, Tim is known for his competitive demeanor on the mound and hopes to bring that intensity to Tufts University next year – a trait that has rubbed off on the younger Superko.
“He has lot of passion when he pitches,” Kevin said. “I was in Worcester this past weekend to watch him play for Philips Andover. He’s in the game the whole time, backing up his teammates, saying ‘Good play’, things like that. He has good passion, he loves the game, and he uses that to encourage teammates too. They [teammates] helped me out today like that.”
One-hundred seven pitches, nine strikeouts, four walks and zero hits later, McMahon is suddently changing his tune.
“Now he’s claiming he said perfect game,” Superko laughed.
The senior righthander tossed his first no-no of the season this afternoon in a 4-0 win over Milton, but the feat came as a surprise to himself. Superko felt he didn’t have his best stuff today. In his last start on April 16 against Medfield, a 6-4 loss, he said his arm “didn’t feel good the whole time, I was all over the place”.
Today, he says he only felt good with his comfortable with his fastball, and it showed, using the heat on roughly 75 percent of his 107 pitches. Efficient as he was on the mound, Superko says, “I got lucky”.
“He just covered the zone with a lot of fastballs,” Wellesley head coach Rob Kane said. “He was spotting real well, working guys in-out. At one point he threw 10-15 fastballs in a row, then one curve, then 10 more fastballs in a row. It was his control of the fastball that allowed him to do that today.”
So how did he do it? Credit the defense behind him for coming up with some terrific plays, though Superko had arguably the best one of the day to save his own cause. Early in the third inning, a Milton batter placed down a well-timed bunt that went about 10 feet up the third base path, hugging the line. Superko scampered off the mound and bare-handed a throw to first base, beating the base-runner by a foot.
Leftfielder Ned Holmes sealed it in the seventh with a running catch in the left-center gap, stretching out with good reach to make the play.
If the last name rings a bell, you’re not alone. His older brother Tim was arguably one of the state’s most efficient lefties a season ago, ringing up 85 strikeouts as the ace of Kane’s staff. Currently playing a post-graduate season at Philips Andover, Tim is known for his competitive demeanor on the mound and hopes to bring that intensity to Tufts University next year – a trait that has rubbed off on the younger Superko.
“He has lot of passion when he pitches,” Kevin said. “I was in Worcester this past weekend to watch him play for Philips Andover. He’s in the game the whole time, backing up his teammates, saying ‘Good play’, things like that. He has good passion, he loves the game, and he uses that to encourage teammates too. They [teammates] helped me out today like that.”
Recap: No. 2 St. John's Prep 6, No. 1 BC High 5
April, 24, 2013
Apr 24
10:14
PM ET
By Bob McGovern | ESPNBoston.com
DORCHESTER, Mass. -– Dustin Hunt spun around, crouched and watched as a frozen rope launched by B.C. High's Dan Daugherty flew to deep center field with runners on first and third.
The St. John's Prep closer then pumped his fist and was swarmed by teammates when sophomore outfielder Keith Leavitt tracked it down, clinching a 6-5 win for the visiting Eagles.
"When it came off the bat I was like, 'Oh no.' It was hit so hard, and it kept going," St. John's Prep head coach Pat Yanchus said.
“It was a little nerve-wracking, but we definitely have faith in Dustin,” said Prep starter Brandon Bingel, who picked up a win after giving up four runs in five innings of work.
In the end, it was enough to propel No. 2 Prep (8-1) past previously undefeated No. 1 B.C. High (5-1).
After falling behind 3-1, Prep put together a five-run fifth inning to pull ahead of the host Eagles. Senior catcher Paul Crehan capped off the inning with a bases-clearing, three-run double to left field off of B.C. High starter Trent Berg, who left a fastball a little high.
Crehan had popped out in his previous two at bats and was looking for something he could hit a bit farther.
“I just didn't want to strike out, and the pitch came up high so I just hit it as far as I can. Anybody could be in that position, but I happened to be there,” he said. “I was pumped. I didn't know if the ball was going to go over (B.C. High left fielder Sean Webster's) head or not. The wind was blowing out, but I was pumped to see it go over his head.”
The B.C. High cut the lead to 6-4 in the bottom of the fifth inning when Tom Russo doubled in right fielder Tom Landry. They pulled within one with two outs in the seventh, but Hunt was able to complete the save with Daugherty's loud pop-out.
Berg effective in Losing Effort: Berg put together an impressive four-and-two-thirds innings for B.C. High. The lefty struck out eight Prep batters before senior Tommy Buonopane singled in pinch runner Nick Latham, kick-starting a five-run rally. Berg, who is more of a finesse pitcher, kept Prep off-balance with his two-seam fastball and looping curve.
Victory on the Basepaths: Latham's base running helped spark the Prep's fifth-inning surge. The sophomore pinch ran for Natty Cabral, who had been walked with two outs. He then stole both second and third base before scoring on Buonopane's in-field single.
“He's a smart baserunner, and he's pretty fast,” Yanchus said. “He's not just a good baserunner, but he's a good outfielder. We were going to put him in the next inning anyway, so might as well just have him run. It worked out nicely.”
Getting Away from the Heater: Bingel had a tough first inning for Prep, allowing three runs on three singles and a couple of infield errors. He said he used his fastball too much to start the game and was overthrowing. After the first inning, he settled down and used his slider to pitch three scoreless innings in a row.
“I started to pitch backwards, and that's what got be through the rest of the way,” he said
Injury Puts Damper on Win: Prep senior third baseman Tyler Noe suffered a dislocated right shoulder during the top of the fifth inning. After reaching second base on a Landry error, Noe stole third and B.C. High's Tom Russo landed on him awkwardly. He held his right arm and stood behind the Prep bench in a sling with ice on his shoulder. Yanchus said there was no timetable for his return, but his parents were taking him to the hospital to get checked out.
“That's his trowing arm and his good shoulder. It popped out, and it took him awhile to get it back in,” he said. “That's going to really hurt. He's great defensively, and he's our best baserunner. Hopefully he can come back.”
Enter Sandman: Hunt has had limited experience as closer for Prep but looked pretty solid against B.C. High. The Northeastern commit struck out three batters in two innings and had good control of the strike zone. He pitched two-thirds of an inning on Monday against Malden Catholic and needed only seven pitches to shut down the side.
The St. John's Prep closer then pumped his fist and was swarmed by teammates when sophomore outfielder Keith Leavitt tracked it down, clinching a 6-5 win for the visiting Eagles.
"When it came off the bat I was like, 'Oh no.' It was hit so hard, and it kept going," St. John's Prep head coach Pat Yanchus said.
“It was a little nerve-wracking, but we definitely have faith in Dustin,” said Prep starter Brandon Bingel, who picked up a win after giving up four runs in five innings of work.
In the end, it was enough to propel No. 2 Prep (8-1) past previously undefeated No. 1 B.C. High (5-1).
After falling behind 3-1, Prep put together a five-run fifth inning to pull ahead of the host Eagles. Senior catcher Paul Crehan capped off the inning with a bases-clearing, three-run double to left field off of B.C. High starter Trent Berg, who left a fastball a little high.
Crehan had popped out in his previous two at bats and was looking for something he could hit a bit farther.
“I just didn't want to strike out, and the pitch came up high so I just hit it as far as I can. Anybody could be in that position, but I happened to be there,” he said. “I was pumped. I didn't know if the ball was going to go over (B.C. High left fielder Sean Webster's) head or not. The wind was blowing out, but I was pumped to see it go over his head.”
The B.C. High cut the lead to 6-4 in the bottom of the fifth inning when Tom Russo doubled in right fielder Tom Landry. They pulled within one with two outs in the seventh, but Hunt was able to complete the save with Daugherty's loud pop-out.
Berg effective in Losing Effort: Berg put together an impressive four-and-two-thirds innings for B.C. High. The lefty struck out eight Prep batters before senior Tommy Buonopane singled in pinch runner Nick Latham, kick-starting a five-run rally. Berg, who is more of a finesse pitcher, kept Prep off-balance with his two-seam fastball and looping curve.
Victory on the Basepaths: Latham's base running helped spark the Prep's fifth-inning surge. The sophomore pinch ran for Natty Cabral, who had been walked with two outs. He then stole both second and third base before scoring on Buonopane's in-field single.
“He's a smart baserunner, and he's pretty fast,” Yanchus said. “He's not just a good baserunner, but he's a good outfielder. We were going to put him in the next inning anyway, so might as well just have him run. It worked out nicely.”
Getting Away from the Heater: Bingel had a tough first inning for Prep, allowing three runs on three singles and a couple of infield errors. He said he used his fastball too much to start the game and was overthrowing. After the first inning, he settled down and used his slider to pitch three scoreless innings in a row.
“I started to pitch backwards, and that's what got be through the rest of the way,” he said
Injury Puts Damper on Win: Prep senior third baseman Tyler Noe suffered a dislocated right shoulder during the top of the fifth inning. After reaching second base on a Landry error, Noe stole third and B.C. High's Tom Russo landed on him awkwardly. He held his right arm and stood behind the Prep bench in a sling with ice on his shoulder. Yanchus said there was no timetable for his return, but his parents were taking him to the hospital to get checked out.
“That's his trowing arm and his good shoulder. It popped out, and it took him awhile to get it back in,” he said. “That's going to really hurt. He's great defensively, and he's our best baserunner. Hopefully he can come back.”
Enter Sandman: Hunt has had limited experience as closer for Prep but looked pretty solid against B.C. High. The Northeastern commit struck out three batters in two innings and had good control of the strike zone. He pitched two-thirds of an inning on Monday against Malden Catholic and needed only seven pitches to shut down the side.
Recap: No. 6 St. John's (S) 12, New Bedford 11 (9 inn.)
April, 24, 2013
Apr 24
10:05
PM ET
By John McGuirk | ESPNBoston.com
SHREWSBURY, Mass. -- After watching his starter and middle reliever get banged around the ball park, St. John’s of Shrewsbury head coach Charlie Eppinger needed to find some immediate resolve before things got out of hand Wednesday afternoon.
Eppinger called upon lefty Micah Cummins hoping he could find a way to silence New Bedford’s loud bats. The senior did just that. Entering in the sixth inning, Cummins, relying heavily on his off-speed stuff, while mixing in a fastball every now and then, managed to hold the Whalers to just one run over the final four innings, and then watch as the Pioneers plated two runs in the bottom of the ninth to pull out a wild 12-11 victory at Pioneer Field.
"(New Bedford) was hitting the fast ball regularly through the first five innings," said Cummins, who allowed just five singles. "I ended up coming in and throwing my off-speed pitches for strikes whether it was a curve ball or my change-up. My curve ball was working well today and kind of kept them off-balanced. They’re a great hitting team and one of the best-coached teams we’ve seen this year."
In a game scripted for a dramatic finish, St. John’s delivered on that promise. Trailing 11-10 going into the final frame, Eppinger inserted freshman Jake Rosen to pinch hit to begin things. Ironically, Rosen had been playing in the junior varsity game across the street before being brought over mid-way through after Owen Shea suffered a right ankle sprain in the second inning.
Facing Whaler senior reliever Mike Rapoza, Rosen belted the first pitch he saw for a double to left. Cummins followed by singling to center putting runners at the corners. With no outs, Dominic Sullivan-Souza spelled Rapoza and had the dubious task to try and silence the comeback bid. Instead, the junior served up a wild pitch allowing Rosen to sprint home with tying run. Moments later Cam Murphy line a game-winning single to right giving the Pioneers their fifth straight victory and improve to 7-1.
"New Bedford is a great team and we always have to be ready to play them,” Eppinger said. "We’ve had as much trouble against them than any other team on our schedule. There were a million things that happened today but two things stand out. Cummings coming in an changing speeds on them which they had trouble adjusting to was one.
"The other was a freshman in his first varsity at bat hitting a double to start our rally. That’s a pretty big spot to be in for a freshman but that double really got us fired up and at that moment we believed we would win this game."
St. John’s got on the board first in its half of the third against New Bedford starting pitcher Dave Pepin by scoring three times. With two runners on, Tom Petry brought both in with a double to left. Petry later scored on a throwing error -- one of seven committed by the Whalers.
But New Bedford responded in its next at bats thanks to Pepin’s three-run, opposite field blast over the right field fence to tie matters 3-3. The Pioneers went back on top 5-3 in the bottom half of the fourth. After Cummins reached on an error and took second, PJ Browne followed with a ground-rule double. Moments later Browne trotted home courtesy of a dropped fly ball.
"This has been our M.O. all season," said Whalers head coach John Seed. "We hit but we don’t field or we play good defense and pitch well but we don’t hit. It’s frustrating. We’re just going to have to continue to learn as we move along. That’s all we can do."
New Bedford, now 2-7, enjoyed one of its most-productive innings of the year in the fifth. With Pioneer starter Ben White struggling with his control throughout, the senior was forced to groove some pitches down the middle in an effort to locate the strike zone.
When he did, New Bedford made him pay. Before White’s five-inning outing was complete, he surrendered a two-run round tripper to Rapoza and a solo shot to Jonathan Moreas in succession. With Kendall Pomeroy now on for White, the junior gave up two more runs on a wild pitch and a SAC fly to put the Whalers in front 8-5.
St. John’s scratched a single run home in its half of the fifth before New Bedford tacked on two more runs in the sixth on a Rapoza run-scoring single and a Pioneer error.
The way this game was transpiring, there were few who believed a four run lead was considered safe. The Pioneers proved so after closing the margin to10-9 after a three-run sixth which saw them take advantage of back-to-back Whaler errors followed up by RBIs from Scott Manea and Byrne.
New Bedford would go back up by a pair in the seventh on C.J. Rivera’s RBI single, before the Pioneers put a run across on a Rapoza wild pitch making it 11-10. It stayed that way until the melodramatics of the Pioneer ninth which finally put an end to this three hour-plus tilt.
"I’m proud of our guys for sticking together and coming back to win this," said Eppinger. "When one of your horses doesn’t quite have it on the mound or one of your better relievers can’t find the strike zone then its time for somebody else to step up. That is where depth becomes so important. It was great to have a tough test like this one today and it is great to pass it."
Eppinger called upon lefty Micah Cummins hoping he could find a way to silence New Bedford’s loud bats. The senior did just that. Entering in the sixth inning, Cummins, relying heavily on his off-speed stuff, while mixing in a fastball every now and then, managed to hold the Whalers to just one run over the final four innings, and then watch as the Pioneers plated two runs in the bottom of the ninth to pull out a wild 12-11 victory at Pioneer Field.
"(New Bedford) was hitting the fast ball regularly through the first five innings," said Cummins, who allowed just five singles. "I ended up coming in and throwing my off-speed pitches for strikes whether it was a curve ball or my change-up. My curve ball was working well today and kind of kept them off-balanced. They’re a great hitting team and one of the best-coached teams we’ve seen this year."
In a game scripted for a dramatic finish, St. John’s delivered on that promise. Trailing 11-10 going into the final frame, Eppinger inserted freshman Jake Rosen to pinch hit to begin things. Ironically, Rosen had been playing in the junior varsity game across the street before being brought over mid-way through after Owen Shea suffered a right ankle sprain in the second inning.
Facing Whaler senior reliever Mike Rapoza, Rosen belted the first pitch he saw for a double to left. Cummins followed by singling to center putting runners at the corners. With no outs, Dominic Sullivan-Souza spelled Rapoza and had the dubious task to try and silence the comeback bid. Instead, the junior served up a wild pitch allowing Rosen to sprint home with tying run. Moments later Cam Murphy line a game-winning single to right giving the Pioneers their fifth straight victory and improve to 7-1.
"New Bedford is a great team and we always have to be ready to play them,” Eppinger said. "We’ve had as much trouble against them than any other team on our schedule. There were a million things that happened today but two things stand out. Cummings coming in an changing speeds on them which they had trouble adjusting to was one.
"The other was a freshman in his first varsity at bat hitting a double to start our rally. That’s a pretty big spot to be in for a freshman but that double really got us fired up and at that moment we believed we would win this game."
St. John’s got on the board first in its half of the third against New Bedford starting pitcher Dave Pepin by scoring three times. With two runners on, Tom Petry brought both in with a double to left. Petry later scored on a throwing error -- one of seven committed by the Whalers.
But New Bedford responded in its next at bats thanks to Pepin’s three-run, opposite field blast over the right field fence to tie matters 3-3. The Pioneers went back on top 5-3 in the bottom half of the fourth. After Cummins reached on an error and took second, PJ Browne followed with a ground-rule double. Moments later Browne trotted home courtesy of a dropped fly ball.
"This has been our M.O. all season," said Whalers head coach John Seed. "We hit but we don’t field or we play good defense and pitch well but we don’t hit. It’s frustrating. We’re just going to have to continue to learn as we move along. That’s all we can do."
New Bedford, now 2-7, enjoyed one of its most-productive innings of the year in the fifth. With Pioneer starter Ben White struggling with his control throughout, the senior was forced to groove some pitches down the middle in an effort to locate the strike zone.
When he did, New Bedford made him pay. Before White’s five-inning outing was complete, he surrendered a two-run round tripper to Rapoza and a solo shot to Jonathan Moreas in succession. With Kendall Pomeroy now on for White, the junior gave up two more runs on a wild pitch and a SAC fly to put the Whalers in front 8-5.
St. John’s scratched a single run home in its half of the fifth before New Bedford tacked on two more runs in the sixth on a Rapoza run-scoring single and a Pioneer error.
The way this game was transpiring, there were few who believed a four run lead was considered safe. The Pioneers proved so after closing the margin to10-9 after a three-run sixth which saw them take advantage of back-to-back Whaler errors followed up by RBIs from Scott Manea and Byrne.
New Bedford would go back up by a pair in the seventh on C.J. Rivera’s RBI single, before the Pioneers put a run across on a Rapoza wild pitch making it 11-10. It stayed that way until the melodramatics of the Pioneer ninth which finally put an end to this three hour-plus tilt.
"I’m proud of our guys for sticking together and coming back to win this," said Eppinger. "When one of your horses doesn’t quite have it on the mound or one of your better relievers can’t find the strike zone then its time for somebody else to step up. That is where depth becomes so important. It was great to have a tough test like this one today and it is great to pass it."
Last Wednesday was an emotional day for those associated with the Foran High School baseball program, and it had little to do with Foran's 5-0 loss to rival Law.
<img src="http://a.espncdn.com/espncitysites/boston/prod/assets/hs_connect_110.jpg" alt="Connecticut" class="floatright" />Earlier that day Foran named its baseball field after Ken Walker, who served as Foran's baseball coach from 1986 to 2003, and then from 2011 to 2012. He passed away last June at age 60.
Walker won 279 games during his tenure as Foran's baseball coach – all of his teams qualified for the state tournament – but he also guided the Foran football team to the 1994 Class M title.
Walker graduated from Milford High School in 1969 and then played baseball at Central Connecticut State. He was a three-sport athlete in high school (he also played football and basketball) and coached at all three Milford high schools: Milford, Foran and Law.
“I saw, probably, every public school athlete that came through Milford in the last 48 years,” former Milford baseball coach Dick Jeynes told the Connecticut Post. “In my opinion, he's arguably the best all-around. That's my opinion because he was outstanding at all three – football, basketball and baseball.”
Walker's son Garrett replaced is father as Foran's baseball coach.
“I've never thought about it as anybody else's field except his,” Garrett said. “In my eyes, it's finally getting the name I think it deserves.”
DIAMOND GEMS
Ten players to watch during the 2013 CIAC baseball and softball seasons:
Baseball
"Anthony Alicki, P/1B (Foran): Senior has committed to play at Franklin Pierce, one of the top Division II programs in the country.
"Charles Ameer, P/SS (Weston): Has been clocked in the low 90s. Will continue his baseball career at St. John's.
"Matt Blandino, P (Bristol Central): A possible selected in June's MLB draft, Blandino has committed to play at Central Connecticut State.
"Michael Concato, P (Amity): Concato, a senior, posted an 11-2 record with 108 strikeouts and a 0.61 ERA last season. He will play at Brown.
"Manny Cruz, P/INF (Wolcott): Hit .503 with 28 RBIs, and was 6-0 on the mound last season. Has committed to Southern New Hampshire University.
"Kyle Dunster, P/OF (Greenwich): Dunster, a junior, has committed to play at Boston College.
"Griffen Garabedian, OF (Notre Dame-West Haven): Batted .403 and stole 12 bases as a junior last season. Has committed to play at the University of Connecticut.
"Aaron Hill, INF. (Fitch): Hill has also committed to play at the University of Connecticut. He hit .395, scored 21 runs, collected 19 RBIs and stole 11 bases last season.
"Will Rios, P (St. Bernard): Only a sophomore, Rios has already committed to the University of Maryland.
"Ryan Testani, P (Shelton): Helped Shelton win the Class LL state championship last season, when his posted a 9-3 record and a 1.31 ERA. Testani has committed to Seton Hall.
Softball
"Fallon Bevino, OF (Foran): A three-year starter, Bevino hit .450 with 22 RBIs last season as a sophomore.
"Sydney Ferrante, SS (Southington): Batted .453 with 46 RBIs as a junior last season.
"Hannah Ford, C/3B (New Fairfield): Ford, a junior, hit .525 with 25 runs scored and 21 RBIs last season.
"Katelyn Haff, 2B (Waterford): Senior led her team with a .477 average last season, when she collected six triples, four home runs and 33 RBIs.
"Jess Harkness, P (Foran): Posted a 23-2 record with 270 strikeouts in 186 innings last season.
"Kaitlyn Lajoie, P (Rockville): Had a 22-2 record and a 0.76 ERA to help the Rams win the Class L title as a junior.
"Erika Leonard, SS (Rocky Hill): Hit .494 with 40 hits and 19 RBIs for last year's Class M champion.
"Katie Petroski, INF (Seymour): Had a .505 average with 55 RBIs and 45 runs scored last season as a sophomore.
"Jenn Vazquez, C (St. Joseph): Has committed to play at Manhattan College. Hit .468 with eight home runs and 30 RBIs last season.
"Kayla Votto, 2B (Coginchaug): Senior led her team in batting average (.500), triples (12) and RBIs (36) last season.
GREENWICH GIRLS START STRONG
The Greenwich girls' lacrosse program has won the last two Class L championships, and, judging by the early results, this year's team appears capable of extending that streak.
Greenwich is off to a 5-0 start and has outscored its opponents 84-36. Greenwich's latest victory was a 16-8 triumph over Stamford on Friday. The Cardinals were without leading scorer Emily Johnson (hamstring) for that contest, but senior Emma Christie stepped up and scored a career-high five goals against Stamford.
The Greenwich program has won nine games in a row, dating back to last season.
BOYS OF SUMMER
Players selected in the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame Classic Military Bowl draft for the game that will be played June 29 at Rentschler Field:
Connecticut Marines Team: Quinn Fleeting, Windsor, QB; Cole Ormsby, Windsor, DE; Kevin Dean, Xavier, OL; Jeremy Clarke, Woodland, OL; Sean Merrill, Sheehan, OL; Mike LaSala, Wilton, OL; Ryheime Moore, Windsor, WR; Raeshaun Finney, Ansonia, WR; Teno Simpson, Hillhouse, LB; Rahmi Roundtree, Woodland, WR; Denzel Moscova, St. Joseph, WR; Devonte Dillion, Windsor, RB; Isiah Swain, Middletown, LB; Joe Pacheco, New Fairfield, RB; Andre Gee West Haven, S; Lamont Waites, New London, LB; Brandon Marquis, Farmington, DL; Nick Spitz, Southington, LB; Donery Evans, Hyde, DL; Eddy Williams, West Haven, LB; David Campbell, Bloomfield, RB/CB; Akeino Chamberlain, Middletown, LB; Caleb Camacho, New London, WR; Dennis Flanagan, Amity, OL; Sixto Acosta, Newington, LB; Jesse Adelberg, Greenwich, K; Mike Alexander, Bulkeley, S; Ian Auger, Coginchaug, LB; William Barrett, West Haven, OL; Nathan Bonafonte, Southington; S; Andrew Campbell, Middletown, LB; Brennan Diaz, Oxford, QB; Nygel Gladney, Crosby, LB; Cam Gravina, Hand, OL; Zak Hedberg, Newington, OL; Spencer Hill, Windham, FB; Rakim Jordan, Prince Tech, LB; Jevon Lawrence, Manchester, DL; Brandon Marquis, Manchester, DL; Terrance N'Dabian, Bunnell, CB; Emmett Odegard, Greenwich, LS; Lance Ormsby, Windsor, LB; Christian Outlaw, Middletown, OL; Rashad Ramsey, Windsor, WR; Roy Ricahards, Manchester, RB; Miguel Santos, Xavier, DL; Mike Semacik, Fitch, OL; O'Brien Sinclair, Middletown, WR; Carlton Steer, East Hartford, TE; Shane Steinman, Rocky Hill, RB; David Tanner, East Hartford, RB; Jh'mel Trammell, Ansonia, LB; Chris Traore, Windsor, LB; Jalon White, North Haven, QB; David Wilcox, Waterford, DL; Chuck Wooding, Glastonbury, RB.
Head coach: Rob Fleeting, Windsor. Assistant coaches: John Ferrazzi, Sheehan; Roy Roberts, Newington; Sal Morello, Middletown; Duane Maranda, New London; Harry Bellucci, Hartford Public; Scott Jenkins, Windsor; and Derrick Lewis, Bassick.
Connecticut National Guard Team: Tim Boyle, Xavier; QB; Nick Gaynor, Northwest Catholic, DB/RB; Zack Creeron, Xavier, OL/DL; Je'Vaughn Moore , Hillhouse, QB/DB;; Max Schumann, Xavier, OL/DL; Justin Potts, Platt, RB/DBback; Max Tylki, Xavier, LB; Terrell Huff, Windsor, DB; Chris Luster, Xavier, WR/DB; Jonah Dorsey, Xavier, OL/DL; Kyle Wilson, Ledyard, OL; Terrell Fairweather, Hillhouse, LB; Kadialy Toure, West Haven, LB; Marc Wildman, Housatonic, DL; Brandon Robertson , Montville, TE; Daequane Clark, New Britain, WR; Ed Croft, Shelton, K; Sam Miranda, New London, WR; Alex Borkowski, Branford, LB; Mick Pernell, Naugatuck, WR; Derek Villard, Cromwell, RB; Dan Herbert, Newtown, WR; Jelani Roman, Notre Dame-Fairfield, LB; Jake Pelletier, St. Joseph, WR; John Shannon, Bullard Havens, RB; Mike Nichol, Wolcott, QB; Saffwan Davis, Fitch, RB; Austin Kingsbury, Windsor Locks, FB; Antonine Byrd, Capital Prep/Classical Magnet, WR; Dillon McMahon, Derby, WR; Hector Rodriguez, Berlin, OL; Ryan Murtha, Montville, OL; Justin Pelazza, Branford, OL; Robert Roehrich, St. Joseph, OL; Mitch Blanchette, Berlin, OL; Ben Morales, Ledyard, OL; Bobby Bozym, Ledyard, OL; Abdullah Dukalay, Hartford Public, DB; Kevin Main, Berlin, DB; Justin Develis, Newtown, DB; Mustaphe Noibi, Fitch, DB; Christian Clark, Windham, DG; Cal Karpi, Ledyard, DB; Mike Pulaski, St. Joseph, LB; Chris Golger, Fairfield Prep, LB; Devin Stewart, Northwest Catholic, LB; Alex Kyprianou, New Milford, LB; Patrick Kirkwood, Fitch, LB; Miles Pompeii-Grove, Holy Cross, LB; Al Harris, Windsor, DL; Andrew Klarman, Branford, DL; Eric Collodel, Woodland, DL; Bryan Monaco, Masuk, DL; Lester Smith, Fitch, DL; Colton Schilling, Guilford, DL.
Head coach: Jim Buonocore, Ledyard. Assistant coaches: Sean Marinan, Xavier; Jemal Davis, Norwich Free Academy; Tim Shea, Woodland; Duncan Dellavolpe, Warde; Tanner Grove, Montville; John Marinelli, New Canaan; Andy Guyon, Xavier; Chris Silvestri, New Canaan; and Chris Eckert, Cromwell.
FITCH PICKS PANUCCI
Jodan Panucci, 26, was named Fitch's varsity football coach last Tuesday.
Panucci has spent the last five years as an assistant coach with the program. He was an offensive lineman at Fitch and a team captain in his senior season.
Panucci replaces Mike Emery, who stepped down last year after 17 seasons as Fitch's head coach.
FAIRFIELD LUDLOWE SELECTS DAILEY
John Dailey has been named the varsity boys basketball coach at Fairfield Ludlowe. He replaces Brian Silvestro, who retired following the 2012-13 season.
Dailey has been with the Fairfield Ludlowe program as a freshman coach, a junior varsity coach and a varsity assistant coach for the last six seasons. He coached the varsity team for four games last season while Silvestro dealt with a medical issue.
Roger Brown is a staff writer with the New Hampshire Union Leader, and has been covering high school sports throughout New England since 1992.
<img src="http://a.espncdn.com/espncitysites/boston/prod/assets/hs_connect_110.jpg" alt="Connecticut" class="floatright" />Earlier that day Foran named its baseball field after Ken Walker, who served as Foran's baseball coach from 1986 to 2003, and then from 2011 to 2012. He passed away last June at age 60.
Walker won 279 games during his tenure as Foran's baseball coach – all of his teams qualified for the state tournament – but he also guided the Foran football team to the 1994 Class M title.
Walker graduated from Milford High School in 1969 and then played baseball at Central Connecticut State. He was a three-sport athlete in high school (he also played football and basketball) and coached at all three Milford high schools: Milford, Foran and Law.
“I saw, probably, every public school athlete that came through Milford in the last 48 years,” former Milford baseball coach Dick Jeynes told the Connecticut Post. “In my opinion, he's arguably the best all-around. That's my opinion because he was outstanding at all three – football, basketball and baseball.”
Walker's son Garrett replaced is father as Foran's baseball coach.
“I've never thought about it as anybody else's field except his,” Garrett said. “In my eyes, it's finally getting the name I think it deserves.”
DIAMOND GEMS
Ten players to watch during the 2013 CIAC baseball and softball seasons:
Baseball
"Anthony Alicki, P/1B (Foran): Senior has committed to play at Franklin Pierce, one of the top Division II programs in the country.
"Charles Ameer, P/SS (Weston): Has been clocked in the low 90s. Will continue his baseball career at St. John's.
"Matt Blandino, P (Bristol Central): A possible selected in June's MLB draft, Blandino has committed to play at Central Connecticut State.
"Michael Concato, P (Amity): Concato, a senior, posted an 11-2 record with 108 strikeouts and a 0.61 ERA last season. He will play at Brown.
"Manny Cruz, P/INF (Wolcott): Hit .503 with 28 RBIs, and was 6-0 on the mound last season. Has committed to Southern New Hampshire University.
"Kyle Dunster, P/OF (Greenwich): Dunster, a junior, has committed to play at Boston College.
"Griffen Garabedian, OF (Notre Dame-West Haven): Batted .403 and stole 12 bases as a junior last season. Has committed to play at the University of Connecticut.
"Aaron Hill, INF. (Fitch): Hill has also committed to play at the University of Connecticut. He hit .395, scored 21 runs, collected 19 RBIs and stole 11 bases last season.
"Will Rios, P (St. Bernard): Only a sophomore, Rios has already committed to the University of Maryland.
"Ryan Testani, P (Shelton): Helped Shelton win the Class LL state championship last season, when his posted a 9-3 record and a 1.31 ERA. Testani has committed to Seton Hall.
Softball
"Fallon Bevino, OF (Foran): A three-year starter, Bevino hit .450 with 22 RBIs last season as a sophomore.
"Sydney Ferrante, SS (Southington): Batted .453 with 46 RBIs as a junior last season.
"Hannah Ford, C/3B (New Fairfield): Ford, a junior, hit .525 with 25 runs scored and 21 RBIs last season.
"Katelyn Haff, 2B (Waterford): Senior led her team with a .477 average last season, when she collected six triples, four home runs and 33 RBIs.
"Jess Harkness, P (Foran): Posted a 23-2 record with 270 strikeouts in 186 innings last season.
"Kaitlyn Lajoie, P (Rockville): Had a 22-2 record and a 0.76 ERA to help the Rams win the Class L title as a junior.
"Erika Leonard, SS (Rocky Hill): Hit .494 with 40 hits and 19 RBIs for last year's Class M champion.
"Katie Petroski, INF (Seymour): Had a .505 average with 55 RBIs and 45 runs scored last season as a sophomore.
"Jenn Vazquez, C (St. Joseph): Has committed to play at Manhattan College. Hit .468 with eight home runs and 30 RBIs last season.
"Kayla Votto, 2B (Coginchaug): Senior led her team in batting average (.500), triples (12) and RBIs (36) last season.
GREENWICH GIRLS START STRONG
The Greenwich girls' lacrosse program has won the last two Class L championships, and, judging by the early results, this year's team appears capable of extending that streak.
Greenwich is off to a 5-0 start and has outscored its opponents 84-36. Greenwich's latest victory was a 16-8 triumph over Stamford on Friday. The Cardinals were without leading scorer Emily Johnson (hamstring) for that contest, but senior Emma Christie stepped up and scored a career-high five goals against Stamford.
The Greenwich program has won nine games in a row, dating back to last season.
BOYS OF SUMMER
Players selected in the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame Classic Military Bowl draft for the game that will be played June 29 at Rentschler Field:
Connecticut Marines Team: Quinn Fleeting, Windsor, QB; Cole Ormsby, Windsor, DE; Kevin Dean, Xavier, OL; Jeremy Clarke, Woodland, OL; Sean Merrill, Sheehan, OL; Mike LaSala, Wilton, OL; Ryheime Moore, Windsor, WR; Raeshaun Finney, Ansonia, WR; Teno Simpson, Hillhouse, LB; Rahmi Roundtree, Woodland, WR; Denzel Moscova, St. Joseph, WR; Devonte Dillion, Windsor, RB; Isiah Swain, Middletown, LB; Joe Pacheco, New Fairfield, RB; Andre Gee West Haven, S; Lamont Waites, New London, LB; Brandon Marquis, Farmington, DL; Nick Spitz, Southington, LB; Donery Evans, Hyde, DL; Eddy Williams, West Haven, LB; David Campbell, Bloomfield, RB/CB; Akeino Chamberlain, Middletown, LB; Caleb Camacho, New London, WR; Dennis Flanagan, Amity, OL; Sixto Acosta, Newington, LB; Jesse Adelberg, Greenwich, K; Mike Alexander, Bulkeley, S; Ian Auger, Coginchaug, LB; William Barrett, West Haven, OL; Nathan Bonafonte, Southington; S; Andrew Campbell, Middletown, LB; Brennan Diaz, Oxford, QB; Nygel Gladney, Crosby, LB; Cam Gravina, Hand, OL; Zak Hedberg, Newington, OL; Spencer Hill, Windham, FB; Rakim Jordan, Prince Tech, LB; Jevon Lawrence, Manchester, DL; Brandon Marquis, Manchester, DL; Terrance N'Dabian, Bunnell, CB; Emmett Odegard, Greenwich, LS; Lance Ormsby, Windsor, LB; Christian Outlaw, Middletown, OL; Rashad Ramsey, Windsor, WR; Roy Ricahards, Manchester, RB; Miguel Santos, Xavier, DL; Mike Semacik, Fitch, OL; O'Brien Sinclair, Middletown, WR; Carlton Steer, East Hartford, TE; Shane Steinman, Rocky Hill, RB; David Tanner, East Hartford, RB; Jh'mel Trammell, Ansonia, LB; Chris Traore, Windsor, LB; Jalon White, North Haven, QB; David Wilcox, Waterford, DL; Chuck Wooding, Glastonbury, RB.
Head coach: Rob Fleeting, Windsor. Assistant coaches: John Ferrazzi, Sheehan; Roy Roberts, Newington; Sal Morello, Middletown; Duane Maranda, New London; Harry Bellucci, Hartford Public; Scott Jenkins, Windsor; and Derrick Lewis, Bassick.
Connecticut National Guard Team: Tim Boyle, Xavier; QB; Nick Gaynor, Northwest Catholic, DB/RB; Zack Creeron, Xavier, OL/DL; Je'Vaughn Moore , Hillhouse, QB/DB;; Max Schumann, Xavier, OL/DL; Justin Potts, Platt, RB/DBback; Max Tylki, Xavier, LB; Terrell Huff, Windsor, DB; Chris Luster, Xavier, WR/DB; Jonah Dorsey, Xavier, OL/DL; Kyle Wilson, Ledyard, OL; Terrell Fairweather, Hillhouse, LB; Kadialy Toure, West Haven, LB; Marc Wildman, Housatonic, DL; Brandon Robertson , Montville, TE; Daequane Clark, New Britain, WR; Ed Croft, Shelton, K; Sam Miranda, New London, WR; Alex Borkowski, Branford, LB; Mick Pernell, Naugatuck, WR; Derek Villard, Cromwell, RB; Dan Herbert, Newtown, WR; Jelani Roman, Notre Dame-Fairfield, LB; Jake Pelletier, St. Joseph, WR; John Shannon, Bullard Havens, RB; Mike Nichol, Wolcott, QB; Saffwan Davis, Fitch, RB; Austin Kingsbury, Windsor Locks, FB; Antonine Byrd, Capital Prep/Classical Magnet, WR; Dillon McMahon, Derby, WR; Hector Rodriguez, Berlin, OL; Ryan Murtha, Montville, OL; Justin Pelazza, Branford, OL; Robert Roehrich, St. Joseph, OL; Mitch Blanchette, Berlin, OL; Ben Morales, Ledyard, OL; Bobby Bozym, Ledyard, OL; Abdullah Dukalay, Hartford Public, DB; Kevin Main, Berlin, DB; Justin Develis, Newtown, DB; Mustaphe Noibi, Fitch, DB; Christian Clark, Windham, DG; Cal Karpi, Ledyard, DB; Mike Pulaski, St. Joseph, LB; Chris Golger, Fairfield Prep, LB; Devin Stewart, Northwest Catholic, LB; Alex Kyprianou, New Milford, LB; Patrick Kirkwood, Fitch, LB; Miles Pompeii-Grove, Holy Cross, LB; Al Harris, Windsor, DL; Andrew Klarman, Branford, DL; Eric Collodel, Woodland, DL; Bryan Monaco, Masuk, DL; Lester Smith, Fitch, DL; Colton Schilling, Guilford, DL.
Head coach: Jim Buonocore, Ledyard. Assistant coaches: Sean Marinan, Xavier; Jemal Davis, Norwich Free Academy; Tim Shea, Woodland; Duncan Dellavolpe, Warde; Tanner Grove, Montville; John Marinelli, New Canaan; Andy Guyon, Xavier; Chris Silvestri, New Canaan; and Chris Eckert, Cromwell.
FITCH PICKS PANUCCI
Jodan Panucci, 26, was named Fitch's varsity football coach last Tuesday.
Panucci has spent the last five years as an assistant coach with the program. He was an offensive lineman at Fitch and a team captain in his senior season.
Panucci replaces Mike Emery, who stepped down last year after 17 seasons as Fitch's head coach.
FAIRFIELD LUDLOWE SELECTS DAILEY
John Dailey has been named the varsity boys basketball coach at Fairfield Ludlowe. He replaces Brian Silvestro, who retired following the 2012-13 season.
Dailey has been with the Fairfield Ludlowe program as a freshman coach, a junior varsity coach and a varsity assistant coach for the last six seasons. He coached the varsity team for four games last season while Silvestro dealt with a medical issue.
Roger Brown is a staff writer with the New Hampshire Union Leader, and has been covering high school sports throughout New England since 1992.
There was no shortage of candidates to replace Brad Parker as Champlain Valley Union's girls' soccer coach.
According to a story in the Burlington Free Press, a five -person search committee narrowed the field to five individuals – four of whom were interviewed – before selecting former CVU boys' soccer assistant coach Stan Williams.
Williams graduated from CVU in 1989, and was an assistant coach with the CVU girls program in 2001, 2003-04 and 2010. He also served as the program's co-head coach with Parker in 2002.
Parker, who resigned in February, guided CVU to a 340-45-42 record and 11 state championships in his 25 seasons as head coach. He was selected as the national coach of the year in 1997.
“It's a program with pressure, but also a program that anybody would want to coach,” Williams told the Free Press. “It's obviously an exciting position. This job has always been something I've held out there as a job I've wanted.”
CVU has won the last two Division I titles. Fifteen players are eligible to return from last year's team.
Williams has spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach for the CVU boys soccer team. He also coached the CVU girls basketball team from 2002 to 2009.
MMU BASEBALL ADDS FAMILIAR FACE
The Mount Mansfield Union baseball team posted a 9-2 triumph over Milton in its first game under interim coach Bob Slayton, who agreed to a one-year commitment to the program when head coach Brian Chandler decided not to coach the team this spring after the birth of his second child.
Mount Mansfield appears to be in capable hands since Slayton, 66, guided MMU to four Division I state championships and 356 victories in 34 seasons before he retired in 2008.
Chandler was an assistant under Slayton for nine seasons before he became head coach when Slayton retired.
GOAL-ORIENTED
Rice Memorial's Emily Cutting recorded her 100th career varsity goal in a season-opening lacrosse victory over St. Johnsbury.
Cutting collected five goals in last year's Division III title game, a 13-11 triumph over BFA-St. Albans. She also scored five goals in Rice's second game of the season, a 10-9 loss to BFA-St. Albans. Kate Dillon scored with one second remaining to give BFA-St. Albans the victory.
ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAMES RETURN
The Twin-State Basketball Classic, two all-star games between players from Vermont and New Hampshire, will be held July 13 at Essex High School. The girls game is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m., and the boys game will follow.
The Twin-State Basketball Classic was once a must-see event for high school basketball fans in each state, but was discontinued in 2010 after a 30-year run. The New Hampshire boys and girls each have an 18-12 edge in the series.
The rosters and coaches for each team are expected to be released in May.
WILLINGHAM HEADED TO PREP SCHOOL
Rice Memorial forward Marcus Willingham announced that he will attend Tilton (N.H.) Prep next season. Willingham had 17 points and 14 rebounds when Rice defeated St. Johnsbury in last month's Division I championship game.
Roger Brown is a staff writer for the New Hampshire Union Leader and has been covering high school sports throughout New England since 1992.
According to a story in the Burlington Free Press, a five -person search committee narrowed the field to five individuals – four of whom were interviewed – before selecting former CVU boys' soccer assistant coach Stan Williams.
Williams graduated from CVU in 1989, and was an assistant coach with the CVU girls program in 2001, 2003-04 and 2010. He also served as the program's co-head coach with Parker in 2002.
Parker, who resigned in February, guided CVU to a 340-45-42 record and 11 state championships in his 25 seasons as head coach. He was selected as the national coach of the year in 1997.
“It's a program with pressure, but also a program that anybody would want to coach,” Williams told the Free Press. “It's obviously an exciting position. This job has always been something I've held out there as a job I've wanted.”
CVU has won the last two Division I titles. Fifteen players are eligible to return from last year's team.
Williams has spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach for the CVU boys soccer team. He also coached the CVU girls basketball team from 2002 to 2009.
MMU BASEBALL ADDS FAMILIAR FACE
The Mount Mansfield Union baseball team posted a 9-2 triumph over Milton in its first game under interim coach Bob Slayton, who agreed to a one-year commitment to the program when head coach Brian Chandler decided not to coach the team this spring after the birth of his second child.
Mount Mansfield appears to be in capable hands since Slayton, 66, guided MMU to four Division I state championships and 356 victories in 34 seasons before he retired in 2008.
Chandler was an assistant under Slayton for nine seasons before he became head coach when Slayton retired.
GOAL-ORIENTED
Rice Memorial's Emily Cutting recorded her 100th career varsity goal in a season-opening lacrosse victory over St. Johnsbury.
Cutting collected five goals in last year's Division III title game, a 13-11 triumph over BFA-St. Albans. She also scored five goals in Rice's second game of the season, a 10-9 loss to BFA-St. Albans. Kate Dillon scored with one second remaining to give BFA-St. Albans the victory.
ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAMES RETURN
The Twin-State Basketball Classic, two all-star games between players from Vermont and New Hampshire, will be held July 13 at Essex High School. The girls game is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m., and the boys game will follow.
The Twin-State Basketball Classic was once a must-see event for high school basketball fans in each state, but was discontinued in 2010 after a 30-year run. The New Hampshire boys and girls each have an 18-12 edge in the series.
The rosters and coaches for each team are expected to be released in May.
WILLINGHAM HEADED TO PREP SCHOOL
Rice Memorial forward Marcus Willingham announced that he will attend Tilton (N.H.) Prep next season. Willingham had 17 points and 14 rebounds when Rice defeated St. Johnsbury in last month's Division I championship game.
Roger Brown is a staff writer for the New Hampshire Union Leader and has been covering high school sports throughout New England since 1992.
NHL Central Scouting releases final rankings
April, 24, 2013
Apr 24
11:54
AM ET
By
Scott Barboza | ESPNBoston.com
The NHL Central Scouting service released its final rankings of North American skaters and goaltenders ahead of the NHL Draft Wednesday morning.
Former Malden Catholic standout and Valley Junior Warriors (EJHL) product Ryan Fitzgerald leads the New England skaters, checking in at No. 56.
Here's the list of skaters with local ties who made the cut:
(The full list can be found here):
SKATERS:
56. C Ryan Fitzgerald, Valley Junior Warriors (EJHL - Malden Catholic, North Reading), Previous Ranking - 46
60. LW Zach Sanford, Islanders (EJHL - Pinkerton Academy, Auburn, N.H.), Previous Ranking - 83
75. D Anthony Florentino, South Kent School, Previous Ranking - 79
94. C Nick Huthinson, Avon Old Farms, Previous Ranking - 133
97. LW/C Jason Salvaggio, South Kent School, Previous Ranking - 90
104. D Wiley Sherman, Hotchkiss School, Previous Ranking - 125
109. C Brian Pinho, St. John's Prep, Previous Ranking - 117
138. LW Miles Wood, Noble and Greenough, Previous Ranking - 163
169. D Ryan Segalla, Salisbury School, Previous Ranking - 136
182. C John Stevens, Salisbury School, Previous Ranking - 162
185. D Connor Light, Phillips Andover, Previous Ranking - 178
186. RW Ross Olsson, Cedar Rapids (USHL - Billerica Memorial), Previous Ranking - 121
187. LW Tyler Hill, Chicago (USHL - Hotchkiss), Previous Ranking - 85
195. C Daniel LaFontaine, Avon Old Farms, Previous Ranking - 172
198. D Quin Pompi, Berkshire, Previous Ranking - 160
201. RW Thomas Aldworth, Cushing Academy, Previous Ranking - Unranked
206. D Tyler Wood, Noble and Greenough, Previous Ranking - 197
GOALTENDERS:
15. Shane Starrett, South Kent School (Catholic Memorial), Previous Ranking - 35
26. Merrick Madsen, Proctor Academy, Previous Ranking - 34
Former Malden Catholic standout and Valley Junior Warriors (EJHL) product Ryan Fitzgerald leads the New England skaters, checking in at No. 56.
Here's the list of skaters with local ties who made the cut:
(The full list can be found here):
SKATERS:
56. C Ryan Fitzgerald, Valley Junior Warriors (EJHL - Malden Catholic, North Reading), Previous Ranking - 46
60. LW Zach Sanford, Islanders (EJHL - Pinkerton Academy, Auburn, N.H.), Previous Ranking - 83
75. D Anthony Florentino, South Kent School, Previous Ranking - 79
94. C Nick Huthinson, Avon Old Farms, Previous Ranking - 133
97. LW/C Jason Salvaggio, South Kent School, Previous Ranking - 90
104. D Wiley Sherman, Hotchkiss School, Previous Ranking - 125
109. C Brian Pinho, St. John's Prep, Previous Ranking - 117
138. LW Miles Wood, Noble and Greenough, Previous Ranking - 163
169. D Ryan Segalla, Salisbury School, Previous Ranking - 136
182. C John Stevens, Salisbury School, Previous Ranking - 162
185. D Connor Light, Phillips Andover, Previous Ranking - 178
186. RW Ross Olsson, Cedar Rapids (USHL - Billerica Memorial), Previous Ranking - 121
187. LW Tyler Hill, Chicago (USHL - Hotchkiss), Previous Ranking - 85
195. C Daniel LaFontaine, Avon Old Farms, Previous Ranking - 172
198. D Quin Pompi, Berkshire, Previous Ranking - 160
201. RW Thomas Aldworth, Cushing Academy, Previous Ranking - Unranked
206. D Tyler Wood, Noble and Greenough, Previous Ranking - 197
GOALTENDERS:
15. Shane Starrett, South Kent School (Catholic Memorial), Previous Ranking - 35
26. Merrick Madsen, Proctor Academy, Previous Ranking - 34
New England Roots: James Ihedigbo
April, 22, 2013
Apr 22
6:34
PM ET
By
Brendan Hall | ESPNBoston.com
James Ihedigbo's journey from hometown walk-on to undrafted free agent to Super Bowl champion is the stuff of legend, a narrative often repeated around the campuses of his alma maters UMass and Amherst High School. After graduating from Amherst in 2002, the son of Nigerian immigrants walked-on at UMass just a short few miles down the road, earning Division 1-AA All-American honors at safety in 2006. After going undrafted in 2007, he hooked on with the Jets then played two seasons with the hometown New England Patriots, before landing with the Baltimore Ravens this past year and earning a Super Bowl ring.
For five hours Saturday stretching from morning into early afternoon, Ihedigbo ran drills, 7-on-7 competitions and spoke of his journey to area high school players as part of his second annual invitational camp at Amherst High. The camp was organized by UMass' Association for Diversity in Sport club, in conjunction with Ihedigbo's HOPE Africa Foundation.
Play was spirited in the 7-on-7 portion, with several Springfield Central athletes standing out, and Ihedigbo even jumped in at his familiar safety spot when players tired. Following the event, which concluded with a brief awards presentation to top performers, Ihedigbo talked to ESPNBoston.com about his journey in the NFL, the rising football talent in Springfield, and the value of walking-on at a Division 1 program.
Q: With everything that has happened this week in Boston, how has that affected you?
A: It’s heartbreaking. You think the city of Boston to be shut down, and for people to be going through what they’re going through, I know we captured the people that were involved, but the people that are still hurting in those hospital rooms, suffering dramatic life-changing events, my prayers truly go out to their families. I’m a firm believer that God is in control of every situation, and that all things work for good for those who love the Lord. I really just pray that they’re dealing with the situation, and that their families are supporting them in everything.
Q: Being here today, what memories come to mind?
A: Running touchdowns. I was saying to the kids today, I used to dominate this field (laughs). This was my stomping grounds. It’s awesome, it’s awesome to be able to come back here and share this with these guys. I can only imagine the affect it would have had on me if NFL players were to come to me when I was their age, and help me stay on the right path, teach me to be a competitor in the classroom as well as on the football field. It’s awesome, I love to be able to spend the time with them to do that, this is my second year doing it and I look forward to doing a third next year.
Q: You seemed to enjoy playing safety out there today.
A: I love the game, and I want to coach after I’m done playing, so I just have a burning passion and desire to help the youth and to play the game and coach it.
Q: The recruiting landscape was a lot different in your high school playing days than it is now. Springfield is perceived to be an area with talent on the rise. Why do you think that is, and do you think this area underrated?
A: It’s highly underrated. You got guys that are players, that are big time players in this area. All it is is the opportunity. My school [UMass] took a chance on me, and look at the career I’ve had so far. It’s all about taking the chance on kids. Springfield has had for years some talented players, from Mike Vaz to Julius Walker to Cedric Washington. The names go on, the great players that have gone through those programs. It’s really just about giving a kid an opportunity to prove himself.
Q: How closely have you followed Kieran Presley, the running back from Amherst who is considering several options, including walking-on at UMass?
A: I heard that he may walk on or go to prep school, but I heard he is a phenomenal player.
Q: What life lessons did you learn from your high school coach, Waxie Cullen, that you still hold with you today?
A: Never give up. He used to say, ‘Fight, fight no matter what, fight every single play’, and I’ve taken that with me throughout my whole career. No matter what, and that’s even what I told these kids today. Even though it’s 7-on-7, you fight. Be a competitor. It’s OK to want to win every single time. That’s OK. That’s life. You should want to be successful in everything you do. That was what was instilled in me, that now I want to instill in them.
Q: With the move to FBS, your alma mater has had an increased emphasis on establishing a walk-on tradition. As a former walk-on yourself who’s now in the NFL, what are your thoughts on that strategy?
A: I think it’s a great strategy, because you can find a diamond in the rough that way. I’m not going to say you shouldn’t be out there recruiting and trying to get the top-tier guys from high school to be a part of the program. But to build the final spots of your roster, I mean, the best way to do it is to have you walk on. I was a walk-on, and at the time I was playing they [UMass] had seven All-Americans on defense. Being able to take another guy’s spot –- an All-American’s spot -– to be able to play, that shows a lot. You always find your diamonds in the rough.
Q: Your coach at UMass, Don Brown, is now the defensive coordinator at Boston College. What are your thoughts on that?
A: Donny B, he’s like a father to me. We’re so close. I can only imagine the things he’s going to do with that program on defense. I wish him the best of luck in everything.
Q: For kids themselves trying to walk-on at a Division 1 program, what is the most important thing they can do to make the journey you’ve made?
A: Think big. Think really big. Do not sit there and say, ‘Oh, I’m a walk-on’, and put yourself in a bucket of what you think you are. Think highly of yourself, because then you’ll go out there and perform at a high level and other people will think highly of you. That would be my advice. Think big, and outwork everybody.
Q: Tell me about your foundation, HOPE Africa.
A: We have our big NFL Draft viewing party coming this Thursday in New York, at the Dream Hotel. HOPE Africa is an acronym for ‘Helping Our People Excel’. We provide last-dollar scholarships for students in the United States with African descent. This past year, we sent five kids to college from all over the country –- Ohio State, NYU, Arizona State, Oregon and one other. Being able to do that and help kids achieve their dream is really the most important thing. It stems from my parents doing the same thing, coming from Nigeria to the United States and earning their PhDs in education. At HOPE Africa, we want to give these students the same opportunities to do that.
Q: How proud are you to represent your Nigerian heritage?
A: Very proud, very proud. It’s an honor to be able to have this platform, and to exemplify the foundation with which I was raised on –- my family, my grandparents, the people who worked hard so I could be where I am. To represent that culture on the football field, it is a great honor.
[+] Enlarge
Brendan Hall/ESPNBoston.comFormer New England Patriot James Ihedigbo talked to high school kids at his alma mater Amherst High about his journey from walk-on to undrafted free agent to Super Bowl champion with the Baltimore Ravens.
Brendan Hall/ESPNBoston.comFormer New England Patriot James Ihedigbo talked to high school kids at his alma mater Amherst High about his journey from walk-on to undrafted free agent to Super Bowl champion with the Baltimore Ravens.Play was spirited in the 7-on-7 portion, with several Springfield Central athletes standing out, and Ihedigbo even jumped in at his familiar safety spot when players tired. Following the event, which concluded with a brief awards presentation to top performers, Ihedigbo talked to ESPNBoston.com about his journey in the NFL, the rising football talent in Springfield, and the value of walking-on at a Division 1 program.
Q: With everything that has happened this week in Boston, how has that affected you?
A: It’s heartbreaking. You think the city of Boston to be shut down, and for people to be going through what they’re going through, I know we captured the people that were involved, but the people that are still hurting in those hospital rooms, suffering dramatic life-changing events, my prayers truly go out to their families. I’m a firm believer that God is in control of every situation, and that all things work for good for those who love the Lord. I really just pray that they’re dealing with the situation, and that their families are supporting them in everything.
Q: Being here today, what memories come to mind?
A: Running touchdowns. I was saying to the kids today, I used to dominate this field (laughs). This was my stomping grounds. It’s awesome, it’s awesome to be able to come back here and share this with these guys. I can only imagine the affect it would have had on me if NFL players were to come to me when I was their age, and help me stay on the right path, teach me to be a competitor in the classroom as well as on the football field. It’s awesome, I love to be able to spend the time with them to do that, this is my second year doing it and I look forward to doing a third next year.
Q: You seemed to enjoy playing safety out there today.
A: I love the game, and I want to coach after I’m done playing, so I just have a burning passion and desire to help the youth and to play the game and coach it.
Q: The recruiting landscape was a lot different in your high school playing days than it is now. Springfield is perceived to be an area with talent on the rise. Why do you think that is, and do you think this area underrated?
A: It’s highly underrated. You got guys that are players, that are big time players in this area. All it is is the opportunity. My school [UMass] took a chance on me, and look at the career I’ve had so far. It’s all about taking the chance on kids. Springfield has had for years some talented players, from Mike Vaz to Julius Walker to Cedric Washington. The names go on, the great players that have gone through those programs. It’s really just about giving a kid an opportunity to prove himself.
Q: How closely have you followed Kieran Presley, the running back from Amherst who is considering several options, including walking-on at UMass?
A: I heard that he may walk on or go to prep school, but I heard he is a phenomenal player.
Q: What life lessons did you learn from your high school coach, Waxie Cullen, that you still hold with you today?
A: Never give up. He used to say, ‘Fight, fight no matter what, fight every single play’, and I’ve taken that with me throughout my whole career. No matter what, and that’s even what I told these kids today. Even though it’s 7-on-7, you fight. Be a competitor. It’s OK to want to win every single time. That’s OK. That’s life. You should want to be successful in everything you do. That was what was instilled in me, that now I want to instill in them.
Q: With the move to FBS, your alma mater has had an increased emphasis on establishing a walk-on tradition. As a former walk-on yourself who’s now in the NFL, what are your thoughts on that strategy?
A: I think it’s a great strategy, because you can find a diamond in the rough that way. I’m not going to say you shouldn’t be out there recruiting and trying to get the top-tier guys from high school to be a part of the program. But to build the final spots of your roster, I mean, the best way to do it is to have you walk on. I was a walk-on, and at the time I was playing they [UMass] had seven All-Americans on defense. Being able to take another guy’s spot –- an All-American’s spot -– to be able to play, that shows a lot. You always find your diamonds in the rough.
Q: Your coach at UMass, Don Brown, is now the defensive coordinator at Boston College. What are your thoughts on that?
A: Donny B, he’s like a father to me. We’re so close. I can only imagine the things he’s going to do with that program on defense. I wish him the best of luck in everything.
Q: For kids themselves trying to walk-on at a Division 1 program, what is the most important thing they can do to make the journey you’ve made?
A: Think big. Think really big. Do not sit there and say, ‘Oh, I’m a walk-on’, and put yourself in a bucket of what you think you are. Think highly of yourself, because then you’ll go out there and perform at a high level and other people will think highly of you. That would be my advice. Think big, and outwork everybody.
Q: Tell me about your foundation, HOPE Africa.
A: We have our big NFL Draft viewing party coming this Thursday in New York, at the Dream Hotel. HOPE Africa is an acronym for ‘Helping Our People Excel’. We provide last-dollar scholarships for students in the United States with African descent. This past year, we sent five kids to college from all over the country –- Ohio State, NYU, Arizona State, Oregon and one other. Being able to do that and help kids achieve their dream is really the most important thing. It stems from my parents doing the same thing, coming from Nigeria to the United States and earning their PhDs in education. At HOPE Africa, we want to give these students the same opportunities to do that.
Q: How proud are you to represent your Nigerian heritage?
A: Very proud, very proud. It’s an honor to be able to have this platform, and to exemplify the foundation with which I was raised on –- my family, my grandparents, the people who worked hard so I could be where I am. To represent that culture on the football field, it is a great honor.
We updated our statewide MIAA Top 25 poll this morning. To view it, CLICK HERE.
The poll was initially planned for a release this past Friday, but was postponed. From herein, you can expect a baseball poll update each Monday by noon through the end of the regular season.
A few notes and observations about this week's poll:
North makes a splash: The Bay State Conference made another big turn this week with a win over a Catholic Conference power. Newton North jumps up one spot to No. 5 following a big Thursday morning win over Xaverian, doubling up the defending D1 state champs 8-4.
Notable newcomers: We've got a slew of debut this week following some exciting April vacation baseball. The most notable entrance this week is Bridgewater-Raynham, which storms into the poll at No. 12 following wins over New Bedford and Silver Lake in the Brad Martin Tournament. Silver Lake, for its own regard, comes in at No. 15 on the heels of a win over Plymouth North en route to the final with B-R.
Shrewsbury (16), North Reading (19) and Chelmsford (20) also make debuts this week, while Amherst (22) returns to the poll after a one-week hiatus.
Here's how the poll breaks down this week by league affiliation:
Catholic Conference - 4
Bay State - 3
Northeastern - 3
Merrimack Valley - 2
Old Colony - 2
Southern Worcester County - 2
Valley League - 2
Atlantic Coast - 1
Cape Ann - 1
Central Mass. Conference - 1
Mid-Wach A - 1
Patriot - 1
South Coast - 1
Valley Wheel - 1
The poll was initially planned for a release this past Friday, but was postponed. From herein, you can expect a baseball poll update each Monday by noon through the end of the regular season.
A few notes and observations about this week's poll:
North makes a splash: The Bay State Conference made another big turn this week with a win over a Catholic Conference power. Newton North jumps up one spot to No. 5 following a big Thursday morning win over Xaverian, doubling up the defending D1 state champs 8-4.
Notable newcomers: We've got a slew of debut this week following some exciting April vacation baseball. The most notable entrance this week is Bridgewater-Raynham, which storms into the poll at No. 12 following wins over New Bedford and Silver Lake in the Brad Martin Tournament. Silver Lake, for its own regard, comes in at No. 15 on the heels of a win over Plymouth North en route to the final with B-R.
Shrewsbury (16), North Reading (19) and Chelmsford (20) also make debuts this week, while Amherst (22) returns to the poll after a one-week hiatus.
Here's how the poll breaks down this week by league affiliation:
Catholic Conference - 4
Bay State - 3
Northeastern - 3
Merrimack Valley - 2
Old Colony - 2
Southern Worcester County - 2
Valley League - 2
Atlantic Coast - 1
Cape Ann - 1
Central Mass. Conference - 1
Mid-Wach A - 1
Patriot - 1
South Coast - 1
Valley Wheel - 1
Roxbury Latin's Cohee commits to BC
April, 21, 2013
Apr 21
10:19
PM ET
By
Scott Barboza | ESPNBoston.com
Roxbury Latin tight end/defensive end Kevin Cohee has given a verbal commitment to Boston College, he tells ESPN Boston.
The 6-foot-3, 240-pounder is a resident of Chestnut Hill and becomes the third in-state recruit to join Steve Addazio’s 2014 recruiting class.
“Once they gave me the offer, I was learning toward to committing,” Cohee said in an interview Sunday night. “I didn’t want to commit right away, and I wanted to be sure about it, but it’s been a dream of mine. I grew up going to football games [at BC] and it’s been like a second home to me.”
Cohee is the second Foxes player to give his commitment to BC in as many years, joining signee quarterback Mackay Lowrie.
At the time of his commitment, Cohee also held offers from UMass and UConn.
“They were after Kevin after they saw his game tape, and they pursued him with heartfelt purpose,” Roxbury Latin head coach Pat Ross said. “Coach [Addazio] really wants to build from the inside out, and to build a program that attracts the top Massachusetts kids, and make sure they are here to stay.”
Aside from the chance to play within earshot of his home, Cohee cited BC’s business curriculum and the Eagles’ intent to play within a spread offense as influencing factors.
Though Cohee said he was open to playing on either side of the ball and could be used in multiple roles by the Eagles’ coaching staff.
“[BC] was mostly recruiting from outside states, like New Jersey and Pennsylvania,” Cohee said. “But we’re starting to lay the foundation with the players we have coming in from in-state. I wanted to be a part of that.”
The 6-foot-3, 240-pounder is a resident of Chestnut Hill and becomes the third in-state recruit to join Steve Addazio’s 2014 recruiting class.
“Once they gave me the offer, I was learning toward to committing,” Cohee said in an interview Sunday night. “I didn’t want to commit right away, and I wanted to be sure about it, but it’s been a dream of mine. I grew up going to football games [at BC] and it’s been like a second home to me.”
Cohee is the second Foxes player to give his commitment to BC in as many years, joining signee quarterback Mackay Lowrie.
At the time of his commitment, Cohee also held offers from UMass and UConn.
“They were after Kevin after they saw his game tape, and they pursued him with heartfelt purpose,” Roxbury Latin head coach Pat Ross said. “Coach [Addazio] really wants to build from the inside out, and to build a program that attracts the top Massachusetts kids, and make sure they are here to stay.”
Aside from the chance to play within earshot of his home, Cohee cited BC’s business curriculum and the Eagles’ intent to play within a spread offense as influencing factors.
Though Cohee said he was open to playing on either side of the ball and could be used in multiple roles by the Eagles’ coaching staff.
“[BC] was mostly recruiting from outside states, like New Jersey and Pennsylvania,” Cohee said. “But we’re starting to lay the foundation with the players we have coming in from in-state. I wanted to be a part of that.”
Coaches Cup: L-S pulling in the right direction
April, 21, 2013
Apr 21
2:14
AM ET
By
Scott Barboza | ESPNBoston.com
SUDBURY, Mass. – A 16-3 win by Lincoln-Sudbury boys’ lacrosse over North Andover in the final of Saturday’s Coaches Challenge Cup can only tell you so much about this Warriors team.
The enduring image – outside of the game’s score as the scoreboard hit triple zeroes – came about a half hour following the win. On a nearby practice field, a group of Warriors players were helping to the clear the field for Monday’s practice. Youth soccer games left a set of nets on the field. As part of a challenge issued during Friday’s team practice by head coach Brian Vona, the losers of a drill were going to be forced to perform odd jobs on Saturday, including the clean up of the practice field and clearing the 8-yard by 8-foot frames. The nets dwarfed the team members scurrying underneath them, like a colony of ants moving leaves on the forest floor.
“I feel like we’re building,” Vona said following the team’s Cup win, the progam’s second. “We’re not where we’re going to be in June, not even close. We have a long way to go. We’re slowly improving on some things that, maybe things that you might not see, but we’re improving on things that we had to work on.
“So I feel good, knowing that we’re progressing.”
That progress was set in motion two years ago when the Warriors’ seniors were sophomores. Many of them were pressed into immediate service that season, before they might have otherwise. due to a rash of (at times, freakish) injuries. One player was cut severely on a plate glass window at his church and missed time in 2011.
That chain of events gave a deep and talented class a running start while growing into one of the state’s Division 1 title favorites this season.
“I think a huge part of that is the confidence knowing that we’ve played together … almost all of our starters have played together since sophomore year,” said Henry Guild, a Yale commit who led the Warriors with a hat trick and six points on Saturday. “We’ve played in big games and we have confidence in knowing each other’s strengths and weaknesses.”
Vona maintains there’s room for improvement, even with the Warriors’ offense, which operates with the efficiency of a Swiss watch.
But with a slew of high Division 1 recruits on offense, including Dan Delaney, Matt Hall, Chris Giorgio, among others, there’s not much that can slow down L-S.
“When we possess the ball on offense,” Vona said, “we control our destiny.”
The Warriors have also taken care of business in their own end. There’s plenty of talent to be found among L-S’s poles, including Sam Chen, Eamon Hunter and John Sexton. And they’ve been able to keep it out of their own cage.
“The key thing is that we’re talking,” Hunter said. “You hear it on the bench, you hear it on the field. You hear it from Dario [Morando]. When we’re talking, we play more aggressively. We’ve motivated to grab the ball, turn it over to the offense and get them started.”
The enduring image – outside of the game’s score as the scoreboard hit triple zeroes – came about a half hour following the win. On a nearby practice field, a group of Warriors players were helping to the clear the field for Monday’s practice. Youth soccer games left a set of nets on the field. As part of a challenge issued during Friday’s team practice by head coach Brian Vona, the losers of a drill were going to be forced to perform odd jobs on Saturday, including the clean up of the practice field and clearing the 8-yard by 8-foot frames. The nets dwarfed the team members scurrying underneath them, like a colony of ants moving leaves on the forest floor.
“I feel like we’re building,” Vona said following the team’s Cup win, the progam’s second. “We’re not where we’re going to be in June, not even close. We have a long way to go. We’re slowly improving on some things that, maybe things that you might not see, but we’re improving on things that we had to work on.
“So I feel good, knowing that we’re progressing.”
That progress was set in motion two years ago when the Warriors’ seniors were sophomores. Many of them were pressed into immediate service that season, before they might have otherwise. due to a rash of (at times, freakish) injuries. One player was cut severely on a plate glass window at his church and missed time in 2011.
That chain of events gave a deep and talented class a running start while growing into one of the state’s Division 1 title favorites this season.
“I think a huge part of that is the confidence knowing that we’ve played together … almost all of our starters have played together since sophomore year,” said Henry Guild, a Yale commit who led the Warriors with a hat trick and six points on Saturday. “We’ve played in big games and we have confidence in knowing each other’s strengths and weaknesses.”
Vona maintains there’s room for improvement, even with the Warriors’ offense, which operates with the efficiency of a Swiss watch.
But with a slew of high Division 1 recruits on offense, including Dan Delaney, Matt Hall, Chris Giorgio, among others, there’s not much that can slow down L-S.
“When we possess the ball on offense,” Vona said, “we control our destiny.”
The Warriors have also taken care of business in their own end. There’s plenty of talent to be found among L-S’s poles, including Sam Chen, Eamon Hunter and John Sexton. And they’ve been able to keep it out of their own cage.
“The key thing is that we’re talking,” Hunter said. “You hear it on the bench, you hear it on the field. You hear it from Dario [Morando]. When we’re talking, we play more aggressively. We’ve motivated to grab the ball, turn it over to the offense and get them started.”
Sports brings comfort to Newtown (Conn.), beyond
April, 21, 2013
Apr 21
1:22
AM ET
By Mike Scandura | ESPNBoston.com
PAWTUCKET, R.I. – Never underestimate the healing power of sports.
That was never more evident than on Saturday when Newtown (Conn.) High played Tolman (R.I.) High in a non-league baseball game at McCoy Stadium -- home of the Red Sox Triple-A affiliate .
“It can help get you back to doing some sort of routine … to doing something you love around people you really care about,” Newtown head coach Matt Memoli said after Tolman beat his Nighthawks, 5-3. “My wife and I moved there [in June, 2011]. I taught all of these kids because I teach in the middle school and I coach them now in high school.
“After everything that happened, I’ve always had a great sense of pride for the town. But it’s overwhelming the way people have responded. It does bring people together."
When Memoli mentioned “everything that happened” he was referring to the horrendous events of Dec. 14 and the tragic deaths that occurred at the Sandy Hook Elementary School.
The idea to play Newtown was the idea of Tolman coach Theo Murray. But the purpose wasn’t just to play a baseball game. It also served as a fund raiser with all proceeds being donated to the Sandy Hook Workers Assistance Program which provides financial help for emergency responders, medical and mental health professionals and Sandy Hook Elementary School employees who suffered a mental or emotional impairment because of the crisis that occurred last December.
A crowd of nearly 1,000 viewed the game, which raised a grand total of $8,500. And that figure doesn’t include the $600 Murray raised from various sponsors plus the $500 donation by Tolman’s athletic department.
In addition, Dattco, the bus company utilized by the Pawtucket Red Sox, donated its services to transport the Nighthawks from Newtown to Pawtucket and back home.
On top of all this, the four umpires donated their time and the PawSox hosted a post-game barbeque for both teams.
“Dattco donated their services in honor of the Newtown kids,” PawSox President Mike Tamburro said. “[Tolman athletic director] John Scanlon and Theo called us late January and asked us if we would host this event. It took us about a second to say ‘Yes.’ It’s just made darn, good sense.
“If we could bring a smile to the face of that community in this small way, we thought the idea needed to be embraced. Watching those kids get off the bus and walk onto this field at 9:30 this morning, they were like walking on a cloud. It made it all worthwhile.”
Tolman (4-2) led 5-1 entering the top of the seventh when Newtown (3-4) rallied for two runs and eventually left the bases loaded when the final out was recorded.
The Nighthawks’ ability to rally, in the opinion of senior Mike Koch, reflected the strength of the community as well as that of the team.
“Going on strength of community, the way we came back in the last inning basically shows how our community is especially after what happened,” Koch said. “We all came back together. We all fought back and we’re trying to make the best of what we have.
“That’s the way it’s been in Newtown. We’re extremely close as friends. When we come back like that, with the reserves coming in and doing work like they did, it was a great job all around. And it’s the same in the community.”
Not your average ballpark: What wasn’t the same was playing in a venue like McCoy Stadium which has seen a myriad of players that went on to become All-Stars as well as Hall of Famers (i.e. Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, Jim Rice, etc.).
“It’s always a great experience to play on a field that doesn’t give you bad hops for once,” Koch said. “It’s also a great experience to play where David Ortiz and Dustin Pedroia have played … all those great players.
“It’s an honor to play here.”
The fact Newtown was invited to play the game took Memoli completely by surprise.
“When Coach Murray invited us to come here, I don’t know him from Adam,” Memoli said. “He e-mailed me after the events that occurred at Sandy Hook. I went to my athletic director and my players and the first thing everyone said was ‘Definitely.’
“It’s a huge testament to him, just being unselfish to invite our team when we don’t have any idea of who they are … to come out to a stadium like this. It says a lot about who [Murray] is and what that program is to allow us to enjoy that experience.”
It also was in stark contrast to what the players experienced on Dec. 14 at Sandy Hook.
“It was scary,” Memoli said. “For these kids, personally, it was extremely scary. Overall, it was just very sad for all of us. For these kids, I tell them sometimes I don’t like yelling at them because I care about them so much. It’s such a fun group to be around.
“Ever since December and the events that happened this week, to get out here for a little normalcy and just to play baseball on a field like these in a stadium like this, it really makes you thankful and grateful that you get a chance to do this. These kids are definitely grateful and thankful they got to come out here and have fun and play baseball.”
Play ball: As for the game, which essentially was secondary in nature, Newtown grabbed a 1-0 lead in the first on Dean Demers’ sacrifice fly.
Tolman then hung four runs on the board in the last of the second, one on a wild pitch, another on a Steve Otis single and two on Jason Maynard’s double.
The Tigers tacked on an insurance run in the third when Carlos Canabria drew a leadoff walk and eventually came home when Nick Kempf was hit by a bases-loaded pitch.
Newtown’s seventh-inning rally was sparked by Pat Rowley’s double and Garrison Buzzanca’s single.
That was never more evident than on Saturday when Newtown (Conn.) High played Tolman (R.I.) High in a non-league baseball game at McCoy Stadium -- home of the Red Sox Triple-A affiliate .
“It can help get you back to doing some sort of routine … to doing something you love around people you really care about,” Newtown head coach Matt Memoli said after Tolman beat his Nighthawks, 5-3. “My wife and I moved there [in June, 2011]. I taught all of these kids because I teach in the middle school and I coach them now in high school.
“After everything that happened, I’ve always had a great sense of pride for the town. But it’s overwhelming the way people have responded. It does bring people together."
When Memoli mentioned “everything that happened” he was referring to the horrendous events of Dec. 14 and the tragic deaths that occurred at the Sandy Hook Elementary School.
The idea to play Newtown was the idea of Tolman coach Theo Murray. But the purpose wasn’t just to play a baseball game. It also served as a fund raiser with all proceeds being donated to the Sandy Hook Workers Assistance Program which provides financial help for emergency responders, medical and mental health professionals and Sandy Hook Elementary School employees who suffered a mental or emotional impairment because of the crisis that occurred last December.
A crowd of nearly 1,000 viewed the game, which raised a grand total of $8,500. And that figure doesn’t include the $600 Murray raised from various sponsors plus the $500 donation by Tolman’s athletic department.
In addition, Dattco, the bus company utilized by the Pawtucket Red Sox, donated its services to transport the Nighthawks from Newtown to Pawtucket and back home.
On top of all this, the four umpires donated their time and the PawSox hosted a post-game barbeque for both teams.
“Dattco donated their services in honor of the Newtown kids,” PawSox President Mike Tamburro said. “[Tolman athletic director] John Scanlon and Theo called us late January and asked us if we would host this event. It took us about a second to say ‘Yes.’ It’s just made darn, good sense.
“If we could bring a smile to the face of that community in this small way, we thought the idea needed to be embraced. Watching those kids get off the bus and walk onto this field at 9:30 this morning, they were like walking on a cloud. It made it all worthwhile.”
Tolman (4-2) led 5-1 entering the top of the seventh when Newtown (3-4) rallied for two runs and eventually left the bases loaded when the final out was recorded.
The Nighthawks’ ability to rally, in the opinion of senior Mike Koch, reflected the strength of the community as well as that of the team.
“Going on strength of community, the way we came back in the last inning basically shows how our community is especially after what happened,” Koch said. “We all came back together. We all fought back and we’re trying to make the best of what we have.
“That’s the way it’s been in Newtown. We’re extremely close as friends. When we come back like that, with the reserves coming in and doing work like they did, it was a great job all around. And it’s the same in the community.”
Not your average ballpark: What wasn’t the same was playing in a venue like McCoy Stadium which has seen a myriad of players that went on to become All-Stars as well as Hall of Famers (i.e. Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, Jim Rice, etc.).
“It’s always a great experience to play on a field that doesn’t give you bad hops for once,” Koch said. “It’s also a great experience to play where David Ortiz and Dustin Pedroia have played … all those great players.
“It’s an honor to play here.”
The fact Newtown was invited to play the game took Memoli completely by surprise.
“When Coach Murray invited us to come here, I don’t know him from Adam,” Memoli said. “He e-mailed me after the events that occurred at Sandy Hook. I went to my athletic director and my players and the first thing everyone said was ‘Definitely.’
“It’s a huge testament to him, just being unselfish to invite our team when we don’t have any idea of who they are … to come out to a stadium like this. It says a lot about who [Murray] is and what that program is to allow us to enjoy that experience.”
It also was in stark contrast to what the players experienced on Dec. 14 at Sandy Hook.
“It was scary,” Memoli said. “For these kids, personally, it was extremely scary. Overall, it was just very sad for all of us. For these kids, I tell them sometimes I don’t like yelling at them because I care about them so much. It’s such a fun group to be around.
“Ever since December and the events that happened this week, to get out here for a little normalcy and just to play baseball on a field like these in a stadium like this, it really makes you thankful and grateful that you get a chance to do this. These kids are definitely grateful and thankful they got to come out here and have fun and play baseball.”
Play ball: As for the game, which essentially was secondary in nature, Newtown grabbed a 1-0 lead in the first on Dean Demers’ sacrifice fly.
Tolman then hung four runs on the board in the last of the second, one on a wild pitch, another on a Steve Otis single and two on Jason Maynard’s double.
The Tigers tacked on an insurance run in the third when Carlos Canabria drew a leadoff walk and eventually came home when Nick Kempf was hit by a bases-loaded pitch.
Newtown’s seventh-inning rally was sparked by Pat Rowley’s double and Garrison Buzzanca’s single.
Millis' Jon Baker commits to Boston College
April, 20, 2013
Apr 20
8:35
PM ET
By
Brendan Hall | ESPNBoston.com
Millis/Hopedale Class of 2014 two-way lineman Jon Baker verbally committed to Boston College this afternoon, during an unofficial visit to the Chestnut Hill campus.
The Eagles first offered the 6-foot-3, 305-pound Baker last spring. Baker also had offers from Michigan State, Rutgers, Temple, UConn, UMass, Harvard, Yale, Old Dominion and Holy Cross.
Baker is considered one of the top prospects in New England, and projects as a center for BC. In 2012, his junior season, he registered 78 tackles with four sacks at defensive tackle to earn a spot on ESPNBoston.com's annual All-State Team. He also earned Tri-Valley League Lineman of the Year honors for the second straight year, as the Mohawks made their second straight MIAA Division 4 playoff appearance.
"It's always been probably my top school, and the time just felt right," Baker said. "Beside the fact it's close to home and I love the new coaches, it's a great school, which is something I really look forward to.
BC has been Baker's top choice, but M-H head coach Dale Olmsted admitted surprise by how quickly the commitment came about.
"It came outta nowhere, usually recruiting heats up at this time of year," Olmsted said. "To be honest with you, it came about this morning. Our guys were working out at St. Cyr Academy, Jon woke up and said 'Coach, I want to commit today'. He didn't even tell his mother."
Baker met with Eagles head coach Steve Addazio this afternoon in his office, and after a 20-minute talk gave him a commitment on the spot.
"I like the energy and passion he brings, but also the fact he's an o-line guy, who will be working over there with coach [Justin] Frye," Baker said. "They're going to make us all better players."
The Eagles first offered the 6-foot-3, 305-pound Baker last spring. Baker also had offers from Michigan State, Rutgers, Temple, UConn, UMass, Harvard, Yale, Old Dominion and Holy Cross.
Baker is considered one of the top prospects in New England, and projects as a center for BC. In 2012, his junior season, he registered 78 tackles with four sacks at defensive tackle to earn a spot on ESPNBoston.com's annual All-State Team. He also earned Tri-Valley League Lineman of the Year honors for the second straight year, as the Mohawks made their second straight MIAA Division 4 playoff appearance.
"It's always been probably my top school, and the time just felt right," Baker said. "Beside the fact it's close to home and I love the new coaches, it's a great school, which is something I really look forward to.
BC has been Baker's top choice, but M-H head coach Dale Olmsted admitted surprise by how quickly the commitment came about.
"It came outta nowhere, usually recruiting heats up at this time of year," Olmsted said. "To be honest with you, it came about this morning. Our guys were working out at St. Cyr Academy, Jon woke up and said 'Coach, I want to commit today'. He didn't even tell his mother."
Baker met with Eagles head coach Steve Addazio this afternoon in his office, and after a 20-minute talk gave him a commitment on the spot.
"I like the energy and passion he brings, but also the fact he's an o-line guy, who will be working over there with coach [Justin] Frye," Baker said. "They're going to make us all better players."
North Andover announces soccer hirings
April, 20, 2013
Apr 20
10:56
AM ET
By
Brendan Hall | ESPNBoston.com
North Andover Athletic Director Jon Longley announced this morning the hiring of its new varsity soccer coaches. Lisa Rasanen takes over the girls program, while Kyle Wood takes over the boys.
Rasanen is a graduate of North Andover High School and Merrimack College, and was inducted into the Johnson-North Andover High School Hall of Fame in 2012. At Merrimack, Rasanen was a four-year starter and two-time All-American, two time Northeast-10 Defensive Player of the Year, Northeast-10 Rookie of the Year, and four-time All-Conference selection. Currently, Rasanen is a math teacher at North Andover, and had been the JV coach since 2001.
Wood graduated from Westfield State College in 1997, and was a goaltender for two seasons. Wood was the varsity girls soccer coach at Northbridge High from 1998-2000 and has been the freshman boys soccer coach at North Andover since 2001. Wood is a wellness teacher at North Andover Middle School.
Rasanen is a graduate of North Andover High School and Merrimack College, and was inducted into the Johnson-North Andover High School Hall of Fame in 2012. At Merrimack, Rasanen was a four-year starter and two-time All-American, two time Northeast-10 Defensive Player of the Year, Northeast-10 Rookie of the Year, and four-time All-Conference selection. Currently, Rasanen is a math teacher at North Andover, and had been the JV coach since 2001.
Wood graduated from Westfield State College in 1997, and was a goaltender for two seasons. Wood was the varsity girls soccer coach at Northbridge High from 1998-2000 and has been the freshman boys soccer coach at North Andover since 2001. Wood is a wellness teacher at North Andover Middle School.
Brady Bajema named new hoops coach at Whitinsville
April, 20, 2013
Apr 20
12:17
AM ET
By Chris Bradley | ESPNBoston.com
Former Whitinsville Christian star Brady Bajema has been named the new head boys basketball coach at his alma mater, the school officially announced on Friday afternoon.
Bajema -- who teaches health, history, and physical education at the school -- will take over for his father, Jeff, who helped build the program into one of the state's most consistent across Division 3. The Crusaders won three consecutive Central Mass. Division 3 championships from 2010 to 2012, including a state championship in 2011 with the elder Bajema at the helm. Jeff Bajema was also Rick Martin’s assistant in 2005, when the Crusaders won their first state title -- with Bajema’s sons, Mitch and Brady, as the starting backcourt.
Brady matriculated to Gordon College, in Wenham, where he scored over one-thousand career points and led the Fighting Scots to the 2010 NCAA Division 3 tournament. Following his playing career, he spent two years at Gordon as a graduate assistant to head coach Tod Murphy before starting his career as a teacher at Whitinsville. This past season, he coached the Crusaders’ middle school team.
Speaking to ESPNBoston.com on Friday night, he expressed his excitement towards building his own program, but also continuing the winning tradition at Whitinsville.
"I’m pretty excited, I care about this school a lot -- it’s a special place," Brady said. "The basketball program has a great tradition...I appreciate the support from players, coaches, administrators. I’m excited about the group of guys that we have at WCS."
Brady and Athletic Director Leonard Krygsman met with members of the team during lunch hour on Friday afternoon, where he had an opportunity to talk to players and briefly lay down expectations.
"I got some good feedback from them. There are some tremendous leaders in this group," he said.
He received plenty of congratulations from his father as well, and said he will certainly draw from his father’s experience as he takes over a program that has been of the MIAA’s most storied over the course of the last decade.
"He’s been great," Brady said. "He’s willing to help in any way that I’d like him to help. But we both understand it’s my call now, that’s the way it needs to be, and I’ll definitely go to him for advice on certain things.
“It’s where I’m supposed to be. I understand the work and time [my dad] put in, and I’m willing to do the same to keep the basketball tradition [at Whitinsville].”
Bajema -- who teaches health, history, and physical education at the school -- will take over for his father, Jeff, who helped build the program into one of the state's most consistent across Division 3. The Crusaders won three consecutive Central Mass. Division 3 championships from 2010 to 2012, including a state championship in 2011 with the elder Bajema at the helm. Jeff Bajema was also Rick Martin’s assistant in 2005, when the Crusaders won their first state title -- with Bajema’s sons, Mitch and Brady, as the starting backcourt.
Brady matriculated to Gordon College, in Wenham, where he scored over one-thousand career points and led the Fighting Scots to the 2010 NCAA Division 3 tournament. Following his playing career, he spent two years at Gordon as a graduate assistant to head coach Tod Murphy before starting his career as a teacher at Whitinsville. This past season, he coached the Crusaders’ middle school team.
Speaking to ESPNBoston.com on Friday night, he expressed his excitement towards building his own program, but also continuing the winning tradition at Whitinsville.
"I’m pretty excited, I care about this school a lot -- it’s a special place," Brady said. "The basketball program has a great tradition...I appreciate the support from players, coaches, administrators. I’m excited about the group of guys that we have at WCS."
Brady and Athletic Director Leonard Krygsman met with members of the team during lunch hour on Friday afternoon, where he had an opportunity to talk to players and briefly lay down expectations.
"I got some good feedback from them. There are some tremendous leaders in this group," he said.
He received plenty of congratulations from his father as well, and said he will certainly draw from his father’s experience as he takes over a program that has been of the MIAA’s most storied over the course of the last decade.
"He’s been great," Brady said. "He’s willing to help in any way that I’d like him to help. But we both understand it’s my call now, that’s the way it needs to be, and I’ll definitely go to him for advice on certain things.
“It’s where I’m supposed to be. I understand the work and time [my dad] put in, and I’m willing to do the same to keep the basketball tradition [at Whitinsville].”
Local athletes show their support
April, 19, 2013
Apr 19
5:00
PM ET
By
Brendan Hall | ESPNBoston.com
High school athletic teams across Massachusetts and beyond paid tribute to the victims of Monday's marathon tragedy with various writings on their uniforms and equipment.
Here are some of the best photos, as submitted by ESPN Boston readers. Want to send us yours? Email it to us.:
Courtesy of Matt McIsaacPeabody baseball
Courtesy Tania RichNashoba
Courtesy John Papasodora Revere
Courtesy Austin Collias Chelmsford
Courtesy Matt DonnellWatertown
Courtesy Julia WassermanLondonderry
Courtesy of Casey DianaFramingham softball
Courtesy Jane HorsemanMarshfield softball
Courtesy Tania RichNashoba track
Here are some of the best photos, as submitted by ESPN Boston readers. Want to send us yours? Email it to us.:
Courtesy of Matt McIsaacPeabody baseballCourtesy Tania RichNashobaCourtesy John Papasodora RevereCourtesy Austin Collias ChelmsfordCourtesy Matt DonnellWatertownCourtesy Julia WassermanLondonderryCourtesy of Casey DianaFramingham softballCourtesy Jane HorsemanMarshfield softballCourtesy Tania RichNashoba trackABOUT THIS BLOG
Scott Barboza
Scott Barboza joined ESPNBoston.com as a high schools editor/reporter in May 2010. He spent the previous three seasons working in the New England Patriots media relations department after a stint at the Taunton Daily Gazette, where he covered everything from Little League baseball to the Boston Red Sox. The Fall River native is a graduate of Emerson College. He can be reached at sbarboza@espnboston.com.
Brendan Hall
Brendan Hall joined ESPNBoston.com as a high schools reporter/editor in May 2010, after four years covering high schools for The Boston Globe. The Westminster, Mass. native also served on the Globe's Bruins beat last season. Hall is a graduate of UMass Amherst. He can be reached at bhall@espnboston.com.
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