By Dr. Michael Finizio
The 2009 team graduated five starters, including leading scorer Angel Rodriguez. Yet, we expect a lot from the forthcoming season. The eleven returning players have all the parameters to make up a starting line-up, but several newcomers are ready to challenge this premise, creating the ideal competitive scenario that should lead to a successful campaign.
The list of returning players is topped by senior Chris Casey, who missed last season due to an off-season injury, and sophomores Matt Bik and Mariano Olcese, who were strong protagonists in 2009, when the Lightning made a long-awaited return to the play-offs . However, this list also includes several players that, for different reasons, did not perform up to their potential last Fall. We expect that this group in particular is ready to prove what they are capable of.
The list of new players is topped by Andre Jank (Brazil) and Thatcher Howell (Salesianum H.S., Del.), but we also expect a lot from the tenacious Charles Netya (Glasgow H.S., Del.), the technical and diligent Alex Gonzalez (Northeast H.S., Md.), Dylan Pepper (Sussex Tech. H.S., Del.), Michael Sager (transfer from York College), and the new Venezuelan goalie Carlos Meinhard.
Overall, this year’s team is relatively young, but includes very capable and experienced players. A realistic, yet challenging goal is a .500 season, but we know that this group’s focus and determination will push the players toward even greater objectives.
CACC Pre-Season Coaches' Poll Release
