Smithtown West was a major player in the tristate lax scene last season.

The Bulls enjoyed a 15-4 season, which ended with a 12-11 overtime loss to West Islip in the Suffolk County Class A title game.

Smithtown West starts 2012 with a new coaching staff, led by new head coach Bob Moltisanti Jr.

After opening the season against Mount Sinai on March 23, the Bulls face some big early tests, taking on rival Ward Melville on April 11, Yorktown on April 14 and West Islip on April 19.

For more on Smithtown West, let’s get the perspectives of UMass-bound junior Dylan Gruder, a standout two-way midfielder.

What have you been doing to get ready for the season?
I’ve been working out at the gym and playing basketball with the school.

How does your schedule look, what games are you looking forward to most, and who are some of your scrimmages against?
I can’t wait to play Ward Melville and West Islip.

What player or players on your team do you think will surprise some people this season?
Both on attack, Eric Joseph and Pat O’Brien, will have big years.

What do you think the strengths of your team will be this year?
Our offense is going to be the best in the county.

How do you view the race in your league and who do you think some of the contending teams will be?
I think we have a great chance of winning the county final, but we are going to have to go through Ward Melville and West Islip.

* For more info on Dylan, check out his player profile by clicking here.

* Have a recruiting commitment to report? Email us at info@laxlessons.com.

Follow Joe Lombardi on Twitter @joe_lombardi or by clicking here. Follow LaxLessons @LaxLessons or by clicking here.

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Player’s perspective archive

* If you’re a player from the region and would like to share your perspectives on the 2012 season, send an email to info@laxlessons.com. You can  check out the more than 90 stories by clicking here.

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* For a look at how schedules for teams from throughout the region for the 2012 season are shaping up, be sure to check out  the “Schedules galore” thread.

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Posted In: Long Island lacrosse, Player's perspective, Section 11

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One Response to “Player’s perspective: UMass-bound Gruder eyes tough early season stretch at Smithtown West”

  1. startnow says:

    class a will be a battle in section 11, as usual. can’t wait! good luck smithtown west…nice article.

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