Manhasset is looking to return to a familiar place.
After winning back-to-back state titles, the Indians have not returned to the state tournament the last two seasons.
That stretch coincides with Manhasset’s move up to Class B, where rival Garden City has won Nassau County titles in both 2011 and ’12 and the state title last year.
Manhasset hopes to put an end to GC’s string of Section 8 championships.
Before a possible Nassau County postseason encounter, the teams, of course, will meet in the 122nd Woodstick Classic. This year’s running of the nation’s longest uninterrupted high school boys lax rivalry is set for Manhasset on Saturday, April 27.
While it’s unavoidable to bring up the Woodstick Classic when discussing ‘Set lax, as you will see, the Indians’ schedule is stacked with talented opponents.
Which means seniors like Dino Lavalle will need to lead the way.
A speedy attackman with outstanding stick skills, Lavalle is bound for Brown University.
But first, he’s setting his sights on his final varsity campaign with Manhasset.
Now, here are Dino’s perspectives on the upcoming season.
What have you been doing to get ready for the season?
This offseason, I’ve spent a lot of time in the weight room to improve physically. I also participated in a box lacrosse clinic to work on my inside game and finishing ability.
As a team, we participate in winter league games on Sundays.
How does your schedule look, what games are you looking forward to most, and who are some of your scrimmages against?
As always, our schedule this year is very tough. We play our usual rivals in Garden City, Chaminade, Darien, John Jay and Cold Spring Harbor. We also added Syosset to our schedule this year for our season opener.
We have scrimmages against Port Washington, Iona Prep, Farmingdale, Ridgefield and Greenwich.
What player or players on your team do you think will surprise some people this season?
Our goalie, Dylan Meyer, who was out all of last year with an injury, will have a huge impact for us and will be the leader of our defense in the cage.
Also, we have a lot of young talent on the team this year. At midfield, junior James Farrell will be a force on offense. On the defensive side of the ball, junior Benny Borgognone will have a big impact for us at LSM and close defense.
What do you think the strength of your team will be this year?
I believe our attack this year will be very strong. We have a lot of senior leadership at the attack position and also have some younger talented attackmen who could contribute.
How do you view the race in your league and who do you think some of the contending teams will be?
I fully expect for us to be No. 1 in our conference again. Bethpage and Lynbrook will be very physical tests for us. (Manhasset Head) Coach (Bill) Cherry, as always, will do a great job preparing us for every game.
* LaxLessons.com story on Dino’s commitment to Brown
* For more info on Dino, check out his player profile by clicking here
If you’re a player from the NY/NJ/CT region and would like to share your perspectives on the 2012 season, send an email to info@laxlessons.com.
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Posted In: Player's perspective, Section 8
GC only won title in 12. Not 11. That was the OT loss to J D.
really? G.C. won state last year. lost in state final in 2011.
Dino – I wish you a very good 2013 !
GO SET. This is your year.
Best wishes for a great season Dino.