Boys Lacrosse Preview

Jamesville-Dewitt Boys Varsity Lacrosse is one of the most dominant high school teams in a region notorious for the sport. With nine New York State Championships and ten Section III Championships since 1986, it's no question why the Rams are known for the sport. Add to this the Rams phenomenal win over West Genesee High School on March 30 and it looks like another memorable season is in the making.

The Rams defeated West Genny for the first time since 1978 with a score of 16-9. "It was a great start to the season, it's giving us a taste of how good we can be," says junior and starting goalie Dan Distefano. He then adds, "Having high expectations makes us work hard."

Working hard is exactly what they're doing.

After winning the sectional crown last year, the Rams lost to Canandaigua in the semifinals for the state championship. They ended the season with a 19-4 overall record. Last year's team may be a tough act to follow after losing contributing players Jeff Sierra, Mac Keefus, Mike Fiacco and goalie Gordie Gehring. Head Coach Jamie Archer says that returning top scorers Cam Stone, Jake Bratek, and Eric Dejohn, all seniors to will lead the team to another good season. Not to mention key juniors who are moving up from last year's undefeated junior varsity team: Alex Hatem, Nick Firman, Brad Diamond, Davi Sacco and Steve Aziz. Add in returning junior midfielder Tim Edwards, senior defensive player Mac Feiner, and freshmen phenoms Scott Firman on defense and Jordan Evans at midfield and there's no stopping them now.

"This is the most depth we've had here (on the team) since I've been here," says Coach Archer. He mentions that not only are the starters strong, but the players coming off the bench are also reliable. Senior Ian Gilchriest agrees with his coach while adding that the team has a lot of potential.
"I know a lot of the kids (on the team) and they are all great athletes," says physical education teacher Jeff Ike. He also describes this year's team as athletic and hard working.

Coach Archer says that the non-league games will be key. These games include West Genesee, Fairport, Layfayette, and Carthage.

This year's team is not is not sporting the traditional Mohawk. However, the team is "very flowtastic," according to Distefano. Coach Archer says he's not too concerned about this digression from tradition, but the alumni are pretty fired up about it. As for the players' opinion, Diamond says that he wants to pay homage to the traditional lacrosse players and is disappointed in the team's decision. Despite the controversy over their appearance, the team is looking to have a flourishing season.

"I think we'll do well," says Coach Archer. Well might be an understatement.