By Jakim Redhead
The Mercy College men’s lacrosse team have high expectations this season
Head Coach Steve Manitta feels that balance and experience will play a major factor in the team’s success this year. The majority of his team last year was made up of freshman’s so he feels as though with the experience they gained last year they should be in a better position to really turn some heads this year.
“We didn’t graduate a single player; it’s the perks of starting a program in the ECC.”
Manitta felt that depth was a huge obstacle for the team in 2010, he felt as though they had skilled players last year but just not enough of them. So because of the lack of depth last year, the coaches went out and did some scouting to really solve that problem and put an improved product on the field. A deeper bench is something that he felt they needed to do and that is exactly what they did for this year’s men’s team. Captain/Goaltender TJ DiCarlo, a ECC all conference honorable mention selection returns this year, in addition to scoring threats Mike Munch and Frank Palumbo. The lone senior Bobby Wendel will anchor the defense.
As for the offense, Manitta feels great about some of his players. With some real standout players heading the offense, Mike Marzocca who was the Mavericks points leader in 2010 should pick up right where he left off, according to Manitta. Along with Marzocca, Alex Martello, Jon Fitzpatrick, and Frank Hennenlotter will return to head this potent offense. Other players that fill out this offense are Midfielder Craig Blom, face off specialist John Lionetti and other standout freshmen that looks to make the Mercy Mavericks a potential to watch in the ECC conference this year.
The ECC is a tough conference, according to Manitta.
“CW Post the 2009-2010 national champions. Dowling, Mercyhurst and NY Tech; it’s like a bar fight every time you step on the field. We’re looking forward to every game we play and compete”.
For those that are interested in seeing the 2011 Mavericks they will play a lot of home games on their new facility on the banks of the Hudson River. Manitta feels as though his Mavericks went through their share of growing pains, and now they have pieces to compete with anyone just as long as they can execute, stay disciplined, and take care of the little things.
According to coach, “It can be a special year.”