For the Mamaroneck High School (N.Y.) boys lacrosse program, these are the good old days.
The Tigers have won back-to-back Section 1 titles, beating North Rockland last season in the final after unseating defending champion Mahopac in 2012 for its first-ever sectional title.
But Mamaroneck enters the spring minus a strong senior class, including the versatile attackman/midfielder Peter Conley (Georgetown University) and goaltender Thomas Brill (University of Tampa).
What are Mamaroneck’s chances of a three-peat?
For an up close and personal look at the 2014 Tigers, we check in with one of the top juniors in the Hudson Valley, attackman/midfielder Reed Malas, who is bound for Bucknell.
Now, here are Reed’s perspectives on the upcoming season.
What have you been doing to get ready for the season?
During the offseason, I’ve been working extremely hard so I can help our team have a successful season. I have been in the weight room, and on the field as much as possible in order to prepare myself.
As a team, we have had practices on the field, and in the gym twice a week.
In addition to that, we’ve been playing in the winter league at Chelsea Piers Connecticut. This league includes some of the best teams from the tristate area, and it will definitely help us come spring time.
How does your schedule look, what games are you looking forward to most, and who are some of your scrimmages against?
This year, we have a very well-rounded schedule, and I am looking forward to many of our games.
We play (three-time Section 1 Class C champion and 2013 state finalist) Bronxville twice this season, and they always field a very strong team. I also am excited to play against Rye and Pleasantville. Outside of the section, Wantagh, Staples Connecticut and Christian Brothers Academy should all be great games as well.
What players on your team do you think will surprise some people this season?
Last year, we graduated an incredible senior class, probably the best in Mamaroneck history. Because of that, a lot of new faces will have to step up and be big contributors.
Senior defenseman Max Ellis is a key returning starter who will anchor the defense.
On offense, I believe that both senior Ben Martin and junior Charlie Harris are primed for break out seasons.
What do you think the strength of your team will be this year?
As of now, we do not have a defined strength as a team. We are filling in a lot of pieces, and trying different things out. I do believe that come spring time we will be a very well-rounded team.
Along with that, (Mamaroneck Head) Coach (Jeff) Barnard and (Assistant) Coach (Aaron) Taback are some of the best coaches in the area, and they do a great job of preparing the team for every game.
How do you view the race in your league and who do you think some of the contending teams will be?
We have a very strong league, and one of our goals as a team this year is to win the league. Bronxville and White Plains are both very good teams that always compete.
Along with winning the league, we hope to be able to win another section championship. Lakeland/Panas, Mahopac and North Rockland are all teams that have a very good chance to take the title.
* Preseason player perspective archive
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Posted In: Hudson Valley, Player's perspective, Section 1
