2009 Notre Dame Academy Boys’ Lacrosse Outlook

After a challenging first year in Division I play, the Notre Dame Academy boys’ lacrosse team is poised for improved performances in 2009.  With five of the seven contests from 2008 decided by 3 goals or less, the Dragons are ready to win games in the highest Independent School conference in the Commonwealth. 

At the heart of the attack unit you will find three diverse and dynamic players.   Senior co-captain and first-team All-MILL selection Tyler Fisher anchors the group with a stellar shot and great stick protection.  Junior David Sterling is coming off of a fantastic sophomore campaign, which netted him 23 goals.  David possesses an excellent stick and superior off-ball movement, as well as an ability to finish in tight.  Junior Nick Fletcher has emerged as the quarterback of the offense.  Nick can dodge and distribute with lethal effectiveness from the X position. 

The Dragons are once again carrying a number of incredibly talented midfielders this season.  After the graduation of All-Americans David Miller (University of Maryland), Will Fields (Navy Prep), as well as gritty Matt Manzo (Lynchburg College), this year’s midfield is led by first-team All-MILL choice and co-captain Alex Nieves (Salisbury University).  Alex has the ability to dodge and dish against any defender, short-stick or otherwise.  Joining Alex is senior midfielder and co-captain Ethan Wright (Virginia Wesleyan).  Ethan is quite possibly the best athlete on the roster and can play either midfield or attack.  Junior Kevin Sherman is a two-year letter winner who possesses the ability to dodge as well as face-off.  Junior Oliver Martin is developing into a dominant face-off man and can also contribute on both sides of the field.   Senior James Quinly is looking to have a great year after a solid 2008 campaign.  Senior transfer Tom Hopkins possesses a great shot and will greatly add to the offensive mix.  Sophomores Ryan Gregory, transfer Ben Roszel, Drew Renzi, and Mark Rossi will all add offensive and defensive depth to the 2009 roster.  They will be counted upon to develop into the future stars of Notre Dame Academy lacrosse.

The defense is anchored by Under-Armour All-American and co-captain Matt Miller (University of Notre Dame).  Matt is a vocal and incredibly talented shut-down defenseman for the Dragons who can also run the field.  Along with Matt the Dragons carry co-captain Robby Taylor and Jason Herpy into the close defense position.  Senior and two-year letter winner Matt Entsminger will add valuable depth to the close defense.  Sophomores Rob Lawson-Shanks and Clay Wade will tackle the responsibilities of the long-stick midfield position, while sophomores Alex Hoyt and Dan Sullivan will cut their teeth with the varsity roster this year.    

Finally, the goal position will be filled by two promising sophomore netminders.  Matt Lower and Colt Taylor both played incredibly well on the junior varsity roster and possess the ability to be excellent in this defense.  Freshman Jake Windle will also push Matt and Colt throughout the season for minutes. 

It is with great anticipation that the Dragons enter the 2009 season.  After months of conditioning and drills, the young men on this team fully understand that their commitment and perseverance will be rewarded during the regular season.  Look for a hungry and exciting team in 2009!

Go Dragons!

Sincerely,

Rob Horne, Head Boys’ Varsity Coach, NDA
 
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