Field hockey: HWS schedule for Sept. 8-13

Monday, Sept. 8

Independent

Hackettstown at Warren Hills, 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 9

(All games 3:45 p.m. unless noted)

Skyland Conference

Belvidere at Somerville
Warren Hills at Pingry
South Hunterdon at Voorhees
Mount St. Mary at Delaware Valley
Phillipsburg at Ridge
Watchung Hills at Hunterdon Central
North Hunterdon at Bridgewater

Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference

Sparta at Montville, 4 p.m.
Vernon at Boonton, 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 10

(All games 4 p.m.)

Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference

Newton at High Point
Kittatinny at Jefferson
Wallkill Valley at Hackettstown
North Warren at Lenape Valley

Thursday, Sept. 11

(All games 3:45 p.m. unless noted)

Skyland Conference

South Hunterdon at Belvidere
Warren Hills at Montgomery
Delaware Valley at Voorhees
Watchung Hills at Phillipsburg

Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference

Pope John at Vernon, 4 p.m.
Morris Hills at Sparta, 4 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 12

(All games 4 p.m. unless noted)

Skyland Conference

Phillipsburg at Delaware Valley, 3:45 p.m.

Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference

High Point at Jefferson
Newton at Kittatinny
Hackettstown at Lenape Valley
Wallkill Valley at North Warren

Saturday, Sept. 13

(All games 11 a.m. unless noted)

Skyland Conference

North Hunterdon at Voorhees, 10 a.m.
Hunterdon Central at Pingry, 2 p.m.

Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference

Morris Hills at Pope John, 4 p.m.
Mount Olive at Vernon

Independent

Ridge at Newton, 7 p.m.
Blair Academy at Wallkill Valley, 1 p.m.

North Warren at Notre Dame-East Stroudsburg (Pa.)

Field hockey: Lenape Valley ends High Point's streak

WANTAGE -- As far as openers go, you probably couldn't have scripted a better outcome for Lenape Valley's field hockey team on Friday afternoon.

The defense was rock solid in making a 2-0 victory over High Point stand in a Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference Freedom Division showdown. The win snapped the Wildcats' 54-game unbeaten streak in divisional play dating to 2010, while giving rookie Patriots coach Lauren Fasano her first victory over her alma mater.

"I couldn't be happier," said Fasano, a former star goalie at High Point. "We played very well as a team today. It's exciting to get that first win. High Point always has a good team."

Seniors Alyssa Falleni and Sally Olson scored the goals for Lenape Valley, which started a season filled with high expectations by dethroning what has been Sussex County's top program the previous four seasons. Coach Bev Keur's Wildcats compiled a 76-10-4 mark overall, including a 53-0-1 record during their time in the American Division from 2010-13.

The loss was the first to a Sussex County opponent since High Point dropped a 1-0 decision to Wallkill Valley on Oct. 26, 2012, and the 'Cats' first in a division game since a 2-0 defeat at Vernon on Nov. 9, 2009. Yet, Keur wasn't extremely disappointed with a game in which her team was held to zero shots-on-goal and penalty corners for the first time in recent memory.

"This is a learning curve, said Keur, who lost the bulk of last year's 16-win team, including three would-be starters who decided not to play this season and last year's leading scorer Alexis Ambrosino, a senior forward who transferred to Kittatinny after notching 21 goals in 2013.

"At halftime [down 2-0] we asked what we were going to do about it. Are we going to lay down or do some things to improve. We've been through the practices and scrimmages. You have to think about what we need to do now."

What High Point did was ratchet it up a notch on defense as it held a potent Lenape Valley attack to just one shot-on-goal in the final 30 minutes. Goalie Autumn Smith, who made six saves overall, turned away several threatening shots in the first half that could have put the game out of reach. Senior center back Kristen English, who is the 'Cats' top player, also had a stellar game.

Falleni opened the scoring just under nine minutes in when she connected during a scrum in front of the cage.

"[Goalie Smith] was on the ground and [forward] Kassidy Forik was next to me and we were battling for the ball," said Falleni, who was second on team last year with eight goals. "It got behind the goalie and I just pushed it in."

Olson, last year's Mugs Media Player of the Year, made it a two-goal advantage when she converted on a penalty stroke with 19:04 left in the first half. The rock-solid midfielder and Bucknell recruit said she used a cerebral approach to the shot, which found its way inside the right post.

"My favorite thing is to use the intimidation factor and never stare down where I'm going with it," Olson said. "I was practicing strokes [Thursday]. I like to change it up a lot, which you probably shouldn't do."

Perhaps the only negative for the Patriots was going 0-for-13 on corners. It's something that Fasano will be sure to go over during the next practice.

"It's definitely something we have to improve on," said Fasano, who has all of the starters back from last year's 15-win team that reached the North 1, Group 1 sectional semifinals.

"It was extremely important to come out strong and have possession of the ball, and keep it going from there. Our defense was extremely solid. They're communicating well and working together."

Lenape Valley (1-0, 1-0)              2                   0             --    2
High Point (0-1, 0-1)                    0                   0             --    0

Scoring

First half -- LV, Alyssa Falleni, 1st, 21:26; LV, Olson, 1st, (penalty stroke), 19:04.

Shots -- Lenape Valley 8; High Point 0.

Saves -- Kaylee Gentilucci 0 (LV); Autumn Smith 6 (HP).

Penalty corners -- Lenape Valley 13; High Point 0.

2014 Field Hockey preview: Sussex

High Point Wildcats

Coach: Bev Keur (24th season, 345-119-18 over three stints)

2013 record: 16-2-3, 13-0-1 (first place NJAC American Division)

Key returnees: F Rachel Orr (5 goals, 7 assists), sr.; MF Kristen English, sr.; F Victoria Hennion, sr.; D Danielle Price, sr.; GK Autumn Smith (14 shutouts), sr.; D Lexa Sabo, sr.; MF Cassie O'Hern, so.; F Kayla Halloran, jr.; F Nicole Chirico, sr.

Key losses: F Carly Satter (9 goals, 20 assists); F Brittany DeLima (16 goals); F Alexis Ambrosino (21 goals, 9 assists, transferred to Kittatinny), sr.; F Maddie Smith (5 goals, 11 assists, decided to concentrate on baseketball), jr.; MF Michaela O'Hern; MF Annelise Malgieri; D Caitlyn Slate; D Samantha Havens, sr.; F Tierney Clark, sr.

Top newcomers: F Kelsey Little, so.; F Lizzy Aroune, sr.; D Sarah Dwornikowski, sr.; F Lindsey Sumpman, sr.; MF Jordyn Martin, so.; GK Rebecca Morrison, so.; MF Marissa Sinacore, so.; MF Melissa Way, so.

Outlook: Wildcats lost a lot of offensive firepower from last year's squad that reached the North 1, Group 2 semifinals -- where an 8-0 loss to West Essex ended their season. They'll look to keep up an incredible run of dominance in the new Freedom Division after ending 2013 on a 54-game unbeaten streak in the American Division that sealed a fourth straight title. That division streak will be put to the test early in Friday's season opener against Lenape Valley. Keur's squad lost four starters for this season with Ambrosino (transfer to Kittatinny) and Maddie Smith the biggest blows. Gone are 51 of the team's 60 goals from 2013, so being able to score will be the top priority. That means Orr will have to take charge up front, and keep an eye on Little, a good athlete who saw varsity action as a freshman. Autumn Smith was solid in the cage last season and will anchor what it usually a strong defense. If this team can score, expect the 'Cats to be a tough out.

Kittatinny Cougars

Coach: Emily Murray (second season, 8-8-3).

2013 record: 8-8-3, 7-5-2 (third place NJAC Freedom Division)

Key returnees: D Dana Yanvary, sr.; MF Sunshine Karns (4 assists), sr.; F-MF Melissa Toye, sr.; F-MF Maureen Douglas (4 goals), jr.; MF Jenn Makarevich, sr.; GK Julia Pevarnik (8 shutouts), sr.; D Lindsay McKim, sr.

Key losses: D Madison Lacken.

Top newcomers: F Alexis Ambrosino (transfer from High Point, 21 goals, 9 assists), sr.; F-MF Holly Reznik, jr.; D Jenn Smalley, jr.; F Christina Chernati, jr.; F-MF Ashley Brown, jr.

Outlook: After going 22-39-6 in the previous five seasons, the Cougars enjoyed a marked turnaround a year ago in Murray's first year at the helm. Signs of their progress were evident in 0-0 ties against Lenape Valley and High Point, which are pegged as the top two teams in Sussex this season. Yanvary returns to anchor a defense that yielded 28 goals in 19 games, however 10 of those were in losses to powerhouse Parsippany and Warren Hills. But again, this team's success will hinge on offense as last year's squad produced just 14 goals and scored more than one in a game just three times. The addition of Ambrosino, a star at High Point, instantly improves the offense. This could be a breakout season if all of the pieces come together.

Lenape Valley Patriots

Coach: Lauren Fasano (first season)

2013 record: 15-6-1, 9-4-1 (second place NJAC Freedom Division)

Key returnees: MF Sally Olson (7 goals, 10 assists), sr.; F Alyssa Falleni (8 goals, 9 assists), sr.; F Kassidy Forik (15 goals), sr.; MF Isabelle Becker (5 assists), sr.; MF Julia Leyden, sr.; F Hollis Smith (3 goals, 6 assists), jr.; GK Kaylee Gentilucci (11 shutouts), so.; D Kristen Rafferty, so.; MF Autumn Davidson, sr.; MF Gianna Puco, jr.; D Julia Tomlinson, jr.

Key losses: D Alexa Tambasco.

Top newcomers: D Nicole Guisewhite, jr.; F Judy Defronzo, sr.; D Bianca Hernandez, sr.; MF Bridget Togno, so.; F Bailey Connery, so.

Outlook: In a surprise move, Kate Rothman is not returning as head coach after going 20-34-3 the last three seasons. The Patriots took their lumps in Rothman's first two seasons at the helm and enjoyed a breakout season a year ago with 15 wins and run to the North 1, Group 1 semifinals, where they lost a 1-0 heartbreaker to eventual champ Mountain Lakes. With the bulk of that team back, new coach Fasano, a former star athlete at High Point, inherits a dynamite group. Offensively is where last year's turnaround began as the Pats scored 38 goals, which was a huge improvement over the six goals in 18 games in 2012. Olson, Forik and Falleni all are coming off stellar years. Defensively, Gentilucci was solid in her rookie season in the cage. This should be the team to beat in Sussex County and it will get a chance to prove it right out of the gate in Friday's season opener against High Point. Pats also rate as the favorites in the North 1, Group 1 section.

Newton Braves

Coach: Lisa Bechtel (25th season, 348-125-11)

2013 record: 8-13-1, 4-9-1 (sixth place NJAC Freedom Division)

Key returnees: MF Hannah Ervey, jr.; GK Jenna Zawislak, sr.; MF Jordan Coiro, jr.; F Brittany Schumann (3 goals, 3 assists), so.; MF Natalie Rivas, so.; MF-D Sara Smith, sr.; F Sarah Parks (4 goals, 4 assists), sr.; F Emily Weiss (4 goals), jr.; F Kate Barbato (3 goals), so.

Key losses: F Katherine Kellenberger (13 goals, 8 assists); F Melissa Bencivenga (14 assists); D Paige Zawislak; MF Christine Miserindino.

Top newcomers: MF Brianna Monahos, jr.; MF Anne Paglia, sr.; MF Allison Smith, sr.; MF Ella Wermuth, sr.; GK Amanda Alessandra, jr.; MF Taylor Boyer, so.; MF Lily Estevez, jr.; MF Caitlyn McAdams, jr.; MF Emma Orabone, so.; MF Samantha Owens, jr.; MF-D Jordan Pavlishin, jr.; MF Becky Powers, so.; MF Lisa Qarmout, so.; F Nikki Rizzo, so.; F Olivia Weiss, jr.

Outlook: Braves are coming off a rare sub-.500 season, but they did make a surprising run to the North 1, Group 1 semifinals. This year's squad will need to overcome some tough graduation losses, including offensive leaders Kellenberger (Rhode Island) and Bencivenga. Scoring will be a priority if the program is to get back on track. On defense, Jenna Zawislak did a nice job in her first varsity season a year ago and will be counted on to anchor this group. A .500 season or better is not out of the question, but the Braves, who will be in the new Colonial Division with Kittatinny and Wallkill Valley, will likely struggle against some of the better teams on the schedule.

Pope John Lions

Coach: Gina DiMaio (third season, 12-23-2; 135-93-17 overall in 11 seasons with stints at Hackettstown and Newark Academy)

2013 record: 1-17, 1-13 (eighth place NJAC American Division)

Key returnees: MF Sarah Bramley, sr.; F Molly Romania, sr.; D Baylee Vozza (4 assists), sr.; D Sarah Gonzalez, sr.; GK Sam Scalabrini (7 shutouts), sr.; F Taylor Ross, so.; MF Taylor Bailey, sr.; MF Danielle Grello, so.; GK Kelsey Sullivan (injured), sr.

Top newcomers: MF Carleen O'Connell (transfer from Madison), sr.; F Maddie Jordan, fr.; Cameron Sacco, fr.; GK Erin Johnson, jr.

Outlook: Lions took a step back a year ago after a nice rebound season in 2012. Chalk up the lack of offense for the regression as they scored just seven goals in 18 games, including just one goal in three overtime losses. This fall could be another challenging season, but there is quite a bit of varsity experience returning, so that's a plus. Scalabrini returns to help anchor the defense, along with Vozza. DiMaio has a fine staff with two of her former players at Hackettstown, Sierra DiMaio (daughter) and Heather Kozimor, as assistants, so this team will be well coached. If it can score, this squad should show marked improvement in the wins column.

Sparta Spartans

Coach: Kristin Lindsley (third season, 16-19-1)

2013 record: 11-8-1, 9-4-1 (third place NJAC American Division)

Key returnees: MF Gretchen Bowie (9 goals, 6 assists), jr.; F Rhett Curran (16 goals, 6 assists), jr.; MF Julia Silvestri (3 assists), sr.; F Abby Tracey (4 assists), sr.; MF-D Alex Curran, jr.; MF Kelly Nam, sr.; MF Shannon Monahan, sr.; F Jackie Hallack, so.; D Nicole Gerardiello, sr.

Key losses: D Liz Anderson; F Emily McGuckin; F Aly Matchett (5 assists); GK Julia Keenan (4 shutouts).

Top newcomers: MF-D Isabel Passerini, so.; MF-D Isabella Candeloro, so.; GK Morgan Sullivan, jr.

Outlook: Talk about your turnarounds. After going 8-56-2 from 2009-12, including an 0-16 campaign in '11, the Spartans reeled off 11 wins and were a contender in the American Division, as evidenced by a 1-1 tie at home against High Point that ended the Wildcats' 51-game winning streak in the division. Offensive consistency was the key, scoring 36 goals after just two in '11 and 19 in '12. Bowie and Curran are back to lead that unit, which figures to be strong. Defensively, the losses of Keenan in the cage and Anderson at sweeper hurt. If the defense is solid, you can expect the Spartans to once again be one of the top programs in the county.

Vernon Vikings

Coach: Hollyce Schoepp (fifth season, 39-36-1)

2013 record: 10-9, 7-7 (fifth place NJAC American Division)

Key returnees: D Regina Incarnato (4 goals), sr.; D Lindsay Verrico, jr.; MF Emily Garofalo (7 goals), jr.; GK Lauren Incarnato (8 shutouts), jr.; D Marissa Molloy, sr.; F McKenzie Alter, so.

Key losses: MF Julie Cacace (7 goals); F Julia Hammerton (7 goals); MF Miranda Logan.

Top newcomers: D Brenna DelBagno, so.; MF Erin Keneley, so.; F Brianna White, so.; F Danielle Ward, jr.

Outlook: Vikings rebounded from a tough 4-win season in 2012 to notch double-digit wins for the second time in three seasons after winning 15 games in 2011. The loss of Cacace, a four-year starter, to graduation is big, but the Incarnatos are back to anchor the defense. Defensively, this group should be fine. It's the offense that's a big question mark coming into the fall. The Vikes, who only have three seniors in the lineup, scored 10 goals in their first 14 games last year, and no more than one in any game, before notching 18 over the last five. To be fair, 13 of those came against struggling Morris Hills and Butler squads, before a disappointing 1-0 loss to Mount Olive in the North 1, Group 3 playoffs ended the season. Vernon beat Mount Olive twice during the regular season.

Wallkill Valley Rangers

Coach: Irene Chernati (29th season, 356-184-7)

2013 record: 9-12, 6-8 (fifth place NJAC Freedom)

Key returnees: MF Erica McNaulty, jr.; F Danielle Seabeck (3 goals), so.; F Leah Struble (4 goals), sr.; D Meg Good, sr.; GK Merinda Gruszecki (8 shutouts), sr.; D Casey Murphy, sr.

Key losses: F Casey Pustelniak (14 goals); F Barbara Hannan (4 goals, 6 assists), sr.; MF Katelynn Higgins; MF Emma Chick; D Courtney Berado; F Olivia Shea.

Top newcomers: D Laura David, sr.; D Nicole Fadel, sr.; MF Nicole Hopper, jr.; F Sam Hopper, so.; F Fiona Blake, fr.; MF Caitlyn Mizeski, fr.; F Morgan Carr, fr.

Outlook: Rangers are three years removed from a division title and made a second straight run to the North 1, Group 2 quarterfinals last season -- beating Pequannock, 4-0, in the opening round before being ousted by eventual champion Mountain Lakes, 3-0. Offense has been a question mark in recent seasons, scoring 27 goals last year after notching just 17 in 2012. Defensively, Gruszecki stepped into a tough situation last year with a season-ending injury to the starting goalie and improved as the season wore on. Chernati is a fine coach, so expect this squad to get better as the season rolls on.

2014 Field hockey preview: Hunterdon-Warren

Belvidere County Seaters

Coach: Beth Franceschino (first season of second stint)

2013 record: 6-10-3, 4-5-1 (fourth place Skyland Conference Valley Division)

Key returnees: F Erin Sassaman (6 goals, 8 assists), sr.; F Hannah Koch (7 goals, 3 assists), jr.; MF Elizabeth Dalrymple (5 goals), jr.; F Kara Tipton, so.; F Hannah Mackey, so.; GK Maddie Beaumont (.865 save percentage, 3 shutouts), jr.; D Haley Enslin, sr.; D Mackenzie Sera, jr.; MF-D Paige White, jr.; D Erin Bronico, so.

Key losses: MF Meghan Laubach (5 goals); MF Kaitlyn Robinson.

Top newcomers: D Rachel Dultz, so.; F Katie Spadaccini, jr.; D Rayna Harrison, jr.; MF Traci Kieffer, so.; F-MF Lauren Ostrzyzek, sr.

Outlook: The County Seaters are coming off a sub-.500 campaign in 2013, but there is a renewed optimism with the return of Franceschino, a former star player at the school and successful coach. In her last season in 2004, the program went 10-9-1 and also qualified for the state playoffs in 2003 for the first time since 1996. Sassaman and Koch are among 10 returning starters, with both leading the team on the offensive end a year ago. Beaumont was solid in the cage and will lead what could be a strong defensive unit. Expect this more experienced squad to be much improved from a year ago.

Delaware Valley Terriers

Coach: Stephanie Cirino (fourth season, 21-30-3)

2013 record: 9-10-1, 4-5-1 (fourth place Skyland Conference Raritan Division)

Key returnees: MF Caroline Vath, sr.; MF Alyssa Orrico, sr.; D Brianna Skripko (5 goals), sr.; MF Tina Crotty, sr.; F Katie Maddalena (4 goals), jr.; D Abbey Ferdinando, sr.; F Courtney Soper, jr.; GK Morgan Davies, jr.

Key losses: D-MF Kristen Brokaw; F Robyn Case (5 goals); D Gianna Crotty.

Top newcomers: F Kerrianne Blankenship, jr.; F Ann Bill, so.; MF-D Kat Schutta, so.; D Cassie Blankenship, jr.; D Jeanne Harabedian, so.; F Elizabeth Nugent, jr.; GK Ellis Stanton, fr.; F Riley Ferrera, so.

Outlook: After three straight 6-10-1 seasons, the Terriers jumped up to nine wins in 2013. Lack of offensive firepower has been a problem as last year's squad was shut out 10 times and scored a total of 22 goals -- including seven against an overmatched Notre Dame-East Stroudsburg (Pa.) squad. No other game produced more than two goals. Skirpko co-led the team in goals a year ago, while Maddalena followed with four. The move to the Valley Division should help a bit, thought state power Voorhees and Bernards will be tough opponents. A lot of this team's success will rely simply on being able to score.

Hackettstown Tigers

Coach: Stephen Speirs (fifth season, 35-38-2)

2013 record: 12-8, 8-6 (fourth place NJAC Freedom Division)

Key returnees: F Kelly Healy (8 goals, 3 assists), sr.; D Marissa Siconolfi, jr.; D Allana Fitzgerald, sr.; D Michaela Sass, jr.; F Samantha Strathern (5 goals), jr.; MF Kaitlyn Keiser, sr.; F Erica Salus, sr.; GK Rose Bishop (7 shutouts), jr.

Key losses: F Kalie Thies (13 goals, 12 assists); MF Nicole Andes (4 goals, 3 assists); F Sierramarie Fitzgerald (10 goals, 11 assists); F Michelle Carlson (11 goals); MF Nicole Felicetti.

Top newcomers: F Cayla Andrews, jr.; D Kristen Bulka, sr.; D Emily Burke, sr.; D Sarah Crawford, sr.; F Madison Kennedy, jr.; F Elizabeth Wolosin, sr.; F Kayli Yeisley, jr.; F Molly Gorczyca, so.

Outlook: Tigers rose above the .500 mark for the first time since 2009 a year ago, and made the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex title game, giving Warren Hills all it could handle in a 1-0 loss. The season ended five days later with a 2-0 loss to Voorhees in the North 1, Group 2 playoffs. After taking a major step forward, this group has the potential for another special season despite heavy graduation losses on the offensive side. The defense should be solid, as Bishop is coming off a solid campaign in her first season on the varsity level. With plenty of experienced players, you can expect this team to challenge for a division title.

Hunterdon Central Red Devils

Coach: Jenn Sponzo (16th season, 208-108-16)

2013 record: 18-7, 10-2 (second place Skyland Conference Delaware Division)

Key returnees: F Kendall Nickel (17 goals, 12 assists), sr.; F Taylor Barrett (15 goals, 10 assists), sr.; MF Kailey Dalgauer (5 goals), sr.; D Erin Vecchio, sr.; GK Hannah Cecchini (8 shutouts), sr.

Key losses: MF Allison Baligian (10 assists); MF Jane Higley (9 goals, 4 assists); D Annie Hosler; MF Morgan Lojek; D Hailey Kohler; F Sarah Pulkowski (13 goals); F Julie Hyland; F Veronica Fostik.

Top newcomers: F Maddie Freeman, jr.; MF Nikki Freeman, so.; MF Amanda Whitlock, jr.; MF Adrianna Ruggieri, jr.

Outlook: The Red Devils are coming off back-to-back North 2, Group 4 sectional championships, winning their seventh last year under Sponzo, who is the school's all-time coaching wins leader. This program is among the area's elite and you can expect a challenge for a third straight sectional title, though nemesis Bridgewater-Raritan is back in North 2. Offensively, Central has gone from 11 goals in 2010 to 48 in '11 to 51 in '12 to 69 in '13. That's been the key to its resurgence. Nickel and Barrett form a potent 1-2 punch. Defense, which is a hallmark of Sponzo's teams, is a bit of a question mark, though Cecchini did a nice job in the cage in her first varsity season a year ago.

North Hunterdon Lions

Coach: Suzanne Toke (second season, 2-15-1).

2013 record: 2-15-1, 1-10-1 (seventh place Skyland Conference Delaware Division)

Key returnees: MF Grace Plassche, sr.; F Jamie Ruggiero, sr.; MF Caroline Coleman, sr.; F Molly Walsh (4 goals), sr.; D Sarah VanDuynhoven, sr. D Alyssa Bennett, sr.; GK Liz Rotolo, jr.

Key losses: F Madison Martino; MF-D Amanda Lambert; MF Emily Baldwin.

Top newcomers: D Kim Faust, sr.; F Taylor Cole, sr.; MF-D Corryn Fiorella, sr.; F Emily Fiorelli, sr.; MF Jaclyn Fleming, sr.; MF Jenna Macri, jr.; F Christina Chamberlin, jr.; F-MF Amy Sroka, jr.; MF Alara Murphy, jr.; D Natalie Thompson, jr.; D Taylor Danson, jr.; D Catrina Nelson, jr..

Outlook: The good news for the Lions is that numbers are up and with 11 seniors (10 returning with varsity experience) it seems the program is back on track after hitting rock bottom with a winless campaign in 2012. In 2013, North won two games under first-year coach Toke, who inherited a program that went 34-75-3 the previous five seasons, including a a state playoff appearance in 2010. Scoring goals will be key to a turnaround as last year's squad produced just nine in 18 games, up from seven in 2012. Walsh was the leading scorer with four goals, while Ruggiero and Plassche are also solid players. The Lions return their goalie in Rotolo, so keeping opposing offenses out of the cage also will be critical to any success.

North Warren Patriots

Coach: Laura Kasa (fifth season, 12-61-3)

2013 record: 4-14-2, 1-11-2 (eighth place NJAC Freedom Division)

Key returnees: F-MF Jessica Towey (9 goals), sr.; F Megan Stevens (5 goals), sr.; GK Jenna Sagan, so.; MF-D Gianna Lorusso, jr.; MF Kelsy Conlon, jr.; MF Elena Benson (5 goals), sr.; MF Kaitlin Bertholf, sr.; D Amanda Konecnik, sr.

Key losses: D Kathleen Wadiak; F Rebecca Hendershot; MF Laura Gessler; MF Lauren Miano (6 goals, 6 assists).

Top newcomers: F Claudia Wetzel, jr.; MF Sydney MacDonough, so.; D Elinor Dowd, so.

Outlook: After a combined 13 wins the last three seasons, the Patriots are striving for more consistency in 2014. Towey, a four-year starter who had back-to-back six-goal seasons before popping in nine a year ago, will be counted on again to lead an offense that produced 28 goals last season, up from 16 in 2012.. The defense needs to be improved after yielding 61 goals last fall. Having a returning goalie with varsity experience in Sagan will help. Kasa says after teaching the basics the last couple of seasons, this group will be a tough matchup for any team in the new Colonial Division.

Phillipsburg Stateliners

Coach: Jennifer Paulus (fourth season, 22-34-2)

2013 record: 2-13-2, 1-7-2 (sixth place Skyland Conference Raritan Division)

Key returnees: F Kylie Marhold (3 goals), jr.; MF Emily DiMarco, sr.; D Lacey O'Dowd, jr.; GK Rachael Horun, sr.; F-MF Ellie Zgoda, jr.; MF Viktoria Schultz, sr.; F-MF Kerianne Vianden, sr.

Key losses: F Marissa Perino (4 goals); MF Gabby Jackson; F Janelle Jackson.

Top newcomers: F Abby Evans, fr.

Outlook: Stateliners may be primed for a breakout campaign coming off a tough two-win season, the program's second-lowest total since going winless in its inaugural year in 1962. A turnaround will start on the offensive side as last year's team scored a total of just eight goals in 17 games and was shut out 12 times, including a 4-0 loss at Randolph in the North 1, Group 4 playoffs. Marhold will be counted on up front, while the midfield group will be anchored by DiMarco and Schultz. Horun returns in the cage which is a bonus for the defense, while O'Dowd is a solid back. Another plus is the addition of Toni Popinko, a former star player at Warren Hills, on the coaching staff. Expect big improvement from this group in 2014.

South Hunterdon Eagles

Coach: Stephanie Davis (first season)

2013 record: 16-5, 9-1 (second place Skyland Conference Valley Division)

Key returnees: F Ashley Eick (14 goals), jr.; MF Natalie Muscatell, sr.;  F Kate Shaffer, so.

Key losses: MF Amber Dey (14 goals, 16 assists); F Kaycee Zelkovsky (36 goals, 11 assists); F Brett Lelie (5 goals, 7 assists); GK Samantha Soscia (12 shutouts).

Top newcomers: GK Giovanna Rubino, so.; D Kendall Storicella, so.

Outlook: The Eagles lost eight starters from last year's 16-win team, a marked turnaround for a proud program and once state powerhouse in Group 1 that had fallen on hard times in recent seasons. Davis takes over the head coaching duties and will count on Eick to help lead a young squad on offense. Scoring goals will be a challenge after the graduation of Dey and Zelkovsky, who combined for 50 of the team's 72 goals in 2013. Defense also will be a question mark with a new goalie. Expect this to be a rebuilding season for the Hunterdon County school.

Voorhees Vikings

Coach: Taylor Webb (fourth season, 43-14-1)

2013 record: 16-5, 9-1 (T-first place Skyland Conference Raritan Division)

Key returnees: F Hannah Ryan, sr.; F Kathryn Roncoroni (33 goals, 6 assists), jr.; MF Hannah Schiavo, so.; GK Lauren Pianucci (9 shutouts), sr.; F Abby Flagler (4 goals, 4 assists), sr.; MF Isabelle Houser (4 assists), jr.; D Lexi Crans, jr.; D Morgan McCord, jr.

Key losses: MF Tori Crans (11 assists); F Ashley Kerekgyarto (10 goals, 7 assists); GK Kathryn Boyce; D Maggie Freibergs; D Haley Irving; MF Emily Scheier.

Top newcomers: MF Sam Nicol, jr.; D Hannah Parnham, jr.; D Gillian Panreck, jr.; GK Charlee Wood, sr.

Outlook: Vikings are making the move from the Raritan to the Valley Division, ending, at least for the time being, their annual league rivalry with archrival Warren Hills. It also makes Webb's team a clear favorite for a division title after sharing it a year ago. Roncoroni is one of the area's most prolific and talented offensive players, as she matched the school's single-season goals record as a sophomore. She could shatter it this season. Plenty of talent surrounds her, including Schiavo who burst onto the scene last year as a freshman. Always tough on defense, the group will be anchored by senior goalie Pianucci, who shared the job before Boyce's season-ending leg injury in the team's 11th game in '13. This team is solid and well-coached, and is expected to make a title run in the county tournament and state playoffs after moving back to North 2.

Warren Hills Blue Streaks

Coach: Laurie Kerr (15th season, 241-67-12)

2013 record: 22-4-1, 9-1 (T-first place Skyland Conference Raritan Division)

Key returnees: F Sydney Muntone (23 goals, 12 assists), sr.; MF Nikki Profita (19 goals, 13 assists), sr.; F Dani Profita (16 goals, 10 assists), so.; F Jessica Nissen (13 goals), sr.; D Amanda Crampton (5 goals, 10 assists), sr.; D Allie Brouhard, sr.; MF Katie Thompson, jr.; D Amanda Oberly, sr.; D Rachel Phillips, jr.

Key losses: MF Nikki Schott (8 goals, 11 assists); D Melanie Loth.

Top newcomers: F Megan Thompson, jr.; MF Julie DeSanto, jr.; MF Tali Popinko, fr.; F Caroline Cotte, so.; D Brie Schwab, so.; D Mikayla Dugan, fr.; GK Jackie de Raismes, so.

Outlook: Blue Streaks are annually in the championship discussion. After coming off their third straight division title and a another run to a Group 3 state title game, this loaded group is ready to end the program's 0-8 mark in state finals. This year's squad is once again loaded with talent. The forward line is full of star players, as Muntone and Nikki Profita have combined for 38 and 42 goals the last two years. Nissen also chipped in with 16 and 13 in 2012 and '13, respectively. Dani Profita is coming off ACL surgery, but she provided a glimpse of her star power with 16 goals as a freshman. As good as the offense is, the defense is exceptional with Crampton as one of the best backs in the area and state. During a 19-game win streak a year ago, the Streaks allowed just five goals. Junior Taylor Austin (18 shutouts) was solid in the cage last season, but she has decided to concentrate on softball. A killer independent schedule includes Madison on Saturday and state powerhouse Eastern later in the season down in South Jersey.

Wrestling: P'burg rallies to win Pin Cancer clash

WASHINGTON TWP. -- There aren't many summertime wrestling rivalries to speak of, but Phillipsburg and Washington have a pretty good thing going -- and for a worthy cause.

The third installment of the annual Pin Cancer match did not disappoint the 600 or so fans in the stands as P'burg won the final six bouts to post a 34-19 victory at Warren Hills School District Stadium.

P'burg seniors Steve Friedman and Max Elling -- two Pin Cancer veterans -- were among the winners down the stretch. Friedman's 8-2 win over talented freshman Jarod Ostir at 154 pounds started the run, while Elling needed just 18 seconds to deck Brendan Stewart to tie the match at 19.

"It's been pretty good [to wrestle in this three times] and it's fun to be outside," said Elling, who has amassed 85 wins on the high school level in three seasons. "This is fun. This is a rivalry, but nothing like Easton-P'burg. We were pretty confident."

Pins by Yann Ondele at 185 and Joe Maso in the final bout at 220 sandwiched Tim Hinkle's thrilling 8-5 win over Kurt Nemeth at 197 to close it out. Ondele's stunning pin in a 5-2 bout at the time gave P'burg its second lead at 25-19. John Kaluzny added an impressive 13-3 decision over Anthony Roessner at 162.

P'burg coach Dave Post was pleased with the effort by his team, which was without two of its top wrestlers in Corey Zinsmeister and Jimmy Schuitema. Last-minute fill-in Chris Ruiz did a nice job in a 9-1 loss to Austin Pidoto, while DJ Wissing gave three-time state qualifier Max Nauta all he could handle before dropping a 4-2 decision in sudden victory.

Wissing got the first takedown and led 2-0 after the first period (bouts were three periods of 1 1/2 minutes). Despite Nauta's superior mat prowess, Wissing took bottom to start the second period and was ridden out. Nauta was down to start the third and got a reversal to force overtime before converting the winning takedown with nine seconds left in OT.

"We gave DJ the option [to start the second period] and he wanted to challenge himself -- he started pointing down right away [after Nauta deferred the choice]," Post said. "Chris Ruiz was a quarter-turn with his hips from possibly winning that match [with Pidoto]."

Coach Jarrett Hosbach's team started strong by winning six of the first seven bouts, including five in a row after P'burg state runner-up Brandon Paetzell's pin at 115. Freshman Kyle Wulff scored an impressive 7-3 win over Kyle Markus in the opening bout at 107, while John Fluck got a third-period reversal for a 2-1 win over Tyler Agans to start Washington's run of five straight.

In another tight one, sophomore Zach Nauta got an escape and a takedown in the third period for a 4-2 win over Donald Agans at 135. Brother Max's win stretched Washington's lead to 15-6 before Pidoto's major made it a 13-point margin. Pidoto trailed 1-0 after two periods, but he caught Ruiz for five points in the third and added a three-point nearfall late to secure the major, his team's lone bonus-point win.

"I thought both of our freshmen [Wulff and Ostir] wrestled well," said Hosbach, whose team was without star heavyweight Andrew Pacheco, who is on vacation. "We're at everything [P'burg] is at from the first dual tournament in April through the summer. We'll see them again next week at the [Warren County] Farmer's Fair."

About the only downside to the evening was the condensation problem on the mat that surfaced about halfway through the match. It prompted some slippery conditions and breaks between bouts to dry the mat. It was a first-time occurrence and it has both coaches considering some options for next year, such as moving the date up in July.

"It was tough. I had to go down to a knee," Elling said.

Both coaches are proud to take part in an annual event that seems to be growing in popularity each year. And they are always looking to tweaks things to make it even better.

"This is a great event and it's so much fun to be a part of, and it's fun for the kids," Hosbach said. "And it's for a great cause."

"This is a learning process. We learn something new each time," said Post, whose team enjoyed a 14-9 advantage in takedowns. "You want to put on a good show for the fans or you can't bring the people back."

PHILLIPSBURG 34, WASHINGTON 19
107 -- Kyle Wulff, W, d. Kyle Markus, 7-3.
115 -- Brandon Paetzell, P, p. Tommy Vega, 2:18.
123 -- John Fluck, W, d. Tyler Agans, 2-1.
130 -- Matt Valli, W, d. Shane Saydek, 7-1.
135 -- Zach Nauta, W, d. Donald Agans, 4-2.
140 -- Max Nauta, W, d. DJ Wissing, 4-2 OT.
145 -- Austin Pidoto, W, md. Chris Ruiz, 9-1.
154 -- Steve Friedman, P, d. Jarod Ostir, 8-2.
162 -- John Kaluzny, P, md. Anthony Roessner, 13-3.
173 -- Max Elling, P, p. Brendan Stewart, :18.
185 -- Yann Ondele, P, p. Anthony Casiano, 3:49.
197 -- Tim Hinkle, P, d. Kurt Nemeth, 8-5.
220 -- Joe Maso, P, p. Taylan Zafis, :42.
Officials -- Chip Castner and Frank Leitner.

'Liners-Blue Streaks lineups for Pin Cancer match

The third annual Pin Cancer match between Phillipsburg and Washington will be held on Friday on the turf at Warren Hills School District Stadium. Match time is 7 p.m.

Phillipsburg defeated Warren Hills, 65-9, when the teams met during the 2013-14 high school season in Washington.

Ticket price is $5. All proceeds go to cancer research and development. Check out http://www.pincancer.org/ for more information on this tremendous organization.

Both teams will be missing state qualifiers as Phillpsburg's Jimmy Schuitema and Warren Hills' Andrew Pacheco will not compete. The Streaks will forfeit 285.

Tentative matchups are listed below with Phillipsburg listed first.

107 -- Kyle Markus vs. Kyle Wulff
115 -- Brandon Paetzell vs. Tommy Vega/Ryan Mosher
123 -- Tyler Agans vs. John Fluck
130 -- Shane Saydek vs. Matt Valli
135 -- Donald Agans vs. Zach Nauta
140 -- DJ Wissing vs. Max Nauta
145 -- Corey Zinsmeister vs. Austin Pidoto
154 -- Steve Friedman vs. Jarod Ostir
162 -- Jack Kaluzny vs. Anthony Roessner
173 -- Max Elling vs. Bryce Butka
185 -- Yann Ondele vs. Anthony Casiano
197 -- Tim Hinkle vs. Kurt Nemeth
220 -- Joe Maso vs. Taylin Zafis
285 -- Robert Melise vs. Open

(Box from this past season's high school dual)

PHILLIPSBURG 65, WARREN HILLS 9
152 -- Jr. Jimmy Schuitema, P, p. Sr. Esco Blaylock, 1:10.
160 -- Jr. Max Elling, P, p. Sr. Ryan Ostir, 4:55.
170 -- Sr. Broderick Bupivi, P, p. So. Kurt Nemeth, 2:28.
182 -- Sr. Jake Kocsis, P, d. Sr. Steve Cleaver, 6-1.
195 -- Jr. Joe Maso, P, p. Sr. Nigel Taylor, 3:10.
220 -- Fr. Drew Horun, P, d. Sr. Ryan Witner, 3-2.
285 -- Jr. Andrew Pacheco, WH, forfeit.
106 -- So. Kyle Markus, P, p. So. Ryan Mosher, 2:53.
113 -- So. Brandon Paetzell, P, tf. Fr. Matt Valli, 20-5, 4:18.
120 -- Fr. Zach Nauta, WH, d. So. DJ Wissing, 10-6.
126 -- Sr. Tylor Petchonka, P, p. Jr. Austin Pidoto, 2:37.
132 -- Jr. Steve Friedman, P, p. Jr. Carsen Johnson, 3:18.
138 -- Jr. Corey Zinsmeister, P, p. Jr. Max Nauta, 1:06.
145 -- Sr. Garrett Wolfinger, P, p. So. Anthony Roessner, 2:46.

Mat notes: Group 5 will ruin great day in Toms River

It's been a few weeks, but leave it to high school wrestling to fire up a blog in the dead of summer.

The latest hot-button issue surfaced in the last few days when many coaches and Open Mike learned of a proposed Group 5 for wrestling via e-mail. The first thought is much like the second, third and so on.

In a word: dumb.

There are so many reasons why expansion of sections and groups is a bad idea that it's hard to find a starting point. First and foremost, this idea is all about money. Whatever else you hear, including how the NJSIAA and executive director Steve Timko will try to spin this latest travesty to high school athletics, is merely a facade. It's about dollars. More teams equals more entry fees and more fans at the gates.

On the latter, this proposal, which according to numerous sources, will almost assuredly pass despite plenty of opposition to it. Count Phillipsburg as one of those heavily against this move.

"Where does it end? Why stop at five groups, why not six or eight?," coach Dave Post said. "Less groups adds more legitimacy. I don't really understand it. If it's about adding more teams then why not just go from six [qualifiers in sectionals] to eight. But don't add another group. It's making a mockery of the group tournament that we have now."

This expansion will destroy one of the best, if not the greatest, ideas ever hatched by the state to house all of the group championships at one site. A tremendous and exciting day at Toms River North -- slated for Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015 -- which showcases the sport, will have to turn into a multiple day event. There's no way it can be done in one day, unless you sacrifice the integrity further by starting earlier and using two gyms, which according to sources, is one plan. Two gyms? Who wants that setup? The whole impetus for this one-day showcase was so that fans could see all of the action in one place. Now, they'll have to hop from gym to gym?

And how would they work the schedule with five groups? If sectional finals stay on Friday, how can you ask teams to wrestle Friday, Saturday and Sunday, especially with travel as an issue for some teams?

This past season's show at Toms River was perhaps the finest in tournament history. How about the excitement generated by High Point's 34-33 win over Hanover Park in last year's Group 2 final, when the Wildcats reeled off pins in the final four bouts to secure their second straight title. Or freshman Robert Melise's stunning pin to send P'burg on its way to an 18th title and an unbeaten season with a 32-21 win over Southern in the Group 4 tilt.

Everyone in attendance was glued to the action. Now, they'll potentially have to pick and choose which gym to go to?

"We've developed a great competitive [rivalry] with Brick Memorial and Southern and you would miss that," said Post, whose teams won Group 4 titles in thrilling fashion over those two opponents in 2012 and '14. "Our kids like the challenge of seeing them down there."

In my opinion, along with many others I've spoken to, high school football in this state has taken a downturn because of this same expansion. Group 5 on the gridiron has watered down the competition, so much so that a sub-.500 Warren Hills team reached the North 2, Group 4 sectional final in 2012 and did not beat one playoff team over .500 to do it. That also was the first year that sub-.500 teams were allowed to qualify, another money maker for the state.

Why do we need this in wrestling? To give other teams a chance to win a trophy? It would appear that's the focus on all sports these days, heck, they give them out on the youth level like candy. Look at conference alignments in the NJAC and Skyland for example. Multiple divisions, and in the NJAC's case, some with only four teams. Beat three teams and call yourself a champion. Really? Doesn't anyone want to earn a title anymore instead of crying how tough a section is and actually competing against the best?

"I would rather see the sectionals expand to eight teams," said Newton coach Eric Bollette, whose program could potentially benefit from the expansion by potentially shifting perennial title favorite Kittatinny to North 1, Group 2. He's also stated that he'd rather face and beat Kittatinny for a championship.

Post cited the 2009 Group 3 tournament, when a loaded High Point team was banned from competing in the North 1, Group 3 sectional tournament due to violating the 70 percent rule for too many out-of-state matches. High Point would have been a big favorite to win its section and the Group 3 title that year, having already defeated Phillipsburg for the first time in program history -- 30-22 at The Pit during the regular season.

Instead, the 'Liners -- then coached by Jason Magditch -- cruised to the title by waxing Hammonton (56-10) in the G3 semis and Montville (52-6) in the final at Toms River.

"It was odd for me to see and the look on our kids faces of, did we really accomplish something," said Post, who was an assistant coach that season. "No disrespect to Montville, which had a really good team, but High Point should have been down there. We had a great match with them, and I'm not sure if we could've beaten them or not. But that's always been in the back of my mind."

Delaware Valley coach Andy Fitz, who admittedly won't be affected by this proposal, intends to vote yes on it. Fitz cites the enthusiasm generated by his school's football program qualifying for the sectional playoffs as a positive thing.

Make no mistake, one look at the current sectional alignments in wrestling and it's clear where this proposal is coming from and that's the Shore Conference, which got the ball rolling on discussions for realigning individual districts and regions. In Central Jersey, Group 4, you have Brick Memorial, Howell and Jackson Memorial all together. Tough for sure, and I get that point.

But instead of expansion to Group 5, we ought to be banging our collective heads to figure out a way to get the best four teams to Toms River and proceed with a Tournament of Champions from that point. Going to five groups only takes a T of C further out of the equation.

The hope is that most schools' coaches will vote this down next month. That is if they even know about it. Another strange twist to this thing is that an email -- which first originated from Robbinsville -- from the region presidents to coaches and administrators went out on Tuesday. A vote is to be done at league and conference meetings on Aug. 14. The NJSIAA has stated that the 2014-15 wrestling classifications will not be released until a decision is reached on expansion.

"I had no idea this was even being talked about," Post said.

If there is a favorable response, it will be presented to the program review and finance committees for approval, and if approved by both bodies, it will then be presented to the executive committee for first reading on Sept. 10. So that leaves one month to figure all of this out before a first vote. Very strange indeed.

The again, nothing should surprise us in New Jersey wrestling circles. Stay tuned to see where this one winds up.

Newton camp rousing success

Former Braves wrestler and Princeton University coach Chris Ayres was the fifth and final guest clinician in an outstanding lineup on Friday at the annual Newton Summer Wrestling Camp.

Former state champions David Zabriskie of High Point, Will Livingston of Kittatinny and Chris Skretkowicz of Wallkill Valley, along with former state runner-up Ted Sibblies of Newton, were also featured over the week-long event at Henry Boresch Memorial Gym.

Zabriskie won a national title at Iowa State University and is an assistant coach at Lehigh University, while Skretkowicz was a two-time All-American at Hofstra and is the head coach at Virginia Military Institute. Ayres earned All-American honors and won an EIWA title at Lehigh.

"It has been a great week getting to learn from Sussex County's most successful wrestlers," Bollette said. "The campers learned wrestling in all positions, as well as how to prepare mentally and physically at both wrestling and life. It is great to see so many local legends give back to the sport and the area."

Back points

According to reliable sources, former Morris Knolls wrestler Daniel Percelay, a rising sophomore, will be joining DePaul. Former Blair Academy wrestler Brady Ford will attend Bergen Catholic this fall.

Percelay went 20-6, splitting time at 106 and 113, but he was bumped out of the Knolls lineup for the postseason.

Dave Sbriscia was recently hired as a health and physical education teacher at Warren Hills, seemingly paving the way for him to join Jarrett Hosbach's staff as an assistant for 2014-15. Sbriscia, a former standout wrestler for the Blue Streaks, had previously been an assistant at North Warren.

Nothing earth shattering came out of the recent meeting to discuss realignment for the district and region tournaments. According to sources, some changes are expected to be made in the future, but not for the 2015 tournaments. One curious thing to me is that everyone is citing Region 1 and its total of 34 teams -- the fewest in the state -- as an example for change. But keep in mind that Region 1 lost Delaware Valley (which moved to Region 5 in 2001), Passaic Tech (which moved to Group 4 in 2006) and Sussex Tech (which folded the program after the 2004-05 season) and no one said a word or voiced a proposal to replace those schools.

Construction at the new Phillipsburg High School is coming along and the project is expected to be completed in time for 2016-17 school year. With any luck, the 'Liners will get in the mix to host the Hunterdon-Warren-Sussex Tournament. The school, which will feature a huge state-of-the-art gymnasium, has already expressed a desire to hold the event.

If successful, it could mean one more year at Hunterdon Central in 2016 before P'burg could potentially take over for 2018. Hopatcong, which currently rotates with Central, will host in 2015 and would be scheduled for its next turn in 2017. The Sussex County school has been a great host, but it's losing longtime athletic director Tom Vara, who has been a great leader of this tournament, and its future as a semi-annual site may be in doubt.