Rams start season with a Win

HAVERLING-14 at GANANDA-2 in a Non-League game. Haverling opened its season with a 14-2 non-league road win over Gananda on Monday. The Blue Devils scored five goals in each of the first two quarters to build a commanding lead, with seven different players finding the net on the night. McLane Stermole handled most of the work in goal for Haverling, stopping four of six shots for a 67% save percentage over 45 minutes.

Leading the way for Haverling (1-0) was sophomore Drew Spears with three goals and one assist. Freshman attackman Mason Rooks and freshman midfielder Mason Calkins each scored two goals, with Rooks adding an assist — all career firsts for both players. Zach Colegrove added two goals and one assist, Caden Fairbrother contributed two goals and one assist, Warren McCormick chipped in two goals, and Noah Schneider added one goal and three assists. Senior defenseman Zach Sehm recorded his first varsity assist in the contest.

For Gananda (0-1), Cameron Richards scored both goals for the Blue Panthers, though no further stats were available from the team at post-time.

The series between the two programs is now knotted at six wins apiece. Haverling will travel to Marcus Whitman on Wednesday, March 25 at 7:15 PM, while Gananda will host Bloomfield-Honeoye on Wednesday, March 25 at 6:00 PM.

Week In Review - Week 1

EDITOR'S NOTE: This weekly summary touches on some of the games played in the recent past and highlights some games of interest in the current week. For more in-depth coverage, click on the DAY OF THE WEEK for more coverage for that day, including box scores, articles, and galleries.

There were just three games played last week. There are Eighty-two out of section games scheduled and 1 was played last week. Section V teams have won 0 and lost 1 (62% wins). There are three undefeated teams at this point.

Looking Back

This week’s lacrosse action delivered thrilling finishes and dominant performances across 48 games. The most exciting matchups saw Bishop Kearney, Livonia-Avon-Geneseo, Pal-Mac, and Baldwinsville all securing dramatic overtime victories, while Victor mounted a late comeback to edge McQuaid Jesuit 11-10.Pittsford added another overtime thriller with a 12-11 win over Fayetteville-Manlius behind Avery Valenti’s seven-goal effort. Meanwhile, several teams showcased their firepower with decisive wins, including Wayne’s commanding 21-11 victory over Newark and JD’s 21-13 triumph over McQuaid Jesuit. The week also saw standout individual performances, such as Domenic Giangreco’s milestone 500 career faceoff wins and Penn Yan’s Teagan Fingar and Gananda’s Nick Falso earning Player of the Week honors. However, weather disruptions left some games suspended or postponed, adding uncertainty as the regular season nears its final stretch

Thursday: Hilton Tops Thomas 10-7
Hilton opened its season with a 10-7 non-league win over Thomas on March 19, fueled by Drew Brien (3g-2a), Cahlan Smith (2g-1a), Tyler Reger (1g-2a), and Anthony Mitrano (2g), with junior Michael Charella scoring his first varsity goal; sophomore goalie Brendan Maxwell stopped 15 of 22 shots (68%). Thomas was led by Lucas Estelle (3g-2a) and Blake Jipson (2g), with junior Logan Muisus also netting his first varsity goal, as goalie Joshua Jobson stopped 10 of 20 shots (50%) in the loss.

Saturday: Pal-Mac and Spencerport Take Opening Wins
Pal-Mac and Spencerport each opened their seasons with non-league wins on Saturday. Pal-Mac defeated Churchville-Chili 13-1, led by Max Hill (4g-3a), Jackson Dennie (4g-1a), Brandon Dennie (1g-3a), Reid Diehl (2g-2a), and Branden Thomas (2g), with sophomore Joey Hagen earning his first varsity assist. Junior goalie Drew Ikewood stopped 11 of 12 shots (92%), while Churchville-Chili's goal came from Jack Sloan with an assist from Jaxson Leonard. In the other game, Spencerport rolled past Grand Island (Section VI) 18-4, paced by Gavin Brown (5g-3a), Zach Tortora (4g), Tyler Wentworth (3g-1a), and Mason Endres (4a), with eighth grader Maddox Harding scoring his first varsity goal; Grand Island got two goals from Nik Korte and one each from Dominic Nucci and Dominic Hanel.

Looking Ahead

In the first full week of games in the new season, there are twenty-night games on the schedule as twenty-two teams start their 2026 campaign. 

Monday kicks off with Haverling at Gananda.

Tuesday has HFL at C-C, Pittsford at Thomas, Schroeder at Spencerport and Fairport at Penfield among the interesting lineups.

Wednesday has three games scheduled: B-H at Gananda, Haverling at Marcus Whitman and St. Francis at Aquinas for their annual contest. It will be the debut of new Head Coach Joe Urlacher at Marcus Whitman.

Thursday will see nine games played. Among the interesting contests are Wayne at C-C, Fairport at Spencerport, R-H at Brighton, where new R-H Head Coach Sam Hillmon will take the helm. Penfield is at Victor and Hilton is at Pittsford.

On Friday, AQ is at Thomas and HFL is at Haverling.

Saturday will see seven games including West Genesee at Victor and Irondequoit at Canandaigua.

Get ready for an exciting season beginning, and don’t forget to check the full schedule and game times on the games page.

2026 Preview: Churchville-Chili

Churchville-Chili Looks to Advance

Preseason Outlook

Churchville-Chili begins the 2026 season aiming to grow from a 6–11 finish in 2025. With six seniors graduated, the Saints turn to a roster with nine rising seniors, five juniors, and

five sophomores. The team returns 51 percent of its goals and 57 percent of its assists, giving the program a workable core of contributors as it prepares for another competitive season in Class B. While last year featured eleven losses by more than five goals, Churchville-Chili also showed flashes of potential, winning five games by similar margins and competing in one close contest.

Returning Players

Several key players return after earning recognition in Monroe County Division III. Defender Joey Allen leads the defensive unit after earning second-team All-League honors. Isaac Bailey returns as a major contributor in the midfield following a season in which he scored 13 goals, added 5 assists, and took over 140 faceoffs while earning first-team SSDM honors. Defender/LSM Larry Copeland also strengthens the backfield as an honorable-mention selection.

On the offensive end, the Saints are anchored by attackman Jaxon Leonard, who delivered 43 goals and 13 assists and earned second-team All-League recognition. With nearly half of last year’s scoring production returning and several award-winning players back in key roles, Churchville-Chili enters 2026 with meaningful experience across the field.

Coaching Information

Head Coach Ryan Yunker returns for his third season. A Churchville-Chili graduate himself, Yunker continues to guide a young roster working toward greater consistency and improvement.

Games This Year

Churchville-Chili’s 2026 schedule includes several Monroe County Division III matchups. League contests include games against Gates Chili on April 11 and Canandaigua on May 5. These matchups will help shape the Saints’ position within MC3.

Non-league games also make up a substantial portion of the schedule. Opponents include Midlakes (April 8), Rush-Henrietta (May 1), Schroeder (May 13), and Penfield (May 18). The slate resembles last year’s mix of opponents, which contributed to both high-scoring wins and challenging defensive tests.

Statistical Overview

Churchville-Chili scored 146 goals in 2025, averaging 8.6 goals per game, while allowing 224 goals for a 13.2 goals-against average. Five wins came by more than five goals, while eleven losses were by similar margins. With 75 returning goals and 39 returning assists, the Saints enter 2026 with a statistical profile that suggests both experience and opportunities for improvement on both ends of the field.

THE HEAD COACH DID NOT RESPOND TO REQUESTS TO REVIEW THIS STORY BEFORE PUBLICATION.

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.

2026 Preview: Schroeder

Schroeder Looks to Stabilize in 2026

Roster Outlook

Schroeder enters the 2026 season following a 5-12 campaign and returns just over half of its offensive production. The Warriors graduated six seniors, including midfielders Parker Brown, Garrett Callahan, and Garrett Conger, long-stick midfielder Ross Champlin, defender Nate Jones, and attackman Brennan Robinson. Two of those graduates earned all-league honors, leaving meaningful roles to fill across the field.

Even with those departures, the team brings back 54% of its goals and 57% of its assists from last season. With eight rising seniors, eleven juniors, and one sophomore, Schroeder enters the new year with a strong upper-class presence and a clearer sense of direction.

Returning Standouts

Several returning players earned league recognition last season and will anchor the 2026 lineup. 

Van Bolton, a 2027 goalie, returns after posting a 53.1% save percentage and earning All-League Honorable Mention Goalie (MC-d2). His experience provides stability in the defensive end. John Caricati, a 2027 midfielder and faceoff specialist, won 163+/129- at the X and earned All-League Honorable Mention FO Midfield (MC-d2). His ability to generate possessions remains a key asset. Jonny May, a 2027 attack/midfielder, contributed 17 goals and 4 assists and earned All-League Honorable Mention Midfield (MC-d2). His versatility gives the offense a reliable returning option.

Coaching Information

Schroeder continues under Head Coach Justin Ross, who enters his second season leading the program. Ross became head coach part-way through the 2025 season after serving as an assistant and finished with a 3-7 scholastic record, which also stands as his overall mark at Schroeder. With a full offseason and a returning core, he guides a group aiming to build consistency and competitiveness.

Statistical Overview

Schroeder scored 98 goals last season, averaging 5.8 per game, while allowing 157 goals at an average of 9.2. Eight games were decided by five goals or fewer, including two one-goal wins and two one-goal losses. With more than half of its scoring returning and several experienced players back, the Warriors enter 2026 with a foundation to improve upon.

Games This Year

The 2026 schedule includes several MC2 league matchups. League games are set against Irondequoit (03/26), Victor (04/10), Thomas (04/21), and Brighton (04/29).
Other contests include non-league meetings with Spencerport, Hilton, Wayne, Greece Storm, Fairport, Rush-Henrietta, Orchard Park, Churchville-Chili, and Gates Chili.

Looking Ahead

With a veteran goalie, an experienced faceoff specialist, and multiple returning all-league players, Schroeder enters 2026 with measured optimism. The combination of returning production and a second-year head coach provides a platform for steady growth within Class B.

THE HEAD COACH DID NOT RESPOND TO REQUESTS TO REVIEW THIS STORY BEFORE PUBLICATION.

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.

2026 Preview: Pittsford

Pittsford Prepares for Another Push

Roster Outlook

Pittsford enters the 2026 season following a strong 13-4 campaign and returns a substantial portion of its offensive production. The Panthers graduated 10 seniors, including defenders Keegan Ahern, Ryan Connolly, and Dane Lewis, midfielders such as Dominic Alfieri, James Kazacos, and Stephano Mihalitsas, and attackmen Brady Goetz and Charlie Ryan. Several of these graduates earned major postseason honors, leaving meaningful roles to fill across the field.

Even with those departures, Pittsford retains 73% of its goals and 58% of its assists from last season. The returning roster includes ten rising seniors, twelve juniors, and one sophomore, giving the team a deep and experienced core heading into 2026.

Returning Standouts

Pittsford brings back several award-winning players who will shape the team’s identity this season.

Avery Valenti, a 2026 midfielder, returns after a 40-goal, 5-assist season and earned HM All-Section Team and All-League First Team Midfield (MC-d2) honors.
Grant Lewis, a 2027 attack/midfielder, produced 29 goals and 15 assists and earned All-League Honorable Mention A/M (MC-d2) and Section 5 Class B All-Tournament Team recognition.
Cole Goetz, a 2027 attack/midfielder, added 22 goals and 21 assists and earned All-League Honorable Mention A/M (MC-d2).
Jahyden Maiorani, a 2027 midfielder, contributed 12 goals and 5 assists and earned All-League Honorable Mention Midfield (MC-d2).
Peter Roussell, a 2026 midfielder/faceoff specialist, returns after going 96+/101- at the X and earning All-League Honorable Mention FO Midfield (MC-d2).

Charles Hezel, a 2027 defender, earned All-League Honorable Mention Defense (MC-d2) and anchors the defensive unit.

Coaching Information

Pittsford continues under Head Coach Andrew Whipple, who enters his 22nd season leading the program. Whipple holds a 250-116 record at Pittsford, matching his overall scholastic mark, and brings extensive experience as a former Irondequoit and Maryland player. His long-term leadership provides stability for a roster with a strong returning core.

Statistical Overview

Pittsford scored 179 goals last season, averaging 10.5 per game, while allowing 114 goals at an average of 6.7. Nine games were decided by five goals or fewer, including three one-goal wins and one one-goal loss. With a high percentage of scoring returning and multiple award-winning players back, the Panthers enter 2026 with a strong statistical foundation.

Games This Year

The 2026 schedule includes several MC2 league matchups. League games are set against Thomas (03/24), Brighton (04/21), and Irondequoit (05/15).
Other contests include non-league meetings with Canandaigua, Penfield, Fairport, and additional opponents once the full schedule is released.

Looking Ahead

With a deep group of returning scorers, experienced midfielders, and a veteran coach entering his 22nd season, Pittsford approaches 2026 with confidence. The combination of returning production, defensive stability, and proven leadership positions the Panthers to remain a strong contender within Class B.

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.

Pal-Mac and Spencerport both Win Openers

DAY IN REVIEW: SATURDAY - There were two games played today and both were won by more than three goals.

CHURCHVILLE-CHILI-1 at PAL-MAC-13 in a Non-League game: Pal-Mac opened its season with a 13-1 non-league win over Churchville-Chili on March 21, led by Max Hill (4g-3a), Jackson Dennie (4g-1a), Brandon Dennie (1g-3a), Reid Diehl (2g-2a), and Branden Thomas (2g), with sophomore Joey Hagen earning his first varsity assist; junior goalie Drew Ikewood stopped 11 of 12 shots (92%), while Churchville-Chili's only score came from Jack Sloan on an assist from Jaxson Leonard.      [ Story and BOX SCORE] 

SPENCERPORT-18 at GRAND ISLAND-4 in a Non-League game: Spencerport opened its season with an 18-4 non-league win at Grand Island, paced by Gavin Brown (5g-3a), Zach Tortora (4g), Tyler Wentworth (3g-1a), and Mason Endres (4a), with eighth grader Maddox Harding scoring his first varsity goal. Grand Island was led by Nik Korte (2g), with Dominic Nucci and Dominic Hanel each adding one goal.   [ Story and BOX SCORE] 

Hilton Tops Thomas 10-7 in Season Opener

The 2026 season is underway

Hilton opened its season with a 10-7 non-league win over Thomas on Thursday to start the 2026 sccholastic lacrosse season. The Cadets jumped out to an early lead and built a five-goal run in the second quarter to take control of the game. Sophomore Brendan Maxwell was solid in goal for Hilton, stopping 15 of 22 shots for a 68% save percentage.

Leading the way for Hilton (1-0) were sophomore attackman Drew Brien (3g-2a), sophomore attackman Cahlan Smith (2g-1a), junior midfielder Tyler Reger (1g-2a), and senior midfielder Anthony Mitrano (2g). Junior attackman Michael Charella scored his first varsity goal in the contest. For Thomas (0-1), sophomore midfielder Lucas Estelle led all scorers with three goals and two assists, while sophomore attackman Blake Jipson added two goals and sophomore attackman Jonah Jobson chipped in one goal. Junior attackman Logan Muisus also scored his first varsity goal in the game. In goal for Thomas, sophomore Joshua Jobson stopped 10 of 20 shots for a 50% save percentage.

The two teams traded goals in the third and fourth quarters, with Thomas pulling to within three at 7-10, but Hilton held on for the win. Hilton will travel to Greece Storm on Tuesday, March 24 at 5:00 PM, while Thomas will host Pittsford on Tuesday, March 24 at 5:30 PM.    [ Story and BOX SCORE] 

Preseason Previews Return in 2026

After a sucessful run in 2025, BlaxFive.NET is, once again, creating preview articles for each of the teams in Section V. Utilizing extensive databases of statistics and records, along with our proprietary information query program "HAL" and display software "the Oracle," we are employing external AI programs to format the information for presentation. Head coaches have been given the opportunity to review the drafts and add quotes and comments. Coach Wilson has provided images for these stories.

The articles will be released several times each week leading up to the start of the games in mid-March. They will remain on the front page for approximately one week before being moved to the “News Page” and subsequently archived. Additionally, they will be accessible through a list of “published stories” and from the team pages.

We anticipate an exciting year for Section V lacrosse, beginning with these preview articles and culminating in the New York State Lacrosse Championships, which Section V will be hosting at Hobart on June 14th.

You can see the list of published stories here.

2026 Preview: Fairport

Fairport Navigates Major Turnover

Preseason Outlook

Fairport enters the 2026 season following an 8–8 campaign in 2025 that was defined by close games and defensive consistency. The Red Raiders played in eleven contests decided within five goals, including three one goal games. The program now faces one of its largest transitions in recent years after graduating seventeen seniors. With eight rising seniors, six juniors, and six sophomores, Fairport begins the season focused on reshaping roles while maintaining its competitive standard in Class A.

A key storyline is offensive turnover. Only 29 percent of last season’s goals and 21 percent of assists return, meaning the Red Raiders must replace much of the production that fueled their 2025 run.

Returning Players

Despite the heavy graduation losses, Fairport does bring back several award winning contributors who will be central to the team’s identity. Attackman Ryan Priddy, now a senior, returns after scoring 17 goals with 8 assists and earning second team All League recognition. He is the most proven returning scorer and will be relied upon as the offense resets.

In the midfield, Corey Roeser, a 2026 faceoff specialist committed to RIT, returns after winning 118 faceoffs and earning second team All League honors. His presence provides stability at the X. Marc Hillier also returns after earning honorable mention recognition as an SSDM, while Matt Haugh brings experience on the long stick following an honorable mention season at LSM. 

Defensively, Fairport returns John Mallaber, a 2028 defender who earned second team All League honors, giving the back line an experienced piece to build around. 

These returners will be tasked with filling leadership gaps left by a decorated senior class that included All Americans, All Section selections, and multiple All League honorees. 

Coaching Information

Head Coach Mike Torrelli enters his 23rd season at Fairport with a 271–119 career record. A former Webster Thomas player, Torrelli continues to guide the program through roster cycles with an emphasis on structure, discipline, and defensive accountability. 

Games This Year

Fairport’s 2026 schedule includes several Monroe County Division I (MC1) matchups that will define its league standing. League games include contests against Penfield on March 24, Greece Storm on April 10, Rush Henrietta on April 21, Hilton on April 29, and East United Eastridge on May 5.

The non league slate adds a strong mix of opponents, including Spencerport, Orchard Park, Irondequoit, Pal Mac, Canandaigua, Aquinas, Victor, Pittsford, and Penn Yan. This combination mirrors last season’s schedule, which tested Fairport across both league and non league play. 

Statistical Overview

In 2025, Fairport scored 138 goals, averaging 8.6 goals per game, while allowing 108 goals for a 6.8 goals against average. The Red Raiders won three games by more than five goals and played eleven games decided within five goals. With 40 returning goals and 16 returning assists, Fairport enters 2026 with significant opportunities for new offensive contributors to emerge alongside an experienced defensive core.

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.

2026 Preview: Waterloo

Waterloo Builds New Foundation

Program Outlook

Waterloo enters the 2026 season in Class D following a rebuilding year in 2025. The team finished 1–14, but the roster composition points toward growth, with a large portion of the lineup returning and a sizable group of underclassmen gaining varsity experience. With improved continuity and a new coaching staff in place, this season represents a reset for the program.

New Leadership

Matt VanDamme begins his first season as head coach at Waterloo. His boys scholastic record stands at 0–0, marking a fresh start for both coach and program.He was previously the girls lacrosse coach at Waterloo and played high school lacrosse at Midlakes, bringing firsthand experience at the varsity level as he steps into the role. This season will focus on establishing structure and developing a young roster.

Roster Overview

Waterloo graduated three seniors from last year’s team, all from the midfield. In their place, the Tigers return five rising seniors, five juniors, and 12 sophomores. The distribution highlights a youthful roster with increasing varsity exposure, particularly among the sophomore class that logged minutes during the 2025 season.

Returning Production

Despite last season’s record, Waterloo brings back a significant share of its offensive output. The team returns 37 goals, accounting for 65 percent of last year’s total, and 29 assists, representing 81 percent of the assists recorded in 2025. That returning production provides a measurable base as the team looks to improve consistency and execution.

Statistical Overview

In 2025, Waterloo scored 57 goals and allowed 230, averaging 3.8 goals per game while giving up 15.3 goals against. The team recorded one win by five or more goals and played one game decided within five goals. While margins were often wide, the statistical return on offense suggests an opportunity for incremental improvement as experience grows.

Games This Year

Waterloo’s 2026 schedule includes a mix of league and non-league contests. League games, designated as FLW matchups, include games against Bloomfield-Honeoye, Gananda, Midlakes, Marcus Whitman, and Mynderse-Romulus. These contests will be central to measuring progress within league play. The remaining schedule consists of NL games against opponents such as Geneva, Pal-Mac, Newark, Wayne, and Livonia-Avon-Geneseo, offering additional chances to evaluate development across the season.

Season Focus

With a first-year head coach and a roster heavy with returning underclassmen, Waterloo enters the season focused on building habits and experience. The emphasis in 2026 will be on growth, cohesion, and establishing a foundation for future seasons.

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.

2026 Preview: Gananda

Gananda Builds Through Transition

Program Outlook

Gananda enters the 2026 season in Class D following a 4–13 record in 2025. The team experienced significant roster turnover, graduating eight seniors and working with a small returning upperclass group. Despite those challenges, Gananda will field a team this season, leaning on developing numbers and continuity rather than results-driven expectations.

Coaching Perspective

Dan Riordan returns for his second season as head coach with a current record of 4–13 at Gananda. He has acknowledged that two players who were expected returners have transferred, reducing the available experience at the varsity level. Even with that adjustment, the program is moving forward with the season, supported by stronger participation numbers at the middle school level and a focus on maintaining program continuity.

Roster Overview

Gananda graduated eight seniors who filled roles across midfield, defense, attack, and goal, several of whom earned All-League recognition. The returning varsity group includes two rising seniors, one junior, and two sophomores. While the numbers are limited, many of the returning players logged meaningful minutes last season.

Returning Award Winners

Two returning players bring league recognition back into the lineup. Nick Falso returns in goal after earning Finger Lakes Goalie Player of the Year honors, finishing last season with 283 saves and a 56.2 percent save rate. Also returning is sophomore Cameron Richards who scored 9g-4a as a freshman. Together, they provide leadership and stability for a young roster.

Statistical Overview

In 2025, Gananda scored 161 goals while allowing 233, averaging 9.5 goals per game with 13.7 goals against. The team returns 84 goals, accounting for 52 percent of last season’s scoring, and 40 assists, representing 48 percent of the assist total. Gananda recorded two wins by five or more goals and played five games decided within five goals, including one one-goal loss.

Games This Year

Gananda’s 2026 schedule features a mix of league and non-league contests. League games, designated as FLW matchups, include games against Bloomfield-Honeoye, Midlakes, Waterloo, Marcus Whitman, and Mynderse-Romulus. These contests will serve as the primary benchmarks within league play. The remaining schedule consists of NL games against teams such as Haverling, Pal-Mac, Newark, Wayne, Geneva, and Livonia-Avon-Geneseo.

Season Focus

With a small returning group and acknowledged roster challenges, Gananda enters the season focused on participation, development, and maintaining continuity within the program. The emphasis in 2026 will be on growth and experience as the program bridges toward stronger numbers in future seasons.

2026 Preview: Batavia-Notre Dame

Batavia-Notre Dame Seeks Progress

Program Outlook

Batavia-Notre Dame enters the 2026 season in Class C following a rebuilding year in 2025. The team finished 1–15 while relying heavily on a roster that saw significant turnover and limited returning experience. With a smaller but more settled core returning, the focus this preseason is on incremental improvement and consistency as the program continues to develop.

Coaching Direction

John Petry returns for his second season as head coach at Batavia-Notre Dame. His current record with the program stands at 1–15. With a full season of familiarity behind him, Petry leads a team that is now more accustomed to his system, providing continuity as the roster works to take a step forward.

Roster Overview

The team graduated eight seniors from last year’s roster, spanning attack, midfield, defense, and goal. That departure created a young lineup in 2025, and the structure remains youthful in 2026. Batavia-Notre Dame returns four rising seniors, five juniors, and two sophomores, forming a group that gained experience through extended varsity minutes a season ago.

Returning Contributors

Batavia-Notre Dame brings back nearly half of its offensive production. The team returns 21 goals and 15 assists from 2025, providing a base of familiarity and experience. That returning group will be asked to carry a larger share of responsibility as roles become more defined. Midfielder Harold Mellander returns with 10g-4a, 57 gbs and a team-leading 22 caused turnovers, along wiith Trey Rodriguez, a junior faceoff midfielder who won 78 draws last year, added 62 gbs, 9 takes and 11 points.

Statistical Overview

In 2025, Batavia-Notre Dame scored 44 goals while allowing 243, averaging 2.8 goals per game and 15.2 goals against. The team recorded one game decided within five goals and did not register a one-goal decision. With 48 percent of its goals and 52 percent of its assists returning, the numbers suggest an opportunity for improvement through continuity and execution.

Games This Year

The 2026 independent schedule includes a mix of games that include dates against Haverling on April 2 and May 14, along with a home game against Aquinas on April 21. The remainder of the schedule consists of games against familiar opponents such as Bloomfield-Honeoye, Gananda, Brockport, Gates Chili, and East United-Eastridge.

Season Focus

With a second-year head coach and a roster that returns meaningful production, Batavia-Notre Dame enters the season centered on growth and stability. The emphasis for 2026 will be on building consistency, developing confidence, and establishing a foundation for future seasons.

THE HEAD COACH DID NOT RESPOND TO REQUESTS TO REVIEW THIS STORY BEFORE PUBLICATION.

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.

2026 Preview: Pal-Mac

Pal-Mac Reloads After Run

Program Outlook

Pal-Mac enters the 2026 season in Class D after a 17–1 campaign in 2025. The Red Raiders combined consistent scoring with strong defensive results throughout the year and advanced to the sectional final. After losing top face off player Luke VanGorden to graduation, Pal-Mac hopes to build on last year’s performance.

Coaching Continuity

Joe Hill returns for his 19th season as head coach at Pal-Mac. His career record at the school stands at 231–78. A former Canandaigua player, Hill has guided the program through sustained success over nearly two decades. That continuity remains a key factor as the team brings back an experienced and dedicated group of players.

Returning Award Winners

A large group of returning players earned league and sectional recognition in 2025. Jackson Dennie returns after an 80-goal, 31-assist season that earned him All-League First Team Attack honors, a place on the Section 5 Class C All-Tournament Team, and a college commitment to NJIT. Reid Diehl also returns after scoring 75 goals with 43 assists and earning All-League First Team Attack honors and All-Tournament recognition, and a college commitment to Mercyhurst. Sophomore Max Hill is a third player with over 100 points last year. In the midfield, Brandon Dennie (D’Youville) and Branden Thomas return after earning All-League First Team and Finger Lakes Player of the Year honors, respectively. Defensively, Henry Beaton and Carson Lich (Ohio Northern University) return after earning All-League First Team recognition, with Lich also named Finger Lakes Player of the Year and First Team All State. In goal, Drew Ikewood returns after recording 156 saves and earning All-League First Team Goalie honors.

Games This Year

The 2026 schedule again features a mix of league and non-league contests. League games, designated as FLE matchups, include meetings with Wayne, Newark, Livonia-Avon-Geneseo, and Geneva. These games will serve as key measuring points within league play. The remainder of the schedule consists of NL matchups against teams such as Fairport, Brighton, Grand Island, Midlakes, Bloomfield-Honeoye, and Voorheesville.

Season Focus

Returning nearly all of its scoring and maintaining long-standing stability on the sideline, Pal-Mac enters the 2026 campaign with experience and depth, focused on sustaining its high level of play. Coach Hill says, "The Red Raiders aim to uphold the program's tradition of success, understanding that continuing this strong legacy requires relentless hard work, focus, unity, and discipline on and off the field."

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.

2026 Preview: Mynderse-Romulus

Mynderse-Romulus Faces Transition

Program Outlook

Mynderse-Romulus enters the 2026 season in Class D following an 8–10 record in 2025. The Blue Devils experienced a year marked by swings, with several games played within a five-goal margin. This season brings a noticeable transition, as a productive senior class has graduated, leaving the team to re-establish its offensive identity while relying on experience gained across the roster.

Coaching Leadership

Joe Caraher returns for his second season as head coach at Mynderse-Romulus. His record with the program stands at 8–10, while his overall scholastic record is 101–163. A Mynderse alumnus, Caraher continues to guide the program through a period of change, leaning on continuity in leadership as new contributors step into larger roles.

Roster Overview

The Blue Devils graduated seven seniors who filled key roles throughout the lineup, including major contributors at midfield, defense, and attack. That group accounted for a large share of last season’s scoring and earned multiple All-League and All-Tournament honors. In 2026, Mynderse-Romulus returns five rising seniors, eight juniors, and four sophomores, forming a roster that is experienced but adjusting to new responsibilities.

Returning Award Winners

Several returning players earned league recognition last season and will be counted on for stability. Owen Levis returns after posting 11 goals and 13 assists and earning All-League Third Team Midfield honors. On the defensive end, Aiden McLeod brings back All-League Honorable Mention recognition, while Jojo Nigro returns after earning All-League Third Team Defense honors. This group provides leadership on a team working to replace significant graduated production.

Statistical Overview

In 2025, Mynderse-Romulus scored 189 goals and allowed 250, averaging 10.5 goals per game with 13.9 goals against. The Blue Devils return 48 goals, representing 25 percent of last season’s total, and 40 assists, accounting for 40 percent of the assist production. The team recorded four wins by five or more goals and played six games decided within five goals, including one one-goal win and two one-goal losses. The numbers reflect both competitiveness and the scale of production that must be replaced.

Games This Year

The 2026 schedule again features a mix of league and non-league contests. League games, designated as FLW matchups, include meetings with Marcus Whitman, Bloomfield-Honeoye, Gananda, Midlakes, and Waterloo. These games will be important measuring points as the Blue Devils navigate league play. The remaining schedule consists of NL games against opponents such as Penn Yan, Newark, Wayne, Geneva, Pal-Mac, and HFL.

Season Focus

With a significant portion of last season’s scoring graduated, Mynderse-Romulus enters the season focused on development and redefining roles. Experience remains across the roster, but growth from returning players will be central as the Blue Devils look to build consistency during the 2026 campaign.

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.

2025 Season Wrap Up

 SPORTSFIVE REPORT:   There were thirty-five teams playing in Section V. Bishop Kearney played nine games, and for the first time since their return, played in the quarterfinals of the Class D tournament. There were 1,149 players on the final rosters, down 55 players from 2024. McQuaid Jesuit, after winning at NYS Championship last year, carried the largest roster with forty-six players and Gananda had the smallest with twenty-two. 

There were four classes for the sectional tournaments. Canandaigua (B), and Penn Yan (D) were top seeds and won their championships. In Class A, Penfield (seeded third) won their games with Fairport (seeded second) and then with top-seeded McQuaid Jesuit. In the Class C tournament, second-seeded Honeoye Falls-Lima defeated top seeded Pal-Mac. 

Penfield had an 11-9 win against McQuaid, reversing the outcome in 2024, Canandaigua won their game against Victor in a very close game, 11-10. Honeoye Falls-Lima had a 19-7 win against top Pal-Mac ending their second undefeated season in a row for the Red Raiders.

The first games were played on March 28th when three games were played. The last regular season games were played on May 22nd when six games were played.

The 303 regular season games were played and the 67 league games determined the league championships. In Monroe County-D1 it was Fairport (5-0, 8-8). In MC-2, Victor (5-0, 14-5) took the championship and in MC-3 Canandaigua (5-0, 19-2) was on top. Pal-Mac (4-0, 17-1) won the Finger Lakes East title and Midlakes (5-0, 14-4) took the West title.

At the end of the year, the Section V Head Coaches selected the post-season award winners including their All-League players. Then, after reviews of twenty-two nominations, they selected six USA Lacrosse All-Americans and six All-Academics. Named All-Americans were Keegan Ahern (Pittsford), Teagan Fingar (Penn Yan), Mitchell Monte (Fairport), Cooper Moore (Irondequoit),  Will Rheude (Canandaigua), and A.J. Theodorakakos (Penfield).

Named All-Academics were Zachary Ajavananda (Spencerport), Ryan Bremer (Canandaigua), Max Heieck (Geneva), Drew O`Buck (Hilton), Michael Thomas (Bloomfield-Honeoye), and Will Thompson (Penn Yan).

Gates Chili Co-Head Coaches Glenn Pittman and Bill Lewis were named Coaches of the Year from Section V and the Bob Scott Award winner was Jamison Brown from Spencerport.

The Coaches of Section V awarded the "Official of the Year" to GVLOA official Chris Geng.

The Monroe County Division 1 Player of the Year was Mitchell Monte (Fairport). Keegan Ahern (Pittsford) was the Division 2 Player of the Year and Grady Goodberlet (HFL) was Division 3 Player of the Year.

Nominees for the Bob Scott Award were Drew O`Buck (Hilton) and Trevor Serve (Brighton) and the Section V and USA Lacrosse Bob Scott Award winner was Jamison Brown (Spencerport).

The Monroe County Coaches of the Year were Josh Laskowski (Brighton - MC2), Glenn Pittman and Bill Lewis (Gates Chili - MC3), and Mike Torrelli (Fairport) in MC1.

Monroe County Co-Coaches of the Year were Glenn Pittman and Bill Lewis (Gates Chili). Jamison Brown (Spencerport) moved forward as the Monroe County nominee for the Bob Scott Award. They all received the national awards.

Assistant Coaches of the Year were Jacques Monte (Fairport) from MC1, Colin Shafer (Irondequoit) from MC2, and Steve Kaye (Spencerport) and Andrew Pratt (HFL) from MC3.

The Finger Lakes East Co-Players of the Year were Carson Lich (Pal-Mac) and Max Heieck (Geneva). Heieck was selected as Attackman of the Year,  Branden Thomas (Pal-Mac) was selected as Midfielder of the Year and Carson Lich (Pal-Mac) was picked as Defenseman of the Year. Colton Rose (Livonia-Avon-Geneseo) was selected as the Goalie of the Year.

The Finger Lakes West Player of the Year was  Johnny Blair (Bloomfield-Honeoye) who was also the Attackman of the Year, James Sprague (Midlakes) was named Midfielder of the Year. There were co-defensemen of the year; Connor Tripp (Midlakes) and Michael Thomas (Bloomfield-Honeoye). Nick Falso (Gananda) was selected as Goalie on the Year. Luke VanGorden (Pal-Mac was selected as the nominee for the Bob Scott Award.

The Finger Lakes Coaches of the Year were John Hicks (Midlakes - West) and Joe Hill (Pal-Mac - East) and the assistant Coaches of the Year were, in the East, Tim Doyle (Pal-Mac) and John McGurk (Wayne) and in the West, Jordan Jarvis (Midlakes) and Dylan Joy (Bloomfield-Honeoye). The Persons of the Year were, in the West, Dan Riordan (Gananda) and in the East, Mark Pieroni (Wayne). 

Penfield (Class A), Canandaigua (Class B), Honeoye Falls-Lima (Class C) and Gananda (Class D) were awarded the Steve Morgan Sportsmanship Awards by the Genesee Valley Lacrosse Officials Association.

After the regular season, the Section V tournaments were conducted. Penfield (Class A), Canandaigua (Class B), HF-L (Class C) and Penn Yan (Class D) were the Sectional Champions in 2025.

There were All-Tournament Teams this year and there were MVPs for each class. Selected as MVPs for classes A, B, C and D were Brodie Joyce (Penfield), Mike Belles (Canandaigua), Grady Goodberlet (HF-L) and Teagan Fingar (Penn Yan).

The SportsFive/Section V Players of the Year were Mitchell Monte (Fairport) in offense and Anthony (A.J.) Theodorakakos (Penfield) in defense. The Sportsman of the Year was Drew Williamee (Canandaigua).

The New York State Tournaments once again required an play-in game for Classes C and D which required that those champions play against the Section VI champions in order to in the quarter finals. Both HFL and Penn Yan won those round 1 games against Hamburg (Class C) and Akron (Class D). Coach Goodberlet won his 50th game at HFL while Coach Hobart won his 325th at Penn Yan.

In Class A, Penfield beat Orchard Park and then lost to West Genesee in the semifinals. In Class B, Canandaigua beat Lake Shore/Silver Creek, and then Christian Brothers Academy (Albany) to reach the finals. In Class C, HF-L fell to Jamesville-DeWitt and in Class D, Penn Yan beat Marcellus and then Ogdensburg Free Academy  (Section X) in the semifinals. Section V sent two teams to the Championships, where Penn Yan defeated Chenango Forks (IV) and Canandaigua lost to Garden City (VIII).

The All-Section V Awards were back again this year with fifteen first team, fifteen second team, and fifteen Honorable Mention picks.

The Democrat and Chronicle are expected to post their AGR list in July and this story will be updated when available.

At the end of the season at least sixty-seven players have made college commitments. Fifty-three of them, seniors, will become part of over three hundred players from Section V who are currently playing at all college levels.