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.

2026 Preview: Haverling

Haverling Looks to Build

Program Outlook

Haverling enters the 2026 season in Class D after a 5–12 campaign in 2025. The team showed the ability to compete in stretches, with several games decided within five goals, while continuing to work through roster turnover and development. With a majority of its offensive production returning, the focus this preseason centers on growth and consistency across the schedule.

Coaching Experience

Ken DiDomineck returns for his 25th season as head coach at Haverling. His career record at the school stands at 156–239. DiDomineck’s long tenure provides continuity and experience as the program continues to develop younger players and integrate returning contributors into expanded roles.

Roster Overview

Haverling graduated four seniors from last year’s team, all of whom played primarily in the midfield or defense. The roster makeup for 2026 includes six rising seniors, two juniors, six sophomores and three freshmen. That balance gives the team a mix of experience and youth, with many players having already gained varsity minutes during the 2025 season. Coach DiDomineck says, “We are very excited about our roster. We are a blend of experience starters and young hardcore lacrosse obsessed players.” 

Returning Contributors

Haverling brings back a significant portion of its offensive output. The team returns 101 goals, accounting for 68 percent of last season’s total, along with 63 assists, representing 66 percent of the assist production. Back for another season are Noah Schneider, a junior attackman who lead the team in assits with 17g-20a. Zach Sehm led the team in caused turnovers with 12, Zach Colegrove had 22g-19a, Warren McCormick added 25g-8a and Drew Spears returns for his senior year after putting up 20g-6a. That returning experience will be relied upon to provide stability and leadership as the season progresses.

Statistical Overview

In 2025, Haverling scored 149 goals while allowing 232, averaging 8.8 goals per game and 13.6 goals against. The team recorded four wins by five or more goals and played five games decided within five goals, including one one-goal win and one one-goal loss. The numbers reflect a season with competitive moments and opportunities for improvement through continuity.

Games This Year

Haverling’s 2026 schedule includes a mix of league and non-league contests.League games, designated as INDY matchups, include games against Batavia-Notre Dame, Aquinas, Penn Yan, and a second meeting with Batavia-Notre Dame later in the season. These contests will serve as key benchmarks within league play. The remainder of the schedule consists of NL games against opponents such as Gananda, Marcus Whitman, East United-Eastridge, Mynderse-Romulus, Newark, and Midlakes.

Season Focus

With a veteran head coach, a youthful but experienced roster, and a strong percentage of returning production, Haverling enters the season focused on steady improvement. The emphasis for 2026 will be on development, consistency, and translating experience into more competitive results.

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: Honeoye Falls-Lima

HFL Brings Back Proven Core

Program Outlook

Honeoye Falls-Lima enters the 2026 season in Class C after posting a 16–5 record in 2025. The Cougars balanced strong regular-season results with an extended postseason run, while navigating a schedule that included both league and non-league competition.

With six seniors graduated and a large group of returning upperclassmen, HFL begins the season with continuity across much of the roster.

Coaching Leadership

Eric Goodberlet returns for his fourth season as head coach at Honeoye Falls-Lima. His record at the school stands at 50–13, reflecting consistency across his tenure. With a roster that returns significant production and experience, Goodberlet again leads a group familiar with his system and expectations. Lokking forward the season, Coach Goodberlet says, "We have strong leadership returning, which has helped develop and guide our younger players. Our players have put in the off-season work and are looking forward to competing." 

Roster Overview

HFL graduated six seniors who filled key roles at goalie, defense, midfield, and faceoff, several of whom earned All-League and All-Section recognition. Even with those departures, the Cougars return nine rising seniors, nine juniors, and two sophomores. That balance preserves experience throughout the lineup while allowing younger players to continue developing in established roles.

Returning Award Winners

A strong group of returning players brings postseason recognition back into the lineup. Grady Goodberlet returns after a standout season in which he recorded 92 goals and 47 assists, earning Monroe County Division 3 Player of the Year honors, Section 5 Class C MVP, First Team All-Section, All-Tournament Team, and All-League First Team Attack recognition. Marco Vengoechea also returns after producing 46 goals and 35 assists and earning All-Tournament Team and All-League Second Team Midfield honors, along with announcing his college plans with Cortland. In goal, Jason Bennett returns after recording 190 saves with a 60.1 percent save rate and earning All-Tournament Team and All-League Honorable Mention honors. Additional returning All-League players include Jackson Coon, Braden Fugate, Lucas Gould, and Sam Jokl, giving HFL experienced contributors across multiple positions.

Statistical Overview

During the 2025 season, HFL scored 300 goals while allowing 153, averaging 14.3 goals per game and 7.3 goals against. The Cougars return 225 goals, representing 75 percent of last season’s total, along with 130 assists, accounting for 70 percent of their assist production. HFL recorded 15 wins by five or more goals and played one game decided within five goals, reflecting steady performance across the schedule.

Games This Year

The 2026 schedule again features a mix of league and non-league matchups. League games, designated as MC3 contests, include matchups against Churchville-Chili, Canandaigua, Gates Chili, and Brockport. These games will be key measuring points within league play. The remainder of the schedule consists of NL contests against teams such as Wayne, East United-Eastridge, Hamburg, Irondequoit, Penn Yan, and Spencerport.

Season Focus

With extensive returning production, multiple award-winning players back, and continuity on the coaching staff, HFL enters the season focused on sustaining its level of play. Experience and depth provide a clear foundation as the Cougars open 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.

2026 Preview: Marcus Whitman

Marcus Whitman Returns Experience

Program Outlook

Marcus Whitman enters the 2026 season in Class D after a 4–13 finish in 2025. While the record reflects a challenging year, the Wildcats showed competitiveness with seven games decided within five goals. With most of last season’s scoring returning and a roster that gained varsity experience, the emphasis this preseason is on turning continuity into more consistent results.

New Coaching Chapter

Joe Urlacher begins his first season as head coach at Marcus Whitman. His scholastic record starts at 0–0 as he steps into the role after playing high school lacrosse at Canandaigua and college lacrosse for St. John Fisher University. This season marks a transition on the sideline, paired with a roster that already has significant game experience and it gets Coach Urlacher excited," I could not be more excited for this opportunity, especially with this group of young men. This is a new chapter for our program, but the players already have a strong foundation of experience along with a few freshmen looking to make an impact. Our focus this preseason will be on building chemistry, playing hard, and finding our identity as a team." 

Roster Overview

The Wildcats graduated three seniors, all of whom played key roles, including one All-League honoree. In 2026, Marcus Whitman returns six rising seniors, three juniors, and six sophomores. That makeup provides a blend of leadership and youth, with many players having already logged meaningful minutes last spring.

Returning Award Winners

Several returning players bring league recognition back into the lineup. Tariku Blueye returns after a strong season with 29 goals and 22 assists, earning All-League Second Team Attack honors. Ayden Clark is also back following a 50-goal season that earned him All-League Third Team Attack recognition. On the defensive end, Jacob Bodine returns after earning All-League Second Team Defense honors, while Aiden Dunton and Brady Freida add experience in defensive midfield and at the faceoff position. In goal, Tyler Speers returns after recording 154 saves and earning All-League Third Team Goalie honors. This group forms the core of a team that brings back nearly all of its offensive production.

Statistical Overview

In 2025, Marcus Whitman scored 121 goals while allowing 199, averaging 7.1 goals per game and 11.7 goals against. The Wildcats return 111 goals, accounting for 92 percent of last season’s total, along with 40 assists, representing 68 percent of the assist production. The team recorded two wins by five or more goals and played seven games decided within five goals, including one one-goal win and two one-goal losses.

Games This Year

The 2026 schedule includes a mix of league and non-league contests. League games, designated as FLW matchups, include games against Mynderse-Romulus, Bloomfield-Honeoye, Gananda, Midlakes, and Waterloo. These contests will be key measuring points within league play. The remainder of the schedule consists of NL games against teams such as Haverling, Geneva, Dryden, Newark, Brockport, and Wayne.

Season Focus

 With a first-year head coach and a roster returning the majority of its scoring, Marcus Whitman enters the season focused on growth and consistency. Experience across the lineup provides a foundation as the Wildcats look to build on last year’s competitive moments.

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: Newark

Newark Returns Offensive Core

Program Outlook

Newark enters the 2026 season in Class D after a 6–11 finish in 2025. The Reds showed flashes of competitiveness throughout the year, playing five games decided within five goals. With most of last season’s scoring returning and a relatively small senior class lost to graduation, Newark begins the season with continuity on offense as it looks to improve overall consistency.

Coaching Transition

Nick Casal begins his first season as head coach at Newark. His scholastic record stands at 0–0 as he takes over the program. This season marks a transition on the sideline, paired with a roster that already has meaningful varsity experience and established contributors. Coach Casal is excited about the new season. "I’ve been involved in lacrosse for many years as both a player and a coach, and the game has played a major role in shaping who I am. I’m passionate about teaching the fundamentals, building strong team culture, and helping players develop both on and off the field. I’m excited to join the program and look forward to growing the game while supporting our athletes this season."

Roster Overview

Newark graduated four seniors, including contributors at midfield, defense, and in goal. Despite those losses, the roster returns three rising seniors and seven juniors, giving the team a solid core of upperclass experience. The absence of sophomores listed highlights a roster that will lean heavily on returning players who logged significant minutes last season.

Returning Award Winners

Several returning players earned All-League recognition in 2025 and form the backbone of the lineup. Sam Underhill returns after a standout season with 84 goals and 14 assists, earning All-League Second Team Attack honors. Evan Shulla also returns following a 49-goal, 15-assist campaign and All-League Third Team Attack recognition. On the defensive end, Darrien Streeter and Haidyn Walters return after earning All-League honors. This group accounts for a large share of Newark’s returning production.

Statistical Overview

In 2025, Newark scored 164 goals and allowed 245, averaging 9.6 goals per game while giving up 14.4 goals against. The Reds return 146 goals, accounting for 89 percent of last season’s total, along with 38 assists, representing 73 percent of the assist production. Newark recorded four wins by five or more goals and played five games decided within five goals, reflecting a season with competitive stretches and room for growth.

Games This Year

The 2026 schedule features a blend of league and non-league contests. League games, designated as FLE matchups, include games against Livonia-Avon-Geneseo, Geneva, Pal-Mac, and Wayne. These games will serve as key measuring points within league play. The remainder of the schedule consists of NL matchups against teams such as Aquinas, Jordan Elbridge, Brockport, Bloomfield-Honeoye, Midlakes, Marcus Whitman, and Haverling.

Season Focus

With a first-year head coach and nearly all of its offensive production returning, Newark enters the season focused on translating experience into improved results. Continuity among returning scorers provides a foundation as the Reds begin 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.

2026 Preview: Penn Yan

Penn Yan enters the 2026 season in Class D following a 21–2 campaign that culminated in a New York State championship. The Mustangs combined consistent scoring with a strong defensive profile throughout the year, navigating a demanding postseason path.

2026 Preview: Wayne

Wayne enters the 2026 season in Class C coming off an 8–10 record a year ago. The Eagles navigated a schedule that included a mix of close contests and learning opportunities, finishing with seven games decided within five goals.

2026 Preview: Midlakes

Midlakes enters the 2026 season in Class D following a strong 14–4 campaign in 2025. The Eagles combined consistent scoring with a solid defensive profile, advancing into sectional play and competing deep into the postseason. 

Bishop Kearney to Sit Out 2026

Bishop Kearney will not field a varsity boys lacrosse team for the 2026 season, Section V Lacrosse Coordinator Mike Simon confirmed after receiving formal notice from BK Athletic Director Jamal Martin. The decision comes as the program faces a steep drop in player interest and roster availability.

A number of players chose not to return this spring. Among the departures is last year’s leading scorer, James Scantleburry, a Montreal native and standout in the BK Selects U16 hockey program. Scantleburry signed a tender agreement with the Chicago Steel for the 2025–26 USHL season.

The Kings entered 2025 with cautious optimism under first-year head coach Jeremy Loncao, finishing 4–6 on a limited schedule. Since their return to varsity competition in 2021—following an eight-year hiatus dating back to 2013—the program recorded a cumulative 13–30 record.

Their final game before the shutdown was a thriller. In May, Bishop Kearney pushed Mynderse-Romulus to the brink in the Section V quarterfinals, nearly staging a fourth-quarter comeback in a 15–14 loss. BK erupted for six goals in the second quarter and mounted a late surge, but ultimately came up one goal short in what became their last contest for the foreseeable future.

For now, the school has not announced any plans regarding future relaunch efforts, leaving the program’s long-term status uncertain.

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.

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