2025 All-Section Five List Released

The Section V Lacrosse leadership has selected first, second and honorable mention lists of All-Section players. The 2025 first team lists fifteen players and includes the six All-Americans previously announced. "The first six athletes on the first team are easy" said Section Five Assistant Coordinator, Paul Wilson. "after that, it becomes more difficult as we have so many excellent players. With the six first spots taken, there are only nine more places on the first team."

To be nominated each player was required to be selected to their first team all-league team (except Independent teams). The lists were selected from a pool of ninety-two players. The selections were reviewed by Chairmen of each of the two leagues, three at-large coaches, the Lacrosse Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator. "It is a difficult task", Wilson continued. "There are so many talented players, so many different opinions, and so many elements to consider." Players are reviewed for their performances, the strength of their opponents and how their stats relate to the quality of their opponents. "Certainly, the strength of a team's schedule is a factor when reviewing a player" said Section V Coordinator Mike Simon. 

Although grade and league were not major factors in selection, the list shows the skills that are found throughout the section. Ten Monroe County teams were represented on the lists, with the rest representing Finger Lakes (6), and Independents (3). Showing that the "Best of the Best" can come from any age group, there were 26 seniors, 11 juniors, 6 sophomores, and 2 freshmen listed. Distribution among the positions shows 13 midfielders, 12 attackmen, 7 defensemen, 5 FO specialists, 2 LSM, 1 ssdm, and 5 goalies.

First Team

Keegan Ahern - Pittsford senior - Hofstra *
Ryan Bremer  Canandaigua senior - RIT
Braden Fingar - Penn Yan junior - Towson
Teagan Fingar - Penn Yan senior - Mt St. Mary *
Grady Goodberlet - HFL - sophomore
Grayson Hathway - Penn Yan freshman
Max Heick - Geneva senior - St John Fisher
Quinn Kailbourne - HFL senior - RIT
Carson Lich - Pal-Mac junior 
Mitchell Monte - Fairport senior Dartmouth *
Cooper Moore - Irondequoit Junior - USMA *
Will Rheude - Canandaigua senior - Loyola *
Eli Ricci - Victor freshman 
A.J. Theodorakakos - Penfield junior - USMA *
Will Thompson - Penn Yan senior
* All-Americans

Second Team

John Blair - Bloomfield-Honeoye - senior 
Mike Belles - Canandaigua - senior - Canisius
Turker Fisher - Penn Yan - junior
Domenic Giangreco - McQuaid Jesuit - junior - Georgetown
Sven Habitzreuther - Irondequoit - senior
Jackson Dennie - Pal-Mac - sophomore
Brodie Joyce - Penfield - junior - Providence
Drew O`Buck - Hilton - senior Hobart
Noah Olbrich - Aquinas - senior
Gavin Parks - Brighton - senior
Luke Ryan - Fairport - senior - USMA
Kyle Saeger - Victor - senior - Jacksonville
Brady Secker - Victor - senior - Binghamton
Mason Schembri - Penfield - junior 
Sam Thore - Irondequoit - junior 

Honorable Mention

Reid Diehl - Pal-Mac - sophomore
Griffin Hilimire - Mynderse - senior
Brady Goetz - Pittsford - senior - Tampa
Drew Ikewood - Pal-Mac - sophomore
Brody Kaye - Spencerport - sophomore
Oliver Kowal - Victor - junior 
Alex Pesante - Geneva - sophomore
AJ Quagrello - McQuaid Jesuit - senior - Tampa
Jase Smith - Gananda - senior - Alfred
Michael Thomas - Bloomfield-Honeoye - senior
Ryan Torrelli - Fairport - senior - Brockport
Zach Tortora -  Spencerport - junior - Canisius
Conner Tripp - Midlakes - senior
Avery Valenti - Pittsford - junior 
Drew Williamee - Canandaigua - senior

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Lacrosse Officials Year-End Awards

The Genesee Valley Lacrosse Officials Association closed out another successful season with its annual "Year-End Gathering," where officials were recognized for their hard work and commitment to the game. Over the course of the season, the association provided officiating services for 737 games, requiring an impressive 1,846 official assignments.

Mike Pitts received the coveted "Iron Man Award" for officiating the most games, tallying 35 matches. He was closely followed by nine officials who surpassed the 30-game mark, including John Littwitz and Jack Mekeel with 34 games, Brian Winslow with 32, and Chad Pino with 31.

The event also celebrated the contributions of 46 officials who worked the Section V Tournament this year. Among them, Chris Geng, Scott Maloney, and Luke Paulis had the honor of officiating New York State semifinal games in Cortland,while Dave Scutella, Tim Burgess, Geng, Maloney, and Paulis officiated the NYS Championship games at Hobart and William Smith College.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Section V Official of the Year Award by Mike Simon, the coordinator for Section V boys lacrosse. This award, initiated by Penfield Head Coach JJ Schembri, is determined by the head coaches of Section V, with nominees coming from each league. This year’s recipient was longtime official Chris Geng, honored for his dedication, strong work ethic, deep knowledge of the game, and commitment to mentorship. Simon remarked, "This award is special to me. It recognizes officials for their unwavering dedication to the sport."

In addition, two Service Awards were presented. Scott Maloney was recognized for his efforts in preparing officials for the experimental shot clock procedures introduced in New York State this season. Luke Paulis, vice president of the association, was also honored for his numerous hours of work assisting President Pete McCabe in organizing the season. McCabe praised Paulis for his dedication, stating, "I'd like to present this award to Luke for the incredible amount of work this year, on and off the field," which prompted a resounding ovation from attendees.

The final award of the evening was the prestigious Frank Mangione Award, which celebrates professionalism, leadership, passion, and respect for lacrosse. Named in honor of Frank Mangione, who served the association for over 40 years, this year’s recipient was Jim Malloy. Malloy, a past president of the organization, stepped up this season as an assignor at the last minute, and officiated many unexpected games, ensuring a smooth process for officials and games alike. His contributions earned him the loudest applause of the evening.

As the gathering came to a close, officials were encouraged to recruit new members for the next season, ensuring continued excellence in officiating for Section V boys lacrosse.

With another season in the books, the Genesee Valley Lacrosse Officials Association celebrated not only the numbers and milestones but the unwavering dedication of those who ensure the game is played with integrity and respect.

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Thanks to our 31 Donors

We had 43 Donations THIS YEAR. Did you send one? - Thanks

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USA Lacrosse All-Americans and All-Academics

*+The Head Coaches of Section V considered players who had been nominated for All-American and All-Academic awards. The awards identify some of the best players from each area around the country. Each of the head coaches in the Section is allowed to vote on each of the awards. The selections from our area were then submitted to the USA Lacrosse for final approval.

The All-American awards are given to excellent lacrosse players from the area. The national program allows one award for each six teams in the area but this year there were six awards available. Twenty-two players were nominated. Section V coaches require that players who are in leagues must make first team league honors in order to be considered.

For the All-Academic award, an emphasis has been placed on the academic qualification of the nominees, but players were required to be assets for their teams. Where, in the past, nominees for this award were first considered for their skill on this field, again this year, although skill was considered important, nominees did not need to be "All-American" quality players.Academically, nominees needed to have an average GPA of 3.7 (on a 4.0 scale). There were also six awards available in Section V and some players were nominated for both awards.

The Head Coaches also selected a USA Lacrosse Coach of the Year for NYS Section V. This year the coaches selected the Co-Coaches from Gates Chili, who have helped save the program and instill new enthusiasm for the sport. Glenn Pittman & Bill Lewis "increased the number of kids participating, made a schedule where they could find success and helped change a culture that may have been broken."

In 2012, USA Lacrosse added an award named for the long-time Johns Hopkins lacrosse coach and Athletic Director, Bob Scott. The annual award is given to a senior of outstanding character, good academic standing and one who demonstrates good sportsmanship and safe play. The winner from Section V, this year, is Jamison Brown, from Spencerport High School.

Head Coach, Bill Buttaro says, "Jamison Brown is the type of person and player that every coach would dream of coaching. A true team guy. Jamison's whole life he was a goalie, before the 2024 season, we were short on midfielders, I asked him to switch positions, and he started for us at midfield all season. This year he started the season back in goal for us, but as injuries mounted at halftime of the Hilton game, I asked him to play midfield again to get us through the game. Without hesitation or question he sprinted to our equipment room and changed his gear. Warmed up and off he went."

• Keegan Ahern- Pittsford senior Defenseman - Hofstra
  Head Coach Andrew Whipple  says: "Keegan Ahern is "the full package" when it comes to an athlete, leader, teammate and person. He is a highly skilled athlete with exceptional game IQ in the sport of lacrosse. This year Keegan led our team in ground balls, was routinely assigned to cover the opposing team's best mid-fielder and was on the wing for every face-off. Keegan is well-respected and admired by teammates of his own class as well as players at the younger levels. Our team will miss Keegan next year, and I have no doubt he will continue his successes during his lacrosse and academic career at Hofstra and beyond." 
  
  
• Teagan Fingar - Penn Yan senior midfielder - Mount Saint Mary
  Head Coach Brian Hobart says: "Teagan has been a starter in our program since the 8th grade. He has established himself as the hardest worker in our program during that time. He has been a mentor to many of our younger players and gives his time and energy to the youngest of players in our program. Little kids flock to him and his energy for the game.He will leave our program as one of the all time leading scorers and in the top 5 in most all offensive categories. He signed a letter of intent to attend Mt St Mary's University in the fall.
• Teagan has fought thru many challenges and never backed down from any of them. He embodies what it is to be a lacrosse player in Penn Yan." 
  
  
• Mitchell Monte - Fairport senior Attack/midfielder - Dartymouth
  Head Coach Mike Torrelli says: "Mitchell has a special instinct in the game of lacrosse that has allowed him to make plays most can't. He's done this every year he's played for us as a two way midfielder, one of the most demanding positions in lacrosse. This year, as an attackman, he's been able to showcase his ability as an offensive player. With athleticism, strength, speed, and unique dodging against the best defenders from every team, he is able to score with his hands free or under pressure. His humble demeanor and infectious work ethic have allowed him to succeed more and more each year, but also has set a standard for our entire program and community of student athletes." 
  
  
• Coooper Moore - Irondequoit junior attack/midfielder - West Point
  Head Coach Aaron Bottazzo says: "Cooper is an outstanding young man, and he is a top-notch lacrosse player as well. Cooper has been one of the top attackmen in Section V since the moment he played varsity as an 8th grader. He works hard all the time on and off the field and elevates his teammates as well. Cooper does everything in his power to improve and reach team success. Additionally, he executes at a high level and is one of, if not the top attackmen in Section V and has sustained success over that past 4 years at the varsity level and is only a Junior. Cooper was voted a captain by his teammates due to his relentless work ethic care for the team and the way he carries himself in the program and in the community. He is a great player and an even better person." 
  
  
• Will Rheude - Canandaigua senior defenseman - Loyola
  Head Coach Deven York says: "Will is going to Loyola on a scholarship to play lacrosse. He is extremely versatile and will play short stick defensive midfielder for them. For us he plays close an LSM defense, we always put him on the other teams best players and he has neutralized them when he is one on one. Will is a force between the lines, he stretches the field for us in transition. He stays on offense quite a bit and must be accounted for. He is great with the ball on the ground and plays wing of face offs. Will is invaluable on our team because of all the facets of the game he influences. He is a great student that is teachable and respectful. The strength of our team is how unified they are and this is a result of our leadership. Will doesn't call people out, he calls them in."
  
  
• AJ Theodorakakos - Penfield junior defenseman - West Point
  Head Coach John Schembri says: "
• Despite the title of being a captain he leads through example. A.J. epitomizes everything we ask of a Penfield Lacrosse Player. More than his unique skill set, his effort, physicality, work ethic, character and leadership are second to none. That is why it should be no surprise that he was selected to serve our country at the USMA at West Point after he graduates. We are blessed to have someone like A.J. as a leader in our program."
  
  

• Zachary Ajavananda - Spencerport senior midfielder - Uncommitted
  Head Coach Bill Buttaro says: "He works hard for everyone on the field and is a great teammate. He works hard, and speaks little. He has worked really hard to be the player he is today. Zac is a young man of incredible integrity. He does the right thing on the field, in the classroom and in our community. Zac has stepped up in a big way since our playoff run in 2024, and in 2025 he has done an incredible job in our offense, being one of our main ball handlers and scorers. I am excited to see what Zac can achieve in the next Chapter of his life." 
  
  
• Ryan Bremer - Canandaigua senior midfielder - RIT
  Head Coach Deven York says: "When I took over as Varsity coach in 2017 I did a lax rat challenge for our youth where they had to record minutes on the wall. Ryan won that as a 9 year old. He loves the game of lacrosse. He is always calm, measured and has a smile on his face. He is not a me guy, he only cares about the success of the team and will do whatever is asked. A joy to coach and an incredible teammate and leader. He is a friend to all and is a major reason our team plays together and selfless. Ryan is the role model for our program. "
  
  
• Max Heieck - Geneva senior midfielder - St John Fisher University
  Head Coach Jeff Dunham says, "Max is the very definition of a balanced lacrosse player. He was the Finger Lakes Attackman of the Year as a Junior and as of writing this he has 136 career goals and 116 career assists for a total of 254 career points, which ranks in the top 3 in Geneva`s 103 year history. Max has been a leader this season and for the past several years. He organizes pickup sessions, mentors younger players, and leads by example in the classroom. He plays whatever role he needs to play to help his team win. Off the field, Max is a member of the National Honor Society, a volunteer for the Geneva Half-Marathon, and a mentor to incoming freshman through our school`s Link Crew organization."
  
  
• Drew O`Buck - Hilton senior midfielder/Face Off - Hobart
  Head Coach Tim Byrnes says, "Drew has been a mainstay on varsity since his Freshman season. He has put in the work to become the great player that he is. He was named 1st team all county last year and I expect the same this year. He continuously works to improve his craft as well as make the players around him better. He is self driven to find success, his leadership and skill has not only help him on the high school field but it will also lead to his success at the next level when he heads to Hobart College. Drew O'Buck is everything you want in a All American."
  
  
• Michael Thomas - Bloomfield-Honeoye senior defenseman - Uncommitted
  Head Coach Joe Sidarie says, "Last year as a junior Michael earned first team all-league honors. As a sophomore, He earned 3rd team all-legaue honors. This year he will be up for defensemen of the year for our league.

  Michael has maintained a 98.04 unwieghted GPA and a 99.46 weighted GPA throughout his high school academic career. He has taken a rigorous courseload all through high school and has completed 8 AP or IB classes including 3 during his senior year and mulitple FLCC GEMINI college courses as well. He will be attending Fisher and persuing a degree in Pharmacy."

• Will Thompson - Penn Yan senior Goalie - Uncommitted
  Head CoachBrian Hobart says, "Will is an outstanding young man. He is a valuable member of our school community and leads by example. He is trustworthy and sincere in his approach to the game and his academic endeavors. He has an outstanding record of behavior in his academic career and chose to turn down a division I scholarship to pursue his academic goals. He is the captain of our defense and leads in a vocal manner. He is willing to address tough issues and assist his teammates in growing. Even when he has been injured he remained supportive and echoing the coaches messages."

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2025 Seniors Get One More Game

Greater Rochester Lacrosse , formerly, the Rochester Chapter of USA Lacrosse has announced the15th Annual Herb Fitch and Chris Barnes Lacrosse All Star Game player selections. This year's contest, featuring some of the best of the graduating seniors will be held on Thursday, June 16th at Victor High School. The boys' game will start at 6:00 PM and the girls' play at 8:00 PM.

"Whether you’re a player, coach, parent, or fan, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Let’s come together as a community to honor our seniors and grow the future of the sport we love. FOOD TRUCKS, VENDORS AND RAFFLES ON SITE!!"

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Penn Yan Wins NYS Championship

DAY IN REVIEW: SATURDAY - Penn Yan staged an incredible comeback to claim their second-ever NYS Championship with an 11-8 victory over Chenango Forks, overcoming an early 3-0 deficit with a dominant second half. Teagan Fingar led the charge with a stunning 7 goals and 2 assists, playing a role in nearly all of Penn Yan’s scoring. After trailing 5-2 at halftime, the Mustangs unleashed a five-goal third-quarter run to take their first lead, followed by a decisive fourth-quarter push to seal the win. Meanwhile, Garden City secured their 10th championship in dominant fashion, shutting down Canandaigua early and racing to a 12-0 lead before finishing with a commanding 14-5 victory. 

CHENAGO FORKS-8 at PENN YAN-11- Penn Yan captured their second-ever NYS Championship with an 11-8 victory over Chenango Forks, overcoming an early 3-0 deficit to dominate the second half. Teagan Fingar led the charge with an impressive 7 goals and 2 assists, contributing to 9 of Penn Yan’s 11 total goals. After a strong first half from Chenango Forks, including a 5-2 halftime lead powered by Bauer Maus’ 4 goals, the Mustangs turned the tide with a five-goal run in the third quarter to take their first lead. The fourth quarter belonged to Penn Yan as they outscored Chenango Forks 4-1, with decisive goals from T. Fingar and B. Fingar securing the victory. Senior goalie Will Thompson made 15 crucial saves, keeping Penn Yan in the fight early on. This championship marks their first NYS title since winning the Class C championship in 2001.     [ Story and BOX SCORE]   - - Many More images in the extended photo gallery.

GARDEN CITY-14 at CANANDAIGUA-5 - Garden City dominated the NYS Championship game, securing their 10th title with a commanding 14-5 victory over Canandaigua. The Trojans set the tone early, scoring the first 12 goals of the game and holding the Gray Wolves scoreless through halftime. Junior Charlie Koester led the offensive charge with 3 goals and 3 assists, while sophomore Anthony Asaro (4g-1a) and freshman Ben Smith (3g) also delivered standout performances. Canandaigua fought back in the second half, with AJ Sterman, Drew Williamee, Patrick Olvany, and Jack Stanney contributing to their five-goal effort, but the deficit proved too large to overcome. The victory marked Garden City’s second title in three years, while Canandaigua closed out their season at 19-3, reflecting on a strong campaign despite falling short in their third state finals appearance.    [ Story and BOX SCORE]   - - More images in the photo gallery.

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