By Jim Hintelmann
RUMSON – A good case can be made that the Shore Conference A Division Central is the best in the state with St. John Vianney, Rumson-Fair Haven and NJSIAA Tournament of Champions winner Manasquan all ranked in the top 10 in the state.
Although losing its first two games to Manasquan and St. John Vianney, Rumson –Fair Haven coach George Sourlis still expects another solid season.
“I’m still optimistic because it is early in the season,” said Sourlis, who has a 631-194 record in his 30 years at Rumson. “We just need to improve on a few things and execute better in the backcourt.”
Returning starters from last year’s 17-6 team (five of the losses were close games to either SJV and Manasquan), are Stephanie Lesko, who missed the first two games because of an injury but should be back shortly, Nicole Morris, Lindsey Morris and Tori Hyduke.
The leading newcomers include Holmdel transfer Christina Antonakis and Madison MaGuire.
With every player back from last year’s NJSIAA Non Public A championship team, St. John Vianney will be a state power once again, and could even be a bit stronger this year.
The Lady Lancers have been slowed down a bit because of pre-season injuries to DePaul-bound Kelly Campbell along with several other players, but SJV’s depth should be enough to keep winning until those players are back.
Other top players back are Kelli Crouch, Gabrielle Caponegro, Vanessa Pinho, Kimi Evans, Tina LaBron and Zoe Pero
Mater Dei Prep graduated five seniors totaling over 40 points and 20 rebounds per game, but coach Brian Laux expects a winning season in the B Division Central.
“The team will be helped by four veteran players from Cardinal McCarrick (which closed last winter),” said Laux. “Our overall athleticism and depth will allow us to play an up-tempo style and pressure man-to-man defense. The team will be very competitive and exciting to watch.”
Leading players returning are Maggie Klatt, Cassidy Stimpson, Jill Williams, Mandy Devaney, Jennifer Quigley and Jayme Lewandowski. Key newcomers are Maria Wise, Victoria Zayas, Samantha Napoli, Alyssa Pipitone, Valarie Zoda and Eyanni Tapia.
Shore Regional hopes to improve on last year’s 6-14 record with Morgan Bohnert, Allie Reiser, Erika Ruscil, Jackie Shapiro, Breeana Jackson and Brittany Sawyer all having seen varsity action a year ago.
