Hayley Krockta, who drove in the game-winning run, celebrates after scoring Taunton’s second run in a 2-0 state semifinal win over rival KP. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)
DARTMOUTH, Mass. – One of the things that has made Taunton a perennial state title contender is its depth. There are no weak links. Even when you shut down the stars, the players that regularly steal the headlines, someone else is there to deliver the big hit or make the big play in the field.
That was on display again Thursday afternoon at UMass Dartmouth. Facing its biggest rival, in a state semifinal, Taunton’s ability to get contributions throughout the lineup proved decisive.
Hayley Krockta and Brooke Aldrich delivered the run-scoring hits, Sam Lincoln continued her stellar season in the circle, and freshman Mia Torres and eighth grader Bella Bourque made timely plays in the field, as Taunton pulled out a 2-0 win against King Philip (23-3) that decided the season series between the Kelley-Rex co-champs and sends Taunton to its third straight state title game.
“All our players are producing,” said Taunton coach Michelle Raposo. “Kids deeper in the lineup have produced a lot for us offensively. It means a lot that these kids, one through nine in the batting order, fight for each other. That’s what makes a team so great, the camaraderie here. I’m just so proud of this team.”
It’s not unusual for this rivalry to extend beyond the league campaign and the regular season. These teams have established themselves as among the most consistent programs in the state and produce teams and games worthy of a state title game, not just a semifinal.
“They’re my favorite game of the year,” said Krockta. “It’s probably the best softball we see in Massachusetts. It’s amazing to play them every year.”
KP coach Kate Fallon Comeau said, “This was a definitely a state title battle. Arguably two of the best teams in the state going head-to-head for the third time this season.”
Freshman McCoy Walsh got off to a shaky start in the top of the first. Having allowed only one run in the postseason so far, Walsh started the game with a strikeout but then walked Bourque and Ava Venturelli. Bourque attempted to steal third and appeared to beat Maddie Paschke’s throw only for Ava Kelley to stay with the eighth grader as she slid just past the bag. It was a big second out and Walsh escaped unscathed on a pop up wide of first.
Lincoln also had a tough start to the game. Sarah Cullen led off by lining a single into left. A one-out walk to Libby Walsh put two on, but Lincoln followed with her first strikeout of the day and then got a grounder to Bourque at third to end the inning.
The pitchers settled in after that first frame, turning the game into the expected low-scoring duel. Walsh fanned a pair of batters in the second and Lincoln struck out one and got a pair of grounders. Walsh was even better in the third, striking out the side. Lincoln got the first batter of the third looking and then induced a pair of grounders to second baseman Mia Fernandes to make it eight straight batters retired.
With one out in the fourth, Venturelli drew her second walk of the game. The Louisville-commit hit a pair of homers in the first meeting between the teams and missed the second, so it was no surprise to see the Warriors pitch carefully to the Taunton slugger.
Kaysie DeMoura, who was the hero with two homers in last year’s state semifinal against Methuen, dropped down a sac bunt, which Walsh showed great agility to field and turn into an out, moving the runner into scoring position with two outs. Krockta delivered. She looped a ball into shallow left that Charlotte Raymond nearly snagged on the slide but it dropped just in front for a hit.
“That’s all I was looking for,” Krockta said about her game-winning hit. “The first at-bat she had been working me in and out, so I wanted to drive that outside [pitch] but when she came on the inside I wanted it and just put the barrel on it as best I could and it thankfully fell in.”
The ball got away from Raymond, allowing Krockta to advance to second. Aldrich followed with a bloop hit of her own, finding space in shallow center. Krockta slid in just ahead of Cullen’s throw for a 2-0 advantage.
Lincoln made quick work of KP in the bottom half of the inning, helped by a nifty backhand stab by Fernandes at second.
“Sam’s really, really, really good,” Krockta said. “I love Sam in the circle, but also it’s the defense behind her. They had to help a lot too, so that’s always good to have. Being up 2-0 we just want to limit their base runners.”
Taunton had an opportunity to put the game away in the fifth. Case transfer Morgan Fitzgerald lined a leadoff single to center. Torres dropped down a perfect sac bunt and reached on a throwing error, which allowed both runners to get into scoring position with no outs. This was the chance to break things open, but Walsh locked in. The rookie struck out the next three batters to get out of the jam and keep KP within two.
Momentum was short-lived, as Lincoln struck out the side in the bottom of the inning. Aldrich smacked a two-out double off the wall in left in the sixth but Walsh came back with a strikeout.
“We gave up two kind of bloop singles and the hardest hit ball of the day didn’t result in anything,” Fallon Comeau said about Walsh. “It’s a tough pill to swallow. She threw a great game, just feel bad that we weren’t able to get any runs to back up that wonderful performance she had.”
Jordan Bennett gave KP life to start the sixth. She beat out an infield hit to leadoff the inning. Liv Petrillo dropped down a sac bunt to move Bennett into scoring position. After a strikeout, Libby Walsh lined a single to center. The throw to the plate forced Bennett to hold and allowed Walsh to advance to second. Not getting a run home was costly, as Lincoln struck out the next batter to keep the shutout.
The Tigers nearly added an insurance run in the seventh. Fitzgerald had her second hit of the game, a single into right, and moved to second on a Torres bunt. Kyleah Plumb also dropped down a bunt and McCoy Walsh hesitated allowing both runners to be safe.
Bourque hit a fly ball out to left, which looked like it might be deep enough to score the run. Raymond threw a dart to home and Fitzgerald’s slide took her past not only the tag, but also the plate. Paschke stayed with the runner and secured the out.
KP needed base runners and Kelley nearly provided one but Torres came flying in and made a nice grab on the sinking liner for the first out. A grounder to Bourque put the Tigers on the brink and Lincoln closed out the game with her 10th strikeout, sending Taunton flying off the bench and on its way back to Amherst for the state title game.
“For the whole season we stuck with the ‘take it one game at a time, one pitch, one inning’ and we just wanted to continue that for the entire season,” Krockta explained. “Ultimately, our goal was to get back to the state final, but we wanted to stay humble and stay with it the entire way.”
Raposo added, “Just because we’ve been there doesn’t mean we don’t want it again. I think we want it more having been there and knowing what it feels like. To be able to go back for a third time in a row is uncommon, so they need to realize that we’ve had a lot of success so far, but we need to produce for one more game.”
Taunton (23-1) will face No. 1 Central Catholic at UMass Amherst’s Sortino Field on Sunday at 12:00.
Baseball Division 1
#17 Walpole, 2 @ #1 Franklin, 5 – Final – A four-run fifth inning helped Franklin land a comeback win over an upset-minded Walpole team. The visitors built a two-run lead by scoring once in each the second and third innings, and kept Franklin in check for the first four innings. Eisig Chin reached on an error in the fourth inning to score Ryan Gerety (single), and Henry Digiorgio did the same to bring Jase Lyons (fielder’s choice) home to make it 2-2. An RBI single from Ben Jarosz brought Chin home for the go-ahead run and Luke Sidwell’s squeeze bunt plated Digiorgio to make it 4-2. Chin added a sac fly in the sixth to score Rex Cinelli (single) to add an insurance run for Franklin. Austin Campbell impressed in six innings of work, allowing two runs on seven hits and one walk, striking out six for the win. Dillon Cashin needed just 10 pitches to retire the side in order in the seventh to get the save. #1 Franklin will host #9 Bridgewater-Raynham on Saturday at 6:00.
#11 Milford, 1 @ #6 St. John’s Shrewsbury, 2 – Final
#15 Mansfield, 6 @ #2 Leominster, 2 – Final – Mansfield jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the top of the first inning and never trailed to earn an upset of second-seed Leominster on the road. A leadoff double from senior Conner Zukowski followed by an RBI double from junior Jake Maydak set the tone for the Hornets, who jumped out to a lead just two at-bats into the game. Two batters later, junior Matt DeShiro smacked a two-run home run to right and just like that the Hornets had a 3-0 lead. Leominster got on the board with a solo home run in the second but a two-out RBI single from sophomore Luke Rogan brought Drew Urban home to restore the three-run lead. Senior Aiden Jones delivered a huge double in the sixth inning to plate a pair of runs (Wyatt Bolduc, Urban) to extend the lead to 6-1. Leominster got one back in the sixth and had two runners on in the seventh by Maydak finished the complete game by inducing an infield grounder. Maydak struck out three, allowing two runs on six hits and four walks for the win. #15 Mansfield will be on the road against #10 St. Mary’s on a date and time to be announced.
Softball Division 1
#19 Franklin, 0 @ #3 Taunton, 3 – Final – A three-run fourth inning proved to be plenty of offense for Taunton junior Sam Lincoln, who tossed a complete game shutout to lift the Tigers over league rival Franklin in a playoff showdown. Kaysie Demoura led off the fourth with a single and came home to score after a bunt from Hayley Krockta and an infield error. Brooke Aldrich, who was hit by a pitch, and Morgan Fitzgerald (fielder’s choice) also scored in the inning after a Franklin error. Bella Bourque and Ava Venturelli each had a pair of hits for the Tigers; Lincoln scattered three hits and didn’t issue a walk while striking out 12 batters for the win. Kiera Kotwicki, Katy Liberman, and Dana Stott each had a hit for Franklin. Kotwicki was strong in the circle, allowing two runs (one earned) one five hits and no walks; freshman Sophia Sacramone gave up just one unearned run on one hit and one walk, striking out one in three innings. #3 Taunton will host #11 Woburn on Friday night at 7:00.
#10 Attleboro, 4 @ #7 Bishop Feehan, 7 – Final
#15 Chelmsford, 0 @ #2 King Philip, 3 – Final – King Philip freshman Ali Gill launched a two-run home run in the first inning and freshman pitcher McCoy Walsh had another stellar showing in the circle as the Warriors blanked Chelmsford. Walsh, who finished with a dozen strikeouts, retired three in a row in strikes after a leadoff walk in the first inning and in the bottom half, senior Sarah Cullen led off with a single and Gill followed with a bomb to right field for an early 2-0 lead. A two-out single from Charlotte Raymond kept the third inning going, Ava Kelley followed with a base hit, and Liv Petrillo drove one up the middle to bring Raymond home to make it 3-0. Chelmsford threatened in the fourth when the fitst three batters reached to load the base with no outs but Walsh induced a grounder to third and Kelley fired home for the force out. After a strikeout, Walsh got another infield grounder for the third out. #2 King Philip will host #7 Bishop Feehan on Friday night at 7:00.
Division 2
#12 Nashoba, 1 @ #5 North Attleboro, 4 – Final – Behind another stellar performance from Kelley Colleran, North advanced to the Div. 2 quarterfinal for the second consecutive year. Colleran struck out 18 and allowed four hits and one run. Just like in the first round, North got off to a quick start at the plate. In the first, Colleran and Maryellen Charette drew walks (Grace Forman running for the catcher). A passed ball moved them both into scoring position and Emma Hanwell doubled to make it 2-0. In the third, Molly Willey singled with two outs and Charette drew another free pass. Hanwell also walked and Lucy Palmer came up with a clutch single to score a pair.
Boys Lacrosse
Division 2
#9 Mansfield, 6 @ #8 Walpole, 14 – Final –In a tough, physical game, the Hornets couldn’t overcome six penalties and fell to the Timberwolves. Freshman Andrew DeGirolamo had a big game offensively with three goals and two assists. Andrew Burnham and freshmen Tommy Vallett and Nico Smith all scored once, with Smith adding a pair of assists. Cody Gordon set up one of the goals. Ryan DeGirolamo finished with 16 saves in the loss.
Boys Tennis
Division 2
#22 Nauset, 0 @ #6 Sharon, 5 – Final – Sharon took care of business, dispatching visiting Nauset with a clean sweep — all in straight sets. Sophomore Jacob Slavsky emerged from a hard-fought first singles match with a 7-5, 7-6 (5) win, junior Matthew Lally dominated on his way to a 6-1, 6-0 verdict, and junior Alex Budovalcev rolled to a 6-1, 6-1 victory at third singles. In doubles action, the sophomore tandem of Sava Kassev and Joel Zwicker only dropped a single game in a 6-0, 6-1 win while seniors Hyojae Park and Savir Basil were victorious at second doubles (6-2, 6-2). #6 Sharon will travel to the Winchester Tennis Club on Friday to take on #3 Concord-Carlisle at 4:00.
Girls Tennis
Division 2
#11 North Attleboro, 2 @ #6 Sharon, 3 – Final – In a battle of Hockomock League division champions, it was the Davenport’s Sharon that edged out the Kelley-Rex’s North Attleboro to advance to the Division 2 Round of 8. The Rocketeer won at first and second singles with Lauren Hunt (6-2, 6-1) and Megan Atwood (5-7, 6-4, 17-15) taking wins, but the Eagles got one victory at third singles and swept doubles to win the match. Senior Ale Aguilar picked up a 6-4, 6-1 third singles victory, the team of seniors Abby Vilk and Sophia Oh landed a 6-2, 6-4 first doubles win, and the team of sophomores Jenny Sand and Olivia Landstein secured a 6-1, 6-1 verdict at second doubles.
Baseball Division 1
#32 Lexington, 1 @ #1 Franklin, 5 – Final – Franklin jumped out to an early lead and Alfred Mucciarone took care of the rest as the Panthers started their postseason run with a win over Lexington. The Panthers plated a pair in the bottom of the first inning and tacked on three more in the second inning. Mucciarone allowed just one unearned run on five hits and two walks, striking out 10 in a complete game effort for the win. A two-out walk from Eisig Chin sparked the hosts in the first inning; Chin stole second and came home to score after a single from junior Henry Digiorgio, who made it all the way to third after an error. Ben Jarosz followed with a base hit of his own to bring Digiorgio home for an early 2-0 lead. After Mucciarone retired the side in order in the top of the second, Franklin cashed in with two outs once again in the bottom half. Rex Cinelli singled and Ryan Gerety singled, and after a wild pitch and a stolen base helped moved the runners along, Jase Lyons delivered a clutch hit with a two-run single. Chin was hit by a pitch, Digiorgio singled to load the bases, and Jarosz brought another run in with a walk. Top-seeded Franklin will host #17 Walpole on Wednesday at 7:00.
#31 Durfee, 4 @ #2 Taunton, 9 – Final – A five-run second inning helped the Tigers establish an early advantage and Taunton went on to earn its third win over the Hilltoppers this season. Dwayne Burgo smacked a two-out, two-run single to center to hand Taunton a 2-0 lead after an inning, and after sophomore Johnny Escobalez worked around a two-out single in the top of the second, the Tigers erupted for five runs in the bottom half. Braden Sullivan tripled in Andrew Cali (leadoff single) and then came home to score on Brayden Cali’s sacrifice fly to make it 4-0. Ryan MacDougall kept the inning alive with a two-out single, AJ Lewis followed with a walk, and courtesy runner Jared Spencer came home to score on another RBI single from Burgo. Sean Murphy was hit by a pitch to load the bases and Shawn Cali was also hit, bringing a run home. A passed ball brought Burgo home to make it 7-0. Escobalez pitched well in a no decision, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks, striking out six in 3.1 innings of work. Brady Morin earned the win in relief, allowing one run on five hits in 2.2 innings, striking out one. #2 Taunton will host the winner of #15 Natick and #18 Springfield Central.
#22 Beverly, 0 @ #11 Milford, 2 – Final – Milford senior Evan Cornelius dazzled on the mound, leading the Scarlet Hawks to a shutout win over visiting Beverly. Cornelius was close to untouchable on the night as he allowed just one hit — a one-out single in the second that was erased at second — and didn’t issue a walk, striking out 13 for the win. The Hawks cashed in for two runs in the first inning and that was all the run support Cornelius needed. Damien Carter had a one-out walk and scored on a big double from Keith Lee. After Beverly got the second out, Louis Consigli came through with a clutch hit to right to bring Lee home to make it it 2-0. #11 Milford will travel to #6 St. John’s Shrewsbury on Wednesday at 4:00.
#18 Westboro, 3 @ #15 Mansfield, 4 – Final – Junior Drew Urban delivered the big hit in the sixth inning as the Hornets secured a close win over upset-minded Westboro. Mansfield jumped ahead 3-0 with a big fifth inning but the momentum didn’t last as the visiting Rangers rallied for three runs in the top of the sixth to tie the game. In the bottom of the sixth, senior Will Lund kept the inning alive with a two-out walk and then came scampering home when Urban launched a double deep to left field to make it 4-3. Connor Curtis (7 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 2 BB, 5 K) worked around a leadoff walk in the top of the seventh to get three straight outs to close the game out. Lund and Urban helped ignite Mansfield’s big fifth inning as Lund had a one-out walk and Urban doubled. Aiden Jones drove in the first run of the game with a single up the middle, Jake Maydak scored courtesy runner Kyle Marnikovic after reaching on an error, and Sam Martin made it 3-0 with a two-out single to left to bring Conner Zukowski home. #15 Mansfield will travel to #2 Leominster on Wednesday at 6:30 at Doyle Field.
#19 North Attleboro, 2 @ #14 Duxbury, 1 – Final – North Attleboro’s Jordan Paradis and Dillon Harding combined to deliver a strong pitching performance as the Rocketeers landed an upset on the road against Duxbury. Paradis allowed one run on just two hits, walking five and striking out six in five solid innings to earn the win while Harding tossed two shutout innings in relief, issuing just two walks with no hits against. Offensively, North scored once in the third and once in the fourth; the Dragons’ lone run came in the bottom of the fourth. Paradis got it done on the offensive end as well, smacking a solo home run to right field in the third to hand North the lead. In the fourth, Jack Munley and Chris Hanewich had back-to-back singles and Nate Kelly walked to load the bases. Reed Collins grounded into a fielder’s choice with the force out at second but Munley came home to score to make it 2-0. Duxbury put the tying run on with a two-out walk in the seventh but Harding induced a grounder to Zach Corsetti at short for the final out. #19 North Attleboro returns to familiar territory as they will travel to Wrentham to take on Hock rival #3 King Philip on Wednesday at 3:45.
Division 3
#38 Watertown, 0 @ #6 Foxboro, 1 – Final – Foxboro’s first inning run proved to be enough for the Warriors in a tight 1-0 win over visiting Watertown. Tyler Prescott led off the bottom of the first with a walk and made his way to third after a pair of outs from the Warriors. That set the stage for sophomore Ryan O’Leary, who delivered the biggest hit of the game with an RBI single to center. O’Leary took care of business from there as he allowed just four hits, walking one with five strikeouts in five scoreless innings on the mound. Senior Sean O’Leary came in and tossed a scoreless seventh inning for the save, working around a one-out single with back-to-back strikeouts to end it. #6 Foxboro will host #22 Archbishop Williams on a date and time to be announced.
Softball Division 1
#35 Wellesley, 1 @ #3 Taunton, 13 – Final (5 Inn.) – Taunton started its playoff run with a bang, earning a mercy-rule win over visiting Wellesley. The Tigers scored three runs in the first, four more in the second inning, five more times in the fourth, and plated one in the fifth. Mia Torres led the offensive charge as she went 3-for-3 with two RBI and a run, Bella Bourque (2 RBI, 2 runs) and Morgan Fitzgerald (RBI, run) each added two hits, and Ava Venturelli drove in a pair and scored twice for Taunton. Sam Lincoln was strong once again in the circle, allowing one unearned run on two hits and no walks, striking out 12 in five innings. #3 Taunton will host Hock rival #19 Franklin, who upset Westford Academy, on Wednesday at 7:00.
#19 Franklin, 12 @ #14 Westford Academy, 2 – Final – A six-run second inning set the tone as Franklin upset Westford Academy in convincing fashion with a 12-2 win. The Panthers had five of their 17 hits in the second inning, resulting in an early 6-0 lead over the Grey Ghosts. Reece Allen (double) and Katy Liberman (error) both came to score on a one-out double from Dana Stott, who came home to score on an RBI from Avery Chalk. Sarah Boozang delivered a big two-out single to bring another run home and Carly Johnson-Pellegri followed with a two-run home run to center to stake a 6-0 lead. Westford Academy got on the board with a run in the bottom half, and tacked on another in the third, but Franklin scored once in the fourth, pulled away with four runs in the fifth, and tacked on another insurance run in the fifth. Boozang finished 4-for-5 with three RBI and a run, Kiera Kotwicki (two runs) and Chalk (four RBI, run) each chipped in with three hits, and Allen (two doubles) and Stott (two RBI, two runs) each had two hits. Kotwicki allowed two runs (one earned) in the start, scattering six hits and one walk, striking out three in three innings. Sophia Sacramone closed the door with four scoreless innings in relief, allowing three hits and no walks while fanning five batters. #19 Franklin takes on a familiar foe in the next round as the Panthers will travel to #3 Taunton on Wednesday at 7:00.
#28 Milford @ #5 Peabody – Postponed to Tuesday, 6/6 at 5:00.
Boys Lacrosse Division 1
#29 Methuen, 0 @ #4 Franklin, 20 – Final – Franklin came out flying in its playoff opening, finding the back of the net 13 times in the first quarter on its way to a convincing win over Methuen. Tyler Sacchetti had three goals and three assists in the Panthers’ big first period while Luke Davis scored a hat trick. Jayden Consigli (one assist) and junior Dylan McEvoy (three assists) each chipped in with a pair of goals for Franklin. #4 Franklin will host the winner of #13 Needham and #20 Natick, who are playing on Tuesday, on Thursday at 6:00.
#27 Oliver Ames, 5 @ #6 Scituate, 17 – Final – Oliver Ames kept it close in the first half and trailed by just three at the break but the hosts pulled away with a strong second half. Ben Reardon had a hat trick for the Tigers while Shaun Teehan and Victor Romeiro each scored once.
#20 Canton, 7 @ #13 Plymouth South, 9 – Final
#17 Tantasqua, 8 @ #16 Sharon, 11 – Final
#19 North Attleboro, 10 @ #14 Westwood, 18 – Final
Division 3
#19 Holliston, 4 @ #14 Foxboro, 12 – Final – Foxboro picked up where it left off, finishing off a game started last week and landing a 12-4 win over visiting Holliston. Jon Sachetti led the charge offensively with four goals and one assist, Tony Sulham netted a hat trick, Conor Noone added three points with two goals and one helper, and freshman Cam Deleskey found the back of the net once. Adam Addeche made eight saves in the win. #14 Foxboro will travel to #3 Newburyport on Tuesday at 5:00.
Girls Lacrosse Division 1
#18 King Philip, 6 @ #15 North Andover, 11 – Final – King Philip’s tournament run was cut short as the Warriors fell on the road to North Andover. Makenzie McDevitt, Nikki McDonald, and Abby MacDonald each scored twice while Kelly Holmes played well on the draw and registered two assists for KP. Senior Ilah Weiblen had a strong game on defense and Emily Campbell played well in net.
Division 2
#28 Oliver Ames, 8 @ #5 Leominster, 18 – Final
#18 Canton, 5 @ #15 Billerica, 14 – Final
Boys Tennis Division 2
#22 Nauset @ #6 Sharon – Postponed to Wednesday, 6/7 at 3:45.
#13 Mansfield, 0 @ #4 Hingham, 5 – Final
Division 3
#14 Foxboro @ #3 Dover-Sherborn – Postponed to Tuesday, 6/6 at 3:00.
Girls Tennis Division 3
#18 Wilmington @ #15 Foxboro – Postponed to Tuesday, 6/6 at 3:00 at the Woburn Racquet Club.
Taunton has won back-to-back D1 state titles and the Tigers will be among the favorites to bring home another championship this spring. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com) By HockomockSports.com Staff
2022 Record: 15-7 2022 Finish: Reach Div. 1 Sweet Sixteen Coach: Mark Homer
Attleboro is hoping a mix of experienced veterans and skilled newcomers will keep the squad playing competitively in the best league in the state, and more specifically maybe the most talented division across any sport in the league.
Senior Lily Routhier returns to the circle after going 8-2 last season, striking out 47 with a 2.24 ERA during the regular season. Routhier will likely see an increase in innings with the graduation of Lindsey Perry (69 innings), and she’s also one of the best offensive weapons in the league after posting a 0.510 average (fourth in the Hock) with 41 hits and 45 RBI. There are a lot of weapons in the lineup back with senior captains Rylie Camacho (0.410) and Lauren Eby (0.490) leading the way, and senior Sarah Maher, fresh off a 36-hit, 22-RBI regular season, will take over in center field and set the table offensively from the leadoff spot. Paige Quaglia, Merry Bosh, Lilly McGilvray, Jenna Callahan, and Nina Sullivan are all in the mix to get some time in the outfield and provide offensive depth.
In the infield, there are some newcomers looking to find a spot in the lineup. Maddie Moran and Victoria Parent are in the mix for time at third base while Emily Eby, who had an impressive freshman campaign with 20 hits, will play at second base. Destiny Miranda is also competing for time behind the dish while Ari Amaral will continue to be a force with her bat in the lineup.
“Things will not change for us as far as offense and defense, and we will work to be consistent and continue to improve as the season goes on,” said Attleboro head coach Mark Homer. “We want to be at our best when the competition calls for it and find positives in all adversity that we will face during the season. We want to continue the success we had as a team last season and improve. Every game will be a challenge for us.”
2022 Record: 4-16 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Sandy Lombardi
With seven returning players, Canton coach Sandy Lombardi is confident that the Bulldogs can make a jump in her second year in charge. Playoff contention is the aim for a team that won only four games in 2022 but also lost four games by four runs or less, including a pair by just one run.
Junior first baseman and pitcher Jess Wright was the team’s MVP last season and she returns to the heart of the lineup along with senior catcher Olivia Mackwell. The pair combined for 48 hits and 30 RBI last season, so will be important pieces in the heart of the order. Also returning for the Bulldogs are junior shortstop Laura Valkanas, sophomore infielder Chloe Guerschuny, and an outfield of junior Anna Lehan and sophomores Klara Redquest and Kailyn Durham. Senior Abby Chin carries an injury into the season but Canton will hope that she can return to contribute.
Canton is hoping that a group of newcomers will add the depth it needs to compete over a long season. Junior Alexa Gordon and freshman Shaelyn Murphy can both step into the circle to give the Bulldogs big innings. Freshmen Abby Stock and Caitlin Reynolds and junior Sami Grady can all fill spots in the infield and junior Kaitlyn Bigham is a versatile player off the bench.
“We have a great mix of returning varsity players and new varsity players,” Lombardi said. “We are looking to improve on our record from last year and to qualify for the tournament.”
2022 Record: 12-10 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 3 Sweet Sixteen Coach: Mark Maguire
It has been over 51 years since Foxboro last won a softball league title, but with experienced pitchers and a versatile lineup of players who can fill in at multiple positions, this might be the season that the Warriors can finally come out on top.
Pitching depth should be a strength for the Warriors this season. Sophomore Vittoria Cuscia was a league all-star after being Foxboro’s ace last year and classmate Emma Callahan was an all-star as an eighth grader. Despite their youth, both pitchers have already won games in the postseason. Both players will also fill in at third base. Sophomore Ava Hill, who is already entering her third season on varsity, will move from first to behind the plate.
The Warriors should be athletic this year. Freshman Meghan Kelley will get the start at short, the latest in a line of talented underclassmen to step into that position, and will bat third. Freshman Mia Flanagan and sophomore Autumn Stowell can each play second base, while junior Angelina Rifai, sophomore Natalia Leach, and Stowell will get time at first. The outfield is experienced with all three starters returning. In left is Leach, while sophomore Jillian Slattery is back in center, and junior Fiona Dunn will be in right. All three will also be in the middle of the order for the Warriors. Freshman Emma Fisler will get chances to contribute in multiple positions.
“Our strengths are our young, tough pitchers,” said Foxboro coach Mark Maguire. “We are very athletic in the outfield and we have pretty good team speed. Although we are a young team, mostly freshman and sophomores, this group has been ‘battle tested’ the last couple of years playing significant games in the Hockomock League and state tournaments.”
2022 Record: 11-10 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Round of 32 Coach: Breanna Shaffer
Last season, Franklin won nine games in the league, but was only able to take fourth in the Kelley-Rex division. This year, the addition of North Attleboro makes the division even deeper, but the Panthers will turn to King Philip alum, and two-time state champion, Breanna Shaffer and lean on an experienced lineup to try and make a push up the standings.
The Panthers will have plenty of pitching depth this year. Senior Kiera Kotwicki returns in the circle and has the experience of battling the top teams in the league. Senior Caroline Bruso and freshman Sophia Scaramone will also get their chances to toe the rubber. Senior catcher Hailey Fales will guide the pitching staff as well as being a big bat in the heart of the Franklin lineup.
Junior Carly Johnson-Pellegri is coming off a breakout sophomore campaign and returns at short. Senior Katy Liberman is back at third base, while sophomore Sarah Boozang takes over at first base and junior Katie Dowley will be at second. Seniors Reece Allen and Dana Stott are back as starting outfielders and classmate Avery Chalk will step into the outfield as well.
“This group of seniors work hard and lead by example every day,” said Shaffer, who previously coached JV at Canton and Sharon. “The leadership and experience that they bring to this team will leave such a positive impact on this program. I am excited to see what this team will accomplish this season!”
2022 Record: 22-3 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Quarterfinal (Kelley-Rex champion) Coach: Kate Fallon-Comeau
King Philip comes into every season with state title aspirations. This spring, the Warriors have added motivation, as the defending Kelley-Rex division champions watched rival Taunton, who KP beat twice in the regular season, go all the way for the second year in a row. The league seems as competitive as ever, but the Warriors return a strong core that looks ready to make a run at another title.
There is plenty of experience and leadership coming back this season. Junior Jordan Bennett will be in the circle for the third year in a row and has developed into an ace who can be relied upon against even the strongest lineups. Freshman McCoy Walsh and junior Taylor Regan will add depth to the pitching staff and can eat up some innings. Junior Maddie Paschke will be behind the dish to work with the pitchers.
Seniors Charlotte Raymond and Sarah Cullen will both patrol the outfield this season, while classmate Ava Lanza will be at third. Sophomore Liv Petrillo returns to the left side of the infield while senior Libby Walsh is back in the mix this season. Junior Ava Kelley had a big season at the plate in 2022 and she returns to take the third outfield spot.
“We’re looking forward to another exciting season and competing in one of the best and most respected leagues in the state,” said KP coach Kate Fallon-Comeau.
2022 Record: 10-12 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Sweet Sixteen Coach: Lori Letendre
Mansfield finished 4-2 in non-league play a season ago and reached the Div. 2 Sweet Sixteen. This year, the Hornets will play in the Davenport division for the first time and could benefit from not having two games apiece against perennial powers like Taunton, King Philip, and North Attleboro. With a roster that is still relatively young, only two seniors and nine freshmen, Mansfield will hope that being battle-tested in 2022 could help in a fight for a league title in 2023.
The Hornets graduated seven seniors, including five starters, from last year’s team, so there will be a lot of new faces in the lineup, but a talented group of juniors will provide leadership for the younger players. Junior Callie Lake was a spark plug for the Mansfield offense last season and a strong defensive center fielder. Junior Live Madeira returns at shortstop, giving the Hornets another good glove and tough out, while classmate Jill Koppy controls the game from behind the plate and fellow junior Molly Kucharski will start again at second.
Senior Amanda Schwarz will be the starting pitcher for the Hornets at the beginning of the season after sharing time with Julia Kelly last year. Mansfield will have plenty of depth in the circle this spring, as freshmen Molly Crowley and Dani Jameson can also step in and give them important innings.
Mansfield coach Lori Letendre said, “We have a lot of new players on the team this year and will be looking for leadership from our captains and returning starters. They are a talented group and I am starting to see the chemistry that will bring us together as a team. It should be a fun season!”
2022 Record: 3-17 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Steve Divitto
With a young squad last season, Milford struggled through some growing pains during the spring of 2022. After only graduating a pair of seniors from the roster, the Scarlet Hawks are looking to compete against one of the most talented leagues in the state and make a push for the postseason.
Milford is still young as they don’t have any seniors on the roster this year but the majority of the players on the team have one or two years of experience already. There is a group of seven juniors that include catcher Maddie Burn, first baseman Camille Bonina, middle infielder Grace Bonina, pitcher/shortstop Maeve Driscoll (who can also play in the outfield), outfielder Olivia Luchini, who is back from injury, infielder/outfielder Maeve Williams, and outfielder Sarah Wengal. Head coach Steve DiVitto will be leaning on their experience and leadership to guide a young squad.
Cae Pellegrini, Jianna Fernandes, and Olivia Baglione emerged as key contributors as freshmen last year and are looking to take the next step this time out. Pellegrini returns to third base, Fernandes will patrol the outfield, and Baglione is back at shortstop. A group of freshmen featuring Ava Baglione, Angelina Bonina, Katelyn Kearnan, and Isabella Loscerbo will look to make an impact right away. In the circle, Driscoll will look to pick up where she left off last year before being derailed by injury, with freshman Angelina Bonina in line to get some innings as well.
“With no seniors this year, we will be looking to our juniors and returners as leaders,” DiVitto said. “While still considered young, the vast amount of game experience that our players have had makes us a veteran team. No more excuses; we are ready to compete in the best league in Massachusetts. The girls are ready to get on the field.”
2022 Record: 17-7 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Final Four (Davenport champion) Coach: Bill Wallace
After three straight Davenport titles, which was the first three-peat in program history, and reaching the Div. 2 Final Four for the first time last season, North Attleboro returns to the ultra-competitive Kelley-Rex division with a lineup that features a lot of new faces and a lot of underclassmen. The Rocketeers still expect to be right in the title mix and make another run in the tournament.
Pitching will be the key for North this season. Reigning league MVP and HockomockSports.com Player of the Year Kelly Colleran will be back in the circle as the team’s main starter. Colleran was dominant last year, both as a pitcher and a hitter, and will have big expectations this spring. Sophomore Arianna McDavitt got a couple of starts last year and freshman Grace Forman can step in to eat some innings as well. Sophomore Maryellen Charette will be behind the plate for North after a solid freshman campaign.
Colleran and McDavitt will also play short when not pitching. Senior Maddie Bailey and sophomore Mary Rogers will play second and freshmen Lucy Palmer (first base) and Molly Willey (third base) will take over at the corners. Sophomore Emily Tucker gives North versatility off the bench. The outfield will be relatively experienced, as seniors Emma Hanwell and Grace Simmons will be in center and right. Senior Julia Forman and her sister Grace can play multiple positions.
“If our hitting continues to improve, we should be a dangerous team,” said North coach Bill Wallace. “We will continue to work on defense and hitting but team chemistry and leadership will give us the opportunity to continue to grow as a team. I really enjoy coaching this group.”
2022 Record: 7-14 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Lindsey Allison
Oliver Ames didn’t graduate a single player from last season and the Tigers will be aiming for another playoff appearance and to make a run at their first league title since 2014. The Tigers should be solid defensively and have a lineup able to manufacture runs and they will hope to build on last year’s postseason experience.
Pitching is always critical and senior Katie Melendy returns for her third year in the circle. After a strong offseason, Melendy could be ready for a breakout year after putting up a 2.03 ERA last spring. Senior shortstop Maddie Homer and senior center fielder Caitlin Miller give OA a strong spine and junior catcher Katharine Farley brings her cannon of an arm back behind the plate.
Juniors Madison Monteiro, Paige Taylor, Sammy Johnson, and Skylar Dearborn are all back for the Tigers, while sophomores Emily Martin and Devon Morris round out the infield after solid freshman campaigns. Junior Crystaliah Covel and sophomore Ava Tracia are newcomers who will add versatility to the OA roster.
“It has been a really smooth transition into the season in order to get game-ready,” said OA coach Lindsey Allison. “We are looking forward to a great season and continuing to build on last year’s successes. In practices, the defense has been really solid, as they are all used to each other mostly from last season. Katie Melendy has put in a lot of work in the offseason, and we are looking forward to seeing her build on her success from last year with support from the power and speed of the OA lineup.”
2022 Record: 2-16 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Heather Poliferno
Sharon swept a season series with Duxbury last year, but struggled in Hockomock play, scoring only 13 runs in the 16 league games. The Eagles will go into this season hoping to pull some surprises and, with a roster that includes eight freshmen and sophomores, build some momentum for the future as well.
Ally Foulsham will get the call in the circle this season. The senior has worked this offseason to finetune her pitches and Sharon coach Heather Poliferno is hoping for big things from her captain both as a pitcher and in the middle of the lineup. Senior Natalie Kessler also returns for the Eagles. After spending 2022 in a utility role, playing multiple positions, Kessler will start in center this season.
Junior Natalie David will be moving from the outfield to first base this spring and is another hitter that the Eagles will be counting on to try and improve their offensive output. Junior Maddie Hu will be at shortstop, using her speed to cover a lot of ground in the field and causing havoc on the base paths.
Poliferno said, “Every year, we go into the season with the mentality of ‘why not us?’ We will be going into every game this season with that thought.”
2022 Record: 11-10 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Laura Whittaker
Stoughton heads into the spring with a new coach, as Laura Whittaker takes over in the dugout. The expectations will remain high for a team hoping to challenge for the Davenport division title, which would be its first league title since 2005, and to make a run in the Div. 2 tournament.
The Black Knights will have a lot of returning talent to lean on this season. Senior Kerry Driscoll will be back in the circle, after an 11-8 season, and also in the heart of the order here she was the team’s leading hitter in 2022. Senior Camryn Whitman returns at shortstop with junior Alyssa Edwards next to her at third. Both players provide leadership and swing big bats to add to a potent lineup. Junior Julie Powers gives the Black Knights a lot of stability from behind the plate.
Juniors Leila Alaoui (second base) and Maddie Hinds (first base) round out an experienced, tested infield. Sophomores Caitlin Driscoll and Angelina Berry and newcomers Anna Hobbs and Lauren Price will give Stoughton plenty of speed in the outfield and some big arms to slow down runners. Julia Monaghan, Emersyn Grover, and Megan McGowan add depth and consistency to the lineup, while Alyssa Antonino, Grace Weisenberger, and Isabella Kuznitz give Whittaker a lot of versatility off the bench.
2022 Record: 21-4 2022 Finish: Won Div. 1 State Championship Coach: Michelle Raposo
The two-time defending Div. 1 state champions have a new coach this season, as Michelle Raposo, a starter on the Taunton teams that won titles in 2002 and 2003, takes over the Tigers this spring. Taunton looks poised to make a run at a three-peat with the return of six starters and the addition of one of the state’s top pitching prospects.
Pitching is always the place to start when thinking about a team’s state title qualifications and the Tigers will bring back sophomore Cate Larson, who was part of a pitching duo that helped Taunton win it all in 2022. In addition, junior lefty Sam Lincoln is back after a year away from the program and the Texas Tech commit would be a boost to any team’s staff. Senior Kaysie DeMoura is back behind the plate after a breakout season and her leadership and ability to work with both pitchers will be critical.
There is plenty of experience on Taunton’s roster. Senior Ava Venturelli had a standout season in 2022 and the Louisville commit is back in the outfield this year. Senior Kyleah Plumb is the spark plug at the top of the order, senior first baseman Hayley Krockta added power in the heart of the order, and senior Mia Fernandes will return at second base. Sophomore Brooke Aldrich returns at short following her solid freshman season. Eighth-grader Bella Bourque will take over at third and freshman Mia Torres will start in the outfield. Senior transfer Morgan Fitzgerald and Molly Carnes will give the Tigers extra depth in the outfield as well.
“The team chemistry these 15 girls have in such a short amount of time is remarkable,” Raposo said. “Not only do these girls have chemistry, they all have talent and determination to work hard and get better every day. I am excited to see where this season takes us as my first year taking over as head coach.”
Franklin will be looking for another league title this fall. Check out our team-by-team breakdown of the upcoming Hockomock League volleyball season. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com) By HockomockSports.com Staff
2021 Record: 9-10 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Round of 32 Coach: Mary Katherine Runey
For the first time in more than a decade, Attleboro got the taste of playoff volleyball and the Bombardiers have younger players stepping into leadership positions that will give them a solid foundation for another tournament run. There is excitement around the program and opening the new gym has added another layer to the fall.
One of the reasons for the energy in the team is sophomore outside hitter Julia Leonardo, who jumped in as a freshman and became one of the most dynamic hitters in the league. Junior setter Natalie Brojek has been an all-around standout for the past two seasons and makes the team click. Senior Tigin Bombardier will give Attleboro experience in the middle.
Those are the only three returning players from last year, but there are several new faces that could make an instant impact. Sophomores Addison and Ellie Shelton are new hitters that will give depth on the outside. Juniors Sadie Whitmarsh and Julia Mondello will provide defensive solidity to the back line.
“The level of success we achieved last season certainly changed the tone of our entire program, and I believe our future is bright,” said Attleboro coach Mary Katherine Runey. “As a young team, we have spent the past two weeks learning how to play together and in the next few weeks, we will need to learn how to win together. As we progress through the season, our goal is to minimize errors in order to efficiently run our offense and showcase the talent within our team.”
2021 Record: 15-7 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 16 Coach: Pat Cawley
Canton has established itself as one of the perennial powers year in and year out, and one thing that comes with that territory is graduating a handful of talented seniors each year. Last year was no exception, but Hall of Fame coach Pat Cawley has shown time and time again she will have a competitive squad that’s much better by the end of the season than the start.
The Bulldogs graduated all but two starters, bringing back juniors Jess Wright at outside hitter and Fatima Sidibay at middle blocker. Cawley will be leaning heavily on them for their guidance of a young and inexperienced squad. Wright isn’t just one of the best outside hitters, she can play just about anywhere on the court and showed tremendous growth throughout last season. After showing off some great blocking skills last year, the Dogs will look for some more offensive production on swings from the middle from Sidibay. Senior captain Liana Lamparelli and sophomore Sally Hoban will provide depth offensively.
Defensively, Canton is looking at sophomore defensive specialist Zoe Scibelli, who saw meaningful minutes in the back row a year ago. Haley Duhaime, Liz Beale, Neveah Osborne, and Riley Costa round out the senior class and will contribute valuable minutes for Canton this year.
“We have many moving parts at this point but the young, inexperienced group is willing to work hard and anxious to learn,” Cawley said. “Three setters and several defensive players are vying for time on the court. The growth potential is exponential and it will be fun to watch the progression. The extremely competitive Hock will help accelerate the learning curve!”
2021 Record: 4-17 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 3 Round of 32 Coach: Vicki Santana
With 11 seniors returning to the roster this year, Foxboro is looking to have a bounce-back year and return to the state tournament with an improved rating in the MIAA’s statewide system.
The Warriors have key pieces back at all spots on the court and head coach Vicki Santana is optimistic about the season after a strong showing so far this preseason. Sami Sloan led the squad with 111 kills last season and is back as one of the outside hitters along with Juliana Pettigrew (88 kills) and Ava Hill. Foxboro also has both of its middles back with Mallorie Meyer, a Hock all star a year ago with 80 kills and 46 aces, and Ava Kirk both returning.
Defensively, the Warriors have their libero back in the lineup in senior Shannon McElhinney, who had 157 digs last year and was a Hock honorable mention selection.
“All of these players bring a love for the sport and determination to win,” Santana said. “We only graduated two seniors last year so we are hoping that with most of the team being returning varsity players we will have a very competitive season. So far the team has been playing great at our preseason scrimmages so hopefully, we carry that energy into our first game vs Milford!”
2021 Record: 18-2 (Kelley-Rex co-champion) 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Final Four Coach: Samantha Redmond
Although Franklin only graduated a small number of seniors from last year’s team that made the Division 1 state semifinals, the Panthers lost a lot of production.
Gone are Caitlyn Mackintosh, last year’s HockomockSports Player of the Year, Lindsey Tarantola, a league all star that led the league in blocks, and Brigid Earley, one of the top middles in the Hock. But this isn’t the first time the Panthers have lost a talented senior class, multiple all stars, or even an MVP – and they’ve always found a way to come back and compete as a top team in the league.
Three-year starter Taylor Lacerda returns to pace the offense, leading the Panthers in kills a year ago as a sophomore with 155. She’s the lone six rotation returner in the group so head coach Samantha Redmond – who picked up a boost on the bench with the addition of former head coach Kelsey Weymouth as an assistant – will be looking for new faces to step into key roles at the net.
There will be some changes along the backline as senior Meghan Linkkila will move from the libero position to take over as the setter, and classmate and fellow captain Georgia Harvey, who was a defensive specialist last year, will take on the libero role.
“Franklin volleyball is really excited to continue our hard work this year,” Redmond said. “We lost a strong four seniors last year but we are confident that this new class of players will bring a lot of diversity to our offense and defense. We look forward to proving ourselves in the Hockomock once again!”
2021 Record: 22-2 (Kelley-Rex co-champion) 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Final Four Coach: Kristen Geuss
King Philip has shared the Kelley-Rex title for the past three seasons and with a senior-laden roster, the Warriors look ready to make a push for another division crown. After a run to the Div. 2 state semifinal. KP has the experience and the depth at the net to be a threat for another deep tournament run.
The Warriors will be strong up front. Senior middle Emily Sawyer made her varsity debut as a junior and immediately became one of the best hitters in the league. The Sacred Heart-commit is an impact player on both sides of the net. Senior Sami Shore gives KP the most dynamic middle pairing in the league and can dominate a match. If teams try to bottle up the middle of the net, then senior Ahunna James can take over on the outside, giving KP great attacking balance. Seniors Olivia O’Neil and Missy Canning add depth at hitter and senior setter Kiera Hagen will run the offense this year.
In addition to the seniors, KP can count on junior right-side Kate O’Neil and juniors Ryann O’Sullivan, Emily Zappala, and Fiona Bailey on the outside. On the back line, juniors Shea Mellman, Ava Kelley, and Meghan Sullivan provide strong defensive play. Sophomore setter Madison Asprelli is a newcomer who could step into a bigger role over the course of the season.
“We are working hard to build on our success from last year,” said KP coach Kristen Geuss. “We have good chemistry and the girls are looking forward to the season.”
2021 Record: 9-8 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Tara DeGirolamo
Making the switch to the Davenport division this season, Mansfield is looking to ride a mix of veterans and new players to some success on the court this year.
Second-year head coach Tara DeGirolamo is excited for the season to get underway as she tries to fit all the right pieces together for her squad. Junior Elyssa Buchanan burst onto the scene as an attacking option last year and will be one of the Hornets’ go-to hitters on the outside along with senior Ella Mahoney. In the middle, Lexie Scibilia will be looking to build on her big season last year (48 blocks) along with senior Lily Campbell.
There are a lot of options at setter with senior captain Isabella Flint (132 assists) back as one of the primary ball handlers with junior Kiera Fitzpatrick and freshman Tessa Blaqueir both in the mix as well. The setters will also have options on the right side with senior captain Lilly Verheggan and junior Anna Goulet taking swings from the opposite side, with senior Savannah Carey and juniors Sophia Capaolupo and Elena O’Keefe providing depth.
Defensively, DeGirolamo will lean on senior libero Jackie Zelic to anchor the defense along with junior defensive specialists Lauren Rubicine and Jocelyn Gibson.
“Our setters have great court awareness and mesh very well with our diverse group of hitters,” DeGirolamo said. “We’re excited for the season.”
2021 Record: 8-11 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Tammy Webber
Between a handful of varsity returners and a group of eager new faces ready to make their mark, Milford is looking to challenge in the Kelley-Rex and book a spot in the state tournament.
The heart of the Hawks will be in the middle of the lineup with the team’s leader in kills from a year ago Aliza Syed back to anchor both the offense and the defense. She had a breakout season with 187 kills, 61 aces, and 34 blocks, which were all first on the team. She will be flanked by junior Maeve Driscoll on the outside, who jumps into the starting lineup this year and will play in the back row as well. Senior Molly Hartman provides depth at the outside hitter spot.
“[Aliza] will be counted on to carry us in those categories once again this season,” said Milford head coach Tammy Webber. “She is strong and athletic with a tough serve and can hit with power.”
Milford also returns its starting setter in senior captain Emily Croteau, who finished inside the top five in the league in assists last season. Having a year of experience under her belt, the Hawks will lean on her confidence and skill to spread the ball around and run the offense. Senior defensive specialist Carley Haley will anchor the backline.
2021 Record: 9-10 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Rachel Gould
After making a push for a playoff spot last season, North Attleboro will make a change on the sidelines as Rachel Gould takes over this fall. The Rocketeers will also be returning to the ultra-competitive Kelley-Rex division and with five varsity players back in the lineup North will be looking to fight for another tournament spot.
The senior class will need to provide leadership for the new faces in this year’s squad. Senior Avery Bitar will give the team a defensive solidity as the libero. Senior Grace Dirschel is the returning setter from last season and senior Sarah Kayata is another strong backline player that should help North keep points alive.
Up front, seniors Haley Carr and Mariah Barbosa are returning middle hitters that can step in and swing and also make an impact on the block. Freshman Lincoln Abramaitys will get the chance to shine right from the start as the team’s main outside hitter. Abramaitys is the only underclassman on the roster this year.
“I have a great group of hard-working talented athletes and I think we are going to have a competitive season this year,” Gould explained.
2021 Record: 16-5 (Davenport champion) 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 16 Coach: Chelsea Cunningham
Oliver Ames is ready to get on the court and defend its Davenport division title.
The Tigers know they’ll be challenged by perennial powerhouse Canton, division newcomer Mansfield, a veteran-filled Foxboro squad, and the rest of the division, and they’ll have to overcome the graduation of the versatile Hadley Rhodes, but OA has some top talent returning at almost every position.
Senior Maddie Homer is back for yet another season as the libero to anchor the back line. An All-State selection a year ago, Homer will be joined by junior Rachel Fleischman, another returner, in the back row to give the Tigers an experienced defensive duo.
Offensively, there will be more familiar faces taking swings at the net. Senior captain Courtney Raymond (56 kills, 18 blocks) is back in the middle as one of OA’s primary attackers and she’ll be complemented by a pair of terrific outside hitters in junior Sarah Hilliard (272 kills) and Claire O’Rourke (156 kills). Sophomore Addyson Smock bolsters the middle block while sophomore Clare Kavoulis and junior Paula Romero provide some depth.
“There is something special about this group,” said OA head coach Chelsea Cunningham. “The talent speaks for itself, they’re putting in the work, and they are eager to compete. These girls know everything is “earned not given” – which happens to be our program’s motto this season. With that, they know there’s a lot of work to do to make this the best season yet. If they commit to one another and the goals we set from the start, there’s no doubt in my mind that they’ll do just that.”
2021 Record: 6-14 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Andrea Lovett
It has been two straight impressive seasons for the Sharon volleyball program. Two years ago, during Fall II, the Eagles nearly won a league title and would’ve booked a playoff spot if a tournament was held. Last season, Sharon not only reached the state tournament but also won its first-round match against Revere. With a brand new gym and five seniors on the roster, Sharon will be hoping the momentum carries over to this fall.
Sharon will be counting on the development of its senior hitters. Amanda Brown will be the main target on the outside, while Olivia Nau has been impressive on the right side. The middle should be tough on both sides of the net with junior Jasmine Davis stepping up as both a blocker and hitter and senior Sam Dunham adding depth after her move up from the JV team. Junior Sonja Gray will be the main setter for the team again this season with help from classmate Masha Dolienkova.
The Eagles also have experience on the back line and players with athleticism to keep points alive. Senior Emily Coplan and junior Sophia Pandey will share the libero duties and sophomore Sasha Nierenberg and senior Evelina Kravets will support them as defensive specialists.
“Possibly the most important aspect of this team is their love of the game combined with a great work ethic and the tenacity to stay in the game regardless of the score,” said Sharon coach Andrea Lovett, who returns to the sidelines after being an assistant in 2021. “These kids simply love volleyball and it shows on the court.”
2021 Record: 1-15 2021 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Felicia Baptista
Stoughton is coming off a difficult 2021 season. The Black Knights picked up just one win last fall, but they have several new faces that could step in and get the program heading back into tournament contention. It may be a smaller roster this season, but head coach Felicia Baptista believes the talent and attitude are right to get things kicked off.
Junior Maya Ashu will be one of the primary attacking threats for Stoughton this season. She will be a critical spot in the front row and has developed into a strong hitter. Junior hitter Annalia Eschleman is also back and will give Stoughton more athleticism. Senior Patrik Oliveira has been a standout on the back row and gives the Black Knights all-around play with his quickness and versatility.
Other players that could step into the starting lineup for Stoughton this season are sophomore Reagan Lewis and junior Alyssa Edwards. Both are strong athletes that will give the Black Knights more control of the middle of the net.
“This year our team is much smaller and much more prepared than in past seasons,” said Baptista. “They have been putting in lots of work this year and it shows right from day one.”
2021 Record: 8-14 2021 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Round of 32 Coach: Toby Chaperon
Taunton boasts a strong group of seniors, and with the addition of some underclassmen and new additions to the program, the Tigers are looking for an improved campaign in 2022.
Senior middle Hayley Krockta will be a force at the net this season but can play at all spots on the court. She will be one of the best servers on the team and can step right in and pass like a defensive specialist. She’ll be swinging at sets off the fingertips of classmate Anna Abouzied, another returner for the Tigers. Abouzied is a terrific passer in the back row and will also run the offense as the setter.
“Hayley will be a force at the net this year,” said Taunton head coach Toby Chaperon. “And Anna can do it all too, she has the ability to hit and pass very well. We’re looking forward to having a good year.”
Senior Mia Fernandes will provide a boost of energy from the back row as the libero, flying all over the court to keep the play alive, and will be joined by classmate Megan Rose as a defensive specialist. Sayla DePina, another senior, will look to give Taunton some swings from the right side and set the block on opposing outside hitters. Rylie Roderick will add some depth at the net and at the service line for Taunton while head coach Toby Chaperon will look to incorporate transfers Morgan Fitzgerald (opposite/DS) and Julia Mitton (setter).
Juniors Jaden Sabina, Janelle Garcia, and Morgan Smith will all get some swings at the net while classmates Caroline Pietnik, Randi MacLeod, and Courtney Martin provide solid depth. Sophomore Adrianna Amaral has impressed early on this season and will get some swings at middle hitter while eighth grader Sadie Herry will be in the mix as a defensive specialist.
