Baseball
Franklin, 9 vs. Hopkinton, 10 – Final (8 inn.)
Foxboro, 3 @ Ashland, 0 – Final – Foxboro ended the regular season on a high note, earning a 3-0 shutout on the road over Ashland. Sophomore Ryan O’Leary and senior Sean O’Leary combined for the shutout on the mound while Tyler Prescott, Ryan LeClair, and Ben Angelini each drove in a run in the Warriors’ win. Ryan O’Leary got the start and went four innings, scattering three hits and two walks along with three strikeouts while Sean O’Leary struck out two and gave up three hits in three scoreless innings. LeClair drove in freshman Aidan Stow to give Foxboro a 1-0 lead in the third, and that lead stayed until the sixth when Angelini delivered a two-out base hit to plate LeClair. Foxboro added a key insurance run in the seventh on a two-out base hit from Tyler Prescott to score courtesy runner Pradyu Gubbala (who was running after Mat Sullivan had a single).
Taunton, 5 @ Durfee, 1 – Final – Taunton earned its fifth straight game to take down Durfee in the regular season finale. Jack Cali had a strong start for the Tigers, allowing just one run on four hits and a pair of walks, striking out three in 5.2 innings of work while Brady Morin earned the save with 1.1 shutout innings in relief. Sean Murphy, Brayden Cali (two runs), and Shawn Cali (two RBI, triple) each had two hits to pace the Taunton offense.
Softball
Attleboro, 8 vs. Natick, 9 – Final (8 inn.)
Stoughton, 12 vs. Norwood, 1 – Final
Foxboro, 1 @ North Attleboro, 3 – Final – North Attleboro rallied for three runs in the fifth and sixth innings to erase a one-run deficit and land a league win over Foxboro. The Warriors took the lead in the fourth inning when sophomore Natalia Leach led off with a single and came home to score on a two-out single from sophomore Ava Hill. North Attleboro’s Emma Hanwell plated the tying run with a sac fly in the bottom of the fifth while Ari McDavitt scored the go-ahead run on a squeeze from Lucy Palmer. Kelly Colleran tacked on a key insurance run with a solo home run in the bottom of the sixth inning. Colleran earned the win in the circle, striking out 16.
Mansfield, 5 @ Franklin, 10 – Final – Playing in its third game in four games, Franklin plated the first eight runs of the game and never looked back to land a win over Mansfield. After a scoreless first inning, the Panthers scored in five straight innings, including a big four-run fifth inning. Senior Katy Liberman led the charge offensively with a team0high three hits while Kiera Kotwicki, Avery Chalk, Carly Pellegri, and Hailey Fales each had two hits. Freshman Sophia Sacramone earned the win, scattering six hits for five runs (two earned) on two walks and 11 strikeouts. Callie Lake had another strong game for the Hornets, going 3-for-4, with Liv Madeira, Molly Kucharski, Dani Jameson, and Amanda Schwarz each had one hit.
Boys Lacrosse
Attleboro @ North Attleboro, 5:15
Foxboro, 4 @ Sandwich, 9 – Final – Foxboro’s regular season came to a close with a 9-4 setback on the road in Sandwich. Conor Noone netted a hat trick, Tony Sulham scored once, and Adam Addeche made 10 saves in net for the Warriors.
Taunton, 18 @ New Bedford, 0 – Final – Taunton ended its first season back at the varsity level with an exclamation point with a dominant performance at in the Whaling City. Freshman Oren Cullins capped off an impressive rookie campaign in the cage with a 10-save shutout. Thomas Murphy had a team-high five points with four goals and one assist, Tommy Selfridge added three goals and one helper, and Connor McGrath scored once with two helpers. Dylan McCaughey and Colt Kennedy each netted a pair of goals and Israel Cruz had one goal and one assist.
Girls Lacrosse
North Attleboro, 8 @ Attleboro, 20 – Final – Attleboro staked a four-goal lead by halftime and then pulled away for the convincing win with a strong second half. Junior Molly Moore potted a team-high six goals while freshman Amelia Collins had five goals and two assists and freshman Makenah Stokes scored four goals and had two helpers. Bella Cavallini added a hat trick with two assists and Stella Krawiec and Addison Papagolos each scored once. Peyton McAuliffe made 10 saves in the win. North got two goals apiece from Ellie Regan, Caroline Folan, Avery Hous, and Lily Ramm.
Mansfield, 17 @ Oliver Ames, 12 – Final – The Hornets held a one-goal at lead but outscored the host Tigers 7-3 in the second half to get the non-league win. Brooke Butler paced the offense with six goals and one assist, Ava Adams added five goals and five draw controls, and both Lola Varricchione (three assists) and Tessa Johnson scored a pair for Mansfield. Rose Maher and Keira Fitzpatrick chipped in with a goal apiece while Caitlyn Zajac made 10 saves in the win.
Taunton, 5 vs. New Bedford, 15 – Final – Mel Jesus turned away 10 shots but the Tigers fell at home against visiting New Bedford. Cali Melo scored twice for the hosts while Maddi Szala, Caroline Vallarelli, and Raquel Azevedo each scored once.
Milford, 9 @ Bellingham, 3 – Final
Boys Tennis
Oliver Ames, 2 @ Milton, 3 – Final
Taunton vs. New Bedford, 3:45
North Attleboro, 2 @ Dartmouth, 3 – Final – North won both doubles matches with Carson Dameron and Brody Gaulin prevailing at first doubles, and the team of Caleb Cheney and Jeremy Carter taking a 6-1, 7-5 win at second doubles for the Rocketeers.
Girls Tennis
Taunton, 5 @ New Bedford, 0 – Final – Taunton capped the regular season with a clean sweep at New Bedford, taking all five matches in straight sets. Brooke Bell (6-0, 6-0), Ava Alves (6-1, 6-0), and Morgan Smith (6-1, 6-2) swept singles actions for the Tigers. In doubles play, Courtney Martin and Janelle Garcia dropped just one game in a 6-0, 6-1 first doubles win, and the team of Caroline Pietnik and Sam Parrett rolled to a 6-0, 6-0 verdict at second doubles.
Boys Volleyball
Milford, 2 vs. Needham, 3 – Final
Taunton, 3 @ Barnstable, 0 – Final
Baseball
Attleboro, 1 @ Taunton, 4 – Final – Shawn Cali had a strong performance on the mound and the Tigers used early offense to score a 4-1 win over a tough Attleboro squad. Cali only allowed one hit and one walk in six shutout innings, striking out four to earn the win. Taunton senior Dawson Bryce had a big day at the plate, going 3-for-3 with two RBI and a run scored, hitting an RBI double in both the first and third innings. Ryan MacDougall also had an RBI double in the third and AJ Lewis scored Jared Spencer with a single two at-bats later. Jonny Pagano pitched well for Attleboro, scattering eight hits and two walks, striking out two in five innings of work. Sean O’Hara tossed a scoreless inning of relief for the Bombardiers while Andrew Gorman had a seventh inning RBI single.
Canton, 2 @ Oliver Ames, 3 – Final – OA scored twice in the third and once more in the fourth and was able to pull out its second league win of the season. Ryan Lemay (double) and Drew Hall each drove in runs for the Tigers, while Harrison Fitzpatrick, Jack Morley, and Matt Lawson (double) each provided hits. Andrew Zagami made the three runs stand up by holding the Bulldogs to just four hits and two runs in a complete game win. The Bulldogs scored once in the fifth and the seventh to get back within one. Brendan Clegg had a pair of hits and Andrew Gillis and Hayden Rose each drove in runs for Canton. Kyle Redquest had a strong start in defeat, allowing two earned runs over six innings.
Foxboro, 12 @ Stoughton, 1 – Final (5 Inn.) – Foxboro sophomore Tom Watts was solid on the mound and the Warriors’ offense exploded for 12 runs over a three-inning span in a win at Stoughton. Watts allowed one run on three hits and five walks, striking out a pair in four innings to get the win while Pradyu Gubbala threw a perfect inning in relief. Sophomore Ryan O’Leary had a huge day at the dish, going 3-for-4 with four RBI and two runs scored. Sean O’Leary (RBI, three run), Louis Carangelo (two RBI, three runs), and Ben Angelini (RBI, two runs) each had two hits in the win.
Franklin @ North Attleboro – Postponed to Tuesday, 4/25 at 3:45.
King Philip, 3 @ Milford, 1 – Final – King Philip was held to just three hits but the Warriors rallied for three runs in the top of the seventh inning to stun Milford. KP was held to a single in the third and a single that was thrown out at second in the fifth, but its offense came through in the clutch. Freshman Johnny Prater drew a lead off walk and moved to second when Max Robison was hit by a pitch with one out. Matt Kelley delivered the big hit, roping a double to left to bring both runners home to put KP ahead for the first time. Kelley, who advanced to third on the throw, came home for the third run on a wild pitch. Milford took the lead in the bottom of the second as sophomore Joe Butler was hit by a pitch, stole second, and scored when classmate Joey McGee reached on an error. Rudy Gately kept the Warriors in the game with a strong pitching performance, allowing just the one run on five hits and two walks, earning the win with six strikeouts in six innings. Sophomore Nate Pennini earned the save, working around a two-out single in the bottom of the seventh for a scoreless inning. Milford’s Evan Cornelius surrendered three runs on three hits and five walks, striking out an impressive 16 batters in a complete game effort.
Sharon, 4 @ Mansfield, 5 – Final – Mansfield’s late game heroics continued on Monday as the Hornets walked off with a win over an upset-minded Sharon squad. Junior Matt DeShiro had a one-out double to right and came around to score on the game-winning single from classmate Jake Maydak. Sharon jumped out to a three-run lead, pushing across a pair in the top of the first on an RBI single from Jake Loomis, who came around to score himself on an error. The Eagles tacked on another run in the third on an RBI double from Palash Raina. Mansfield rallied to tie it in the bottom half when Dylan Saraceno scored on a wild pitch, DeShiro brought in a run with an RBI ground out, and Maydak reached on an error to score Sam Martin. Mansfield took its first lead, 4-3, on a single from sophomore Luke Rogan. Sharon pulled level in the top of the sixth on another RBI double from Loomis to make it 4-4. Cole Arundale pitched well for the Eagles, allowing five runs (two earned) on nine htis and a walk, striking out three in 6.1 innings. DeShiro also earned the win on the mound, tossing a scoreless seventh inning in relief. Maydak had a strong start, allowing four runs (two earned) on hour hits and a walk, striking out eight.
Softball
Taunton, 9 @ Attleboro, 0 – Final – Taunton sophomore Cate Larson dazzled in the circle in a dominant performance and the Tigers’ offense did almost all of its damage in a big fourth inning to secure a win on the road over Attleboro. Larson allowed just two hits and didn’t issue a walk, striking out an impressive 18 batters in a complete game. The Tigers plated eight runs in the fourth inning and the offense was highlighted by two hits apiece from Bella Bourque (two RBI, two runs), Hayley Krockta (two RBI, two runs), and Mia Fernandes (two RBI). Ava Venturelli also had a hit, a walk, an RBI and a run scored for Taunton. Lily Routhier and Rylie Camacho each had a hit for the Bombardiers.
Oliver Ames @ Canton – Postponed to Tuesday, 4/25 at 3:45.
North Attleboro, 4 @ Franklin, 1 – Final – Kelly Colleran matched her program record with 19 strikeouts in seven innings, facing two batters over the limit and allowing just one hit, to pick up a bounce-back win for the Rocketeers. She also hit a solo homer, scored two runs, and drew three walks. Maddie Bailey had a hit and scored a run, Molly Willey drove in a pair, and Julia Forman scored what turned out to be the game-winning run. Lucy Palmer and Arianna McDavitt each had hits for North.
Milford, 1 @ King Philip, 15 – Final (5 inn.) – King Philip caught fire in the second inning, highlighted by senior Sarah Cullen’s grand slam, and the Warriors landed a big win over visiting Milford. Cullen had a big day at the plate with a pair of hits and the big home run — both coming in KP’s 13-run second inning. Freshman Ali Gill (2-for-4, two RBI, two runs) also had a home run in the inning. Junior Ava Kelley was a perfect 4-for-4 with two RBI and two runs while junior Jordan Bennett went 2-for-2 with a walk, an RBI, and two runs scored. Junior Sydney Burch and sophomore Liv Petrillo also had two RBI for KP. Freshman McCoy Walsh earned the win, allowing one run on two hits and four walks, striking out five in five innings. Junior Maeve Williams had an RBI single in the top of the fourth to score freshman Angelina Bonina.
Mansfield, 11 @ Sharon, 1 – Final – Mansfield plated five runs off four hits — all with two outs — in the first inning and never looked back in a win over Sharon. The Hornets ended with 12 hits, scoring once in each the second, fourth, and sixth before adding three insurance runs in the top of the seventh. Avery Lake and Jill Koppy paced the offense with three hits apiece while Dani Jameson and Reilly Slaney each had two hits, and Allie Koppy and Callie Lake each had one. Jameson earned the win for the Hornets, scattering six hits while striking out seven. Ally Foulsham struck out six in a complete game effort and had an RBI for the Eagles.
Boys Lacrosse
Canton, 20 @ Taunton, 4 – Final – For Taunton, Izzy Cru z had two goals and an assist to pace the offense while Oren Cullins played well in net, making 14 saves for the Tigers.
Foxboro, 10 @ Hopkinton, 5 – Final – A pair of goals late in the first half helped Foxboro grab some momentum and the Warriors carried it into the second, dominating after the break to score a 10-5 win. The Hillers held a 3-0 lead before the Warriors finally broke through late in the first, cutting the deficit to 3-2 at half. Foxboro went on to outscore the hosts 8-2 in the second half to run away with the win. Tony Sulham had a team-high three goals, Conor Noone added six points — two goals and four assists — and Jon Sacchetti chipped in with a pair of goals to pace the offense. Finn Stapleton, Aidan Waller, and Ryan Cotter each scored once while Adam Addeche made 12 saves in net in the win.
Franklin, 20 @ North Attleboro, 6 – Final – Franklin built a four-goal lead after the first, extended it to seven by halftime, and ran away with it for good in the second half on the road at North Attleboro. Jayden Consigli (one assist) had a team-high four goals while Luke Davis (three assists) and Tyler Sacchetti (one assist) each added three goals in the win. Eddie O’Brien (one assist) and Ryan Grasso chipped in with two goals apiece.
Mansfield, 4 @ King Philip, 9 – Final – King Philip’s James Boldy and Mansfield’s Ryan DeGirolamo both delivered in a battle of two of the top goalies in the league, but it wa the Warriors that outlasted the visiting Hornets. Boldy turned away 14 saves in the win while DeGirolamo had another stellar outing, making 23 saves. Noah Minkwitz netted four goals and had two assists to lead the offensive charge for KP. Donovan DeVellis added two goals, Hayden Schmitz (two assist), Cullen McCarthy, and Nick Longobardi each scored once, and Mason Thomas (two assists), Justin Kosh, and Tommy Kilroy each had an assist. Nico Smith (two goals, one assist) and Tommy Smith (one goal, two assists) each had three points for the Hornets while Drew Sacco scored once and had one helper.
Sharon, 13 @ Oliver Ames, 7 – Final – Sharon and Oliver Ames were locked in a tight game throughout the first half but the Eagles were able to pull away for the win on the road. For OA, Ben Reardon scored a hat trick and had one assist while Ryan Jaco and Shaun Teehan each scored twice and added an assist.
Girls Lacrosse
Taunton, 3 @ Canton, 16 – Final – The Bulldogs had eight different players find the back of the net in a big win at home against visiting Taunton. Ella Yeaton paced the balanced attack with four goals while Nora Giannacopoulos added three for the Bulldogs. Kayleigh Koen (two goals) and Lauren Shatkin (two goals) each scored their first varsity goal in the win while freshman Olivia McCabe made her debut in net, turning away six shots.
Foxboro, 15 vs. Hopkinton, 8 – Final – Foxboro got contributions from all over in a big win against Hopkinton. Mya Waryas recorded a team-high seven points, scoring twice and spreading the ball around for five assists. Paige Curran chipped in with four goals and two assists, Val Beigel found the back of the net four times, Mary Collins scored a hat trick, and both Addie Riley (one assist) and Cate Noone (two assists) scored once. Sofia Lucente earned the win in the cage, making a pair of saves.
Franklin, 6 vs. Lincoln-Sudbury, 9 – Final – The Panthers got off to a great start but Lincoln-Sudbury rallied to take the win. Franklin scored the first four goals of the game but the visiting Warriors scored four of the next five goals to cut the deficit to just one, 5-4, at halftime. Katie Peterson had two goals and eight draw controls, Jamie Tanner scored twice with two helpers, and Kaitlyn Carney scored once with two assists.
Boys Tennis
Taunton, 1 @ Attleboro, 4 – Final – Taking a pair of wins from both singles and doubles action, Attleboro defended home court with a 4-1 decision over visiting Taunton. Kyle Neuendorf and Tyler Rocchio both battled to tough three-set victories with Neuendorf grabbing a 6-1, 2-6, 6-1 win at first singles and Rocchio prevailing 6-1, 2-6, 6-1 at second singles. The team of Luke Hinton and Brady Rosen earned a straight set 6-3, 6-3 first doubles win, and Attleboro’s second doubles team of Noem Cook and Clay Tyler only dropped two games in a 6-2, 6-0 win. Taunton’s Heitor Sens emerged from third singles with a 6-0, 4-6, 6-2 win.
Oliver Ames, 1 @ Canton, 4 – Final – Canton swept singles action and added one more win in doubles play to defend home court against Oliver Ames. Max Kupferman, Bharat Ramanathan, and Justin Ngan each won in singles action, and the team of seniors Davis Lamb and Jorge Nebril secured a 6-3, 6-1 verdict at first doubles. OA’s Nick Wagner and Brendan Teehan dropped just one game in a 6-0, 6-1 win at second doubles.
Stoughton, 1 @ Foxboro, 4 – Final – All four of Foxboro’s wins came in straight sets, two from singles action and a sweep of the doubles matches, to beat Stoughton. Raj Jetty rolled to a 6-0, 6-1 win at second singles while Luca Meyer took home a 6-2, 6-2 decision at second singles for the Warriors. The team of Nathan Cote and Ryan Fossella won a tight battle at first doubles, 7-6 (4), 6-4, and the team of Greg Simone and Evan Paluzzi dropped just one game in a 6-0, 6-1 win at second doubles.
North Attleboro, 2 @ Franklin, 3 – Final – Franklin picked up three close wins to earn a tight win over visiting North Attleboro. All three of the Panthers’ wins involved a tiebreaker but were completed in straight sets. Ahan Shetty prevailed 6-4, 7-6 (3) at second singles and Andrew Amante added a 7-6 (2), 6-1 win at third singles for Franklin. The Panthers’ first doubles team of Eric Tomaino and Aaron Ramaswamy secured a 6-4, 7-6 (2) win at first doubles to help clinch the win. North Attleboro senior Brody Carter took a 6-4, 6-2 win at first singles while the junior pairing of Arnav Raghuvanshi and Aaryan Anjna landed a 6-3, 6-3 win at second doubles.
Milford, 2 @ King Philip, 3 – Final – King Philip’s second doubles team of Logan Riley and Ashrith Epuri rallied from a one-set deficit, earned a close win in the second set, and completed the comeback in the third set to get the win and clinch the match for the Warriors. Riley and Epuri won by the score of 5-7, 7-5, 6-3 while Luke Bailor earned a hard-fought 7-6, 6-3 win at first singles and Arjun Kollu secured a 7-6, 6-1 win at second singles. Milford’s Corey Rattray grabbed a 6-2, 7-6 win at third singles, and the team of Sean Preveligo and Todd Ostertag picked up a 6-4, 7-6 win at first doubles.
Mansfield, 1 @ Sharon, 4 – Final – Sharon swept both doubles matches and took two more victories from singles actions in a 4-1 win over visiting Mansfield. Jacob Slavsky took the win in a hard-fought first singles win (6-3, 6-4) while Matthew Lally did the same at second singles, emerging with a 6-4, 6-1 win. The team of senior Rithvik Neti and sophomore Sava Kassev earned a 6-4, 6-1 win at first doubles, and Sharon’s second doubles pairing of senior Mihir Basil and sophomore Joel Zwicker won 6-2, 6-4. Mansfield’s Iniyan Karruppusami prevailed in a three-set battle, taking a 6-2, 1-6, 7-6 (4) win at third singles.
Girls Tennis
Attleboro, 3 @ Taunton, 2 – Final – A sweep of both doubles matches and a win at first singles helped Attleboro secure a key road win at Taunton. Maddie Fuscaldo took a 6-2, 6-1 win at first singles for the lone Attleboro win in single action. the Tram of Zoe Stanley and Kyra Johnson added a 6-1, 6-4 win at first doubles, and Julia Leonardo and Katie Lortos added a 6-1, 6-3 verdict at second doubles for the Bombardiers. Taunton’s Ava Alves didn’t drop a game in a 6-0, 6-0 second singles win and Morgan Smith did the same for a victory at third singles for the Tigers.
Canton, 1 @ Oliver Ames, 4 – Final – Oliver Ames was victorious in a pair of tight doubles matches and the Tigers added two more wins in singles action to knock off Canton. The team of Ava Barth and Emily Beaulieu battled to a 6-4, 7-6 (5) win at first doubles for the Tigers, and OA’s second doubles pairing of Marina Mierzwinski and Ella Mierzwinski earned a 6-3, 7-5. Hannah Farber didn’t drop a game in a 6-0, 6-0 first singles victory, while Olivia Querzoli earned a 6-1, 6-2 win at second singles. Canton’s Charlotte Powers took a hard-fought 6-4, 6-3 decision at third singles.
Foxboro, 3 @ Stoughton, 2 – Final – Foxboro’s second doubles team of Katelynn Dineen and Shannon McElhinney emerged victorious after a three-set battle to help the Warriors clinch the win over Stoughton. Dineen and McElhinney rallied from a one-set deficit to earn a 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 win for the Warriors. Hailey Kornbluth added a 6-0, 6-1 win at first singles and the team of Audrey Paolino and Analise Tia dropped three games in a 6-1, 6-2 first doubles win. Stoughton’s Nadia Prokopiuk battled to a 6-3, 6-3 second singles win while sophomore Dhruvi Patel won a marathon of a match, 6-7 (6), 7-6 (4), 7-6 (5) at third singles.
Franklin, 1 @ North Attleboro, 4 – Final – North Attleboro picked up one of its best wins of the season, taking down visiting Franklin 4-1 behind a singles sweep and one doubles win. Junior Lauren Hunt earned a 6-2, 6-1 win at first singles, sophomore Megan Atwood picked up a 6-2, 6-2 win at second singles, and senior Grace Noreck rolled to a 6-0, 6-2 verdict at third singles. North’s fourth win came from the sophomore pairing of Grace Manning and Jayla Stone, who took a 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 win at second doubles. Franklin’s Brooke Daniels and Sydney Tolonen, both sophomores, grabbed a 6-0, 7-6 (4) win at first doubles.
King Philip, 5 @ Milford, 0 – Final – KP senior Ahunna James had a dominant showing, highlighting the Warriors’ clean sweep with all five matches won in straight sets. James didn’t drop a game in an impressive performance (6-0, 6-0) at first singles, Shea Mellman won by the same score at second singles, and Caroline Freese completed the singles sweep with a 6-3, 6-1 victory at third singles. The team of Caroline Burns and Priya Riar used a strong net game to secure a 6-1, 6-1 win at first doubles, and the team of Lauren Casper and Jaelyn Dang earned a 6-1, 6-3 win at second doubles for KP.
Sharon, 5 @ Mansfield, 0 – Final – Sharon showed no rust from 10 days off, sweeping the Hornets with all five matches being won in straight sets. Judy Song (6-1, 6-0), Navya Shukla (6-0, 6-0), and Ale Aguilar (6-1, 6-2) each won their singles matches. At doubles, the teams of Olivia Landstein and Sophia Oh (6-2, 6-0) and Alina Hou and Jada Villaroel (6-4, 6-4) earned wins for the Eagles.
Boys Volleyball
Milford, 3 @ Medfield, 0 – Final
Taunton @ Barnstable, 5:15
Taunton players celebrate after beating Franklin to win the D1 state title. Both teams bring back strong teams and are contenders to win the state championship again this spring. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com) By HockomockSports.com Staff
2022 Record: 5-15 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Steve Dunlea
Attleboro returns a strong core from last year and will be aiming to make some noise in one of the toughest divisions in the state. The Bombardiers had three one-run losses last year and two more in extra innings, and despite their record, just missed out on the state tournament. A big reason for that is the challenges they face throughout the season as the Kelley-Rex division last year featured both Division 1 state finalists (Franklin and Taunton), the Division 2 state finalist (KP), plus Mansfield, who reached the Division 2 final four.
The Bombardiers boast a lot of returning players up and down the lineup, and on the mound as well. Although it’s a young rotation, Attleboro has some talented arms that picked up some invaluable experience a year ago. Sophomore right-handed pitcher Tyler Dunlea (3-3, 2.74) will anchor the rotation a year removed from striking out 23 batters in 23 innings of work as a freshman. Junior Jonny Pagano is another righty that gained key experience last year and senior Sean O’Hara will be a veteran presence in the rotation. Senior Owen Lombardo, juniors Matt Harvie, Braxton Levin, Tyson Forte, and freshman Ryan Landry are all in the mix to get some innings in relief.
Offense will be an area that Attleboro will look to improve on as they go against some of the best pitchers in the area. Senior Danny Johnson is in his third year as a varsity starter and will lead a talented outfielder group that features Harvie and classmate Brody McKenna. Seniors Casey Victorio and Ran Martin, along with junior Jackson Huntington, will look to provide an offensive punch as well. Senior captains Peter Delpozzo and Cooper Johnson (0.364 average last year) are back in the fold and will lead by example both offensively and defensively for head coach Steve Dunlea. Pagano, junior Andrew Gorman, and sophomore Jacob Bettencourt are all battling for time in the infield as well. Aiden Hochwarter resumes his role as the starting catcher for the Bombardiers.
2023 Hockomock League Baseball Preview
“I am very excited about this year’s team,” said Attleboro head coach Steve Dunlea. “We have excellent leadership in our three captains. Our pitching and defense will continue to be a strength for us. We also have a great mix of returning starters and new players on offense. These guys are well aware that we play in arguably the toughest division in Massachusetts and you have to be ready to compete every day.”
2022 Record: 9-12 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: David Walsh
Canton has a new head coach in David Walsh but the goals remain the same as the Bulldogs will be aiming to return to the state tournament again this year. With a talented core back in the fold from last year’s team, not only will the Bulldogs be in the mix to make the playoffs, they could contend for the Davenport division title.
The lineup will feature a lot of familiar faces from last year that is anchored by a seasoned senior class. Shortstop Matt Chafin is among the best players in the league and is committed to play at the next level at Brandies. He will be joined in the lineup by Jack Digirolamo, one of the most dangerous hitters in the league. Digirolamo led the team in average last season with a 0.446 batting average (29 hits), which was good for fourth in the entire league while Chafin finished at 0.350 with 16 runs scored. Senior Hayden Rose (Framingham State) is another familiar name that will play a lot of innings for the Bulldogs, coming off a season in which he hit 0.328 with a team-high 17 RBI.
Rose will anchor a pitching staff that will need to fill some holes this year. Rose was among the league leaders in terms of innings pitched last year, coming in second in the regular season in the Hock with 43.2 innings of working. He posted a 4-4 record with a 2.89 ERA, striking out 28. Andrew Butler and Zach Peters combined for over 50 innings last year but with both players graduated, there will be an opportunity for new faces to step up for Walsh. While the Bulldogs get the rotation set, Walsh is preaching fundamentals and having the team pride themselves on good defense.
“This will be a fundamentally sound group who is gritty, tough, and are not afraid of the everyday grind,” Walsh said. “We will rely on our pitchers to throw strikes, defense to be routine, and situationally hit. If we are able to do all three in each game we will be very competitive.”
2022 Record: 16-8 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 3 Final Four Coach: Derek Suess
Foxboro was one of the feel-good stories last season as the Warriors made a dramatic tournament run to the state semifinals before falling to eventual state champ Austin Prep. While the Warriors are strictly focusing on the road ahead, last season set a new standard for Foxboro.
There is a lot of optimism that the Warriors can pick up where they left off because they have almost their entire roster back for 2023. Last year’s squad had a lot of young and inexperienced players that matured quickly throughout the year. Foxboro won’t be sneaking up on anyone this year as they start the season as a serious contender for the Davenport division title. On the mound, Foxboro has six players back that tossed varsity innings including their top three: senior Sean O’Leary (UMass Lowell), senior Mat Sullivan, and sophomore Nolan Gordon. Senior Alex Stern and sophomores Danny Jacobs and Tommy Watts are also back in the fold and the Warriors have added junior Pradyu Gubbala and sophomore Ryan O’Leary to the mix. Ryan LeClair, a veteran in the group, could also see time on the mound this year.
Sophomore Mike Marcucella returns behind the dish after earning the starting role as a freshman last year. LeClair (Stonehill) returns to shortstop and is one of the best defensive players in the region and he’s complemented by Sean O’Leary, who will play third when he isn’t pitching. On the right side, junior Tyler Prescott will man second base and he will also be counted upon to set the table for the offense out of the leadoff spot. Ryan O’Leary will take over at first base this season. Stern, Sullivan, and Watts will add infield depth when not on the mound.
The outfield will also have a lot of familiar faces with veteran Louis Carangelo back in left field after a breakout junior season. Carangelo was one of the most consistent offensive players in the Hock, hitting 0.333 with 16 RBI. Sophomore Ben Angelini has had a strong preseason so far and will patrol center for the Warriors while junior Shane Henri will be in right field. Senior Kenny Mello was a solid contributor for Foxboro last year but will miss the season with an injury. Freshman Aidan Stow and Gordon will provide outfield depth.
“Despite last season’s success, this season provides new opportunities and challenges for our ballclub,” said Foxboro head coach Derek Suess. “We will be battle-tested, with an always difficult Hockomock League schedule, and a strong non-league slate as well. We need to compete each day, at a championship-level standard, to give ourselves the best opportunity to reach the goals we have set for the season. Our leadership and culture have never been stronger.”
2022 Record: 23-4 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Final (Kelley-Rex champion) Coach: Zach Brown
Although Franklin has won three straight Kelley-Rex division titles, there is still plenty of motivation for these Panthers.
The Panthers are coming off a tough one-run loss in the Division 1 state championship to rival Taunton, but with a strong core returning it looks like Franklin will once again be among the top powerhouses in the state this year. One obvious strength will be the offense with five players back in the lineup from last year’s squad. Not only is it an experienced group (multiple players entering their third year starting), but it’s an incredibly talented one that features senior Ryan Gerety (Northeastern), senior Jase Lyons, senior Eisig Chin (Stonehill), senior Ben Jarosz, and junior Henry Digiorgio (Northeastern). Gerety and Chin will return to their spots in the outfield while Lyons (1B), Jarosz (3B), and Digiorgio (SS) are all back in the infield. Seniors Tyler Bellan, Luke Sidwell, and Ethan DePaolo also provide some experienced depth and newcomers Rex Cinelli, Ryan Carlucci, and Koen Bonetti will all try to contribute for head coach Zach Brown.
Pitching will be another strength with senior righty Alfred Mucciarone (UMass Lowell) back after going 5-1 during the regular season last year, posting a 2.33 ERA with 45 strikeouts in 42 innings. His experience gives the Panthers an ace to rely on as they navigate a difficult schedule. Junior lefty Austin Campbell could be the next breakout star for Franklin after some impressive outings last year, and juniors Jake Shaughnessy (LHP) and Matt Miller (RHP) fill out a strong core of pitchers. Both Chin and Lyons will also be in the mix while senior newcomers Dillon Cashin and Zach Ramaswamy are prepared to come on in relief when needed.
“We are returning a strong senior class and veteran core,” Brown said. “We are excited about how hard this group has been preparing for the upcoming season. The seniors have provided great leadership during the preseason and scrimmages.”
2022 Record: 16-9 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Final Coach: Jeff Plympton, Jr.
King Philip is another squad that is coming off a tremendous season (a trend among most Hock teams) as they reached the Division 2 state championship, falling to Milton. The Warriors are also following another trend in the league as they have the majority of their lineup back in the mix this season as they look to challenge for the Kelley-Rex division title in a loaded field.
The Warriors have a strong pitching staff in the league, highlighted by senior Rudy Gately. Gately has been KP’s ace for the past two seasons and will resume that role again this year. During the regular season, he tossed 39 innings and struck out 37, posting a 3.41 ERA. He will be joined by lefty Tommy Martorano, who missed virtually all of last year with an injury. Junior Tommy McLeish emerged as a reliable option in relief last year, striking out 22 batters in 20.2 innings and he should be in line for an expanded role this year.
Offensively the Warriors will have a big void with the graduation of Shawn Legere, one of the best hitters in the state. But head coach Jeff Plympton Jr. has plenty of options to work with, including senior Brendan Sencaj, who is coming off a terrific season in which he hit 0.371 with 15 RBI and 21 runs scored. Gately, a middle infielder, is a strong two-way player that hit 0.344 last year with 16 RBI and senior Matt Kelley is a great all-around player that will make the switch to center field this season, and another weapon in the lineup. Junior Max Robison is coming off a breakout campaign (0.359 average) and is one of the best defensive first basemen in the Hock.
“We are excited to be bringing back a great core of guys from our team last year,” Plympton Jr. said. “We’re hoping to build off of our success last season and continue to build a winning culture. We will have a lot of new arms in the rotation and a few very good returning arms from last year.”
2022 Record: 17-8 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Final Four Coach: Chris Hall
Mansfield lost some key contributors from a sizable graduating senior class that led the Hornets to the Division 2 Final Four a year ago, but the cupboard is far from empty for head coach Chris Hall.
The most experience back on the team comes on the offensive end with some key bats back in the lineup. Senior captains Sam Martin and Conner Zukowski look to man the left side of the infield while returning starters Matt DeShiro and Jake Maydak — both juniors — will hold down the right side. Zukowski had a great season at the dish, hitting 0.344 during the regular season with 15 runs scored while DeShiro had a breakout sophomore campaign, leading the Hornets in batting average with a 0.373 average and a team-high 25 hits, driving in 13 runs as well. Defensive wiz and captain Aidan Jones returns as the starting catcher for the squad.
There is a lot of competition in the outfield right now including junior Brian Butler, another returner from last year. Seniors Kyle Marnikovic and Will Lund are also in the mix along with juniors Wyatt Bolduc, Connor Curtis, Drew Urban, Dylan Saraceno, Anthony Saraiva, and Joey MacIntyre. Juniors Matt Tryon and Derek McGrath are versatile pieces that will bring some power to the lineup.
Mansfield lost its top three starters from a year ago in Jimmy Gilleran, Aaron Blinn, and Anthony Sacchetti, who combined to pitch over 100 innings during the regular season. Hall will turn to junior Connor Curtis, who didn’t allow an earned run in 16 innings of work in the regular season last year, recording three saves with 19 strikeouts. Maydak is also in the mix for an expanded role on the staff along with juniors Yuv Sakhalkar and Ryan Jeans, and sophomore Luke Rogan. Senior Nate Thibault will chip in as a reliever.
“Most teams who play in the Hockomock League have a chance to make a run at a state championship due to the competition you face every single game in the regular season,” Hall said. “I believe the makeup of our roster puts us in that conversation this year. This year’s team is a tight-knit, cohesive group that battles with one another at practice. They thrive off competition and work together to do whatever they can to best benefit the program. We are excited for the season and look forward to the challenges presented to us.”
2022 Record: 7-13 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Alex Dion
Similar to Attleboro, the Scarlet Hawks were a victim of playing in a division that had three teams reach a state championship game and another reach the final four. With another year of experience, Milford will look to challenge those top teams and make a push for the postseason.
The roster features a lot of familiar names that are either in their third or second year in the lineup and head coach Alex Dion is hoping that experience will lead to competing with some of the state’s best teams. The pitching staff starts with three-year starter and right-handed pitcher Evan Cornelius. A top two-way play and multi-sport athlete, Cornelius leads by example both on and off the field for the Scarlet Hawks. He went 4-2 last year with a 2.31 ERA, ranking among the league leader with 48 strikeouts in 30.1 innings of work. Junior righty Damien Carter is also in his third year while senior Tyler Caldon and junior Anthony LaPierre logged a lot of work on the mound a year ago and return as starters this year. Senior Mason Baldic and sophomore Ian Carter are both in the mix for innings this year as well.
While pitching looks to be a strength for Milford this year, the Hawks will rely on a lot of the same names to deliver offensively as well. Cornelius will man first base when he isn’t on the mound and is a reliable offensive option. Damien Carter, junior Sean McGee, and freshman Joey McGee are options in the infield alongside Cornelius while Ian Carter, Baldic, and sophomore Nick Koch are in line for opportunities in the outfield. Junior Keith Lee is back behind the dish as taking on that role a season ago and junior Nate Scudo can be effective in a variety of positions. Seniors Brady Butler, Tony Fontes, Jacob Gove, Guy Saintyl, and Cam DelPrete will provide key depth while junior Victor Martinez will look to provide some pop in the lineup.
“Looking forward to competing in this great league again this spring,” said Milford head coach Alex Dion. “We have a number of guys that have been together for three years now. I have seen strong leadership from veterans early on, a group of guys that are competitive on the mound, and some athletes that are eager to learn and compete at a high level.”
2022 Record: 18-6 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Final Four (Davenport champion) Coach: Mike Hart
The Hockomock League had so much success during last season’s tournament that the Rocketeers’ accomplishments almost get lost in the shuffle. North Attleboro went 13-3 in league play last year and reached the D2 final four, picking up wins over D1 state finalists Franklin and D2 state finalists KP in the process. Now the Rocketeers join a loaded Kelley-Rex division along with those two squads, defending state champs Taunton, and two improved squads in Attleboro and Milford.
That means North Attleboro has its work cut out for them as they not only try to navigate a difficult schedule but has a lot of holes to fill in the lineup after graduating nearly a dozen seniors from last year’s 18-win squad. Head coach Mike Hart has done a terrific job since taking over the helm of the program and he will be leaning on the handful of returners he does have to lead the way this year. Hart has a dozen more seniors this year led by veterans Derek Maceda, Dillon Harding, and Jordan Paradis. Maceda will patrol center field, Harding is at shortstop, and Paradis is a seasoned pitcher that had 18 strikeouts in 17 innings of regular season work. Maceda will also get some innings on the mound along with classmates Ayden Delaney Peter Santoro, junior Parker Abrantes, and sophomore Gio Martello, and Harding will be a go-to option to close games out.
Martello was a late-season call up to the varsity squad and made an impression in his short stint with the squad. He will complete the middle of the infield at second base and will be a key piece in the lineup offensively. Seniors Jack Munley, Mark Vogel, Delaney, and sophomore Bryce Kiser are also in the mix for spots in the infield. Along with Maceda and Paradis, seniors Kyle Conroy and Reed Collins, along with junior Chris Hanewich, will cycle throughout the outfield. Junior Nate Kelly and senior Harrison Gagne are competing for time behind the dish. Hart expects the defense to be a strength of this year’s squad.
“We are looking forward to a season of growth,” Hart said. “We have many quality players new to varsity baseball who are looking to take the next step in their development and continue the success we have been privileged to have over the last few seasons. Derek Maceda, Dillon Harding, and Jordan Paradis are three capable and proven players in all three phases of the game. We will look to our pitching staff to lead us. Our team has committed to getting better each and every day. We are excited to get out and compete!”
2022 Record: 11-11 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 South First Round Coach: Joe Abarr
After graduating one of the largest senior classes in the league, there is plenty of opportunity to go around for Oliver Ames and head coach Joe Abarr this season. After an up-and-down year that included a playoff win, the Tigers will be looking to challenge the likes of Foxboro and Mansfield in the division title race.
With a lot of pieces departed from last year’s lineup, Abarr will start the season leaning heavily on the handful of returning pieces that played key roles last year. Senior captain Patrick Finnerty will be a major part of the defense and offense this year, as the Bentley University commit will patrol the center field and anchor the offense. On the mound, the Tigers will turn to senior captain Andrew Zagami to lead a relatively young staff that will include juniors Ian Kelley and Lucas Riley, both returners from last year’s team.
Abarr noted that there is a lot of competition in the squad right now as they battle for spots in the lineup, and he’s hoping the first few weeks will allow for a consistent lineup to emerge. Senior Nathan Luke, another returner from last year’s roster, will play the corners in the outfield at Frothingham Park this year.
“Many players have been stepping up in early practices and inter-squads and will be counted on early in the season,” Abarr said. “If we consistently stay after hitters and throw strikes we will be a competitive club. We have the potential to hit well, but the Hock’s pitching will be top-notch again based on some of the stellar returners around the league.”
2022 Record: 3-17 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Andrew Poliferno
The Eagles will have to replace some of the production lost from the 10 seniors that graduated from last year’s squad, but Sharon has some key pieces in key spots and will look to continue to improve.
One strength the Eagles will have early on is the return of almost all of its pitching staff back from last year, plus the addition of some more talented arms to create some strong depth at the position. Junior captain Luke Meixel was among the league leaders in innings pitched last season and will anchor this year’s staff. He had 33 strikeouts in 38 innings of work as a sophomore year and the Eagles are looking for him to take a big step this year. Senior Alex Coughlin will pair with Meixel to create a formidable 1-2 punch, and the Eagles will also get pitching contributions from Cole Arundale and Zach Loomis.
Senior Palash Raina is a captain alongside Meixel and Coughlin, and he will be a staple in Sharon’s lineup this season. He battled through an injury almost all of last season but is ready for a breakout final year on the diamond as he patrols center field. Head coach Andrew Poliferno believes there is a lot of depth — and internal competition — in the lineup, and that should improve production at the plate. Sophomore Drew Yaffe got his feet wet at the varsity level last season and will be looking to turn that experience into more production this year. Junior Liam Conway is back behind the dish after a strong defensive year in 2022.
“I’m really excited to see what this group of players accomplishes this season,” Poliferno said. “We have a large group of players on varsity and in the greater SHS baseball program who are hungry to compete and win games. My expectations for this team are high and that is a direct reflection of the level of talent and work ethic our players have exhibited since day one.”
2022 Record: 3-15 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Kevin Carty
Although the Black Knights lost a lot of production from its eight-member senior class that graduated last Spring, there is a lot of opportunity for new faces to work their way into the lineup for Stoughton head coach Kevin Carty.
There are some key pieces back in the mix this season after getting some valuable experience a year ago. Carty will lean on senior captains Sean Farley and Joe Rush to lead the way, with Farley both patrolling center field and pitching while Rush will play first base when he isn’t on the mound, and potentially some time behind the dish at catcher. There is also a strong contingent of players looking to build off of last year, including seniors Jeriel Cuello, who will play in the infield, and outfielder/pitchers James McCarthy and Liam Dunn, and Andrew Beder, who can play both in the infield and outfield, as well as on the mound.
Juniors Hunter Malkin, Ryan Summers, and Dom Belle all factored into the lineup for the Black Knights a year ago as sophomores and are in line for bigger roles this year. Malkin will pitch and play at first, Belle can play at both corners of the infield, and Summers will see time behind the dish at catcher.
“So far I could not be more impressed with the hard work and attitude from all of our players in the program, especially the new players on the roster,” Carty said. “I am very excited to work with these guys on a daily basis and can’t wait to see them improve throughout the season.”
2022 Record: 22-3 2022 Finish: Won Div. 1 State Championship Coach: Blair Bourque
The defending Division 1 state champions enter this season with a massive target on their back, but Taunton has the majority of its talented lineup back in the mix and is ready to take on all challengers, including a very competitive and skilled Hockomock League.
Athleticism, competitiveness, and experience will all be strengths for this year’s Taunton squad which has a lot of familiar faces in it including last year’s league MVP Ryan MacDougall, who had the game-winning home run in the state final against rival Franklin. The left side of the infield might possess the best duo in the state in seniors Braden Sullivan, a UMass commit with a strong bat that plays third base, and Dawson Bryce, a slick-fielding shortstop with consistent offensive production that is also going to play at the D1 level at Merrimack. That trio makes up the heart of the lineup for the Tigers and will make life difficult for opposing pitchers. Junior Brayden Cali, who started at second in the championship game, will be another key piece offensively for Taunton.
MacDougall also led the Tigers in innings pitched during the regular season, and classmate Shawn Cali was right there with him, posting a 4-2 record with a 1.60 ERA, striking out 27 in 35 innings of work. That gives Taunton a strong 1-2 punch in its rotation, but there’s also room for opportunity with the graduation of Evan Cali, who went 3-0 in the regular season and started the state championship game.
“The majority of our guys are multi-sport athletes who love to compete,” said Taunton head coach Blair Bourque. “And since many of our starters from last season are returning, they know the challenges of playing in arguably the most competitive league in the state as well as how to manage playing in the high-stress environment that is the post-season. Taunton has never been in a position with such high expectations so as a coach, I’m excited to see how my kids respond. This is a close-knit group and even with all the talent, they have great camaraderie.”
Boys Soccer
Stoughton, 4 @ Foxboro, 3 – Final – Stoughton junior goalie Ben Shirey made a terrific one-handed stop on a point-blank header with just under five minutes to play as the Black Knights prevailed from a see-saw battle with a win on the road over Foxboro. Foxboro opened the scoring in the 11th minute as Pradyu Gubbala finished off a corner kick from John Hollis as the hosts staked an early lead. Stoughton equalized just before the half hour mark as Kyle Grant was fouled in the box and Matheus Groberio buried the pen to make it 1-1. Just minutes later, Groberio pierced the defense with a through ball that Grant was able to run onto and eventually tuck a shot into the corner. The Warriors equalized just before the halftime break when Alex Penders headed in a service from Jack Sullivan. The scoring continued in the second half as the Knights went back in front just a minute into the second half when a free kick from Alex Kozak was flicked on by Groberio in behind the defense and Anthony Damasio finished in alone on the keeper. Penders got his second, latching onto a pass from Timothy Kerzner-Greenwall and finishing at the near post to make it 3-3. Stoughton’s game-winner came in the 54th minute when Joao Marotti buried a header into the corner on a service from Kozak.
Taunton, 0 @ Attleboro, 4 – Final – Attleboro scored a pair of goals in each half to earn a shutout win at home over visiting Taunton. The Bombardiers took the lead just minutes in after Steve Etienne found the back of the net. A long throw from Zachary Diffenderfer was partially cleared by only as far as Lucas Marques, who nodded it back into the mix. Etienne was able to control it off of his chest, turn, and finish from in close for a 1-0 lead. With 10 minutes to go in the first half, Esvin Morales’ free kick from just outside the area smacked the crossbar and bounced out, Marques’ follow up header was denied by the keeper but Billy Badger pounced on the loose ball and buried it to make it 2-0. Taunton had a strong start to the second half but Attleboro cashed in after another failed clearance on a service into the area. This time it was Badger’s corner that bounced in the area and junior Alex Vecchioli was the first to it, burying a half volley for a 3-0 lead. Marques capped the scoring, taking down a centering pass from Morales, driving pass the Tigers’ defense, and finishing past the keeper to make it 4-0.
North Attleboro, 2 @ Franklin, 4 – Final – Franklin saw its two-goal first half lead disappear but the Panthers pounced for two more in the second half to secure two points. It took less than five minutes for Franklin to find the back of the net. Senior Trey Lovell sent a through ball in for junior Hansy Jacques, who was met by the keeper off of his line, and the rebound fell right to sophomore Garrett Scagliarini and he one-timed a shot that just made it across the line for a 1-0 lead. An interception from right back Ben Costa started a counter for Franklin just minutes later; Costa found Scagliarini, who quickly linked up with Andrew O’Neill and he played Hansy in behind the defense. Jacques took one touch to settle and then slid a shot under the oncoming keeper to make it 2-0 in the eighth minute. After a timeout from the visitors, they cut the deficit in half in the 16th minute when Carson Dameron intercept a pass, carried possession forward with speed and found Givany Carney streaking in behind the defense and his one-touch finish beat the keeper. North used a creative set piece in the 60th minute to equalize as Patrick Etienvre played Ethan Almeida short on the ground and his one-timer from just inside the box found the back of the net. Franklin regained the lead with just under 10 minutes to play as Noah Cain played a corner on the ground and Lovell latched onto it with a one-timer that snuck in at the near post. Jacques grabbed his second, running onto a long ball from Matt Honekamp, won a one-on-one battle and finished on a tight angle with five minutes to play.
Milford, 1 @ King Philip, 0 – Final – Milford finally unlocked a defensive-minded King Philip squad with just under 15 minutes to play to earn a key two points on the road with a 1-0 decision. Freshman Johnny Castro played in Eduardo Santana behind the defense and he smashed a shot off the crossbar and in for the lone goal of the game, and his third goal in the past two games.
Mansfield, 0 @ Sharon, 1 – Final – After a scoreless first half, Sharon’s goal just past the midway point of the second half was enough as the Eagles took two points in a win over the visiting Hornets. Diego Martinez set up Adam Eastman, who found the back of the net in the 26th minute for the winner.
Girls Soccer
Attleboro, 3 @ Taunton, 0 – Final – Freshman Tatum O’Brien continued her rich vein of form, scoring twice and assisting on the third goal, to get Attleboro back on track. Alexis Campbell earned the clean sheet with a couple of key saves. Jamie Davies added an assist for the Bombardiers, while Emily Dunlea, Bethany Alves, Ayla Santoro, and Presley Biller did their best to limit the chances for Taunton on a tough, physical game from both teams. Taunton had one of its best performances of the season, celebrating seniors Emily Calderon, Christina Da Costa, and Hayleigh Porter. Porter finished with 12 saves for the Tigers.
Foxboro, 0 @ Stoughton, 1 – Final – Morgan Cook’s penalty kick was the lone goal to lift the Black Knights to the win. Katrina Varnum made eight saves to preserve the clean sheet for Stoughton. Allison Touhey and Lindsey Resnick had strong performances for the Foxboro defense and Erin Foley worked hard in the midfield to try and creat scoring opportunities for the Warriors.
Franklin, 2 @ North Attleboro, 0 – Final – Franklin extended its lead back to three points at the top of the division with a win at North. Norah Anderson got the eventual game-winner, finishing off a pass from Bridget Leo. Leo would then get a goal of her own, assisted by Selene Hammad, to make it 2-0 before the break. Rachel Welch earned the clean sheet in the Franklin goal.
King Philip, 7 @ Milford, 0 – Final – A Heidi Lawrence hat trick led the way for the Warriors in a big road win. Lawrence opened the scoring 16 minutes into the game, finishing a through ball from Dani Lomuscio. Two minutes later, Lomuscio was on the end of a cross from Lawrence to make it 2-0. Lawrence added her second at the midway point of the half, this time assisted by Ally Smith. Ella Pisani wrapped up the scoring in the first half by getting on the end of a deft chip by Addisyn Lamothe-Vaughn. Lawrence completed her hat trick eight minutes into the second half, Lomuscio again providing the killer through ball. Rachel DeFlaminis would add a brace, scoring twice in less than a minute. The first was assisted by Pisani and the second by Eilish McGowen.
Sharon, 0 @ Mansfield, 4 – Final – Mansfield extended its unbeaten run to nine games by scoring four times within 15 minutes midway through the second half. Lyla Nappa, Kara Santos, Stella Moore, and Avery Hawthorne each found the back of the net for the Hornets. Santos, Nappa, Olivia Dunham, and Bridget Hanley had assists.
Field Hockey
Canton, 2 vs. Braintree, 1 – Final – Junior Maggie McCready gave Canton the early lead while freshman Carolyn Schiavo scored the game-winner with less than a minute to play as the Bulldogs took an exciting 2-1 decision over Braintree, a top 10 team in Division 1. McCready’s goal presented Canton with a 1-0 lead before the visiting Wamps leveled the game with a goal in the second quarter. After a nearly scoreless second half, Schiavo found the back of the net with just seconds left to earn the win.
King Philip, 1 @ Uxbridge, 3 – Final – King Philip put up a great right on the road but came up short to undefeated Uxbridge, who sits atop the Division 4 power rankings. Mara Boldy finished off a cross from Leah Santoro for KP’s lone goal while Haley Bright had a great game in net with seven saves.
North Attleboro, 6 @ Milford, 1 – Final – Holding just a one-goal lead at halftime, North Attleboro used a third quarter goal to extend its lead and three goals in the fourth quarter to pull away for good. Caroline Folan, who finished with a hat trick, opened the scoring for the visitors five minutes into the game, finishing off a pass from Emily Burnham off of a corner. Julia Puccio (from Kelsey Thompson) doubled North’s lead at 10:28 of the second quarter but Milford scored with under five minutes to go in the first half to make it 2-1 at the break. Burnham got her first varsity goal with 54 seconds left in the third off of an assist from Ava Spencer. In the fourth, Puccio got her second and Folan scored back-to-back goals in a two-minute span — both assisted by Puccio — to push the lead to 6-1.
Volleyball
Sharon @ Norwood, 5:00
North Attleboro @ Norton, 6:00
Boys Soccer
King Philip, 1 @ Attleboro, 2 – Final – Attleboro junior Alex Vecchioli converted a penalty kick in the second half to put the Bombardiers ahead and junior Tyler Rocchio saved a KP pen with 10 minutes to go to preserve the win for the hosts. King Philip took the lead in the first half as Matt Crago finished off a pass from Oliver Blackburn but Richard Ferreira set up Vecchioli for a goal right before half to make it 1-1. Vecchioli was fouled inside the area early in the second half and converted the pen himself to give the hosts their first lead of the game at 2-1. KP had a chance to pull level late in the game but Rocchio denied the shot from the spot. Attleboro’s Lucas Marques had a standout performance at defensive mid.
Canton, 2 @ Stoughton, 0 – Final – Canton freshman Vlad Francoeur scored his first two career goals to lead the Bulldogs to a rivalry win over neighboring Stoughton.
Sharon, 1 @ Foxboro, 0 – Final – After a scoreless first half, Sharon found the winner just past the midway point of the second half to take two points home. In the 64th minute, freshman Diego Martinez played a ball behind the defense that senior Miguel Vasconcelos ran onto his and fired a cross into the area. The ball deflected off a Foxboro defender and down to sophomore James Jennings, who took a touch before turning and blasting a shot in at the near post for the winner. Matt Baur played well in net for his second shutout of the season. Foxboro’s best chance came in the final moments of the first half as a long throw from Pradyu Gubbala was bounced around in the area before sophomore Jackson Maling latched on but his bid hit off the inside of the post and bounced back to Baur for the save.
North Attleboro, 2 @ Milford, 1 – Final – North Attleboro scored twice in the final 15 minutes, including the game-winner with just under five minutes to play to stun the Scarlet Hawks at home. The hosts took the lead in the 33rd minute off a set piece as Arthur Tome touched a free kick from just outside the box in play and Nick Ribeiro smashed a shot off the far post upper 90 and in. Milford carried that lead until the 66th minute when North pulled level with a quick attack. Zach Smahi played Quinn Conley in behind the defense and he slide a low shot past the keeper that eluded the Hawks’ defense and was smashed home a step out by Kaden Burns to make it 1-1. In the 75th minute, a long throw from Jeremy Carter was flicked on by Bryce Newth and deflected off a Milford defender right to Carson Dameron, who calmly cut the ball onto his left foot and slide a shot to the far post for the winner.
Taunton, 2 @ Franklin, 2 – Final – Franklin twice took the lead but Taunton answered each time and the two squads split the points in a 2-2 draw. Franklin junior Bradley Herndon opened the scoring for the hosts off a feed from Matt Honekamp but Taunton came back with the equalizer by the midway point of the first half on a goal from Javonte Fernandes on an assist from Az-Anael St. Marc. The Panthers pulled ahead early in the second half as Will Kryzak set up sophomore Garrett Scagliarini for his first career goal. But once again, the visitors answered as Aidden Fitting hooked up with Ian Robicheau for the equalizer.
Girls Soccer
Attleboro @ King Philip – Postponed to a date and time TBD.
Stoughton, 1 @ Canton, 2 – Final
Foxboro, 1 @ Sharon, 3 – Final – Sofia Goclowski had a goal and an assist to help the Eagles win their third straight game and move into second place alone in the Davenport division. Following a scoreless first half, Olivia Landstein finished off an assist from Goclowski to break the deadlock. Jessica Li latched onto Olivia Soby’s pass to double the lead. Erin Foley got Foxboro back into the game, but Sharon was able to seal the points with two minutes to play when Goclowski capitalized off an Olivia Soby corner.
Franklin, 4 @ Taunton, 0 – Final – Anya Zub’s brace helped Franklin bounce back from its first loss of the season with a convincing win at Taunton. Zub opened the scoring late in the first half and then the Panthers scored three times in just eight minutes of the second half to put the game away. Kelly O’Connor doubled the lead in the 58th minute. Six minutes later, Zub got her second to make it 3-0 and less than two minutes after that Hailey Baima found the back of the net off a Katie Ewald assist. Alli Powderly added an assist as well. Franklin had a sizable advantage in shots but Taunton keeper Hailey Porter had a big night, making 22 saves. Taunton coach Dan Borges also praised sophomore Ava Uhl and eighth grader Maddison Crowley for their defensive effort.
Mansfield, 0 @ Oliver Ames, 2 – Final – Behind a goal in each half, Oliver Ames secured two key points at home against Davenport rival Mansfield. Jolie Diaz gave the Tigers the lead in the first half, heading in a cross from Emma Gavin. Midway through the second half, Lucinda Li Cotter finished off a pass from Rhiya Fisher to double the advantage. Janiya Matier had a strong game in net for OA, making some key saves in the second half to earn the shutout.
Milford, 3 @ North Attleboro, 2 – Final – In a back-and-forth battle, Milford prevailed with the win after a late winner from junior Erin Michelson. The Scarlet Hawks took the lead early in the first half on an unassisted strike from Dani Atherton only for North to equalize less than 10 minutes later as Jess Hennessey set up Emma Pratt in the 18th minute. The same happened again in the second half with the visitors going up 2-1 in the 50th minute when Atheron netted her second of the game but once again, North leveled the match in the 65th minute with Hennessey once again setting up Pratt. Atherton grabbed her third point of the game, this time assisting Michelson for the winner in the 78th minute.
Volleyball
Foxboro, 3 @ Walpole, 1 – Final – Foxboro found its way into the win column for the first time this season, taking down Walpole in a non-league clash, 3-1 (25-16, 25-19, 16-25, 25-18). Alyssa Cloherty set the offense in motion with 24 assists while adding seven digs, four aces, and three kills to lead the charge for the Warriors. Juliana Pettigrew added seven digs and six kills while Sami Sloan recorded eight kills and four aces in the win.
Oliver Ames, 2 vs. Dartmouth, 3 – Final – In a great match, Oliver Ames came up just short against visiting Dartmouth, falling 3-2 (23-25, 25-22, 25-22, 24-26, 15-13). Senior Maddie Homer continued to shine defensively for the Tigers with 41 digs, sophomore Clare Kavoulis notched 36 assists, and juniors Sarah Hilliard (21) and Claire O’Rourke (17) combined for 38 kills.
Taunton, 1 @ Durfee, 3 – Final – Taunton rallied to stay alive with a win in the third set, but Durfee closed it out with a competitive fourth set win, 3-1 (25-22, 25-17, 24-26, 25-23). Hayley Krockta had a strong performance for the Tigers with seven kills and four aces while Courtney Martin (four aces) played well in the back row.
Canton, 3 @ Notre Dame Academy, 2 – Final
Franklin, 0 @ Lincoln-Sudbury, 3 – Final
Golf
Stoughton @ Attleboro, 2:20 – Postponed to a date and time TBD.
Franklin, 155 @ Mansfield, 159 – Final – Franklin went on the road and secured a key non-league win at Norton Country Club, taking down former division rival Mansfield. Liam Lewandowski had a birdie on the second hole and finished with a medalist round of 37 to lead the way for the Panthers. Jack Hagerty and Jack Nelson each added a 39 in the win and CJ Steel finished with a 40 for Franklin. Mansfield’s Drew Urban was a co-medalist with a 37, Brendan Vokey chipped in with a 40, and both Cody Nieratko and Nate McClean finished at 41 for the day.
North Attleboro, 157 @ King Philip, 149 – Final – King Philip was on fire on Monday with six golfers shooting 40 or better in a key division win over North Attleboro. Evan Regan shot a team-low round of 36 to share medalist honors while North’s Tyson Laviano also came in with a 36 on the back nine at Wentworth Hills.
Taunton, 100 @ New Bedford, 42 – Final (Stableford) – Taunton’s Sean Murphy and Jesse Chaves each shot a 44 to earn 19 points apiece to help the Tigers earn a win over New Bedford (stableford rules). Logan Letourneau added a 45 for 18 points, Alex Dias added a 47 for 16 points, and Noah Faidell shot a 48 for 15 points.
Taunton and Attleboro will be looking to challenge Milford atop the Kelley-Rex division. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com) By HockomockSports.com Staff
2021 Record: 9-8-3 Coach: Peter Pereira
While last year’s record doesn’t jump off the page, it was a good season for the Bombardiers and a step in the right direction for the program.
There were a lot of varsity debuts a year ago, and a lot of new faces in the lineup for longtime head coach Peter Pereira. This year is the opposite as many of those players are back and looking to make a serious challenge for the Kelley-Rex division title. Highlighting a deep and talented group of returners is a trio of HockomockSports Second XI selections from a year ago: senior forward Esvin Morales, junior goalie Tyler Rocchio, and junior midfielder and last year’s HockomockSports Underclassman of the Year Alex Vecchioli.
That trio gives the Bombardiers a top player in most key spots on the pitch. Vecchioli will be flanked by some familiar faces as senior Lucas Marques, junior Billy Badger, and junior Luke Hagopian are all back in the mix after starting last season. Juniors Kyle Neuendorf and Richard Ferreira provide key depth off the bench for the midfield unit. Up front, senior Steve Etienne will complement Morales at striker with juniors Nick Ticas and Clay Tyler able to provide energy off the bench.
Attleboro did graduate one of the best center backs in the league in Cash Stuger so there will be a hole to fill there but Pereira has a solid trio of experienced seniors in Jake Stomfors, Toby Smith, and Ian Miller to rely on defensively. Juniors Zack Diffenderfer and Joshua Codella are also in the mix for minutes in the back four.
“It is a hard-working group and I believe we have the potential to win some big games,” Pereira said.
2021 Record: 14-5-4 (D2 State Finalist) Coach: Danny Erickson
The Canton boys soccer team made history last year with its run to the Division 2 state final and while it will be a big ask to replicate such a special run, the Bulldogs have plenty of key pieces to at least challenge for a division title and have a go at another big run.
Canton lost the majority of its lineup from a year ago after graduating seven of the 11, but with a large, talented senior class, Hall of Fame coach Danny Erickson always has his squads ready to compete. The biggest piece back to the puzzle is senior striker Jake McCabe, a 2021 HockomockSports Best XI selection that tied for the league-lead in goals during the regular season a year ago with 13 goals.
Having 13 seniors on the squad will give the Bulldogs a boost, including veteran players like Caden Mirliani, Ashton Cetoute, Carson Eagles, and Brian Shea. Junior Zaza Francoeur picked up some valuable minutes a year ago and will be a key piece in the attack this year.
“We will certainly need to reinvent how we play after losing so many weapons but we have a great group,” said Erickson. “Lots of guys competing hard for the opportunity to contribute. That should help us compete in the always-tough league.”
2021 Record: 9-9-1 Coach: Dan Ambrosio
Foxboro has a strong core of returners back from last year’s squad that qualified for the postseason and will be looking to incorporate some young players to challenge for the Davenport division crown.
The Warriors will need to get the new players up to speed quickly because the injury bug has already hit, taking seniors Jorge Sanchez-Garcia (All Hock honorable mention last year) and starting defender Ian Foley for the season. Head coach Dan Ambrosio will lean heavily on his senior captains, striker Alex Penders and defender Marco Pacini. Penders, a standout on the hardwood for Foxboro’s basketball team, isn’t your typical striker but standing at 6’5, he’s a nightmare for opposing defenders and a dream for teammates serving the ball into the area.
Pacini is a seasoned veteran as a four-year member of the varsity team and will be the anchor of the back line. Sophomore Ryan Cotter will take over in net behind Pacini and the back line. The strength of the squad could be in the middle with a trio of juniors: John Hollis, Ryan Flaherty, and Pradyu Gubbala. All three are returners from a year ago and will be key pieces in not only helping the back line but orchestrating and organizing the attack.
“The strength of the attack lies in the ability to counter quickly, while defensive organization is a strength when without the ball,” Ambrosio said.
2021 Record: 11-5-4 Head Coach: Fran Bositis
Franklin will be looking to replicate its success from last year after the Panthers came just three points shy of the division title and earned a win in the state tournament.
The Panthers didn’t graduate a huge senior class but they did lose some key pieces like HockomockSports Best XI selection Terry O’Neill in midfield and Second XI selection Aidan Griffith on defense. But there is plenty of talent back all over the pitch for the Franklin, who will certainly be in the mix for the Kelley-Rex crown this year. Franklin’s four captains are spread throughout the field with Best XI selection Rex Cinelli back at center back, Will Kryzak up front, Trey Lovell in the middle of the pitch, and Griffin Tolonen in net.
Cinelli is coming off a very strong sophomore campaign and will join forces with Will Klawson to anchor the back line, which has impressed so far this preseason. Lovell will partner with Noah Cain at center mid to help the Panthers transition from the back, and orchestrate the offense. Juniors Hansy Jacques and Andrew O’Neill will provide depth alongside Kryzak up front. Michael Fernandez Martin, Garrett Scagliarini, and Matt Honekamp are new names to keep an eye on.
“It’s still early but our athletes are working hard and I know that we are all excited for the upcoming season,” said Hall of Fame head coach Fran Bositis. “We are looking forward to the challenge of competing in the Hockomock League.”
2021 Record: 3-13-2 Coach: Mike O’Neill
After battling through an injury-plagued 2021 season, the King Philip boys soccer team is aiming to be in the mix for the Kelley-Rex division title this year.
The Warriors boast a strong group of seniors that will be the heart and soul of the squad but will be looking to integrate some young and new faces in order to challenge in a very talented Kelley-Rex division. After scoring just 20 goals last year, the Warriors are hoping offense will be a strength this year behind a deep mix of creative and quick wing players. Senior Matt Crago returns after a terrific junior season (four goals, two assists) and will be a go-to option in the midfield and out wide. He’ll be joined by junior wing Will Bowen and junior wing Dermott Amorim.
Up top, KP will look to junior Tommy Lomuscio to find the back of the net. As a sophomore, he scored five goals and had nine assists – factoring in on just under half of the Warriors’ offense production. Senior goalie Connor O’Reilly made some huge saves a year ago and is back in net this year. Senior Tom Meader will anchor the back line at center back while senior Oliver Blackburn and sophomore Sayan Panda will lend some help to the defense from the center mid spot.
“I think the Hock is wide open this year, which is just another way of saying that there is a tremendous amount of parity,” said KP head coach Mike O’Neill. “Any win is a good win in the Hockomock League. We have strengths in our captains and our senior leadership. In order to be really competitive, we will need our younger players to contribute right away.”
2021 Record: 8-5-4 Coach: Steve Sheridan
Mansfield is looking to make a big splash in its first season competing in the Davenport division and enter the season as an instant contender.
The Hornets join the Davenport in a challenging year with Oliver Ames looking to make it three straight Davenport titles (four overall), a Canton squad fresh off of a state finals appearance, a revitalized Stoughton squad, a very skillful Sharon team, and a competitive Foxboro group. Despite losing 14 seniors from last year’s squad that went 8-5-4, Mansfield has a solid core intact for a big year.
It starts with captains Aidan Steele, Grady Sullivan, and Dan Checkoway – all three are seasoned veterans and know what it takes to compete in the Hock. Steele plays up top as a target forward while Sullivan and Checkoway patrol the midfield, along with the talented Connor Palinski. Junior Lucas DeSousa and sophomore Tyler Znoj have impressed early on in the midfield while sophomore Cooper Austin is in the mix up front.
Head coach Steve Sheridan is turning to senior Liam Doyle, who missed all of last year with an injury, to take over in net. Senior Derek McGrath will anchor the back line in front of Doyle while sophomore Matthew Sullivan has had a strong camp in the back as well.
“We don’t have as much varsity experience as I’d like, but we have a good bunch of kids that hopefully click sooner rather than later,” Sheridan said.
2021 Record: 12-4-3 Coach: Antonio Pinto
The defending Kelley-Rex champions might have some inexperience and youth in some spots in the lineup, but the Scarlet Hawks return a strong core of players ready to defend their title.
Milford has won four straight division titles, two in the Davenport and now two straight in the Kelley-Rex, and will be looking to make it five straight with another banner this year. Returning HockomockSports Best XI selection Nick Ribero is such a steady presence in the midfield and does a great job spreading the ball and finding open teammates. He will have a lot of options with Arthur Tome (seven goals, nine assists), Eduardo Santana (nine goals, five assists), and John Borges (two goals, eight assists), all back this season.
After losing Best XI selection Chris Tocci (center back) and Kevin Gomes (goalie), the Hawks will have some inexperience in their own final third. The Scarlet Hawks will turn to junior Nate Dinis to anchor the back line after he played some key minutes a season ago.
“We have a very young squad going into the season, but a tight group of kids who are together 24/7, a very family-like team here at Milford this season,” said Milford head coach Antonio Pinto. “Offensively we will have to figure out ways to score goals. Defensively we are very young and inexperienced but have a tight group of kids that will help each other out.”
2021 Record: 8-8-2 Coach: Mike Lacasse
An untimely departure from the girls’ program at North forced a bit of a shakeup in the coaching ranks as Geoff Burgess moves over to the girls and Mike Lacasse, who has coached the JV team for a number of years, moves up to take over varsity.
Lacasse and the Rocketeers will look to make some noise in a very talented Kelley-Rex division, and look to get back to the state tournament. The strength of the squad will be in the midfield as the Big Red has some familiar faces back in key spots. Senior Carson Dameron is back for his third year as a starter and will be joined by classmates Zach Smahi and Griffin Rodden. Juniors Kaden Burns and Quinn Conley will patrol the flanks while sophomore Patrick Etienvre could be poised for a breakout campaign after some impressive minutes as a freshman.
Defensively, North Attleboro has the challenge of replacing one of the better keepers in the league in David Floyd as well as HockomockSports Second XI selection Brody Rosenberg at center back. Seniors Jack Regan (outside back) and Sam Bush will try to solidify the backline with junior Owen Goeller in position to start in net. Up front, the Rocketeers will turn to senior Givany Carney, a powerful striker, and junior Bryce Newth, to produce some goals.
“We have a good mix of young talent and experience in some key positions,” Lacasse said. “I am excited to see what this team can accomplish this season, as they look to continue the progress they had toward the end of last year.”
2021 Record: 13-4-2 Coach: John Barata
For most programs, losing the league MVP plus the league’s top goal scorer would be a massive hurdle to get over. But this isn’t something new for Oliver Ames, who has won three straight division titles and eight overall since the 2011 season. While graduation will certainly hurt, the returners and new arrivals have OA right back in the mix for another title.
Despite the loss of Mathias Taylor (MVP) and Clide Neau (tied for a league-high 13 goals), the Tigers have plenty to be excited about, starting with sophomore Casey Milliken, who finished atop the points leaderboard during the regular season a year ago and earned HockomockSports Underclassman of the Year honorable mention.
On top of that, Joey Carney is back in the mix in the midfield looking to capitalize on a solid sophomore campaign (four goals, two assists), and sophomore Andrew Martins will see an increased role after impressing as a freshman. And like always for OA, they will lean heavily on the captains: senior Hector Bucio, who had a breakout year with seven goals and three assists, and senior Jake Williams. Sophomores Luke Churchill has also impressed so far this preseason.
“OA is excited to compete in the Hockomock League,” said OA head coach John Barata. “We are working to get into the tournament this season. We want to grow as a team and have a lot of fun.”
2021 Record: 6-9-3 Coach: Scott Nathan
Sharon battled its way through injury after injury last season, showing glimpses at times (wins over league champs Milford and Oliver Ames, finishing on a four-game unbeaten streak) but missed out on a spot in the state tournament.
With a host of talent returning this year, the Eagles are serious contenders to challenge for the division title in what is shaping up to be one of the deepest years in the Davenport. The Eagles look to have a strong defensive group this year anchored by HockomockSports Second XI selection Rhys Davis at center back. He’ll be joined by seniors Tyler Goodman, Brandon Mauricio, and Tony Yang to not only give the Eagles a veteran backline but one with skill and pace. Senior Matt Baur is back with the program and returns to his starting spot in net.
The Eagles also have some key pieces back in the midfield and up front. Senior captain Adam Eastman will be looking to build on his nine-goal season from last year, which was tied for fifth most in the Hock. Seniors Rishi Shetty, Malachi Diaz, and Miguel Vasconcelos provide depth up front. Cam Birnbaum and Kevin Lu are also returning players from last year’s squad that could see valuable minutes.
“The Hock is among the strongest leagues in the state,” said head coach Scott Nathan. “We look forward to getting the chance to play against so many quality teams. The boys can’t wait to get started!”
2021 Record: 0-17-1 Coach: Ruben Teixeira
Stoughton struggled through a difficult schedule last season but there is a bit of a buzz about the Black Knights entering this season.
First year head coach Ruben Teixeira, who has coached both at the high school and collegiate level, had a great turnout for tryouts and the Black Knights will be looking to bounce out of the bottom of the standings and make a serious run at the Davenport division title.
Stoughton has a good amount of returning players from a year ago, including a lot of young players that were getting their first varsity experience. Teixeira will look to his seniors to guide the way, especially early on. Senior Joao Marotti sets the tone with his hard work and will be a factor both defensively and offensively for Stoughton. His versatility will provide Teixeira with some flexibility in the midfield. Another senior to keep an eye on is Matheus Groberio, a new addition to the program that has a lot of experience and knowledge of the game. He could be an instant impact player for Stoughton this season.
2021 Record: 5-10-3 Coach: Taylor Whitters
Taunton had an excellent start last year, winning four straight to open the season but the momentum came to a halt and the Tigers finished at 5-10-3 and on the outside looking in for the postseason.
With nearly its entire squad back in the mix this season, the Tigers will be looking to replicate that start and then carry it even further and challenge for the Kelley-Rex title. Taunton was young last season as the lineup featured mostly juniors and sophomores, but now the Tigers are one of the most experienced groups and will be looking to use their speed to challenge the rest of the Hock.
Riley Ribello was a 2021 HockomockSports Best XI selection on defense but he’s shown he can play at center mid or move up top and be a dangerous attack, and it’s likely that’s where we’ll see him this season. The Tigers also have Quincy Jones-Sylvia back at center back while Josh Letourneau, Ian Robicheau, and Jonathan Trinh all saw time at outside back and will provide key defensive depth this year.
Conal Scully proved to be a top attacking option last year with the ability to score from a variety of spots on the pitch. Aidden Fitting plays with a ton of pace on the outside and the Taunton midfield will get another speedy player in Javonte Fernandes, who is back on the field after playing goalie last season. Vinicius Lira Lima and Az-Anael St. Marc provide attack depth for the Tigers.
“We have a lot of individual talent, however, it is our unmatched team chemistry and synchronicity on the pitch that will undoubtedly make this our year in the Hock,” said Taunton head coach Taylor Whitters.
