Below are the official 2017 Hockomock League Volleyball All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league.
Hockomock League MVP
Sydney Phillips, King Philip
Hockomock League All Stars
Lexi Pereira, Attleboro
Nicole Brown, Canton
Meaghan Maguire, Franklin
Lauren McGrath, Franklin
Michaela Palumbo, King Philip
Sydney Phillips, King Philip
Rachael Veilleux, King Philip
Julia Harrison, Mansfield
Meg Hill, Mansfield
Kelley Reichert, Milford
Kezia De La Cruz, North Attleboro
Leah Marceau, North Attleboro
Amelia Murphy, North Attleboro
Emma Petrillo, Oliver Ames
Kayla Raymond, Oliver Ames
Jessica Allan, Sharon
Molly Turner, Stoughton
Valerie Whalen, Stoughton
Samantha Reaume, Taunton
Boys Soccer
North Attleboro, 1 @ Attleboro, 1 – Final – Attleboro sophomore Michael Russo scored the equalizer inside the final five minutes to help the Bombardiers take a point against unbeaten North Attleboro. The Rocketeers took the lead in the first half in the 34th minute. Jeff Gale flicked on a free kick service from Gabe Pinhancos and Zach Matracia buried his volley to put Big Red up 1-0. The Bombardiers tied the see-saw game in the 77th minute, heading in a free kick from junior Aidan Lancaster.
Canton, 1 @ Franklin, 2 – Final – Franklin scored two goals in the first half, both on assists from senior Andrew DiLeo, to beat visiting Canton. The Panthers took the lead inside the first five minutes when DiLeo set up junior Nick Barry for the game’s opener. DiLeo then assisted on junior Tim Duval’s game-winner, coming at the half-hour mark of the first half. Canton cut the deficit to one just before half.
Foxboro, 2 @ Taunton, 0 – Final – Foxboro junior Shane VandenBoom scored on both sides of halftime to lift the Warriors to a win on the road. VandenBoom opened the scoring in the 20th minute, converting a chance from Ryan Kelley. The junior then iced the game, doubling the lead in the 75th minute.
Stoughton, 0 @ King Philip, 10 – Final – King Philip built a 6-0 lead at halftime and never looked back in a big win over visiting Stoughton. Senior Tyler Mann and junior Anthony Bozza each scored a pair of goals, Zac White notched two helpers and senior Thomas Lugten had two assists and one goal. Senior Eric Woolson added a goal and an assist in the win.
Sharon, 2 @ Mansfield, 2 – Final – Mansfield raced out to a two-goal lead but the visiting Eagles battled back to earn a point on the road. Sean Lanzillo put the Hornets up 1-0 on a feed from Sam Hyland and senior Cullin Anastasia doubled the lead on an assist from Luke Savoie as Mansfield took a 2-0 advantage into halftime. Sharon cut the deficit in half when sophomore Brian Higgins netted one on a clearance off a corner kick in the 55th minute. The Eagles scored the equalizer 10 minutes later when sophomore Michael Baur scored on a free kick from just over 20 yards out.
Milford, 1 @ Oliver Ames, 5 – Final – Oliver Ames senior Cam Vella opened the scoring in the 18th minute, dispossessing a Milford player at midfield and making a darting run on goal before finishing from outside the box. The Tigers doubled its lead moments before halftime when James Gillespie won possession on the sideline and connected with Brandin Osborne, who found Nathaniel Cardoza on a run into the area for the finish. Gillespie nodded home OA’s third goal on a throw from Chris Lawrence in the 45th minute, Niko Byron made it 4-0 with his first career goal, converting a rebound off Lawrence’s shot and senior Jack Galas converted a penalty kick for his first career goal in the 75th minute. Milford senior Jacob Balzarini scored his first career goal, burying a half-volley on a corner kick.
Girls Soccer
North Attleboro, 2 @ Attleboro, 1 – Final – North Attleboro broke a tie game with just under three minutes to play to grab two points on the road. Ashlyn Gaulin continued her strong season, scoring the game-winner in the 78th minute on an assist from Leah Jetter. North Attleboro took the lead when Haley Guertin opened the scoring on a feed from Kayla Pasquel. Attleboro equalized with just under two minutes to play in the first half. North Attleboro head coach Bill Wallace added that Aine Mendonca, Felicity Monfils, Haley Ferrin and Emma Gauin all played great two-way soccer.
Taunton, 0 @ Foxboro, 6 – Final – Lizzy Davis scored a pair of goals and Lily Sykes added a goal and an assist for the Warriors. Katie Huether, Shaina Abbott and Mia Oglia also scored for Foxboro and Warriors coach Katie Stalcup said that Alex Stamatos and Sykes both had great games.
King Philip, 5 @ Stoughton, 0 – FinalAvery Snead scored two goals and set up a pair of goals for classmate Chloe Layne as the Warriors earned their 11th win of the season. Emma Corcoran and Ally Stanton assisted on the Snead goals and Jenna Midura scored an unassisted goal with two minutes remaining for KP. Melina Connolly made three saves to earn the clean sheet.
Mansfield, 1 @ Sharon, 0 – Final – Stephanie Kemp scored the lone goal of the game in the first half off an assist by Erin Daniel. Sharon had its chances to equalize and was “unlucky,” according to head coach Brad Furnival, including a Sabrina Robbins free kick that struck the underside of the bar.
Oliver Ames, 1 @ Milford, 0 – Final – Sofia Masciarelli scored the lone goal of the game seven minutes in to the second half off an Erin Holmberg assist. Olivia Marshall played well in net, according to Milford coach Jay Mastaj, making four saves for the Hawks.
Field Hockey
Stoughton, 6 @ Brockton, 0 – Final – Meghan Foley scored two goals to pace the Black Knights to a season sweep of Brockton. Julia Russell, Jackie Evangelista, Haley Apotheker and Kamryn Oliveira each scored once for Stoughton. Kayleigh Marinelli had her first career shutout in goal.
Volleyball
North Attleboro, 3 @ Attleboro, 0 – Final
Canton, 0 @ Franklin, 3 – Final – Franklin picked up its eighth win of the season with a 25-15, 26-24, 25-12 sweep of visiting Canton. Lauren McGrath set the offense in motion with 31 assists, setting up Lauren Lockhart and Ellie Wisniewski (eight kills apiece). FHS head coach Kate Horsmann said Lauren Bissanti and Riley Marino both had strong serve receive and defensive games for the Panthers. Canton head coach Pat Cawley said freshman Angie Elias played well at the net while Sophia Connor had a strong game defensively.
Foxboro, 0 @ Taunton, 3 – Final – Taunton defended home court with a 25-13, 25-22, 25-18 sweep of Foxboro. Sam Reaume led the offense with 10 kills, five digs, two aces and a block while Kayli Fagan finished with 23 assists, five kills, three aces and three blocks. Sam Silviera chipped in with six kills for the Tigers.
Sharon, 1 @ Mansfield, 3 – Final – Mansfield rallied after dropping the first game to win the next three, grabbing a 19-25, 25-17, 25-19, 25-12 win over visiting Sharon. Julia Harrison had eight kills and eight digs, Lexi Gardner added 18 service points and six kills and Jolie O’Neil had 16 digs and 12 service points.
Milford, 2 @ Oliver Ames, 3 – Final – Oliver Ames edged out Milford in an incredibly close match, taking the first, third and fifth games to beat the visiting Hawks (25-18, 22-25, 25-19, 23-25, 15-13). OA sophomore Ally Kemp paced the Tigers’ offense with 25 assists while senior Kayla Raymond finished with 14 kills and two blocks. Senior Emma Petrillo added eight kills and four aces, junior Sadie Homer added 15 digs and two aces and junior Grace McCallum was tabbed player of the game by head coach Chelsea Cunningham. “Her commitment to the back row was solid throughout the whole match and she held the team’s composure in the height of the match,” Cunningham said of McCallum.
Stoughton, 0 @ King Philip, 3 – Final – King Philip picked up a big win in a crossover match with Stoughton behind a balanced attack. The Warriors, who won 25-16, 25-15, 25-19, got nine kills from Sydney Phillips (four digs, two aces, seven service points), seven kills from Grace Ely and five kills from Michaela Palumbo (nine service points). Elise Pereira added eight service points, four digs and three aces in the win.
Golf
Oliver Ames, 161 @ Franklin, 170 – Final – Oliver Ames senior Ryan McGarry earned match medalist honors, carding a low-round of 38 to lead the Tigers to a win at Franklin Country Club. Nolan Donza, Matt Kelley, Mark Bissonette, Thomas Walsh and Eric LeBlanc all shot 41 for OA.
Canton, 173 @ Foxboro, 181 – Final – Canton punched its ticket to the MIAA state tournament for the eighth straight year, improving to 7-0 with a win over Foxboro. Jack Goyetch earned match medalist honors with a round of 41 while Thomas Singleton helped the Bulldogs with a round of 42. Joey Vaughan, Chris Lavoie and Niko Donovan each shot 45 for Canton. Logan Sloan, Matt Lathrop and Steve Foster each carded rounds of 45 for the Warriors.
Mansfield, 166 @ Attleboro, 164 – Final – Attleboro’s Ethan Johnson earned match medalist honors, shooting a low-round of 38 to lead the Bombardiers to a close win over Mansfield. Kyle DelSignore and Corey McKenna each added rounds of 41 while Taron Mills shot a 44. Freshman Brian Lee led Mansfield with a 40 while classmate Ryan Dow added a 41 for the Hornets.
Milford, 181 vs. Nipmuc, 156 – Final – Andrew Fauerbach had a strong day for the Hawks, shooting a team-low round of 39 for Milford.
North Attleboro, 155 @ Stoughton, 181 – Final – North Attleboro picked up a win at Easton Country Club with Marcus Costa’s medalist round of 36 leading the way for the Rocketeers. Dylan Kane (39), Colby Cameron (40) and Jillian Barend (40) also factored in for Big Red. Stoughton’s Brendan Campbell had a team-low round of 38 while Nick Szum added a 44.
Taunton, 194 @ Sharon, 175 – Final – Sam Fergenbaum led the way for Sharon, carding a team-low round of 41 while Max Brody added a 42 for the Eagles.
Volleyball
Taunton, 3 vs. Coyle & Cassidy, 0 – Final – Taunton defended its home court with a 25-19, 25-22, 25-17 sweep over rival Coyle. Sam Reaume had a big game with 10 kills, nine aces, three digs and a block. Kayli Fagan added 25 assists, six aces and four kills while Jaime Brown and McKenzie Lucie played well defensively for the Tigers.
Golf
Franklin, 157 @ Oliver Ames, 145 – Final – Oliver Ames’ Thomas Walsh fired a one-under-par round of 33 to lead the Tigers to their third straight win to start the season. Liam Barry added a 36, Nolan Donze shot 37 and Matt Kelley carded a round of 39 for the Tigers.
King Philip, 161 @ Milford, 167 – Final – King Philip’s Danny McLoughlin led the way, carding a medalist round of 38 while teammate Matt Stanton shot a 39 for the Warriors. Andrew Fauerbach led Milford with a team-low round of 40.
Sharon, 181 @ Foxboro, 177 – Final
Mansfield, 164 @ North Attleboro, 157 – Final – North Attleboro’s Marcus Costa and Mansfield’s Brian See shared match medalist honors, each carding a 37 on the day at the middle course at Heather Hills. Colby Cameron added a round of 39 for the Rocketeers.
King Philip, 1 @ Canton, 2 – Final – Canton junior Griffin Roach scored a pair of goals to lead the Bulldogs to a big win over visiting King Philip. Roach scored the opening goal in the 17th minute after a shot from Avery Minkin was deflected. In the second half, Roach doubled the lead when his shot from just inside the area was deflected into the top corner. KP scored in the 73rd minute when sophomore Brian McCarthy’s cross was headed home at the far post by senior Jack Bush.
Franklin, 1 @ Foxboro, 2 – Final – Foxboro’s Ryan Kelley had a hand in both of the Warriors goals, recording a goal and an assist in the win. Kelley scored the opener inside the first five minutes, smashing home a rebound on a shot from Cam Cass. Early in the second half, Kelley played Nic Beigel in, who finished his chance to make it 2-0. Franklin responded within five minutes to cut the deficit in half but Foxboro held on for two points.
Mansfield, 2 @ Stoughton, 0 – Final – Mansfield netted a pair of second half goals and senior Nick Ferraz made six saves to record his second shutout of the season. Cullin Anastasia put the visitors on the board midway through the second half by converting a penalty kick. Sam Hyland doubled the Hornets’ lead five minutes later when he finished off a corner kick from Luke Savoie.
Taunton, 0 @ Milford, 1 – Final – The Scarlet Hawks netted the only goal of the game midway through the first half to earn their first win of the season. Junior Tiago Filadelfo nodded home a free kick service from sophomore Jordan Borges for his first career goal. Like Capobianco recorded the clean sheet in net for the Hawks. Milford head coach Brian Edwards said Leo Coelho had a strong game for the Hawks in midfield.
Oliver Ames, 1 @ North Attleboro, 1 – Final – North Attleboro got off to a great start, opening the scoring inside the first two minutes but Oliver Ames battled back to level the match before halftime, and that’s how it would finish. North Attleboro sophomore Dylan Corrigan scored his first career goal, finishing a pass from senior Josh Rodriguez. Head coach Geoff Burgess credited Joe Hilf with starting the counter attack that led to the goal. OA scored in the 33rd minute when senior Mason Galbato opened his 2017 account, finishing off a long throw with Nathaniel Cardoza assisting. OAHS head coach John Barata noted both Cam Vella and Chris Lawrence played great in the back for the Tigers.
Girls Soccer
Sharon, 1 @ Attleboro, 3 – Final – The Bombardiers made it two wins in a row with what head coach Steve Santos called, “a great team win.” Freshmen Briley Harnois and Isabella Salviati scored for Attleboro to open a 2-0 lead at halftime. Sharon got one back from Ally Filipkowski before Hannah Meier sealed the points with Attleboro’s third. Santos said that Kara Thornton did a great job marking Filipkowski and praised the defensive effort of his captains Jordyn Forte, Morgan Laplume, and Julia Hayes.
Canton, 0 @ King Philip, 3 – Final – Chloe Layne had a goal and an assist for the Warriors, who continue the unbeaten start to the season. Ally Stanton opened the scoring in the ninth minute and the score stayed 1-0 until eight minutes after the break when Avery Snead finished a Layne pass to double the lead. Ten minutes later, Layne got her goal from a Jenna Hitchen cross to wrap up the scoring. Emma Durant made two saves for KP and Warriors coach Gary Pichel said that the back line of Emma Corcoran, Olivia Berry, Lauren Anderson, and Kyliegh Remmis “were unbeatable today.”
Foxboro, 0 @ Franklin, 1 – Final – In an even game, in which both teams had good scoring opportunities, the Panthers earned all two points thanks to a goal in the final minute by Calen Frongillo, assisted by Anna Balkus. A minute before the Franklin goal, the Warriors had a scoring chance of their own but were denied by a diving Cat Robbins save.
Stoughton, 0 @ Mansfield, 6 – Final – Cassidy McMahon continued her strong start to the season with two goals and two assists to lead the Hornets to their third win of the season. Stephanie Kemp added a brace for Mansfield, which also got goals from Allison and Melissa Reef.
Milford, 2 @ Taunton, 1 – Final – Milford picked up its first win of the season behind goals from Juliana France (assisted by Maddy Boyle) and Hannah Martin (assisted by Kristina Chiarelli). Samantha Tichelaar scored the lone goal for the Tigers and Grace Pimenta made 10 saves.
Field Hockey
Franklin, 1 @ Oliver Ames, 2 – Final – Oliver Ames took a 2-1 lead before the halftime break and that was enough, with goalie Tigers’ Caitlin Grant recording eight saves in the win. Meaghan Rockey and Sarah Stevens each found the back of the net, both on assists from Cristina Boudreau. Franklin junior Ashley Reutlinger’s first goal of the season, on an assist from Cassi Ronan, tied the game in the first half before OA retook the lead. OA head coach Abby Tepper said Grant “played amazing in net” and also praised the defensive play of Sarah Tetrault.
Volleyball
Attleboro, 1 @ Sharon, 3 – Final
King Philip, 3 @ Canton, 0 – Final – King Philip earned a sweep on the road, beating Canton 25-18, 25-13, 25-13. Reigning Hockomock League MVP Sydney Phillips led the Warriors’ charge with 18 kills while Michaela Palumbo added nine kills and Grace Ely chipped in with seven kills. Elise Pereira (seven digs) and Julianne Rando (six digs) paced KP’s defense. For Canton, Sophia Connor had a strong all-around game, hitting .429 with 10 digs and 2 aces. Taylor Harris added four aces, two kills and two blocks for the Bulldogs.
Franklin, 3 @ Foxboro, 0 – Final – Franklin picked up its second straight sweep, this time on the road at Foxboro. Riley Marino had 11 serve receptions, seven digs and three aces for the Panthers while FHS head coach Kate Horsmann said Lauren Lockhart had another smart hitting match, finishing with eight kills. Maggie Doyle added four kills, two blocks and an ace in the win.
Mansfield, 0 @ Stoughton, 3 – Final – Stoughton defended its home court with a big win over Mansfield, recording a 25-3, 25-9, 28-26 sweep of the Hornets. Junior Molly Turner had a great all around game for the Knights with 13 assists, four blocks and 25 service points. Senior Val Whalen led the Stoughton offense with 15 kills. “We started strong and kept up a great defensive game to hold off the Hornets in the third set,” said SHS head coach Erica Batchelder.
Taunton, 3 @ Milford, 0 – Final – Taunton notched its first win of the season, holding off the Hawks in the third set to earn a 25-18, 25-19, 28-26 sweep. Sam Reaume led Taunton with 10 digs, seven kills, two blocks and an ace while Kayli Fagan finished with 20 assists, three kills, two assists and a block. THS head coach Toby Chaperon said Rawan Hamie and Sam Martin provided a spark up front and at the service line, and praised the defensive play of McKenzie Lucie, Jaime Brown and Elaine Bodemer.
Oliver Ames, 0 @ North Attleboro, 3 – Final – North Attleboro earned its third win of the season, and first sweep, fending off Oliver Ames with a 25-15, 25-22, 26-24 win. Amelia Murphy had a strong game for the Rocketeers with nine kills and four aces while Kezie De La Cru added eight kills and two aces. OA sophomore Jordyn Vella had four kills, two blocks and three aces for the Tigers.
Golf
Taunton, 191 @ Franklin, 164 – Final
Foxboro, 225 @ Sharon, 227 – Final
Canton, 152 @ Stoughton, 185 – Final – Canton’s Joey Vaughan and Danny Powers shared match medalist honors, each carding a low-round of 37 to lead the Bulldogs to their second win in as many days. Jack Goyetch and Chris Lavoie each chipped in with rounds of 39. Stoughton’s Brendan Campbell had a team-low round of 42.
King Philip, 161 @ North Attleboro, 156 – Final – Dylan Kane and Marcus Costa each carded rounds under 40 to lad the Rocketeers to a close win over KP. Kane shot a 36 while Costa carded a round of 38 in the win.
Game of the Week – Football
North Attleboro, 14 @ King Philip, 24 – Final – Click here for a recap of the Game of the Week. 1st Quarter: (KP) Cole Baker 22-yard field goal.
2nd Quarter: (NA) Chad Peterson 21-yard pass to Nolan Buckley, Geoff Wilson XP good; (KP) Brendan Lydon 71-yard pass to Aidan Bender, C. Baker XP good; (KP) B. Lydon 13-yard pass to David Morganelli, C. Baker XP good.
3rd Quarter: No scoring.
4th Quarter: (NA) C. Peterson 27-yard pass to Marion Bresko, G. Wilson XP good; Shane Frommer 57-yard rush, C. Baker XP good.
Football Attleboro, 32 @ Cumberland (RI), 33 – Final
1st Quarter: (C) Joe Leonard 31 yard pass to Jack Andrews, XP good; (A) Cam Furtado 1 yard rush, XP failed.
2nd Quarter: (A) C. Furtado 6 yard rush, XP failed. (C) Hayden Lacroix 8 yard rush, XP good; (A) C. Furtado 16 yard pass to Elvin Sam, 2pt failed; (A) C. Furtado 29 yard pass to Jeremy Haas, XP failed.
3rd Quarter: (C) H. Lacroix 37 yard rush, XP failed. (C) J. Leonard 14 yard pass to H. Lacroix, XP failed.
4th Quarter: (A) C. Furtado 32 yard pass to Justin Cote, C. Furtado 2pt rush. (C) J. Leonard 31 yard pass to Mason Matos, XP good.
Canton, 42 vs. Pentucket, 7 – Final 1st Quarter: (C) Alec Ragusa 3 yard rush, Owen Lehane XP good; (C) A. Ragusa 4 yard rush, O. Lehane XP good; (C) Gersom Rivera 4 yard rush, O. Lehane XP good.
2nd Quarter: (C) A. Ragusa 4 yard rush, O. Lehane XP good; (C) G. Rivera 14 yard rush, O. Lehane XP good.
3rd Quarter: No scoring.
4th Quarter: (5) Pentucket 5 yard pass, XP good; (C) Alain Jean 62 yard rush, O. Lehane XP good.
Foxboro, 7 @ Hingham, 3 – Final 1st Quarter: (H) Matt Lahiff 32-yard field goal good; (F) Liam Foley 9 yard pass to Mike Luong, Russell Neale XP good.
2nd Quarter: No scoring.
3rd Quarter: No scoring.
4th Quarter: No scoring.
Stoughton, 28 vs. Franklin, 14 – Final – Click here for a recap of this game. 1st Quarter: (F) Jake Noviello 8 yard pass to Sean Leonard, Matt Zucco XP good. (S) Evan Gibb 15 yard pass to Ajahn Rue, Josh Cocchi XP good.
2nd Quarter: (S) E. Gibb 35 yard pass to Ruben Gonzalez, J. Cocchi XP good.
3rd Quarter: (S) E. Gibb 35 yard pass to R. Gonzalez, J. Cocchi XP good.
4th Quarter: (F) Even Wendell 13 yard pass to Jack Nally, M. Zucco XP good. (S) E. Gibb 1 yard rush, J. Cocchi XP good.
Mansfield, 34 vs. Walpole, 13 – Final 1st Quarter: (M) Damani Scott 38 yard pass to Joe Cox, XP failed. (W) Brett Lavanchy 5 yard pass to Chase Conrad, XP good; (M) Danny DeGirolamo 27 yard rush, Hunter Ferreira 2pt rush good.
2nd Quarter: (W) B. Lavanchy 5 yard rush, XP failed; (M) J. Cox 12 yard rush, Mike Debolt XP good; (M) D. Scott 36 yard pass to D. DeGirolamo, 2pt failed.
3rd Quarter: (M) D. Scott 36 yard pass to Mike Shannon, M. Debolt XP good.
4th Quarter: No scoring.
Milford, 7 @ Scituate, 34 – Final 3rd Quarter: (M) Will Pointer 19 yard rush, Sean Lehane XP good.
Oliver Ames, 32 vs. Bedford, 21 – Final 1st Quarter: (B) Bedford 30 yard pass, XP good; (OA) Anthony Berksza 35 yard rush, XP failed.
2nd Quarter: (OA) Curtis Cann 15 yard pass to Ethan Eckstrom, 2pt failed; (OA) Safety; (OA) A. Berksza 10 yard rush, XP failed.
3rd Quarter: (OA) A. Berksza 5 yard rush, XP no good.
4th Quarter: (OA) A. Berksza 30 yard rush, 2pt failed; (B) Bedford 25 yard pass, 2pt good.
Taunton, 25 vs. New Bedford, 15 – Final 1st Quarter: (T) Noah Leonard 8 yard pass to Jahmeir Lewis, John Teixeira XP good; (T) Woudanly Danger 4 yard rush, XP failed.
2nd Quarter: (T) TJ Mendes 5 yard rush, XP failed; (T) T. Mendes 4 yard rush, XP failed.
3rd Quarter: (NB) Tru Williams 39 yard rush, XP good.
4th Quarter: (NB) T. Williams 14 yard pass to Jeremy DaCruz, T. Williams 2pt pass to Edgar Semedo.
Boys Soccer
Franklin, 0 @ Xaverian, 1 – Final – Franklin head coach Fran Bositis noted improvement from the Panthers’ opening game and said his side played hard, but couldn’t find the back of the net.
Oliver Ames, 5 @ Stoughton, 0 – Final – Oliver Ames used three different goal scorers to race out to a 3-0 lead through the first 40 minutes and added a pair of second half strikes to open 2017 with a win. Senior Brandin Osborne netted a goal in each half while Matt Alvarado, Jack Sheldon, and Michael Nikiciuk each scored once. Sheldon, Nathaniel Cardoza, James Gillespie, Josh Melnick and freshman Matt Nikiciuk each registered an assist.
Field Hockey
Stoughton, 3 @ Attleboro, 4 – Final – Attleboro scored a pair of goals in each have and senior goalie Katie Pelletier turned aside nine shots to help the Bombardiers edge Stoughton. Grace Mayer scored a pair of goals for Attleboro in the first half, the latter on an assist from Eliza Sabilla. Alex Compton netted both goals in the second half for Big Blue, converting assists from Mayer and Abigail Boudreau. Allie Howe found the back of the net twice for Stoughton while Alanna McCormick scored once.
Canton, 4 @ Mansfield, 1 – Final – Canton junior Maggie Malloy scored a hat trick to lead the Bulldogs to a win on the road at Mansfield.
Foxboro, 1 @ King Philip, 4 – Final – After a scoreless first half, King Philip exploded for four goals in the second half. Nicole Connor opened the scoring off an assist from Alli Meehan just under three minutes into the second half and six minutes later, Meehan doubled the lead with an unassisted goal. Liz Furfari scored back-to-back goals four-minute span, the first off a feed from Christina Hathaway, the second from Meehan. Foxboro tallied with just under three minutes to play when Lily Daly finished a pass from Jackie Brion. KP finished with 19 shots and 14 corners.
Milford, 1 @ Franklin, 4 – Final – Franklin junior Cassi Ronan registered her first hat trick of the season, including scoring on a penalty stroke, to lead Franklin over Milford. Freshman Victoria Quinn scored for the second straight game, finishing off an assist from sophomore Elizabeth Clark. FHS head coach Lisa Cropper also noted junior Emily Valentino had a strong game for the Panthers.
North Attleboro, 0 @ Taunton, 1 – Final – Taunton senior Kya Enos scored the lone goal of the game just over midway through the first half. Enos converted the lone tally on an assist from Liana Duarte. Taunton goalie Emma Sheehan turned away nine saves to record the shutout. THS head coach Liz Hathaway said Kathryn Robinson and Lauren Torres both had strong games for the Tigers.
Sharon, 0 @ Oliver Ames, 8 – Final – Oliver Ames had seven different players find the back of the net in the win, with Liz Nuss registering a pair of goals.
Volleyball
Attleboro, 0 @ Canton, 3 – Final – Canton’s Nicole Brown (15 assists) did a great job running the offense in her debut as starting setting according to head coach Pat Cawley as the Bulldogs registered a 25-17, 25-23, 25-16 sweep of Attleboro. Megan McDonough led the defense with 12 digs and was “a strong leader on the court,” according to Cawley. Cawley added Sofia Connor and Hannah Jerrier played strong all around games, combining for 10 kills.
Mansfield, 3 @ Foxboro, 0 – Final – Mansfield opened its 2017 campaign with a 25-23, 25-16, 25-23 sweep on the road at Foxboro. Senior Meg Hill led the offense with 13 kills and senior Lexi Gardner chipped in with seven kills. Senior Emma Ascoli finished the game with 25 assists for Mansfield.
Franklin, 1 @ North Attleboro, 3 – Final – Franklin fought off the sweep but North Attleboro finished the match in four sets, 25-20, 25-18, 25-27, 25-20. Kezia De La Cruz led the Rocketeers with 12 kills and a pair of aces while Katie DeMontigny had nine kills and two aces in the win. For Franklin, Meaghan Maguire had eight total blocks (six solo) and five kills, Hailey Sanders added three blocks (one solo) and five kills and Lauren McGrath had 19 assists and four aces.
King Philip, 3 @ Milford, 0 – Final – King Philip slammed the door shutout on its sweep of Milford with senior Michaela Palumbo accounting for 16 service points in the third set alone in a 25-20, 25-11, 25-7 win. Palumbo also had five kills and five aces in the win while Sydney Phillips had 11 kills and Grace Ely notched three kills.
Oliver Ames, 1 @ Stoughton, 3 – Final – Stoughton senior Val Whalen had a very strong game in a 3-1 (25-16, 20-25, 25-9, 25-21) win over visiting Oliver Ames. Whalen led the way with 19 kills, 13 digs and six blocks while juniors Molly Turner and Hanna Holden combined for over 30 assists. OA’s Emma Petrillo had seven kills and four aces, sophomore Allie Kemp had 22 assists and Sadie Homer notched 10 digs and two aces.
Taunton, 2 @ Sharon, 3 – Final – In a back and forth match, Sharon emerged with a 22-25, 25-20, 25-16, 20-25, 15-11 win over visiting Taunton. For the Tigers, Sam Reaume had 10 kills and an ace, Kayli Fagan notched 26 assists, five aces and four kills and McKenzie Lucie played well in the back row according to head coach Toby Chaperon.
Golf
Mansfield, 165 @ King Philip, 167 – Final – Mansfield freshman Ryan Dow had shot a team-low round of 38 to lead the Hornets to their first win. Freshman Brian See added a 41 in the win.
Boys Soccer
Attleboro, 2 @ Canton, 4 – Final – Canton senior Jake Verille opened the scoring and junior Simon Cruz added two first half tallies as the Bulldogs led 3-0 at the halftime break. Attleboro junior Will Halben pulled one back but Canton’s Griffin Roach found the back of the week to make it 4-1. Brandon Lewis added a second strike for the Bombardiers.
Mansfield, 0 @ Foxboro, 0 – Final – Mansfield senior Nick Ferraz made eight saves in net for the Hornets to earn the shutout.
Franklin, 2 @ North Attleboro, 3 – Final – North Attleboro twice erased a one-goal deficit and scored the game winner with just two seconds left to open the season with two points. Franklin senior Connor O’Rourke put the Panthers ahead in the sixth minute, finishing a shot from distance. North tied the game in the 28th minute when junior Joe Hilf put home a rebound on a corner kick. An own goal put Franklin back ahead but North Attleboro tied the match in the 61st minute. Senior Gabe Pinhancos broke through in alone on goal, touched around the keeper and finished into the net. Hilf scored the winner at the death, putting his shot at the back post with two seconds left.
King Philip, 1 @ Milford, 0 – Final – Milford pushed King Philip to the brink but the Warriors found the game-winner five just five minutes go. Senior Cam Koch provided the winner as his shot from outside the area hit off the crossbar and back off the keeper and into the net. Milford head coach Bryan Edwards played the effort of defender Joey Madden and goalie Josh Orellana.
Taunton, 1 @ Sharon, 2 – Final – Liam Crowley put Taunton ahead just before halftime but the Eagles netted a pair of second half goals to grab two points. Marques Benton leveled the match in the 52nd minute, heading in a long throw from Tyler Hippler. Isaiah Stessman netted the winner in the 66th minute with a shot from distance.
Girls Soccer
Canton, 2 @ Attleboro, 0 – Final – Lilah Sullivan scored off a Riley Duserick assist to open the scoring for the Bulldogs and freshman Elisa Diletizia added a debut goal for Canton. Attleboro coach Steve Santos said that his team played well and created chances, but just couldn’t find the finish.
Milford, 0 @ King Philip, 4 – Final – Chloe Layne scored a pair of goals and had an assist as KP scored four goals for the second straight game. Layne opened the scoring off a corner and Jenny Hinch made it two by finishing off a loose ball to the near post. Avery Snead scored off a Layne assist to make it 3-0 at halftime. Layne redirected an Emma Corcoran corner for her second and the fourth for the Warriors. Milford goalie Olivia Marshall made eight saves and Hawks coach Jay Mastaj said that Rachel LeBlanc had a solid game on defense.
Stoughton, 0 @ Oliver Ames, 3 – Final – Abby Reardon, Sofia Masciarelli, and Erin Homberg scored goals for the Tigers and Sophia Cox and Abby Hodges had assists. Stoughton coach Tara Daniels said it was a “well-fought game” by the Black Knights. She added that senior Mia Greene created a number of chances from center midfield and goalie Emma Harrington played tough in goal.
Sharon, 0 @ Taunton, 2 – Final – Emily O’Gara had a goal and an assist for the Tigers. Maggie Sullivan had the other goal and Samantha Tichelaar had an assist. Grace Pimenta made three saves to earn the clean sheet.
Field Hockey
Attleboro, 1 @ Canton, 8 – Final – Canton senior Andrea McNeil netted a pair of goals and registered a pair of assists in the Bulldogs’ big win.
Franklin, 1 @ North Attleboro, 1 – Final – Franklin freshman Victoria Quinn tied the game midway through the first half off an assist from freshman Amanda Lewandowski. FHS goalie Christina Luccini helped the Panthers preserve the tie with a stellar second half, making five her of nine saves in the second half. Franklin head coach Lisa Cropper also praised the play of junior Cassi Ronan and senior defender Jolie Bua.
Oliver Ames, 3 @ Stoughton, 2 – Final – Oliver Ames broke open a tie game at the half with a pair of second half goals to beat Stoughton. Liz Nuss led OA with two goals while Hannah Stryke scored one goal. Caitlin Grant recorded 11 saves in net for Oliver Ames. Haley Apotheker and Allie Howe scored for Stoughton.
Taunton, 4 @ Sharon, 2 – Final – Taunton led 1-0 at the break and netted three more goals in the second half to pull away from Sharon and earn the win. Kya Enos scored a pair of goals while Diana Brend Lauren Torres each netted one goal for the Tigers. Senior Liana Duarte and freshman Alana Tavares each registered an assist in the win. Sharon head coach Andrea Vandette said goalie Lindsay Moses played an amazing first half, turning aside 20 shots.
King Philip, 9 @ Milford, 0 – Final – King Philip raced out to a 6-0 lead in the first half and never looked back in a shutout win on the road. Alli Meehan had a hat trick and two assists to pace the Warriors’ offense while Claire Lawler scored twice and Caroline Klim had two helpers. Liz Furfari (goal, assist), Dana Truini and Raegan Simeone each scored once while Christina Hathaway and McKenzie Mazur each had one assist.
Volleyball
Taunton, 0 vs. New Bedford, 3 – Final – Junior Kayli Fagan recorded 10 assists and Sam Reaume finished with four kills and a block for the Tigers.
Golf
Attleboro, 172 @ Taunton, 189 – Final – Attleboro’s Kyle DelSignore led the Bombardiers with a low-round of 39 while Corey McKenna carded a 41 to lead Big Blue to its first win. Jack Giebel, Jack Patneaude, Cam Williams all shot 46 for Taunton.
North Attleboro, 171 @ Milford, 172 – Final – North Attleboro’s Dylan Kane earned match medalist honors, carding a low-round of 38 to lead the Rocketeers. Riley Lynch led Milford with a 40 and Will Middlecoat shot a 42.
King Philip, 168 @ Franklin, 171 – Final – King Philip’s Danny McLaughlin was the medalist with a low-round of 37.
2016 Record: 2-17 2016 Finish: Missed playoffs Coach: Richard Seibert
First year head coach Dick Seibert is hoping a mix of strong returning players and new faces will help Attleboro turn things around this season. One reason for hope is four-year varsity player Lexi Pereira, who was selected to the HockomockSports.com Second Team a year ago. Pereira provides the Bombardiers with a potent attack at the net as well as a strong defensive presence. Seniors Sarah Lynch (third year on varsity) and Rachel Perreault (libero) are also key members for Big Blue this season. Tabby Guinan, Olivia Protano, Mackenzie Christiansen and junior middle Amanda Kadisevskis all return this season with varsity experience. Protano and junior Faith Hindy will handle the setting duties this season.
“As a first year varsity coach at Attleboro, my goal is obvious: win some matches,” Seibert said. “Attleboro hopes to climb out of the cellar of the Hockomock League this year.”
2016 Record: 18-4 (Davenport Division Champions) 2016 Finish: Reached D2 Central Final Coach: Pat Cawley
It’s been a decade of dominance for the Bulldogs, winning a league title every year for the past 10 seasons. But that reign will be tested this season as the Bulldogs will boast a group that is mostly without varsity experience. Canton graduated 13 seniors from last year’s squad that reached the D2 Central Final. Senior Hannah Jerrier is one player back with some experience after playing middle a season ago. Jerrier will be joined by junior Erin Devine as the team’s middles while junior Nicole Brown, who saw little time a year ago, will take over as the team’s starting setting. While outside and right side hitting spots are up for grabs, Canton will look to senior Sofia Connor and juniors Megan McDonough and Julia Minichiello to anchor a defense that has been the calling card of the team the past couple of seasons.
“Many positions remain open at this point but all my players are working hard and looking better every day,” said head coach Pat Cawley. “We will be a team that will need to rely on and trust each other in order to succeed. I expect to improve with each match and be a team to be reckoned with down the line!”
2016 Record: 1-17 2016 Finish: Missed playoffs Coach: Dan Damish
Foxboro will lean heavily on its nine seniors, including captains Meagan Savage and Mary Booth, as well as a couple of younger players, as it tries to bounce back from last year. Dan Damish returns his leading blocker from last season in senior middle Delya Lorquet. Lorquet will be joined by sophomores Grace Boudreau and Calvi Goddard at the net. Senior Mandy Ryan and junior Shaelyn McCarthy will take over setting duties this season while Carly Madden and Maddie Elliott will be competing for attacking spots in the front row. Paulette Palomares will man the libero position with Gwen Calnan, Billie Prescott, Brynn Gilbert and Hannah St. Germain helping to solidify the back row.
“The team looks to play great defense, serve well, limit unforced errors, and communicate well on the court,” Damish said.
After losing just four seniors to graduation, the Franklin Panthers return an experienced and deep team ready to make a run at the Kelley-Rex division title. The Panthers bring back both of their middle hitters to anchor the attack and net defense. Senior Meaghan Maguire (42 blocks) is back for her third year while junior Maggie Doyle (57 kills) returns after a strong sophomore campaign. Franklin also brings back junior setter Lauren McGrath, who was selected as HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year last season. Ellie Wisniewski (63 kills) will be one of the team’s top offensive threats at outside hitter.
“We are deep and have experience on offense this season,” said FHS coach Kate Horsmann. “Our floor leader and top defensive player graduated, so finding a floor leader and shoring up our defense will be a big factor in how our season plays out.”
A year after winning the program’s third Kelley-Rex title, the Warriors look to be poised to earn back-to-back titles based on the returning talent they have. Leading the way is 2016 HockomockSports.com Player of the Year and Hockomock League MVP Sydney Phillips, who had a tremendous season at outside hitter last year. She’ll be joined by senior Michaela Palumbo (outside hitter), Julianne Rando (defensive specialist) and Elise Pereira (libero). Junior Kat Kmetz is back as one of the team’s middle hitters after having a strong sophomore season, sophomore Grace Ely will step in as the other middle and senior Rachel Veilleux will take over as the setter.
“We are working hard for another successful season,” said KP head coach Kristen Geuss. “I am encouraged by the progress we have made on both offense and defense. We’ve had several scrimmages and I am happy with how our players have performed. We have a motivated team and are all looking forward to a strong start to the season.”
With two of the top net players back this season, Mansfield looks to be a true threat in a very deep Kelley-Rex division. Meg Hill, now in her fourth year on varsity, was fifth overall in kills a season ago and is one of the top net defensive players. Hill will be aided by Julia Harrison (104 kills) on the attack, now in her third year as an outside hitter for the Hornets. Junior Greenly Kelly will step into the other middle spot while senior Lexi Gardner will see time at outside hitter. Senior Emma Ascoli and sophomore Olivia Fernando will both see time setting for Mansfield.
“We have a lot of potential and have a great mix of senior leadership and experience as well as some young players who are going to add a lot to the team,” said MHS head coach Melissa Heeden. We have a lot to work on in the first few weeks, but I am very eager to see how this team come together.”
2016 Record: 15-6 2016 Finish: Reached D2 Central Semifinal Coach: Dan Seaver
First year head coach Dan Seaver has a strong mix of returning experienced players and new faces and is excited for what the 2017 Scarlet Hawks can accomplish. Milford returns four players with significant playing time, including the team’s libero Kyra Alves. At the net, Kelley Reichert (outside), Gill Valanzola (outside/middle) and Juliana Tracy (middle) give the Hawks a strong net presence, both offensively and defensively. Elena Nosiglia (opposite) and Kate Lobisser (middle/opposite) are also back and could see increased roles in 2017. Junior Sydney Sutton will join Alves as a defensive specialist to solidify the back line.
“I believe that we have all of the pieces to the puzzle, but it is going to be finding their right spots,” Seaver said. “I think we have great leadership from our senior class and a lot of drive from different players to be good.”
2016 Record: 12-10 2016 Finish: Reached D1 South Quarterfinal Coach: Jeff Crins
North Attleboro is looking to build on its state tournament berth a season ago and take the program a step forward in 2017. And Big Red has a good reason for optimism with so many key pieces back this year. The Rocketeers return their top three hitters from a year ago in Amelia Murphy (204 kills), Katie Demontigny (162 kills) and captain Caroline Vigorito. Leah Marceau is the team’s other captain and was a big piece of North’s defensive game, and a top server on the team.
“We are looking forward to a positive year this year,” Crins said. “We hope to have a stronger record than last year and compete against the top teams in the Hock league this year. With a big senior team this year I have high expectations for them and I am trusting that their experience will help them through some of the tough matches. My hope as a coach is that they come together as a team and really play to their potential.”
2016 Record: 11-11 2016 Finish: Reached D1 South Quarterfinals Coach: Chelsea Cunningham
Oliver Ames lost just three seniors to graduation, which means the majority of the Tigers are back this season and looking to compete in a deep Kelley-Rex division. Four-year varsity player Emma Petrillo (captain) returns as one of the team’s outside hitters and three-year varsity player Katie Flynn (captain) is back to man the right side of the attack. 2016 HockomockSports.com First Team selection Kayla Raymond (captain) will anchor net play from the middle. Sophomore Allie Kemp will step in to handle setting duties while Sadie Homer will lead the defense from the libero spot. Other returning varsity players include senior Maya Fetcho, senior Jacki Kandar, senior Caroline Cavanaugh, Grace McCallum and Jordyn Vella.
“This group of girls are feisty, committed and motivated to say the least; the girls come ready for all practice and have been anticipating for this competitive season to start,” said OA head coach Chelsea Cunningham. “From last year to this year, the chemistry is there for the majority of the team.”
2016 Record: 4-14 2016 Finish: Missed playoffs Coach: Andrea Lovett
Now in their second year under coach Andrea Lovett, the Eagles are looking to take yet another step forward. Returning six seniors, including four starters, is a good start for Lovett. Senior Jess Allan is back after a standout junior season that earned her HockomockSports.com Second Team honors in 2016. Cori Jermyn is also back and will be seeing time at outside hitter this season as the Eagles have found two capable middles to fill those spots. Ariana Chabot will continue as the team’s setter this season for the Eagles.
“I think we have a ton of talent and a group of athletes who are ready to go 100% from the first point to the last in every game,” Lovett said. “It’s going to be an exciting season for Sharon volleyball.”
2016 Record: 10-11 2016 Finish: Reached D2 South First Round Coach: Erica Batchelder
With two key pieces back from its offense a year ago, the Black Knights are looking to compete for the Davenport title and get back to the state tournament. One of the league’s top attacking options, Val Whalen, is back in the middle for Stoughton as well as classmate Jordan Motley. The duo not only provides Stoughton with offense, they are two top defensive options at the net. Senior captain Haley Stone will be tasked with anchoring the back line defensively.
“Stoughton hopes to make it to the postseason again with hard work and communication,” said Stoughton head coach Erica Batchelder.
The Tigers have graduated 20 seniors between the past two seasons, and now will rely on a group of younger players to help get back to the state tournament. However, Taunton has two seniors this season that they will rely on heavily. Sam Reaume (outside/middle) is back after being limited by injury a season ago and will be a top option at the net for the Tigers. Junior Kayli Fagan returns as the team’s setter after a stellar sophomore campaign while McKenzie Lucie (libero) also is back with varsity experience. Senior Rawan Hamie, juniors Kamila Cuevas, Adara Moreno, Sam Martin, Aaliyah Gillenwater, Michaela Felici, Sam Silviera and sophomore Alyssa Turcotte will be looked to fill voids up front while juniors Jaime Brown, Elaine Bodemer and Breanna Fevrier will be tasked with bolstering the defense from the back row.
“Obviously our goal is to get back to the state tournament,” said THS head coach Toby Chaperon. “Being in our league, every match is a grind and every win is hard fought so we know we have our work cut out for ourselves but I think with players like Sam Reaume and Kayli Fagan leading the way we can make a push to get back to the tournament.yeah
Players to Watch
Players are listed alphabetically
Jess Allan, Sharon – A four-year varsity player, Allan emerged as one of the top offensive players in the league last season with 133 kills. Not only is she a top hitter, she is also dangerous serving the ball.
Kyra Alves & Kelley Reichert, Milford – Alves emerged as one of the most reliable defensive players in the league last year. Her ability to read hitters helps put her in the right position to handle attacks and set Milford’s offense in motion. Reichert provided the Hawks with versatility a season ago. She will likely be one of the team’s top attacking options this season and will be one of the league’s top servers.
Kayli Fagan, Taunton – The Tigers had a down year in 2016 but Fagan stepped up and became one of the top setters in the league. Now with Sam Reaume back, Fagan will have a top attacking option to work with.
Meg Hill, Mansfield – Hill has improved every year both offensively and defensively. Her height helps her as one of the top blockers in the league and her power makes her one of the best attacking middles.
Lauren McGrath, Franklin – Even though she was just a sophomore last year, McGrath looked like a seasoned veteran setting the ball in 2016. She will have both middles back to work with this season while she works to create chemistry with outside and opposite hitters.
Amelia Murphy, North Attleboro – Murphy is one of four players back from the 2016 HockomockSports.com First Team. After registering 223 kills and 67 blocks a season ago, expect Big Red to rely on her offensive prowess again this season.
Lexi Pereira, Attleboro – Pereira is a do-it-all type player for Big Blue. Not only was she the team’s leader in kills, she was a top defensive player and a dangerous server as well.
Sydney Phillips, King Philip – Last year’s HockomockSports.com Player of the Year and league MVP is back and will be one of the top all-around players in the league, especially offensively.
Kayla Raymond, Oliver Ames – Raymond led the Tigers in kills (202) and blocks (56) during her junior season. While she will have to adjust to a new setter this season, her ability to attack the ball will help whoever takes over that spot.
Val Whalen, Stoughton – As one of the top middles in the league a year ago, Whalen returns for her senior season. A lot of the offense runs through Whalen but she’s still able to beat opposing defenses who try to stop her.
The Bombardiers are hoping to take a step forward and make a dent in the very competitive Kelley-Rex Division. Attleboro picked up a pair of non-league wins last season and is hoping that success can start to translate to league play. Head coach Lindsey McDonald noted the offseason work of juniors Lexi Pereira and Sarah Lynch. Both Pereira and Lynch will play as outside hitters and McDonald said she expects both to bring a lot of power to the attack. Liz Howe, a captain, will be in charge of getting the attack going from the setter position while captain Julya Carlson will anchor the defensive effort for the Bombardiers.
“I am anticipating an improved season for us,” McDonald said. “[Our] captains are providing solid leadership on and off the court and the team has been gelling nicely.”
2015 Record: 16-5 (Davenport Division Champions) 2015 Finish: Reached D2 Central Final Coach: Pat Cawley
Canton has had a dominant run in the Davenport division over the past six years and the Bulldogs are looking to continue that tradition in 2016. Canton has a dozen seniors on the team and will be relying on their experience and leadership to make another run at the division title and in the playoffs. Nicole Poole returns as a second year starter at setter and will be the catalyst for Canton’s offense. Emma Murphy and Casey Shea both have varsity experience and will be important pieces at the middle of the net. One spot that Canton has to fill is at outside hitter and the Bulldogs have a handful of players in the running including seniors Emma Gobbi, Erika Lum, Cassie Loftus, Kelsey Irons, Malia Claiborne and Maria Mackie. Canton is hoping for another year of strong defense with seniors Julia Panico, Kehla Minkin and Emily Lynch all vying for time in the back row.
“We are a senior laden team although most have not seen significant playing time at the varsity level,” head coach Pat Cawley said. “CHS volleyball is a proud tradition and I am confident that this year’s squad will do they can to keep this team competitive and make their senior experience one which they won’t forget.”
2015 Record: 6-12 2015 Finish: Missed playoffs Coach: Dan Damish
Foxboro is hoping its upward trajectory continues in 2016 after making great strides a season ago. Head coach Dan Damish and the Warriors will rely on its three senior captains – Lindsay Greer, Julia DiCenso and Julie Bridges – to continue to push the program in the right direction. DiCenso will be the starting setter for the fourth straight season and will have Danielle Conlon, the team’s leader in kills last season, at her disposal. DiCenso will also have Greer, Bridges, Ana Sanchez and Molly Crocker as offensive options. Junior Delya Lorquet could emerge as a big threat as a middle hitter as well for Foxboro this season.
“I’m very encouraged with the way the team came into the season in great volleyball shape,” Damish said. “Our top goal is to improve everyday and compete at a high level.”
Coming off the program’s second Kelley-Rex division title in the past five seasons, Franklin will be relying on youth to stay near the top of arguably the most competitive division in all of the Hockomock League’s sports. Senior Erin Skidmore (28 kills in 2015) is making the transition from the middle to the outside and will be a go-to attacking option at the net. At 6’3, junior Meaghan Maguire saw valuable time last year and will be a defensive leader at the net. The Panthers will look to sophomore setter Lauren McGrath to step in to set up the offense.
“This is the youngest team we have had since I started coaching,” head coach Kate Horsmann said. “We have five sophomores who could all be impact players for us this season. The outcome of our season will really depend on how quickly they adjust to the speed of the varsity game and how quickly we gel as a unit.”
King Philip had another strong campaign a year ago and are looking to repeat it in 2016. The Warriors have six returning seniors and all are expected to play important roles for KP this season. Senior captain Carly Adams will set the offense in motion from the setter position, senior captain Emma Lopez will be a key piece in the attack from the outside hitter spot and senior captain Angela Vellante will be a defensive specialist in the back row for KP. Senior Amanda Loewen will also be a key piece to the defense as the team’s libero. Senior Liv Balduf will help balance the offense as a rightside hitter while Molly Croke will help bolster the team’s defense. Junior Sydney Phillips, another returner from last year’s squad, will be an attacking option as an outside hitter.
“I expect us to be a strong team once again this year,” head coach Kristen Geuss said. “We have lost significant depth at the outside hitter position from last year but am encouraged by how our returning players have stepped up and progressed during our practices.”
The Hornets will look to follow up a historic one with another strong showing and they have some experienced players to do so. It will start with defense for Mansfield, who return one of the top liberos in Jess Haradon and one of the top middle blockers in Meg Hill, the 2015 HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year. Mansfield will have to replace some key pieces but senior Chloe Peters will be tasked with setting up the offense while junior Julia Harrison, who saw some minutes as a sophomore a year ago, will be one of the Hornets’ outside hitters.
“We have five great seniors who have been working hard to lead the team,” head coach Melissa Heeden said. “They are a great group of girls. We have some work to do to fill in from the six seniors who graduated last year, but a are really looking forward to the season.”
2015 Record: 9-11 2015 Finish: Missed playoffs Coach: Linda Zacchilli
The Scarlet Hawks just missed out on the playoffs a season ago but with Linda Zacchilli back on the bench, Milford could be right in the mix for the Davenport title. Offensively, Milford will need some need faces to step up after its top three kills leaders graduated. Junior Kelley Reichert is back after 66 kills last season and senior Stefani Chiarelli and junior Juliana Tracy will both factor into the offense as well. Both of Milford’s setters – Lauren Zouranjian (301 assists) and Allie Collins (198) – are back for 2016, which should help the Scarlet Hawks’ offense flow. Libero Kyra Alves is back after being a strong point in the defense last year as well.
2015 Record: 11-11 2015 Finish: Reached D1 South Quarterfinal Coach: Jeff Crins
The 2016 season will be a bit different for North Attleboro compared to a year ago. The Red Rocketeers now compete in the Davenport division and their attack has been bolstered by the addition of Amelia Murphy. Murphy was a top offensive player in the league a year ago at KP but has since transferred to North Attleboro. Murphy will be an attacking option along with junior Katie DeMontigny (100 kills last season) and Tori Melanson, who will also be a presence defensively at the net (82 kills, 70 blocks in 2015). North Attleboro will need to fill in the role of setter with Taylin Shultz graduated. Gabby Duva and Lindsay Howlett will be two key defensive players for the Rocketeers this season.
2015 Record: 7-12 2015 Finish: Missed playoffs Coach: Chelsea Correia
Oliver Ames has a strong mix of experienced players returning this Fall and are looking to take a trip back to the postseason after missing out in 2015. Senior captain Bridget McCarthy, in her fourth year on varsity, returns as the starting setter while fellow captain Alyssa Gavin returns as a top defensive option in the back row along with Rachel Foley. Junior Emma Petrillo will be one offensive option for the Tigers as an outside hitter, junior Katherine Flynn will be another as a right side hitter. Juniors Maya Fetcho and Kayla Raymond will rotate as offensive threats from the middle of the net while sophomore Sadie Homer will be the Tigers’ starting libero this season. Other names to keep an eye on include juniors Caroline Cavanaugh, Jacqueline Kander and freshmen Allison Kemp and Jordyn Vella.
“If we commit to it, I think we can rise to many challenges, prepare for all possibilities, and make the most of everything,” head coach Chelsea Correia.
2015 Record: 2-16 2015 Finish: Missed playoffs Coach: Andrea Lovett
New head coach Andrea Lovett is excited about the direction the Sharon volleyball program is headed and is hoping 2016 will be the first step in the right direction. Senior captain Faythe Gomolka returns this year as this the team’s versatile setter and has a great rapport with senior captain and middle hitter Natalie Kane. Seniors Marni Heitin, Luba Korn, Gesi Molla and Jonathan Dickerman will all factor in for the Eagles this season as well. Junior Jess Allan, now in her third year on varsity, will be an attacking option as an outside hitter while classmate Cori Jermyn will be an attacking option from the right side.
“As a new head coach, I am excited to work with the team on developing a more aggressive mindset and working on some more complex offensive systems to raise our level of play and be competitive in the league this year,” Lovett said.
2015 Record: 10-11 2015 Finish: Reached D2 South First Round Coach: Erica Batchelder
The Black Knights had a handful of talented players graduated from last year’s team but there is hope for optimism because of who is back this year. Stoughton’s kills leader junior Val Whalen is back for her third year of varsity after registering 129 kills a season ago. Junior Jordan Motley and senior Riley Bagley will also be big pieces of Stoughton’s attack this season after slamming 84 and 77 kills, respectively, in 2015. The biggest challenge for Stoughton will be finding players to step up in other areas. The team’s ace and assists leader from last season, Bianca DeSousa, the team’s leader in blocks and digs, Bridget Whalen, and the team’s leader in serve receives, Ava Siegel, all graduated. First year head coach Erica Batchelder will be looking to players to step up into those roles.
2015 Record: 15-9 2015 Finish: Reached D1 South Final Coach: Toby Chaperon
Taunton turned a successful regular season and a fourth place finish in the Kelley-Rex into one of the more memorable seasons in Tigers’ history. Taunton made a run all the way to the D1 South Final before falling to eventual state champion Barnstable. It will be a tough task to repeat with the amount of players that Taunton graduated, but the Tigers are up for the challenge. Taunton will need a new setter to step up after graduating Tatum Speicher, one of the top in the area at the position. Offensively, Emily Moor (team-high 254 kills in 2015) is back for her senior season while junior Sam Reaume (69 kills), senior Abby Waldron (69 kills) and senior Delaney Powell (26 kills) are all back after making an impact at the net a season ago.
Players to Watch
Players are listed alphabetically
Carly Adams, King Philip – King Philip was a dangerous attacking team a season ago and Adams, the team’s setter, was the big reason why. Adams will be a catalyst in getting the Warriors’ offense going this season.
Julia DiCenso, Foxboro – There aren’t many players in the league with the experience that DiCenso has. Now a senior captain, DiCenso is in her fourth year as the starting setter for the Warriors and will be a key piece of the offense this season.
Jess Haradon, Mansfield – Haradon really impressed defensively in her first year on varsity and looks to do the same in 2016. The senior will look to continue as a defensive specialist after leading Mansfield with 264 digs a season ago.
Meg Hill, Mansfield – As just a sophomore, Hill led the Hornets in kills (222), and blocks (74). Now a year older, expect another strong attacking year at the net for the 2015 HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year.
Bridget McCarthy, Oliver Ames – McCarthy is another four year varsity player and will likely eclipse a setting milestone this season. OA has a handful of young attacking options but things will be easier for them with McCarthy as the setter.
Emily Moor, Taunton – Moor had the most kills in 2015 for players returning this season, which is good news for Taunton. As the Tigers look for new names to emerge in other spots, they can rely on the consistent offense of Moor.
Amelia Murphy, North Attleboro –North Attleboro graduated a great attacking threat in Sara Youssef but now have KP transfer Amelia Murphy at the net. Murphy has the ability to hit around the block, which is very difficult for defenses.
Nicole Poole, Canton Canton has been the team to beat in the Hock for a good stretch now, including last season with Poole setting up the offense. Canton will need new names to step up as attacking options but having Poole as the setter will make things easier.
Erin Skidmore, Franklin – Franklin is in need of some players to step up as attacking options and Skidmore is looking to be one option as she moves from the middle to the outside. The Panthers have a good balance this year and Skidmore looks to be one of their top attacking options.
Val Whalen, Stoughton – The junior returns after leading the Black Knights in kills a year ago. If the Black Knights can find a replacement at setter, Whalen could be a tough player to stop this season.
By Jarett Leonard, HockomockSports.com Contributor
KINGSTON, Mass. – Barnstable had advanced to at least the Division 1 South semifinal every year since 1989, including 20 sectional titles and sixteen state championships. Taunton was appearing in its first D1 South final.
The Tigers won 15 matches this year, more than the past three seasons combined. The Red Raiders have not been held to fewer than 15 wins since 1988.
Experience was clearly on Barnstable’s side in the D1 South final Saturday night at Silver Lake High School as they ended Taunton’s magical run through the tournament with a quick three-set win.
“They’re the best team in the state, a dynasty,” Taunton head coach Toby Chaperon said. “We told our kids we’re a team of destiny going against a dynasty. However you want to think of it as an underdog story, that’s how it presented itself. Ultimately the result didn’t come in our favor today.”
Taunton defeated #10 Plymouth South, #2 Mansfield and #3 New Bedford en route to the final after finishing fourth in the Kelley-Rex Division during the regular season, an important milestone for the program.
“We knew we had to beat teams like Mansfield and New Bedford, and that was a good stepping stone for us because those teams are there every year,” Chaperon said. “It was a great accomplishment for our kids and I couldn’t be more proud of our kids and how they handled themselves. They worked hard all year and over the past five years.”
From the first serve, Barnstable’s experience presented itself clearly to the Tigers. Tied 4-4 in the first set, the Red Raiders won eight points in a row to open a 12-4 lead. Two kills by senior Emily Moor brought the Tigers within five before a 6-0 Barnstable run created enough separation for a 25-15 opening set victory.
Taunton started strongly in the second frame, with Moor and senior Aimee Kistner recording kills and Meghan Navarro adding an ace for a 7-5 lead. But Barnstable quickly responded with another impressive 6-0 run as senior Ashley McCarthy set up kills for teammates Riley James and Megan Dombrowski.
“She’s a great player,” Chaperon said of McCarthy, who finished the night with a match-high 23 assists for the Red Raiders. “There are really no flaws on that team. You look at their lineup and what kids present and every kid on that team presents a challenge. They’re really tough.”
Taunton climbed back into the set with a pair of kills from junior Sam Reaume and senior Alyssa Gibson, but Barnstable slowly broke away for a 25-12 win and a two-set advantage.
McCarthy and sophomore Caroline Brodt silenced Taunton in the third set to seal the win. McCarthy had six assists, a kill and an ace in the set while the Red Raiders won eleven consecutive service points from Brodt, including two aces.
“A lot of teams, you’ve got to keep them out of systems so they can’t get into attacks,” Barnstable head coach Tom Turco, who is in his 28th year, said. “[Brodt] did a good job. I thought our serve-receive people passed the ball pretty well tonight.”
In addition to the 23 helpers, McCarthy added six digs and four kills for Barnstable. James led the Red Raiders with 12 kills while Danielle Derosier had nine digs and four aces. Brodt also finished with four aces and Sollows had ten kills in the win.
Taunton senior Molly Sullivan had a match-best 15 digs while senior setter Tatum Speicher had a team-high 12 assists. Moor recorded six kills and Kistner added 10 digs for the Tigers.
“I thought our defensive game plan was pretty good,” Chaperon said. “I thought we were able to dig up some of their shots. It was some of those tips and weird shots they were able to get off us rather than those big booming shots that we saw on tape and in person.”
Barnstable, winners of six-straight sectional tournaments, will face Concord-Carlisle in the Division 1 state semi-final as the program searches for its 17th state championship in 22 years.
Today’s games are listed below. Volleyball D1 South
#7 Taunton, 3 @ #3 New Bedford, 1 – Final – New Bedford won the first set and jumped out to a 9-5 lead in the second set before Taunton rallied. The Tigers used a 7-1 run to get back in the game and then closed the set with a 5-2 run. The Tigers trailed 24-23 in the third set but rallied to grab a 26-24 win and a 2-1 lead. Taunton finished with a 19-25, 25-22, 26-24, 25-20 win. Emily Moor had a team-high 12 kills, Alyssa Gibson had eight kills and Aimee Kistner and Sam Reaume each had five kills. Tatum Speicher had 28 assists and four digs and Meghan Navarro had eight digs.The Tigers advance to the D1 South Finals for the first time in school history and will take on #1 Barnstable on Saturday, 11/14 at 5:00 at Silver Lake Regional. D1 Central East
#4 King Philip, 2 @ #1 Quincy, 3 – Final– King Philip bowed out to the top seed with a 22-25, 25-15, 25-23, 24-26, 14-16 marathon loss. Josie Rowean and Gwen Uyrus each had 15 kills for the Warriors, Amelia Murphy had eight kills and three blocks, Emma Lopez had 17 service points, Carly Adams registered 39 assists and Micaela Murray had six digs. D2 Central
#3 Canton, 3 @ #2 Medway, 0 – Final – Canton won 25-19, 25-19, 25-20 to advance to the D2 Central Finals for the third time in the last four years. Canton will play #1 Westboro on Saturday, 11/7 at Hudson High School at 7:00.
