Lacrosse Looks For Third Conference Title

OVERVIEW

 The Broncos enter the 2011 campaign looking to improve even more after a successful two years run when the team won its conference. Head coach Rick DeBonta feels that this year’s squad is well prepared to handle the high expectations, as the team features 13 seniors to go along with their more inexperienced players. DeBonta’s top priority is working to improve a defense that he feels underachieved last year.

LAST SEASON'S RESULTS

The Broncos posted a very solid 13-6 mark last year en route to its second consecutive Rizk Division Championship. However, they shared the championship with Glen Rock and Wayne Hills. Overall, coach Debonta is 47-32 as the Head Coach of the Broncos. This year will be his fifth year with the program.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON

Patrick Johnson, Goalie (Sr.) – Johnson served in a platoon situation last year, but coach DeBonta feels as though Johnson had a "tremendous offseason," and continues to improve every day in practice. Johnson is ready to take on the goaltending responsibilities in full this season and will be a huge factor for the team’s success.

Brian McCormick, Attack (Jr.) – McCormick did not play for the Broncos last year but came out this year to supplement the Broncos’ attack. DeBonta believes McCormick will help in providing a balanced offense and will contribute greatly this year.

Jared Mullin, Defense (Sr.) – One of the biggest things coach DeBonta is preaching this season is defense, and Mullin is the starting defender for the Broncos this year. Mullin will no doubt be looked upon to shore up a suspect defensive unit from last year.

THEY'LL MISS

Christian Saley, Attack (Stevens Tech) – Saley was the Broncos’ leading scorer last year and was a big time leader. He graduated last spring and is playing lacrosse at Stevens Tech as a freshman this year.

Stanley Bukowski, Defense – Bukowski was the team’s leading defenseman last year. For a team that needs to improve on the defensive end, the loss of Bukowski could hurt. 

COACH'S TAKE

“Our first goal going into every season is to make sure we’re competing and trying to win a championship in our division and go from there. Expectations are definitely high this year.” –DeBonta

THEY SAID IT

“We have a lot of returning kids this year so we’re expecting a lot of good things. We didn’t have that great of an offseason, the offense wasn’t clicking very well. But we’re starting to pick it up. We’re hoping to win the whole thing this year.” – Mayse