Lacrosse in The News

 

                            

SMA Eagle Lacrosse is a dynamic and vital part of the academy.  It builds character, emphasizes academics and develops future leaders.  The coaches are superior role models for our cadets. This program is the finest athletic activity I have seen during my entire career. Go Eagles! Onward!  - Dan Kennedy, Headmaster/CEO

Win, lose or draw the lessons learned by the students from the lacrosse coaching staff are life lessons; for that, we wanted to thank the entire coaching staff - Dr. Rich and Linnea Patete, SMA Parents

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SMA Takes Home The Silver

 

" You never win a game unless you beat the guy in front of you. The score on the board doesn't mean a thing. That's for the fans. You've got to win the war with the man in front of you." The words of football legend Vince Lombardi echoed Saturday at Jesuit High in Tampa where the young defending conference champion varsity SMA lacrosse team took home the second place WFLL Division B trophy in the championship game. Playing in his last game, four year veteran defense-man cadet senior D.J.Coup, a National Honor Society student who is headed to UCF to study Aerospace engineering, and nursing a sore shoulder, demonstrated his grit and determination along with long pole middies junior cadet Mike Martino ( National Honor Society) and  cadet sophomore Mario Ferrucci (both sporting 4.0 + GPA's) in holding their opponents scoreless in the first quarter and containing their "men" throughout the game. Standout cadet junior goaltender John Villotti ( game high 19 saves) , dependable all season, a 4.3 student and National Honor Society member, "beat his man"  by posting 4 sensational one-on-one saves in the first period alone. The high flying Eagles lead 2 to 0  over their undefeated  opponents on the power of junior cadet Nick Estes ( 2 goals ), who scored the first goal of the game, and Freshman Chad Cowles who put one in the cage on the buzzer to end the first quarter of play up 2-0.  Classmate Ariel Lipman ( 2 goals)  who was doubled for most of the contest would not be denied, beating his "men" to the crease for his score. Academic high achiever Freshman Nic Halloran, fearless at a little over 100 pounds, also nursing an aggravated shoulder, demonstrated his ability to " beat the man in front of you " by emerging from several scrums winning key ground balls. Sophomore speed-man Mason McGowan out raced his  "men" through the mid-field several times and was responsible for setting up the SMA attack through most of the first half.

 

 Nick Estes added the lone second period score for the Eagles who ended the half with 18 goal shots but only six on cage.

 

The second half started with the teams tied at three a piece. Freshman Chase Estes, a student of " beating your man " at the face off circle, in the first and third periods, scored for the Eagles who fell behind 6 to 4 despite 5 more one-on-one saves from SMA's confident goalie cadet Villotti.

 

A spent Chase Estes scored the first goal of the fourth for the Eagles on a hard ground side-winder that careened past the waiting goalie. Ariel Lipman powered in the final goal for the SMA squad. The Eagles managed only four goal shots in the period. Both on cage shots found their mark and resulted in  Eagle scores. Miscues by the SMA squad, including another penalty with under six minutes left to play, gave the opponents an opportunity to control the ball and run out the clock in a deliberate stall,  a maneuver that usually results in a penalty with change of possession.

 

Despite a total of 30 goal shots the Eagles put only 11  on cage in the contest.  The opponent's goalie was forced to make five saves in the 9 to 6 win.

 

The game started with the entire Eagle squad respectfully parading our country's colors to the center of the field despite the protestations of the opposing coaches who voiced resentment at their display of the flag. The contest ended with the SMA squad hoisting their third trophy in as many seasons. " This team developed a sense of what it means to compete and attain success," said SMA coach Bruce Sengstaken after the win. "We lost 14 seniors and were not predicted to win more than 2 or 3 games. Most of the underclassman had little or no lacrosse or team sports experience, yet they played the season, and this game, with pride and determination. They earned my respect" said coach Ken Cowles whose time, energy, and devotion to the game, the school, and the kids are immeasurable. SMA teacher and coach J.P. Cawley thought that " our kids learned something - that to compete in this game, just like in life, you must work hard and dig deep down inside to be the best every time you put even one foot on the field, every play, no exceptions." Volunteer coach Landon Powers thought that " the victory was in our grasp if only a few more of our goal shots would have been on cage." Coach Steve Estes " thought the kids had the metal all year long to be here with a chance to compete for another championship despite the expectations associated with being a rookie team." Team physician  Dr. Jim Villotti said " I congratulate these kids on such a huge achievement. It continues to be a privilege to work with some of the most respectful student athletes with which I have ever been associated." Reliable sideline volunteer EMT firefighter Lt. Mike Martino agreed and added " wait 'til next year!"

Perhaps coach Scott Kallins, proud of the effort his team made in maturing this season, and looking ahead, summed it up best with a rare smile - " after a successful year like this one, I will consider this game the first of next season."

 

 

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SMA Advances To Championship

 

After winning their first round play-off game over Plant B, Cardinal Mooney played host SMA ( first round bye)  in a semi-final WFLL Division B match up at Redskins Sports Complex on 17th Street Thursday night before a large and enthusiastic crowd. The visiting Cougars won the ground ball battle and face-offs in the opening two quarters. After scoring on the first shot of the game, Mooney led 6 - 5 , their last lead of the game, at the end of the first period. Eagle freshman Chace Estes , who engineered the first Eagle goal, scooped his initial second period face off win and drove in a goal to start the second period. Junior Ariel Lipman ( game high 6 goals ) weaved and pushed his way to the crease and forcefully scored 4 times in the first half helping his team take a 9 to 8 halftime lead. Classmate Mike Martino ( 2 goals) scored what would be the game winner just before the end of the second period.

Mason McGowan ( 2 goals) opened the third period scoring for the second time . Nic Estes ( 4 goals) added 2 more in the quarter. The SMA defense, slow to prevent several one-on-one chances in the first half, shut the visitors out in the second half on the strength of  goaltender John Villotti ( game high 19 saves) who had 11 second half saves. Now dominating the face-offs and the ground balls, the spirited hometeam widened their lead to 13 - 8 after 3 periods. Chad Cowles added his second goal of the game in the final quarter. Good clears, deliberate passes, better communication, and intense physical play enabled the Eagles to  dominate the final 12 minutes.  The final score was SMA 18, Cardinal Mooney 8. The historied SMA lacrosse program's playoff game win  earned its young squad a berth in Saturday afternoon's league championship game in Tampa. The Eagles will have the opportunity to defend their crown at Jesuit High School against the winner of tonight's other West Florida Lacrosse League semifinal match-up between Tampa's Wharton High School and undefeated All Saints Academy of Lakeland.

SMA head Coach Scott Kallins had this to say about the win - " the young players that we have been relying on as a team to step up and take the place of the 14 seniors that we lost from last year's championship team finally matured. The players obviously embraced the concept that only an integrated team effort like we saw here tonight can attain them another championship."

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Eagles Close Season 10 and 5

"Bloomingdale gave us an opportunity to face game opposition which we utilized in preparation for the playoffs" said Eagle coach Scott Kallins after his team finished the regular season with an easy road win. Again playing his entire roster, Kallins and his assistants, whose team is 7 - 1 in the division and  earned a first round bye, were hoping to gain game experience as the varsity squad heads into Thursday night's playoff tilt at home against the winner of Tuesday's Cardinal Mooney / Plant B contest.

 

The defending WFLL  Division B champion Eagles varsity team finished the regular season  by dominating home-team Bloomingdale  from face-offs to control of ground balls in the  Saturday afternoon match-up. Juniors Ariel Lipman ( 3 goals) and Nick Estes (1 goal)  led the team in assists with 6 each. Eleventh grader Chris Freeman (2 goals) scored  the game's first goal. The SMA defense  allowed only 3 shots on cage in the first half enabling starting goalie junior John Villotti ( 3 saves), who was relieved in the second half by freshman Zack Cossey ( 3 saves), to shutout Bloomingdale in the first 2 periods.

 

Ahead 13 to 0 to start the second half and with a running clock for the rest of the game, the visiting Eagles added 2 more 3rd period scores. The home team managed a score in each of the second half quarters. Nine Eagles got in the scorebook including face-off specialist freshman Chase Estes (3 goals) and teammates Jonathan Parker, Chris Menke, Mason McGowan, Nick Halloran, and Steven Snyder,  who each had a goal.

With homefield advantage for Thursday night's second round playoff game, the defending division B champion Eagles have just three days to prepare.  The squad that earns that win will travel to Tampa to play for the West Florida Lacrosse League division B championship.

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Eagles Spoil Bucs "Senior Night"

 

The SMA varsity Eagles (6 - 1) traveled to Tampa where they faced off

against the Berkeley Prep Buccaneers (5 -3)  in a WFLL Division B

contest. The Eagles got off to a slow start winning the face offs but

allowing the Bucs to beat them for the ground balls. With 5:21 left in

the 1st quarter freshman Chase Estes, who had both of his goals in the

period, finally got the scoring started. Hustling, especially on

defense, team co-captain junior Mike Martino added another goal as the

Eagles got on track taking a 3 to 0 lead into the second period on the

goal keeping efforts of rugged junior John Villotti who had nine first

period saves.

Although junior Chris Freeman posted what would be the game winning goal

in the 2nd, the penalty plagued period kept the Eagles a man down and

set up several breakaway opportunities that resulted in a Bucs goal.

Ahead 4 to 1 the Eagles again started the second half sluggishly.

Penalties  created  several man down situations which resulted in  2

quick Berkeley Prep goals. The Bucs found themselves back in the

game trailing only 5 to 3 at the end of three periods. Freshman Nick

Halloran scored the lone Eagle goal in the period.

 Spirited by a large crowd, the Bucs started the 4th off determined to

turn the momentum. The Eagle defense responded by shutting down the home

team and not allowing a score. Goalie John Villotti ( game high 24

saves) shut out the Bucs in the fourth adding 6 more saves in the 

period. Junior Nick Estes drove home a late insurance score and the

visitors returned home with a 6 to 3 victory.

Eagles assistant coach  Bruce Sengstaken commented that in lacrosse

"sometimes it isn't always pretty, but it is a win". He credited the

defense

for " stepping up when they had to"

SMA travels to St. Petersburg Wednesday evening to face a division A

team. The Eagles finish the regular season Saturday April 18th when

they meet Division B host Bloomingdale

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Magic Number Now Three

 

" We dominated play because the boys realize that all the things we do

in practice, and all of the mantras that they hear from the coaches

about ground balls and clears, among others,  pay off in the end with

victories if we do them in the game. This was an example of executing a

game plan based on the what we do in practice "  said a proud varsity

coach Scott Kallins after his SMA team's 18 to 6 win over the St.

Petersburg Dragons Wednesday night. Kallins would use every player on

his roster in the road win.

Junior Nick Estes ( 4 goals) began the game scoring off a face off win

and an assist from brother Chase Estes ( 2 goals ). First period scores

by sophomore Mario Ferrucci ( 2 goals ), junior Ariel Lipman ( game high

6 goals ) , junior Mike Martino ( 2 goals ), and Steven Snyder, combined

with goal keeper John Villotti's 7 saves  earned the Eagles an 11 to 0

lead to start the 2nd.

Pleased  because of their domination of the mid-field with face-off wins

and control of the ground balls , the Eagle coaches used all four lines,

with the 3rd line performing well and gaining needed game experience.

Junior Chris Freeman would get into the book with a second period

goal. SMA took a 14 to 3 halftime lead.

With a running clock for much of the second half, the Eagles took a  16

to 4 lead  after 3 quarters. Morgan Cain opened the 4th in relief of

John Villotti ( game high 16 saves ) for the Eagles who allowed only 2

shots on goal by the Dragons in the period. SMA struck pay-dirt 2 more

times and finished with an 18 to 6 victory against a WFLL division A

opponent. The St. Petersbug coaches said that their team was unable "to

run " with the SMA middies and that the SMA goal-keeping disallowed

" shots that usually go in."

The defending WFLL B division champion Eagles have 10 days to prepare

before they take the road for a showdown with conference foe

Bloomingdale. A win will put the SMA squad in 2nd place in the B

division and give them a bye in the first round of the playoffs. The

Eagles will sit it out while they wait to host a first round winner.

An SMA victory in the second round again puts them  in the division

championship game at Jesuit High School Tampa FL where they would have

an opportunity to defend their conference title.

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Team Effort Provides Victory Over Cardinal Mooney

 "We practiced as a team and we went out the field and played exactly how we practiced. As a result we dominated them in every aspect of the game. That is why we won against a very determined and well prepared opponent," said a very jubilant and proud SMA head coach Scott Kallins following Tuesday night's victory over cross-town challenger Cardinal Mooney High  School. "Teamwork" was the key according to the other SMA coaches as well. Despite a flurry of third period penalties that left them in several man down situations, the Eagles controlled the tempo of the game with face-off wins and determined ground ball control. Although still not as physical as they could be, the big SMA defenders flexed their muscle and demonstrated their potential with several 'big hits'.

SMA continued a season trend when Chase Estes ( 2 first half goals ),  won the initial face-off and fed brother Nick who scored the game's first point with only 20 tics off of the clock. Mike Martino (game high 4 goals), who had some solid hits in the contest, would score in each period and then add the game winning 8th goal. Ariel Lipman ( 3 goals ) helped the Eagles build a solid 7 - 2 lead at the half assisted by the "tough play" of goalkeeper John Villotti  ( 21 game saves ) who turned away 12 shots in the first 2 periods.

The visiting Cougars ( 5 - 2) benefited from several SMA penalties in the third period that  kept the Eagles a man down and resulted in 4 Cardinal Mooney scores. Down 10 to 6 after 3 quarters, the Cougar's intensity would net them just a single score as the SMA defense and its goalie John Villotti ( 6  saves and 10 touches in the 4th ) would again rebound from a sluggish 3rd period and  dominate their opponent in the final period of play.  The SMA Eagle penned a 11-7 victory in the book

SMA (5 - 1) will meet Berkeley Prep (4 -2) for a WFLL Division B conference game in Tampa this Friday. A victory Friday night and another against division opponent Bloomingdale (2-7) next week, will put the defending champion Eagles in a position to win home field advantage in the playoffs.

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The offices of Dr. Villotti  Primary Care Specialists held their office

picnic at the 3-28-09 lacrosse competition.

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The Sarasota Military lacrosse club hosted the Community School of Naples  in a varsity tilt this Saturday. Fans from Estero watched their Wilcats play a double header, first taking on the SMA junior varsity at 9:30 AM and then returning for a 2:30 game against the Cardinal Mooney High School Varsity Cougars. The Suncoast Community Blood Bank's mobile unit accepted donations on a day filled with sunshine and lots of wind. The Eagle cheerleaders were on hand to welcome the fans who enjoyed the SMA bagpipes, good concessions and the colorful play to play announcing of our own Sergeant Riess Pellegrino.

The determined Community School of Naples Seahawks found themselves down 2 to 0 at the end of the first quarter. Ariel Lipman scored both Eagle goals and Eagle goalie John Villotti posted 7 saves in the period. A late second period score by the Seahawks with SMA a man down resulted in a 2 to 1 Eagle halftime lead.

Even on the face-off draws and ground balls for most of the contest, Eagle Mike Martino would add a long pole score in the third. The Seahawks were held scoreless and found themselves trailing 3 to 1 despite four man up advantages, the result of SMA penalties.

Freshman Nic Halloran, new to the attack, scored what would be the game winner in the fourth and junior Lipman added an insurance goal. The visitors added two more goals with man-up advantages but were unable to close the gap. John Villotti ( 23 saves, 14 touches) was credited by volunteer home team coach JP Cawley as providing " another solid job with good goalie play" in earning the win. He admitted the "the new offense that was implemented for this game was a little rusty" but looked forward to " a good practice Monday where we can get back on track in defense of our WFLL divsion B title."

Ater facing some tough oponents in the past 2 weeks the Eagle coaches and their team are ready to get back to work, defending their championship. SMA (4,1) will start off by hosting division rival Cardinal Mooney (5,1) Tuesday night as both teams battle for homefield

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SMA Loses To Freedom

WFLL division A  lacrosse club from 5A Freedom High in Tampa traveled to

Sarasota Tuesday evening to battle the division B defending champion SMA

club. Fresh off a victory over Bishop Verot Friday, the Eagles won the

initial face off and junior Nic Estes ( 2 goals ) scored a goal  with

only 9 seconds off the clock. Chad Cowles would add a second first

period goal. The SMA club would fail to win another first half face off

and would lose the ground ball battle. Dropped passes and turnovers

created several scoring chances for the Patriots whose defense shut out

the Eagles in the second quarter. Despite amassing 22 shots on goal in

the first half alone, Freedom managed only a 4 - 2 edge at halftime.

Eagle goalie John Villotti stopped 16 shots in the half, a half

dominated by the visitors.

A non-releasable stick penalty to open the second half gave Freedom a 3

minute man advantage and resulted in a goal. Ariel Lipman ( 5 goals )

started the 2nd half scoring for the SMA squad and the period ended with

the Patriots maintaining their 2 goal advantage. Score at the end of

third quarter, 8 - 6 Patriots. SMA's Lipman added 2 more scores in the

4th but Freedom's continued domination of play  earned them a 12 - 8

win. Eagle goalie John Villotti finished with 30 saves, his Freedom

counterpart had 17.

Attorney and Eagle volunteer head coach Scott Kallins was clearly

disappointed for his team. "We failed to play together. We reverted back

to our 'old ways'. We allowed ourselves to play down to our opponents

level. We let them  dictate the tempo and as a result we gave away a

win. To their credit, Freedom came in here with enthusiasm and played

their game, their way. We lacked confidence and determination and lost."

This Saturday 3/28/09 the SMA Eagles  hosts a big day of a lacrosse as

well as their 2nd annual Blood Drive billed "Give Blood, Play Lacrosse" .

Games will feature Naples Community School, Estero  teams form the SWFLL

as well as SMA and  Cardinal Mooney representing the WFLL.

The contestes begin with SMA JV vs Estero at 9:30a.m.,  SMA Varsity

plays Community School of Naples at 12:00 noon,   Cardinal Mooney will

matchup with Estero at 2:30p.m.

SMA plays its games at Redskin Field 2900 17th Street Sarasota FL. 

Suncoast Community Blood Banks mobile unit will be on site from 10:00 am

to 3:0op.m.  Donors receive free lacrosse t-shirt designed for the event.

 

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EAGLES UPSET TENTH RANKED VIKINGS

The favored Bishop Verot Vikings (8,3)  lacrosse team hosted the SMA (

5,4)   club Friday evening at their home field in Ft Myers. A well

lighted stadium, artificial turf, great seats,  super concessions,

perfect weather, and plenty of home town fans came out to support the

tenth ranked  team, hoping to notch  another victory against the

non-conference  Eagles. But SMA, having never defeated a top ranked

team,  had other plans. Quick on the attack after the initial  face off

win by gritty SMA midfielder Freshman Chase Estes ( he switched shoes

with his dad right before the game because " mine were broken down"  -

 he would ' leave it all on the field ' for this one) set up attacker

Ariel Lipman ( 3 goals ) for the game's first score. Despite several

first quarter man down situations the visitors managed to hold the

Vikings to just 2 goals in the period behind a solid defensive

performance from Mike Martino and junior goalie John Villotti ( 6 saves

in first period). When on the attack the Eagles pressed the Viking

defense and scored their second goal on a shot from Mason McGowan ( 2

goals) off an assist by Ariel Lipman. It was all even at 2 after a

quarter of play.

The second period was much like the first, with the SMA and Viking

midfielders picking up the pace charging back and forth from one end of

the field to the other. Goals from Nic Estes (2 goals) and a determined

junior Mike Martino ( who again this game ran the length of the field

for his score ) were enough to keep the Eagles close despite an

unassisted breakaway Viking goal with just seconds left in the half. 

Trailing 5 to 4 for the start of the third the Vikings came out gunning

quickly adding 2 goals to extend their lead to 3 goals. Ordered by coach

J P Cawley to wear sweat pants because of the turf, SMA goalie John

Villotti would go horizontal on a hard shot to an open net just tipping

the ball to the left of the cage. A waiting Viking swooped the tipped

ball to his  teammate at the top of the crease but the shooter,

expecting the easy one, was forced to adjust the shot because of the

quick and unexpected recovery of Villotti who shielded the goal, causing

the attacker to miss. The SMA midfield, again contesting for every 

ground ball and face off would set up the attack to score 2 more goals (

Lipman and McGowan). The Eagles pulled to within one and found

themselves now trailing 7 to 6 after 3 quarters of play.

The hungry Eagle defense picked up its intensity in the  fourth

period and fed off a big hit by defense-man Scott Stoltz who saved what

could have been a lead-extending breakaway chance for the Vikings.

Defense-man JJ Miller, who seemed to 'find  the handle on his stick ',

made several critical  checks denying the Vikings the offensive

opportunity to score. DJ Coup ( Eagle defense) used his strength to

force the ground ball scrum. Junior Chris Freeman , sick all week with

the flu, and wilfully rejuvenated in the second half,  dominated the

midfield scooping up  ground balls and advancing the ball to the attack

with deliberate passing and speed. Not to be denied, and playing a '

smart game junior Nic Estes would tie the game midway in the quarter.

The score would rattle the home-team and establish for good the game's

momentum for his Eagles. Strongman Ariel Lipman followed with

yet another hard  drive to the crease scoring the tiebreaker with just

minutes left in game. Lipman's game winner put the Eagles ahead to

stay.  With little time on the clock, the proud Vikings intensified

their struggle to get possession of the ball for and a chance to score.

Eagle freshman Chad Cowles, patiently waiting his chance to

shine, picked up his game and drove to the right of the crease where he

shot and scored  sealing the victory for the Eagles. Crediting his team

mate's  solid defensive effort, a confident SMA goalie Villotti would

turn away 13 shots in a row, shutting out the Vikings in the fourth

period and finishing the game with 25 saves.

Coach Kallins, caught off guard and doused by his exuberant  players

with the traditional cooler of ice water after the game, was beaming. 

Clearly proud of his squad he confessed  " this was our ninth game and

the players seemed to finally 'get it'." " This was not only a good win

against a solid opponent, but a team effort, a real TEAM effort that

every player on this squad can be as proud of as I am." " Tonight we

challenged ourselves and matured together as a team." " We need to keep

up this intensity."

Coach Kallins and his dedicated staff will have little time to celebrate

as the defending WFLL dision B champion Eagles return home Tuesday night

to face Freedom, a Tampa team  from the strong WFLL division A.

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Fishhawks Escapes With a Win

Visiting Division A opponent FishHawk outlasted the  SMA Eagles ( 4,1

division) in local lacrosse action 13 to 12 Wednesday night. Junior

Ariel Lipman ( team high 5 goals) began the scoring in the first period

as the defending division B champion Eagles dominated play but trailed 5

to 4 at the half.

The game broke for the visitors who benefitted in the 3rd period, with

the Eagles ahead, from a "miss-call" by the officials who penalized

SMA with a non release-able un-sportsmanlike penalty that was actually

committed by a Fish Hawk player . The visitors were then able to re-take

the lead scoring 2 goals as a result of  the penalty which created a

man-up advantage. Despite trailing 13 to 12 with under a minute to play

in the game, and with possession of the ball following a time out, the

Eagles, who were again in the game down to the wire, were unable to

force overtime.

Martino, Ferrucci (2 goals), Freeman(2 goals), McGowan, and Cowles would

all get on the board for the Eagles. Villotti had 18 saves for SMA.

Eagles coach Landon Powers said that "this loss was a hard one to

swallow because of the effect of the penalty on the outcome of the

game". He added that " we won on the field but not on the scoreboard

because of it". Landon was "proud of the team's effort".

Fishhawk coach Tim Haraden thought that it was a "good win against a

tough opponent". "We squeaked out the win here" he said.

 SMA travels to Ft Myers to play tenth ranked Bishop Verot Friday.

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SMA Hosts Texan

The Southlake Carroll Texans brought their talented varsity lacrosse

team to Sarasota to face the SMA Eagles (4,3) in an interstate

non-conference showdown Saturday at 7 PM. SMA Junior attacker Ariel

Lipman whose team high 4 goals came in the first half of play, would

start the scoring for the West Florida Lacrosse League dvision B

defending champion  Eagles (3,1 division). Even though the

visitors dominated the face-offs and the mid-field, Southlake managed

just 4 goals in the first half despite 20 shots on goal. SMA had 10

first half shots on goal. With solid defense and goal-tending ( John

Villotti 32 game high saves) the Floridians were poised to upset 

the Texans,  tied  at 4  after two quarters of play.

But the visitors came out shooting and started the second half scoring 

back to back break-away goals to retake the lead, which they would never

surrender. The  Eagles would pull close, down 8 to 7 late in the 3rd,

but the SMA defense-men and mid-fielders, who played toe to toe with the

visitors in the first half, were unable to match the speed and play of

the skilled Texans who added 8 more scores in the second half exploding

for another 24 shots on goal.

The visitors would build a 12 to 8 lead

with under six minutes to play. Unable to score SMA would allow the

Texans to escape home to Texas with the win.  SMA managed another 9

second half shots and three more Eagles would get on the scoreboard in

the second half, lead by Junior Nic Estes who had 2 goals and 3 assists.

Classmates Chris Freeman and Chris Menke would each add a score.

Southlake Carroll coach Josh Pico credited the win to his team " doing

all the little things right," adding that "we came in here not knowing

what to expect but thinking we would win big. It was anybodies game

until late in the 4th". This marked the first time that his 6A school

had ventured to Florida  and the first time in SMA school history

that the Eagle lacrosse team played a contestant from another state

SMA coah J.P. Cawley credited Southlake for their "all around skill"

and added  that he thought his players may have " lost some of their

focus in the second half." " We were never able to play catch-up."  He

was pleased  " with our defensive effort in the first half "  and the 

"overall grit and determination of our goalie " junior John Villotti.

The Eagles host division A opponent Fish Hawk Wednesday night at 6:30 PM

at the Redskins Sports Complex on 17th Street in Sarasota. Fish Hawk

hosted  Southlake Friday night, losing 12 to 10.

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SMA Tops Ocala

The SMA varsity lacrosse club (4,2) rebounded from last week's loss by beating visiting Ocala (1,5) Saturday afternoon in a division B contest. The outmatched Lizards quickly fell behind 4  - 0 on scores by Eagle attacker Ariel Lipman (game high 7 goals). The inability to win the struggle for face offs and ground balls contributed to the visitors falling behind 11 - 0 after a quarter of play. The Eagles scored four more to finish the half.

Despite a running clock for the second half of play, five more Eagles would get on the scoreboard. Chad Cowles ( 4 goals), Nic Estes ( 3 goals), Chris Freeman ( 1 goal), Jonathan Parker ( 1 goal), Mason Mcgowan ( 1 goal), and Chase Estes ( 1 goal) all tallied for the Eagles, who dominated all aspects of play on both offense and defense.Ocala was held to 9 shots on goal ( John Villotti 8 saves for SMA) while the Eagles managed 43 shots of their own. The spirited Lizards managed a one goal in the 4th quarter. Visiting Ocala head coach ############### credited the "SMA lacrosse club's organization and its  coaching" as a major factor in his team's loss but was happy with his team's " never quit" attitude, which earned the Lizards the respect of the home team and its coaches.

SMA head coach Scott Kallins was pleased with his squad's performance and credited "the hard work and determination in the prior week's practice as a major source of the team's success". " We worked harder and executed better as a team out on the playing field  than we had all  season" said the coach.

 The final score was SMA 20, Ocala 1.

The Eagles will face a tough non-division opponent next Saurday when

they host South Lake Carroll who will travel to Sarasota from Texas to face the Eagles at 7 PM

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SMA Drops Home Re-match To All Saints

 

Friday night under the lights at Redskins Sports Complex on 17th Street pitted the home team SMA Eagles (3,2) against undefeated All Saints Academy (4,0) in a rematch of last year's West Florida Lacrosse League B Division championship. The visitors were looking to avenge their loss to the Eagles in that tilt and came ready to play, winning the face-off and ground ball contests in the first half. Solid passing and patient play calling, combined with dogged defense by All Saints kept the Eagles on their heels throughout the first two periods. Despite goals from  Mick Ferrucci ( 2 goals), Chad Estes ( 3 goals), and  Mike Martino the home team could muster only twelve shots on goal while yielding 25 to an All Saints squad that took an 8 to 4 lead at halftime.

 

Eagle attacker Ariel Lipman ( 2 second half goals) would get on the board to begin the 3rd period scoring after an SMA face off win. The home team would win the face off battle in the second half and pull even with their opponents in the recovery of the ground balls for the rest of the contest.  Goaltender John Villotti, who had 14 saves in the first half, would again turn away several one on one shots from point blank range, many of them in man down situations, allowing the Eagles to stay close, trailing 8 to 6 after 3 quarters.

The struggling Eagles were again called for several penalties which gave the visitors several man-up advantages and cost SMA  another goal in the fourth. Despite 2 scores by SMA in the final period the Eagles found themselves down 10 to 8 late in the game. Goaltender John Villotti, who was touched for only 2 goals in the second half, turned back another 11 shots on goal before the final whistle for a game high total of 25 saves.  Eagle Coach B Sengstaken said that "the SMA goal-tending was what kept the game close, giving us a chance to compete for the win." The Eagles held All Saints to 13 shots on goal in the second half. SMA managed to get 8 second half shots on the All Saint goalie ( 12 saves)

The game ended the defending B division Eagles record of not ever having lost a regular season game to a B Division foe. The final was All Saints 10, SMA 8.

The SMA junior varsity squad, showing grit and determination, met All Saints in the contest that followed the varsity game. Despite the 2 to 1 loss, SMA coach Steve Estes was "pleased with the improvement and the game skills of his young players who are working together like a team and playing with intensity on both sides of the ball." He also said that he "looks forward to continued improvement especially in the hard-hitting defense".

 Morgan Cain #14  scored the lone goal for SMA.

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Martino Scores Winner in OT

 

Despite the team bus breaking down, and the one hour delay, the Eagles (3,0 div; 3,1) varsity lacrosse club met Wharton's confident Wildcats (3,2 div) in a match-up of WFLL division rivals in Tampa Wednesday night. Both teams were coming off of impressive wins the weekend before.

 

After gaining the initial face-off, the Eagles repeated what has become a habit by scoring the first goal of the contest on a dodge by junior attacker Ariel Lipman (4 goals). Quick first quarter scores by the visitors left the home team trailing 4 to 2 after a period of play, but the momentum had begun to change. The visitors were unable to win the battle for the ground balls and the face-offs. The speedy Wharton middies demonstrated their experience with a show of skilled passing, play making and hard checking defense that gave them a comfortable 9 to 6 lead at halftime. SMA struggled to find open lanes on offense and found it hard to establish defensive match-ups. Dropped balls and passes, inconsistent play calling, and several man down penalties made it difficult for SMA on both sides of the ball.

 

With a half of lacrosse still to play the Eagles fell behind 10 to 6 to start the 3rd period. Unable to win a single face-off for the rest of the contest, and losing the struggle for ground balls, the Eagles made their prospects for a comeback even more challenging. But a change in momentum was in the air and by the end of the 3rd the score was 10 each as veteran SMA goaltender John Villotti, who had up to this point faced 26 shots, many from point blank range and from attackers who had dodged free, made several team inspiring saves. The fourth period found the re-spirited Eagles ahead 12 to 10 with 2 minutes to play. But the inexperienced team would make the game memorable by failing to control inlet passes and allowing the home team to score 2 quick unchallenged goals forcing a sudden death five minute overtime.

 

Seven SMA players would eventually get on the scoreboard including Chad Cowles (4 goals), and # 23,#8,32, all with one apiece.

 

SMA goaltender John Villotti would face a total of 37 shots amassing 25 hard saves.

 

Overtime saw Wharton gain possession on the initial face-off, but somehow scrappy Chase Estes (1 goal) came up with the ball behind the SMA goal and flipped it to goalkeeper John Villotti, who passed it to long pole defense-man Mike Martino (2 goals, ground ball team leader) at the top left side of the box. Martino quickly weaved through 2 attackers and gained the midfield. Now just inside the Wildcats 18 yard line, and facing the poised and anticipating Wharton goalie (7 saves), the determined Martino launched a hard ground ball that careened into the net for the game winner, giving SMA its first overtime win in school history and earning Martino the distinction of being one of the few players at any level of lacrosse to get a game winning OT goal.

 

The Eagles lost the face-off and ground ball battles, they committed more errors and penalties than their opponents, they made critical throwing mistakes that allowed the overtime, but they were able to win the only thing that counted  - the scoreboard.

 

Wharton head coach Dan McCall consoled his defeated team after a great effort by telling them that the had played well enough to win. He told them that they had outplayed the Eagles in every aspect of the game and that the difference was the SMA goal-tending.

The final - SMA 13, Wharton 12.

The Eagles face their stiffest challenge yet this season when they host a favored and talented All Saint's Academy(3,0)  Friday night at the Redskin's Sports Complex on 17th Street at 7 PM here in Sarasota. Parking is free . Admission $2.00 (adults). Concessions are available. Come and see the defending champion Eagles try to keep their winning streak alive in a rematch of last year's championship tilt.

 

 

 

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EAGLES ZERO IN ON PLANT II

The Sarasota Military Academy Eagles Lacrosse club (2-0 division) set yet another varsity record in as many games by posting its first shutout in school history.  The improving Eagles traveled to Tampa Saturday afternoon to face the Plant II Panthers (0-3 division) in a showdown of WFLL Division foes.  The defending champion Eagle’s red-hot junior attacker Ariel Lipman (game high 5 goals) opened the scoring after midfielder Chris Freeman won the opening face-off, setting the tone for what would be the team’s newly found domination at the face-off X.  Two point blank saves in the first period by veteran goaltender junior John Villotti (game high 10 saves), who celebrated his shutout by crediting his coaches and teammates, especially the defense, gave SMA a 4-0 edge after a period of play.  Defenseman Mike Martino (game high 11 ground balls, 1 goal) marshaled an aggressive defensive effort which for the second game in a row won the crucial battle for ground balls while allowing only 10 shots on goal, despite being plagued by several penalties.

SMA’s speedy midfielders took command of the entire field of play managing to find the open man and helping SMA amass a 9-0 lead at the halfway mark.  Patient on the attack, unselfishly exploiting the passing lanes, the Eagles would score 4 more goals in the 2^nd half despite a running clock.  Six Eagles would get in the scorebook including freshman Chad Cowles with 3 goals, Mason McGowan 2 goals, with veteran sophomore Mick Ferrucci and freshman Chase Estes getting one each.

The defending champion Eagles continue to gain confidence in one another as they travel to face the veteran Wharton Wildcats(3-2) this Wednesday 2/25 at 6PM before returning for a 2/27 Friday night home game match-up with All Saints, last years WFLL runner-up  Game time 6:30PM  Redskins Field 2900 17^th Street.  Adult admission $2. Concessions available.

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SMA Downs Clearwater on a 21 Gun Salute

The young SMA varsity lacrosse team hosted this seasons first division

foe Wednesday under the lights at the  Redskins Sports Complex. The

defending B division champion Eagles got off to a quick start posting

a 4 to 1 lead after one period of play on 3 goals by standout

attack-man, veteran junior Ariel Lipman, who finished with a game high

11 goals and 2 assists. After a disappointing loss to the Lakewood Ranch

Club ( A division) who dominated the inexperienced Eagles in ground

balls and defense last week. The improved SMA Club showed what an extra

week of practice and hard work can accomplish , by turning the tables on

the inexperienced Yellow Jackets ( 0 - 2)and winning the critical battle

for ground balls ( Mike Martino - game high). Although still struggling

to win  face-offs the Eagles were none- the- less able to hold their

opponents to just 9 shots on goal, despite several penalties, due to an

overall improved defensive effort led again by "tough"( quote

-Kallins) defensive junior Mike Martino.

Ahead 8 to 2 at the half, the Eagles continued their aggressive play on

both sides of the ball. Several players got in the scoring including

Chris " Waffles" Menke and Cadet McMearty who were credited by Coach

Kallins for their hard play. Determined Cadet Mick Ferrucci demonstrated

true grit and delighted  fans when he took a hard check, was knocked off

his feet near the goal crease, but still managed to get off a shot

for the score while in the air - before he hit the dirt!

Head coach Scott Kallins credited the " hard-nosed" efforts of

his Goalie John " Vlad" Villotti ( 6 saves ) for his clears. Kallins

also singled out defensive team-mate "Pepto" Miller for his contribution

to the win. Although Kallins was pleased by the overall improved

individual play of his athletes he emphasized the need for more team

work and coordination on both sides of the ball.

SMA Eagles (1 - 0 division, 1 - 1 overall) finished the game with a

school record high 21 goals en route to a 21 to 3 victory.

The defending champion Eagles will be tested this next week when

they begin a crucial 3 game stretch starting Saturday at 12:30PM in

Tampa at Anderson Elementary School on Fair Oak Blvd. against

a good Plant (1 -1) team. Wednesday SMA travels to face an

improved Wharton (2 - 0) club. The Eagles will be keenly challenged when

they are back home next Friday night to host a confident All Saints (3

-0) team that is expecting to avenge last year's defeat at  the hands of

the Eagles in the league championship gam

Friday's game begins at 7 PM at the Redskins Sports Complex on 17 th

Street. Admission is $2.00 adults, &1.00 students. 5 and under are free.

A host of good concessions are available.

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*SMA Lacrosse takes safety seriously *

*"Research has found both men’s and women’s lacrosse to be relatively

safe compared to other commonly played team sports. Most injuries are

minor strains, sprains and contusions. But as in any sport, more

significant injuries can and do occur. The Sport Science and Safety

Committee of US Lacrosse is sponsoring research to monitor these

injuries, better understand their mechanisms and design preventive

programs. Our goal is to expand the base of lacrosse specific sports

medicine knowledge and provide objective guidance to enhance safety at

all levels of play." Dr. Richard Hinton, Executive Committee member of

the US Lacrosse Sports Science and Safety Committee *

*At SMA Lacrosse we are extremely fortunate to have a safety team with

SMA Eagles team physician, Dr. Villotti as well as SCFD Rescue

Personnel, and SMA Lacrosse Dads, Mike Martino and Steve Estes, present

upon our sidelines to take control of emergency situations. Once again

their expertise was on display at the opening game of the 2009 season.

Their presence and services play a major role in maintaining the health

and safety of our team as well as that of our opponents.

Please take a moment to read the gratitude as expressed from the family

of an injured Lakewood Ranch player. Next time you are at the field

please make sure to thank these gentlemen. *

 Injury "Thank You"

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Feb 5, 2009

Lakewood Ranch Lightning shock The SMA Eagles

Thursday night’s opener for the West Florida Lacrosse League defending B Division champion Sarasota Military Academy Eagles matched the varsity and JV squads against local division A rival Lakewood Ranch in non-conference play. 

With the temperature dipping into the 30’s at game time, the season opener attracted a large, enthusiastic crowd of Eagle supporters and 2008 alumni players  F. Clark, R. Pellegrino and C. Urrea in attendance.  Middle School players and parents fitted in uniform witnessed for the first time lacrosse action.

Before facing off the SMA color guard presented our nations colors as cadets Ricki Pellegrino and Samantha Riley sang our national anthem a-capella.  Up top in the nest Sargent Pellegrino called the action as the colorful SMA cheerleaders along with SMA mascot  #44 “Sarge” rallied the SMA fans.

The underdog Eagles got the scoring started on a hard bouncer to the side of the cage form junior cadet attackman Ariel Lipman.  Despite Lipman’s 3 goal first half effort the Eagles trailed the veteran LWR team 4 to 3 after two periods.

Although hanging tough the inexperienced Eagles fell behind 6 – 4 after 3 quarters of play.  LWR dominated the ground ball game and won possession in the face-offs.  The Eagles were shut down and controlled on offense by the defensive minded Lightning team who held SMA to just 13 shots on goal.  A score by freshman rookie Cadet Chase Estes and yet another goal by Lipman (finishing with game high 5 goals and 1 assist) were not enough to close the gap as the visitors managed 31 shots on goal.  Cadet John Villotti amassed 23 brilliant saves in a losing effort.  The final was LWR 8 and SMA 6.

The junior varsity squad dropped its tilt 4 – 7.  Despite the loss, Coach Estes was pleased with the effort of his young rookie team.

Head Coach Scott Kallins with Assistant Varsity Coaches JP Cawley, and Bruce Sengstaken have nearly two weeks to get their tem ready to begin defense of its division crown.  The defending champion Eagles will open conference play when they host division B foe Clearwater on Wednesday Feb 18^th at their homefield, Redskin Youth Complex at 2900 17^th Street Sarasota FL.  Admission is $2.00 and concessions are available.    Check it out   “The Fastest Game on Two Feet” !

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Suds for Duds

Car Wash Saturday, January 17th

click here for more

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SMA Lacrosse Players;

GEORGE TRACY   2008 National Hall of Fame

Please read the attached link to article "Veterans Day Tribute to Hall
of Fame inductee George Tracy",  that recently appeared in the Baltimore Sun.

click here

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SMA Lacrosse conducts Youth Lacrosse Clinic

Click here for photos and full story... 

 

 

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SMA Remembers our Soldiers

SMA Lacrosse & Cheerleaders hosted several other lacrosse teams during the month of March in what was dubbed a Veterans Tribute Lacrosse Day. 

The cheerleaders collected goodies and the SMA Lacrosse Team, in cooperation with Onyx Lacrosse, sent lacrosse gear to troops stationed in Balad, Iraq.

This week the 20th Engineer Brigade Commander sent photos so we could see the troops in action and adorned in  our SMA Lacrosse Veterans Tribute T-shirts.

Soldiers palyed their first game May 17th to a final score of 7 to 6. 

They have promised more updates which we will later post to the site...so stay tuned.

 

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Duke Lacrosse Makes a Comeback

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EAGLES LACROSSE READIES FOR A SHOCK  !!!

Click here

 

 

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SMA Eagles Lacrosse

2008

Florida Summer Lax Camps

Now that the 2008 lacrosse season is over, and summer vacation is almost here many are asking about lax camps.

Below are the links to camps scattered around the Florida west coast area.

My first suggestion is get registered for;

Manasota Summer Lax http://www.performancelax.com/summer-league

Secondly get some individualized instruction http://www.performancelax.com/beginner-lacrosse-school 

and then later get in shape http://www.performancelax.com/skills-conditioning

Thirdly get to a camp…here are a few area camps

Wesley Chapel FL Pro Player Camp August 3^rd thru 5^th http://www.tampabaylacrosse.com/wfll/images/pplfloridacamp.rtf

Clearwater FL  Game Breaker Camp June 9^th thru 12^th

http://www.laxcamps.com/camps/FL/tampa2007.html

St. Leo University Dade City FL  Elite Lacrosse Camp June 10^th thru 13^th

http://www.tampabaylacrosse.com/images/2007ELITEBROCHURE.PDF

Florida Gulf Coast Univ.  Ft Myers FL  Game Breaker Camp July 7^th thru 10^th

http://www.laxcamps.com/camps/CT/GulfCoast08.html

Barry University Miami FL Lightning Lacrosse Camp June 16^th thru 19^th

http://www.lightninglax.com/events.html#e1

Stetson University Deland FL Florida Lacrosse Camps July 20^th thru 24^th

http://www.floridalacrossecamps.com/stetsonCamp.html

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Making believers of a little-known sport

click here for story

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Who's the Lacrosse boss now?

click here for story

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SMA Eagles

2008 WFLL Champions

The Sarasota Military Academy Eagles Lacrosse Team defeated All Saints Academy from Winter Haven FL  in the West Florida Lacrosse League Championships Saturday at USF by a score of 15-2. 

The team lost last years attempt for a championship in a double overtime thriller.  

Not to be denied this season the Eagles put it all together with cannons blazing!  A solid defense, hard hitting up and down the field, awesome clears, and simply put out ran and out shot the competition.

Led by 13 starting seniors the Eagles varsity team finished its third season undefeated in league regular season play with an overall record of  17-2 and ranked #11 LaxPower Ranking. 

WFLL Game MVP Matthew Cowles had 4 goals and 3 assists, Frank Clark had 5 goals 1 assist, Riess Pellegrino scored 3 goals 1 assist, and 1 goal each from Freshman Mick Ferrucci, Dana Wilkins and Mason McGowan.

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Lacrosse in the News click WSJ below for story

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National Anthem - DARBY RETTMANN

Color Guard

    Commander - JOSHUA JOHNSTON

    RYAN KAYS

    JOE SUPER

    GARRETT ULLERY

click here to see video

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SMA Eagles Lacrosse Climbs into Top 10!

With an impressive 17 – 7 victory over visiting Berkley Prep the Sarasota Military Academy Eagles Lacrosse team moved to number 10 in the LaxPower rankings.  Tied at 2 a piece after one quarter of play the SMA Eagles jumped out to a 10 – 4 lead at the half.  The varisty game ended with strong net minding split between senior Dustin Bell who started the game and veteran sophomore keeper John “Vlad”Villotti.

Hats were off with the first hat trick of the night tallied by Matt Cowles who ended with 6 goals, followed in succession by Aireal Lipman and Warren Wood.  Goals were added by freshman Dana Wilkins, Mick Ferrucci , sophomore Nick Estes and Seniors Frank Clark and Brett Burhenne.

Following the varsity game the JV teams squared off and played another thriller….a double overtime game that ended in a 5 – 5 tie.  Freshamn goalie Joe Loeser made some great stops between the pipes.  Goals were scored by T. Myers, J. Miller, D. Patete, D. Wilkins and Mason McGowan.  The JV squad has demonstrated remarkable development and an eagerness to compete.

Next up is SMA Lacrosse “Family Night”  Friday 2/29/08 as the Eagles host Bloomingdale for a 7:30 start.

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SMA Eagles Lacrosse

                                  The 2008 Campaign

Having had the first game of the season cancelled due to a flooded field the Sarasota Military Academy traveled to take on the Clearwater Yellow Jackets.  A competitive match-up between teams, the score remained tight throughout the varsity game.  Ending in a disappointing 9-10 overtime loss the team gained confidence and shook off the season opening jitters.  Afterwards the JV team ended in a 4 to 5 loss, and the middle school team blanked the Yellow Jackets middle school team 5 - 0.

The team then played its first home game of the season with a dramatic 10 - 4 win over the St. Petersburg Dragons with a sustained effort by the entire team.  Defensively the Eagles were solid, all midfield lines performed and the attack consistently applied pressure.  Goalie Dustin Bell was rock solid in the cage.  Scoring punch came from Seniors Frankie Clark, Matt Cowles and Warren Wood, and Freshman Mick Ferrucci.  Fans' were positive and enthusiastic, much in thanks to the SMA Cheerleaders who kept the support constant.

Friday night Feb 22nd the SMA Eagles hosted a varsity match-up with All Saints (3-0) from Lakeland, followed by a JV matchup with cross-town rival Lakewood Ranch.  SMA was overrun during the first half by a big, fast and talented All Saints team who jumped out 0- 3.  Not to be intimidated by these circumstances the Eagles apparently ignited the fuse in the locker-room and played in a different gear the balance of the game.  The defense and midfielders were quick to call out numbers and communicate.  The attack sought to finish each possession with a goal.  The Saints responded with a renewed effort of their own.  The Eagles starters however relied on past experience and knew you can't let an opponent back into the game and shot back with renewed persistence to finish with a convincing 15 - 10 win

The SMA cheerleaders displayed similar energy firing up the crowd for two hours with much interaction between the cheer squad, fans and SARGE the SMA Eagle mascot.

Following this high energy game the Junior Varsity  coached by Mick Ferrucci, overtook the Lakewood Ranch JV team with a 7-6 win in the last 10 seconds of the game on a goal by Freshman Dana Wilkins.

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"Inside Lacrosse" Article on SMA Lacrosse

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Lacrosse Family Advertising Form

2007-08 Season click here for info

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4 Day Lacrosse Specific Speed/Agility
Boot Camp January 2-5, 2008
9am - 12pm click here for info..

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Kyle Harrison to visit!! click for more info...

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SMA Varsity Lacrosse seeks to prepare itself for another awesome season.

We have lots to do before the start of season, but much of that effort lies within you.

1.BUST BUTT IN YOUR CLASSES.  Come hard out of the gate and demonstrate your academic abilities early.  This bolsters our program which in turn benefits you!

2. START WORKING OUT. Look at the Kyle Harrison Video links sent to you.  A strong body core is a fundamental necessity.  The stronger you are, the stronger our team will be.

3. PROMOTE THE SPORT.  If you know of an athlete in the school who is unfamiliar with lacrosse, bring him to the exhibitions we have scheduled, get him on the e-mails.  A good athlete can pick up lacrosse and become a standout player quickly.

4. WORK THE WALL.  Catching and throwing are the bedrock of play.  Be good with both hands.

FINALLY…Hold yourself out as an example and be a LEADER.  LEADERS demonstrate the qualities that raise them above the masses.  Live healthy, respectfully and purposefully. 

BE AN EXAMPLE AND A ROLE MODEL

We can become the best lacrosse team in the state.  We have the best program, but we need you, our team to take us there.

See you on the field,

SMA Lacrosse Coaches

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The lacrosse stick
click here for more

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Eagles Varsity Boys Lacrosse

By Coach Ken Cowles

Boys Varsity Lacrosse

The 29 players on the SMA Eagles Varsity Boys' Lacrosse Team concluded their 2007 undefeated regular season conference by appearing in the West Florida Lacrosse Leagues Championship game against cross-town rival Lakewood Ranch.  After beating LWR twice during regular season, the team lost in a thrilling double overtime game 9 to 10.  If you weren’t present, you missed a game of a lifetime.  It was something seen in the movies…only in the movies SMA would have been given a different ending.

Coaches, spectators, even the referees left calling it the best game they ever witnessed. Over 400 screaming fans attempted to out-cheer the other.  Originally scheduled for a Tampa location, the game was moved to Sarasota so that lacrosse competition could be viewed locally…the community got way more than they bargained for with this game.  Both teams left the field physically exhausted and emotionally drained.  It is a game that is sure to be remembered for years to come.

After the game a special trophy, the Walter Gilbert “Creators Cup;” was awarded to LWR coach Clayton Wight .  This cup will be passed annually to the best local lacrosse team, and it is meant to foster competition, camaraderie and establish tradition in that effort. Warrior Tough/Warrior Proud is something we can stand tall and proclaim loudly.  The bar has been raised.  SMA’s lacrosse team has gained a reputation, and we must continue to work hard, very hard in order  to continue to play at this level. 

Many of this year's players have already signed up for summer camps, if you haven’t you are encouraged to do so.   Current players, former players, adults, and kids looking to join us next year are invited to jump in now and begin that process by playing in the local summer league.  Wednesday nights 7:00PM cost $75.  Registration forms can be obtained from Ken Cowles cell 302-4152. The sooner you begin the process the more impact you can make as the newest SMA lacrosse player.

As Coaches we stand together, “WARRIOR PROUD” of the awesome performance of this second year team…Congratulations to each of you.

Have a great & safe summer.

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Thank you!!
to all of our sponsors
click here to see list

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SMA goes to double overtime in WFLL Championship
click here for story

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SMA shuts down Berkeley Prep in lacrosse playoff win
click here for story

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SMA concludes 2007 season with 10 – 3 record
click here for story

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SMA Eagles Lacrosse WFLL Division Champions
click here for story

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SMA Corrales Lakewood Ranch in local lacrosse action
click here for story

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15 to 1 victory over visiting Bloomingdale Friday in local lacrosse action
click here for story

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St. Pete Dragons outlast SMA Eagles
click here for story

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SMA outguns Berkeley Prep 12 -2
click here for story

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Eagles varsity lacrosse team returned to the field outpacing a fast Cypress Lake (4-3) team to a score of 5 -2 Friday night at the Youth Athletic Center in Sarasota
click here for story

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Eagles beat a stubborn Port Charlotte Pirate squad 9 – 2 in varsity lacrosse action Tuesday at the Youth Athletic Center on 17th Street. 
click here for story

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