Hewlett Girls Lacrosse Hope for Deep Run This Season

Three years ago, there was no such thing as a girls varsity lacrosse team at Hewlett High School.

But now, in its third year of existence, the Lady Bulldogs are confident they can be the best team in the new Conference B-2 this season.

After beating up on Carey High School, 20-4, in a non-league scrimmage on Saturday morning, the girls look like they are ready for battle. 

"We have a lot of talent on this year's squad," said Coach Rosemarie D'Ambrosio. "The girls have gained a lot of experience playing with each other and they are really starting to shine."

Headlining the list is team captains Danielle Kandel and Jenni Rogoff.

Kandel is the team's lone senior and serves as its motivational leader.

"We were 8-4 last season and are looking to improve on that record this year and make the playoffs for the first time," Kandel said. "We have some really good talent on the team and a very good coaching staff so I'm really excited about our chances this year."

Rogoff, a junior, is an athletic offensive attack player who scored over 60 goals for the Lady Bulldogs last year.

"We are going to have a really great team this year," Rogoff said. "We have two great coaches to lead us and I believe we have a good chance of making a deep run into the playoffs."

Other offensive players include freshman Sam DiSalvo, Emily Cohen and Ally Geiger.

"You will hear Sam's name mentioned a lot this season," D'Ambrosio said. "She's a talented player who has gained experience playing in a winter league at Turf Island."

Blocking the cage will be junior goalie Meri Oshrain, who had over 200 saves last season.

In the midfield, sophomore Val DeNapoli will be the center player taking the draw.

The defensive side will be led by returning junior players Gaby Green and Taylor Nortman.

"It is a pleasure to coach these girls and see them keep getting better every year," D'Ambrosio said.

The Lady Bulldogs will open their season at Malverne/East Rockaway on Tuesday at 4:30.