By Josh Lashley
WEST MILFORD — Sometimes the anticipation and excitement leading up to the opening contest of a high school season can seem almost tangible, especially when discussing a sport as physically demanding as lacrosse.
There is a lot of energy surrounding the West Milford High School boy's lacrosse team this spring, and not just because, as is the case with many team's, the Highlanders have put in the hard work during pre-season practices and scrimmages.
West Milford is also enthusiastic because the squad is now guided by first-year head coach Gary Stoll. Stoll is ready to begin his tenure at the helm for the Highlanders and feels that the student-athlete's on the roster have prepared themselves diligently for the competition that awaits them this spring.
The Highlanders started the regular season with a road game at Kittatinny on Monday, April 1. West Milford's first home game was slated for April 3 versus Passaic Valley.
“Being new to the program, our ultimate goal is to build a solid foundation for our program,'' Stoll said. “With that being said, we have many goals that we that we are looking to obtain this season. A big goal for us is to play well on a consistent basis. Last year there were lots of ups and downs, we're looking to change that.''
Among the returning players from last year's team which tallied seven victories include Brenden Pick (senior, attack), Andrew Vigorita (senior, midfielder), Tyler Horner (senior, defense), Richard Dizenzo (senior, defense), Thomas Gillespie (senior, midfielder), T.J. Dionisio (junior, defense),Kyle Buters (junior, midfielder), Zach Haid (junior, attack), Robert Wolfe (sophomore, defense) and Corey Curran (sophomore, attack).
“I am expecting all of my seniors to be leaders on and off the field,'' Stoll said. “Setting the example by hard work, dedication and team work. They will be positive role models in the classroom and community as well as on the field.''
Newcomers hoping to make a positive impression on the varsity level include Dylan Walko (junior, midfielder), Noah Provenzano (sophomore, midfielder), Eric Rudden (sophomore, goalie), Nick Dionisio (sophomore, midfielder), Mark Hendry (sophomore, midfielder) and Charles Cole (sophomore, attack).
The Highlanders will compete in the Pooley Division this spring.
“I absolutely view our team as a solid contender for our division this season,'' Stoll said. “We have a very talented and hard working team. Every team that appears on our division schedule is a team to beat.''