Early progress for Sewanhaka East

It’s early, but Sewanhaka East wrestling coach Ian McConnell said he’s seen a lot of progress in a team that lost many key contributors after reaching the second round of the Nassau dual meet playoffs last season.

“The kids are working really hard and I’ve seen a lot of growth already,” McConnell said. “We were very competitive last season and had nine county qualifiers. It takes a good month for our football guys to get into a groove. Our lineup will really take shape at the beginning of January.”

Despite losing three All-County wrestlers, the coach believes Sewanhaka East will be in the hunt for the top spot in Conference 1B, which includes Baldwin, East Meadow, Hicksville, Oceanside and Sewanhaka West. “I think we’re talented enough to win it,” McConnell said.

The return to health of senior captain Anthony Lucito (152 pounds) could go a long way in helping Sewanhaka East achieve success. Lucito, who recently helped the Carey Seahawks to a second straight undefeated football campaign, was slowed by a back injury last season but has experience on the big stage at Hofstra. “He’s such a strong kid and knows what it takes to compete at a high level,” McConnell said.

Senior Scott Kerner is on a mission to make noise in the county tournament after losing a tough opening round match last winter. The 138-pounder did a lot of work during the offseason, McConnell said. “Scott always looks for ways to challenge himself and recently ran a marathon,” McConnell said. “He’s got an unorthodox style of wrestling, but it works for him and he can score from a lot of different positions.”

Senior Justice Smith, a captain along with Lucito, came within a victory of earning All-County status last season. He’s ranked fourth in Nassau in the 170-pound weight class. “He won a few tournaments and took second in another last year,” McConnell said. “He doesn’t get caught up in rankings. He’s the type of kid that just goes out and battles what’s in front of him.”

After getting a taste of varsity last season, freshmen Julian Chung and Daniel Kenner figure to be that much better. “Both of them grew so much throughout the year,” McConnell said. “They wrestled tough against top competition. They’re scrappy and talented.”

Junior Joe Amalfitano, who comes off a solid JV season, tops the depth chart at 195 pounds and brings potential, the coach said. “Joe filled out into his frame and is capable of qualifying for counties,” McConnell said.

Anthony Parente got the call up from JV midway through last season and competed well above his actual weight, filling a hole at 195. Now he feels more at home as a junior at 160. “He saves us points in a lot of duals last season,” McConnell said. “He’ll benefit from the experience.”

Senior Matthew Kurda is another potential county qualifier who’s enjoyed some success on the varsity mats.