Offense to lead Valley Stream

Valley Stream District’s girls’ lacrosse team overcame the challenge of a more difficult schedule last season and accomplished one of its main goals by finishing above the .500 mark.

With a similar schedule this spring, coach Jessica Zwicker is looking for the offense to lead the way in the early going while a revamped defense gets up to par. “We lost five major contributors, including almost all of the starting defense,” she said. “The positive side is our whole attack is back.

“We have a few different opponents, but our schedule is consistent with last year so it’s going to be tough,” she added.

The season began with an 11-4 defeat to Great Neck North in the Conference V opener on March 24 at Firemen’s Field. One bright spot for Valley Stream was the return to action of Luci Ruddick, a senior from North who scored twice in her first game since 2013.

“Luci has a very hard shot and brings another dimension to our offense as a lefty,” Zwicker said. “She’s quick to attack and tough to stop. She was our leading scorer two years ago but missed all of last season with a knee injury. It’s great to have her back.”

Senior Kristen Piteo, from South, moved from an attack wing to a center position, Zwicker said, and will play a bigger role on draws and defense. “She’s a selfless player who’s always looking to improve,” Zwicker said. “She’s confident and aggressive with the ball in her stick.”

Senior Bridget Dolan (South) and junior Paige Maggio (North) are experienced attackers with similar styles. They tied for the team lead in assists last spring, according to Zwicker, and can also make things happen by taking the ball to the cage. Dolan had a goal in the opener. “They’re steady and can make plays lefty and righty,” said Zwicker, who is also counting on the enthusiasm and energy of senior Dalasia Matthew (South) and vision of freshman Kathleen Kearney (North) to be a key to the offense. Kearney had a goal and an assist in her varsity debut.

Junior Nicole Cutrone (South) is a returning starter at defensive wing where her speed is always a factor. “She’s one of our leaders,” Zwicker said. “She’s able to force turnovers and does a great job scooping ground balls.” Sophomore Meaghan Adams is making a smooth conversion to defensive wing. “She’s a natural athlete and extremely coachable,” the coach said.

The defense has quite a different look compared to a year ago. Senior Vanesa Salinas (South) is a four-year varsity player and will anchor the back row. “She’s an excellent communicator and helps her teammates get better every day,” Zwicker said. Getting senior Hannah Kim (Central) back in the fold was huge for the defense, the coach noted. Kim brings speed to the group and plays an important role in the transition game.

Senior goalie Tiffany Schapira (South) boasts the mental toughness it takes to succeed at the position, said Zwicker, who is assisted by Karen Cooney.