Thursday, October 1, 2026
Battening down the hatches on the defensive end could ultimately determine if the Rams improve off last year’s respectable 7-9 mark in Nassau boys’ lacrosse Conference C-D.
“We have a bunch of third-year varsity guys and brought back a large portion of our offense,” coach Joe Hasbrouck said. “Last season is a good bar for us to try to surpass.”
Clarke’s strength is at midfield with seniors Liam Morgan, David Quesada and Justin Montez leading the charge. Morgan scored 36 goals last spring whilst Quesada and Montez added 13 apiece.
“Liam’s our horse,” Hasbrouck said of Morgan, who’s breakout campaign included 7 assists. “He’s a strong downhill dodger who plays physical and enjoys it.”
A natural lefty who’ll compliment Morgan, Quesada could be used at attack if needed but will begin the year strictly as a midfielder. He had 8 assists a year ago “David’s a smart player who has a good amount of experience in the midfield,” Hasbrouck said.
Montez has improved his shooting accuracy, the coach noted, and like Morgan is no stranger to contact.
Junior Will Grassini returns in the faceoff X and brings plenty of grit. “Will’s an outstanding wrestler and he’s a tough kid to win a draw against,” Hasbrouck said.
At attack, Everett Barsuaskas surprised as a freshman in 2025 with 17 goals and a team-leading 30 assists. “His game is really growing and he’s one of the toughest kids we’ve got,” Hasbrouck said. “He sees the field well and can score and feed.”
Senior lefty Ryan Salveson moves into a full-time starting role after contributing up front last year.
The defense graduated two important pieces and will rely on senior vocal leader Joe DiGesu to set the tone. “He has a high lacrosse IQ and is undoubtedly our most experienced defender,” Hasbrouck said. Senior Ryan Connolly is a groundball machine, and junior Alex Hall brings size and athleticism.
Last year’s backup goalie, senior Denis Alvarez, is the new last line of defense and showed lots of promise in camp, Hasbrouck said.
To read more about Clarke Rams' 2026 girls lacrosse team, click here. To see more of the Herald’s 2026 Lacrosse Preview, click here.
