Thursday, October 1, 2026
Kennedy enjoyed a breakout 2025 with an 11-5 record and will look to take the next step with more than half of its starters returning.
“Last season was great and I’m expecting a lot of close games to determine whether we can break into the playoffs,” coach Gerard Cunningham said. “We have good experience with a bunch of seniors as well as some younger guys. We’re going to need to beat a few teams seeded higher than us to get there.”
One thing is likely — Kennedy figures to have a possession advantage over its opponents with 86-percent faceoff winner from last year, junior CJ Siegler, in the dot. Already committed to LIU, Siegler is considered one of the best draw guys in the county by Cunningham.
Seniors Damian Petrone and Anthony Scali are vital two-way midfielders who’ll play a ton. Scali helped lead the Cougars football team to the playoffs as its star running back. Both bring improved stick skills and a defensive mindset, Cunningham noted.
Sophomore long pole middie Ryan Donoghue is part of the school’s prestigious student leadership and has those same qualities on the field. He made his varsity debut two years ago and thrived last spring. “He’s our most-skilled kid,” Cunningham said.
A good deal of scoring is also expected from the midfield in the form of seniors Christian Cruz and Jacob Epstein. Cruz is a crafty dodger who works well inside, making him a candidate to play attack as well. Epstein wields a heavy shot and is aggressive in transition. Junior Jon Cohen returns and will be counted on to produce, and sophomore Aiden Kregler is a Kellenberg transfer looking to contribute. “We’re going to rely on them to lead the offense,” Cunningham said.
Senior defenders Cameron Linn and Liam Zenie are among the team’s travel players with high lacrosse IQs. Linn is the vocal leader in the back. Last year’s backup goalie, senior Tristan Bissoondial, has limited game experience but solid skills. “He’s ready for the starting role,” Cunningham said.
Kennedy has a pivotal three-game stretch in April all at home with Hewlett, Great Neck North and Division coming to town.
To read more about Kennedy Cougars' 2026 girls lacrosse team, click here. To see more of the Herald’s 2026 Lacrosse Preview, click here.
