South Side Cyclones boys lacrosse team strives for redemption

South Side’s boys’ lacrosse team enters the season with plenty to prove.

After winning the New York State title in 2024, the Cyclones fell in overtime to Wantagh in last year’s Nassau County Class C final. The narrow defeat has left them motivated and focused on returning to the championship stage.

“Obviously being able to beat Wantagh in the regular season and them flipping the script in the championship game is still very fresh,” coach Steve DiPietro said. “Wantagh is going to be a very formidable opponent again this year. But the goal is getting back to the championship game and getting another crack at them.”

This year, the team faces the challenge of replacing two top scorers responsible for a combined 100 goals last season. Because of that, DiPietro said the offense would rely on a team-oriented approach rather than a single superstar.

“It’s going to have to be more of the collective as far as being unselfish and just playing really good lacrosse,” he said.

Hoping to fill the void are junior John Hawthorne, a 26-goal scorer last season, and seniors Brendan Vetter, Jack Muscarella, and Tyler Sumrani, who each added 15 goals. Sophomore Kieran Vetter and junior Cole Perna, along with JV callup Reagan Petrone, could also contribute on offense.

Defense remains a strength, led by senior Jonathan Muscarella, junior long-stick middie Ryan Madden, and senior defensive midfielder Colin Kenny. Seniors Lukas Papadopulos, Peter Altman, and Will Hamel provide depth at the back end.

Junior Alec Notaro has emerged as a standout at faceoffs and groundballs, while Jack DeSarlo, who recorded nearly 100 saves as a sophomore, anchors the goal.

With returning leaders, skilled juniors, and emerging freshmen, South Side hopes to rebound from last year’s narrow defeat and make another championship run.

“We’re always surprised each year with some of the progress that guys make,” DiPietro said. “I’m excited to see if this group can show the grit and tenacity that the last few years have.”

To read more about the South Side Cyclones' 2026 girls lacrosse team, click here. To see more of the Herald’s 2026 Lacrosse Preview, click here.