Thursday, October 1, 2026
The bulk of the Seaford girls’ volleyball team’s eight seniors have played together since middle school, and the bond formed over these years is translating on the court.
Seaford head coach Marie Savage said the seniors have helped create a positive atmosphere at practices and matches with plenty of humor mixed in. The team chemistry helped the Lady Vikings jump out to 9-1 start in Conference BC-1 and is eyeing a run at the program’s fourth county title in five years.
“I don’t think I’ve laughed this hard in my decade of coaching,” Savage said of how her players often joke around and love being around each other. “It makes coaching them a pleasure.”
Seaford’s veteran seniors are led by tri-captains Erin Russell, Jessica Fischetti and Emily Angelastro. Russell has been a force at the setter spot and posted 27 assists in the Lady Vikings’ 3-0 home win versus Floral Park last Friday. Fischetti and Angelastro have also shined at the right side hitter and libero positions, respectively.
“They are a great mesh of different personalities,” said Savage of her three senior captains. “Their leadership is great.”
Senior Shannon Pignetti has shown versatility as a setter while also often playing in the back row during practices.
“She’s invaluable,” Savage said of Pignetti. “She creates outstanding practices for us.”
Seniors Alyssa Mallery, Alyssa Lombardo and Ashley Cassazza have also been key components of Seaford’s success. Cassazza has missed three weeks with a shoulder injury and hopes to return in time for the playoffs.
The Lady Vikings have also been inspired by senior Danielle Di Prizito, who made the varsity team for the first time this season after trying out every year of high school. Her persistence and team-first attitude have enhanced Seaford’s close connection on and off the floor.
“The whole team is impressed by her dedication,” said Savage. “I’m impressed by her attitude.”
Junior Sophie Dandola adds to Seaford’s senior-laden team with athleticism and a strong striking ability. Dandola, who has been on varsity since ninth grade, recorded 25 kills in Seaford’s 3-2 win against championship contender Mineola on Oct. 2.
“She is a key hitter for us when we need power,” Savage said of Dandola, who is also a standout softball pitcher and has committed to play at Hofstra. “She’s such a strong athlete.”
Seaford, which entered the week one game behind Lynbrook for first place, will travel to Mineola on Thursday at 4:30 p.m. for a rematch with the Mustangs in a matchup that could decide who earns the second seed for the upcoming Nassau County Class B playoffs. The Lady Vikings will then host defending Class B champion Lynbrook, who handed Seaford its lone conference setback, this Saturday at 9:30 a.m.
“Those two teams have been and will be the teams to beat,” Savage said of Mineola and Lynbrook. “It will come down to our blocking and making sure we can get the ball to our power hitters.”
