By: Matt Aiello
The baseball Chiefs are back in action. Under head coach Tom Lamont, the reigning conference champions take the diamond once again in hopes of repeating their previous success. With many long practices and hitting sessions, many are getting the hint that this season is going to be a good one.
Although losing some key players to graduation last year, the Chiefs return with a line-up full of seniors. Those seniors: Sonny Puzzo, John Gallagher, Chris Dalla Riva, Chris Hauser, Mark Mattheiss, Joe Rubino, Colin Bonhert, Zach Endersby and Greg Jeffery all return this year with the intentions to help the team in every way. Joe Rubino, a pitcher, is feeling good about the expectations as he says, “As we come into the season, it seems as though we show a lot of promise. Both JV and Varsity teams had strong records last year and we look to continue our progress. We have a substantial senior presence this year which adds a nice sense of experience and leadership. Our performance in scrimmages indicates that we have the hitting, pitching and defense to make a run this year. The key is to eventually combine all aspects successfully. With continued hard work, I think we can do big things this season.”
The JV squad, coached by Dan Romano, returns after an extremely impressive undefeated season last year. After going 21-0, the JV team plans to repeat with a brand new slew of players. Junior Nick Vitiello comments about the team: “We’re coming off a huge year last year and with opening day coming up we’re hoping to go on a tear and start off the season right.” The team hopes to continue the undefeated streak and provide great fodder for the varsity teams of tomorrow.
With many seniors, some new junior faces, and sophomore Hunter Smith, the Chiefs return is looking to do some damage. For right now, winning games seems to be the only goal as Lamont and the Chiefs plan to do big things. With many key games, especially the newly added Seton Hall Prep matchup, the Chiefs plan to execute for the most exciting season yet.
