H-ton Boys’ Lax Enjoys Great Season

The Huntington varsity boys’ lacrosse team enjoyed a great season as one of the top squads in the county and a trip to the Suffolk Final Four round.

The 35 player team was coached by Julian Watts, George Powers and Andrew Gutierrez and captained by Thomas Girimonti, Daniel McNulty, Patrick Knieriem and Brian Hrybenko.

The Blue Devils finished 10-4 in league play and 13-5 overall. The team bowed out of the post-season with a loss in the county finals to eventual Suffolk champion Half Hollow Hills.

Girimonti, McNulty, Luca Cuozzo and Thomas Kline were named to the All-County team. Timothy McDonald and Colin Lennon were recognized as honorable mention All-County. Knieriem, Hrybenko, Parker Wands, Thomas Smith, Will Fallon and Joseph Zink garnered All-Division honors.

Girimonti was also named honorable mention All-American after tallying 56 goals and 31 assists. McNulty notched 38 goals and 30 assists. The two seniors will graduate in June.

“Despite being sidelined for a year due to injury, Thomas has shown unwavering commitment to preparing for the upcoming season, participating in every workout without fail,” Watts said. His dedication is exemplary, having never missed a practice, game or workout since recovering from his injury. Thomas’ leadership on and off the field has earned him the role of captain, serving as an invaluable extension of the coach staff. His outstanding work ethic knows no bounds, as he willingly tackles any task, regardless of its size or complexity. I have full confidence that Tom will achieve great success in his future endeavors.”

A home victory over non-league rival Cold Spring Harbor was one of the season’s highlights along with reaching the Suffolk Class A semifinals.

“This team was a solid group of individuals,” Watts said. “Our coaching staff really got the best out of them. They set very high expectations for themselves and we were able to achieve a successful season. Being a top four team in Suffolk Class A is not an easy task. This team showed some resilience and perseverance with our tough matchups each week.”

Look ahead to the 2025 season, Watts expects to remain competitive. “We will have a deep senior class if all 21 juniors return,” he said. “We return our starting midfield, faceoff guy, goalie and defense. The only issue will be our attack as we graduate three seniors. League competition will most likely stay the same with Northport, Half Hollow Hills and Ward Melville as the top teams we need to beat.”