Blue Devils Surprise Suffolk with Playoff Appearance

There were those who really believed the Huntington varsity boys’ lacrosse team would be lucky to win one or two games this spring after graduating more than 20 players last June. But the Blue Devils surprised the doubters by not only making the playoffs, but coming close to advancing to the quarterfinal round of the Class A bracket.

Huntington was coached by Julian Watts, Andrew Gutierrez and Shamel Bratton and captained by Jack Kamenstein, Frank Aligieri and Patrick Hassett. The Blue Devils closed the season with 27 players on the roster and six wins.

Watts is aiming as high as ever for his team. Next year’s goals? “Our team goal is to win the Suffolk County Class B championship, Long Island championship and New York State championship,” he said.

Highlights of the recently concluded season include a win over No. 5 Lindenhurst and an overtime victory against Connetquot. “Competing in such a tough league, our team dealt with challenges such as injuries and inexperience,” Watts said. “However, we were still able to win six games after losing so many seniors. The young players gained a lot of experience. Everyone understands we have to work hard and continue to get better.”

Senior midfield Jack Kamenstein (36 goals; 19 assists), sophomore defense Patrick Hassett (1g; 2a, 52 groundballs) and junior midfield/faceoff Colby Curran (won 199/272 faceoffs of 73 percent; 2g; 5a and 140 ground balls) were all tapped for the All-County team. Algieri was named Honorable Mention All-County.

“Next year we return two All-County players and five freshmen who received a significant amount of playing time, including our starting goalie,” Watts said. “We will be playing in Class B, which is also a tough conference, but smaller schools.”

Freshman goalie, Chris Rado (172 saves; stopped 54 percent of all shots on goal) is once again expected to fill one of the most important positions.

“Our goal is to continue taking the necessary steps to execute at a high level,” Watts said. “ The players need to get bigger, faster and stronger. Competing in Suffolk Class B will be a challenge. Establishing chemistry and continuity is also a goal.”