Things are looking up for the Shaker boys lacrosse team.
The Blue Bison return a large group of players from last year’s squad that finished second to Guilderland in the Suburban Council South Division standings.
“We have a pretty good nucleus of returning players,” said Shaker coach Shawn Hennessey. “We’re still young, but we work hard.”
The key to Shaker’s success lies with its eight seniors – a group that includes top scorers Tim Leahey and Nick Dodd, as well as goaltender Aiden Snyder and defenseman Kyle Fragnoli. Several key juniors are also back, including defenseman Patrick Evans and midfielder Jake Quay.
“I think they’re pre-pared,” said Hennessey. “They know what to expect, but they still have to work hard.”
Leahey and sophomore Stephen Rehfuss are looking to build on their efforts during the 2012 season, said Hennessey.
“Both of them are traditional lacrosse players, which is why we have them on attack,” said Hennessey. “They’re going to have to replicate what they did last year, if not improve on it.”
Snyder played well during his junior season last year, and Hennessey said he’s looking for the senior goaltender to step up again.
“He’s gotten better this year,” said Hennessey.
Fragnoli – a first team All-Suburban Council selection – and Evans will anchor a veteran defensive corps for Shaker.
“We return pretty good (players) back there, but you never know how they’ll do in this league,” said Hennessey.
The reason why Hennessey is concerned is the Suburban Council features several teams with dangerous goal scorers.
“With the way our section is going with off-season developmental programs, everyone is getting good players these days,” said Hennessey.
The Blue Bison have an early start to their season when they meet Schenectady Wednesday in a non-league game. Their first Suburban Council contest is April 2 against crosstown rival Colonie.