Season Outlook For 2009

The outlook for 2009 is very different than in recent years. Having graduated the largest senior class in recent memory last year, Exeter has an unusually small group of veterans returning in 2009. The good news is that the defense looks very strong led by senior captains Sam Gardner , Matt Callahan , and goalie Tyler Page. The offense only has a couple of returners with much playing experience from last year in senior captain Max Cassidy and upper Eric Slingerland. With long pole Matt Hatch as the only PG lacrosse player, a tremendous opportunity exists for the many younger players coming up from the JV program and newly admitted to the school. There are a lot of question marks about this 2009 team that will not be answered until we are well into the season.

The Attack - With captain Max Cassidy as the only returning starter and big Greg Jenkins and senior Cole Page as the only other attack veterans, this is definitely an area where either rising JV players or new players to the school will have an opportunity to earn playing time. It will be fun to see who rises to the occasion in preseason.

The Midfield - This is another area where a lot was lost to graduation. Upper Eric Slingerland will lead the way, but once again it will be new blood to the varsity that will need to support him. Look for Max Cassidy to get some midfield playing time as well.

The Defense - This will definitely be the strength of the team. Captain and returning All-Amrican Sam Gardner will lead a strong defense that also includes another returning starter in fellow captain and Fairfield bound senior Matt Callahan. The other veteran poles that will make this such a strong unit include PG Matt Hatch, and returners Jeff Reppucci, Ryan Breen, Alex Akoto, and Adrien Fogelquist.

The Goal - This will be another great strength of the team with captain and returning starter Tyler Page leading the way. Sean Fujimori, Tyler's very able back-up from last year will return to that role, but look for Sean to receive even more playing time in this his crucual 11th grade year.