Somers Boys Lacrosse and Softball Previews

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Defending Champs will Stick to the Process

With the new season ahead, the defending New York State Champs are certainly aware. “It’s motivating in the sense of we were able to accomplish something great and knowing that it’s possible,” said Coach Jordan Hirsch. But for the most part the hardware does not take precedence.

“It’s about process,” said Hirsch.

So the general rule is always to play to the strength of the players. “We want to make sure we are putting our guys in the best spots to be successful,” he explained.

Of course, that doesn’t mean just doing what they did last year. “We’re always trying to evolve and get better,” said the coach.

On the attack, Somers has more than a big three. With Tristan Iglesias, Cam Violante and Dylan Jimenez all returning, new blood will add to the mix. “We have a bunch of young guys who’ve been waiting their turn and are really pushing for spots,” Hirsch assured.

On defense, Bret Kennedy and Holden Brelesky will be in the lead again, and new guys bringing up the rear doesn’t necessarily say it. “There are a lot of younger guys who are ready to step into some big spots,” he said.

Quarterbacking the crew, Hudson Ruby is back in goal, but a big gap in the middle of the field doesn’t have Hirsch looking back either. “Comparison is the thief of joy,” said Hirsch. “We’re not comparing anyone to Matt (Mayfield),” said Hirsch. “We got some guys that are really excited to do the job.”

A realigned division will also up the ante. “It will be cool to rekindle the flame with Yorktown. John Jay is always a fun local rivalry and our league is super competitive with Rye, Pelham, Tappan Zee and Pearl River,” he clarified.

That leaves the primary goal. “We want to create an experience for these guys that they are going to remember for the rest of their lives,” he concluded.

Somers Softball is Stacked with Returning Seniors

Somers season ended last year with a heartbreaking 6-5 loss to Harrison, and nine months later, Coach Theresa Ricci was reflective. “Every year is a year to learn from, and every game is a game to learn from,” she said. No doubt true, the words become even more important with a crucial number in mind

“For the most part the entire team is back,” said the coach, and that includes seven starters.

Around the horn , Caitlin Fitts will be back at first, Alyssa Pirraglia at second, Katie Cole at short and Keira Griggs at second, while the outfield will be repopulated by Julia Peanamanda and Kaleigh Conti.

There is a big whole left behind the plate, though. Katherine Papa is gone but Ricci isn’t worried. “She is very capable,” said Ricci of Brooke Olivier.

On the mound, Somers is stacked too. “Emily Boyle and Mia DiChiaro are coming back with three years of experience,” said Ricci.

Still, experience never completely alleviates the pressure so Ricci has a learning antidote. “We need to just keep having fun,” she implored.

The same for her, 2026 completes a four year cycle. “This is the group I started coaching with, so it’s kind of crazy to see them as seniors,” said Ricci.

So she hopes they go out with a bang, but the goal is still pretty modest. “We want to improve every game and do a little better than last year,” she concluded.

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