Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 5/16/19
Staff Report
Jeb Brenfleck says Academy of the New Church has made more than one statement proving it can play with elite teams from the Philly region and beyond.
“Certainly we have proven that we have the capability to beat historically great teams,” said Brenfleck. “And I think that really proves how hard our coaches and players work in preperation of our games.”
Brenfleck had five goals and scored the game-winner in overtime today to lift fifth-seeded ANC to a thrilling 9-8 victory over fourth-seeded Hun School (N.J.) in the opening round of the National Prep Championships at The Hill School.
The Lions – who won their sixth straight Friends Schools League title and have beaten the defending PA state champion (Manheim Township) and the undefeated Central League champ (Conestoga) – advance to the semifinals Friday at Widener (5 p.m.) where they meet top-seeded Culver Academy (IN).
ANC (19-3) has only five substitutes on its team. It relies heavily on freshmen – but it, literally, has shown the heart of a Lion on many occasions this year.
“It’s an amazing feeling, knowing the small numbers our team has, and it’s humbling to make it to the semi finals in such a prestigious event,” said Brenfleck, who is committed to St. Joe’s. “It’s always a great feeling achieving your goals with some of your best friends.
“Our team is extremely excited, and ready to get back to work tomorrow, with limited time to prepare. I’m sure our coaches will make a solid game plan as they have done all year. They have done an amazing job with our team this season.”
Brenfleck scored the game-winner from X, dodging twice and then wrapping around.
“Our coach called a razor pick and I originally tried to fake going off the pick and get topside with my left hand, but it didn’t work,” he said. “So I went to X, taking a few hard steps and rolled back.
“Once I rolled back I knew I was going to fake high and wrap it low because I shot the ball high on my last shot.”
Griff McGinley starred in goal with 15 saves. Joey Paterno added two goals for the Lions and Drew Carr had a goal and an assist while Hunter Jaronski scored once. Brenfleck added one assist.
Brenfleck said his team will be ready for the challenge of a National power like Culver, ranked among the top teams in the nation all year.
“Our coaches watch a crazy amount of film and prepare us for everything the other team is going to do throughout the game,” he said. “We worked really hard in the off season to continue building our legacy and we take pride in our work ethic.”
