(This is one of a series of HS boys’ previews for the 2021 scholastic season)
Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 3/25/21
Southern Lehigh High School
League: District XI (Colonial League Independent)
Coaches: Lucas VanEmburg (Head Coach), Harrison Lawrence (Offensive Coordinator), Jim Oleskowitz (Defensive Coordinator), John Scarponi (Head JV Coach), Eric Stemple (Faceoff Coach)
2019 Record & Accomplishments: 15-6, District XI 2A Champions, State Quarterfinalists
Key Players: Cooper Nelson (Senior), Troy Scozzafava (Senior, Lycoming Commit), Ben Clark (Senior, Elizabethtown Commit), Raul Ochotorena (Senior, Lehigh Commit)
Others to watch: Aidan Wolford (Senior), Jarrett Crandall (Junior), Ben Malicki (Junior), Vincent Probst (Sophomore), Colin Duffy (Sophomore)
Coach’s Outlook: “We return experience and size on the defensive end of the field. Sophomore Goalkeeper Vincent Probst is a top level prospect in the 2023 class and should impress behind our senior defensemen. Young players will make up the bulk of our offense this year but 3 year starters Cooper Nelson and Troy Scozzafava will provide stability on that side of the field.”
Emmaus High School
League: District XI (East Penn Conference)
Coaches: Jake Chronister, Marc Feldman, Caleb Horan, Matt Horton, Scott Ketcham, Stu Speicher (1st Year, 0-0)
2019 Record: 15-8. Lost to St. Joe’s Prep in opening round of PIAA State Tournament
Key Players: “I would consider every player who had to deal with their 2020 season being cancelled and then trained for this season, while closely following the COVID 19 Health and Safety Protocols, to be a key player for 2021.”
Key newcomers: Will Barber, Michael Cheis, Jakari Christian, Isaiah Elcock, Matt Nelson, Marcus Puentes, Sam Rainford, Liam Rooney, Aaron Watkins, Zach Yenawine
Coach’s Outlook: “We have a strong and dedicated group of seniors who have provided outstanding leadership during the initial practices. There are many unknowns that could become potential weaknesses while preparing to play our first game since June ’19, but we hope to continue Emmaus Boys Lacrosse’s tradition of proudly representing our school and our sport. It’s an incredibly tough task anticipating where this season will lead us. We are doing our best to stay healthy, build strong bonds as teammates, and make the most of the 2021 season.”
