Wednesday, February 11, 2004

Lacrosse team gearing up

Peachtree City’s high school lacrosse team has begun play for 2004, with eight starters returning from last year’s team that won the postseason tournament championship. The team competes in the North Georgia Lacrosse League.

The high-powered offense returns starting attack players Kevin Katerndahl and David Dye, and introduces Sean Griffin and Wyatt Cramblet to feature what the team expects to be one of the most explosive attacks in the league. Midfielders Madison Seward, Brian Rosetti and Danny Cushing anchor the midfield units that feature more depth and scoring power than in any of the past years.

Goalie Danny Griffin, last year’s tournament MVP, and defensive captain John Gatell will anchor the defense, on which Michell Lentini has stepped up and will play a prominent role. The defense lost two key starters from last season.

“I am so proud of the way this team has come together. This is an extremely potent offense and will be exciting and fun to watch,” stated head coach Mike Muetzel. “They have worked extremely hard outdoors in adverse weather for over a month with a single mindset — a league championship. Actually, they are all great dedicated kids and easy to coach.

“We are blessed by the assistance of the Peachtree City Recreation Department, the community, our newly formed board and boosters (Fayette County Lacrosse Association), and sponsor TDK, who have all supported us with great facilities as we continue to grow.”

Lacrosse is the original American game and allows players of all sizes and skill levels the chance to successfully participate. The Peachtree City lacrosse program features over 100 players from around Fayette County ranging in age from 11 years old through the high school program. Many of these players have been playing “box” lacrosse at the Kedron Arena over the last two months, giving them a decided advantage heading into the “field” season.

Peachtree City Lacrosse will have three teams in different age categories competing in and around Atlanta. One of the key reasons for the success of the program, despite being only four years old, has been the dedication and knowledge of local coaches, many of whom played lacrosse in college. Led by Lacrosse Hall of Fame member Pete Cramblet (14’s), coaches include David Rosetti (HS), PTC Lacrosse Commisioner Ken Griffin (HS), Chris Smith (HS), Rich Fitzgerald (14’s), Tom Bender(14’s), Joe Kehel (14’s), Sam DeRosa (12’s) and Jack Polo (12’s). The entire coaching staff relies on positive reinforcement, having fun, and working with developmental players.

Upcoming home games for the HS lacrosse team will be Saturday at 7:30 p.m. against Gwinnett and again Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m. against Etowah. Both games are at Riley Field, behind Peachtree City Elementary School. Admission to all league games is free, and families and fans are all invited.

For more information on joining this growing program, to learn lacrosse or for interested coaches, see the website: www.eteams.com/ptclaxclub/.

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