New program, new coach, new philosophy. It’s just a matter of time before everything clicks.
On Thursday afternoon in a Division I contest, Riverhead fell to Lindenhurst 14-8 dropping their overall record to 0-4. Growing pains are expected for Riverhead, now in its third year of existence as a program, but new girls lacrosse coach Ashley King is up for the challenge.
“I went to school in Kentucky where lacrosse is relatively new,” King said. “So I’m really familiar with start-up programs. I think my background gives me an advantage and that’s why I’m excited for this fresh new slate.”
King won a Long Island championship at Shoreham-Wading River her senior year before playing for the University of Massachusetts and Louisville in college.
The program at Riverhead is so new that many of the girls have minimal experience but King sees that as somewhat of an advantage.
“I really enjoy coaching them,” King said. “The girls don’t have much history in lacrosse so I can teach them one thing and they can go with it. I don’t have to break bad habits because everything is new to them.”
“They are very cooperative and willing to learn my philosophy,” said King. “The best part is that there isn’t any drama on this team. They all support each other. My captains do a great job.”
Even though the Blue Waves are winless up to this point, there’s a lot of optimism going forward.
“There’s a lot of great athletes here in Riverhead,” said King. “Many of the girls will pick up the game quickly. Having a good group of girls gives me a huge advantage.”
After a tough first half falling behind 9-3, Riverhead responded with five goals in the second.
Six minutes into the second half, senior Sabina Dorr came up with a loose ball sprinting away from all defenders. With Carolyn Carrera trailing on her left, she only had to beat one defender. As she approached the net, Dorr quickly dumped the ball over to Carrera and she buried it in the back of the net.
“Carolyn is just unbelievable,” said King. “I don’t know how she lasts the whole game. She’s running up and down the field throughout the whole time. She’s a workhorse and great leader. I have 100% respect for her. She really inspires the team.”
Carrera finished with 3 goals, 3 ground balls and 1 assist. Dorr contributed a solid game as well recording 3 goals, 2 ground balls and 1 assist.
“Sabina is a real fighter,” said King. “She’s a solid lefty and great team leader.”
King says missed opportunities essentially lost the game for them.
“I think we beat ourselves today,” King said. “We threw away the ball too many times, giving away so many opportunities. We need to work on our unforced turnovers. I want the other team to work to get the ball from us.”
Christina Zolezzi scored a game-high 5 goals for Lindenhurst (3-1).
Riverhead plays Copiague (0-3) on Monday at 4 p.m.
RiverheadLOCAL photos by George Faella
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