Tigertown should be a buzz with the steps that Towson University is making this Fall. The team came back to campus to make amends for the the final six games of the 2014. After reaching the NCAA Tournament in 2013, the Tigers were absent last Spring, but looking to return in 2015.
The Tigers are a mixture of youth and elder statesmen. A couple of transfers and impact freshmen could be just what the doctor ordered to get the Tigers to the next level of competition in college lacrosse. The coaching staff has the tools to get the team there and the athletes are doing the work needed to get there.
Thomas DeNapoli led the offense and his shoes need to be filled quickly. Even though he finished the season with thirty-six points, opposing defenses needed to know where he was all the time. Greg Cuccinello, Justin Mabus, and Max Siskind lead the offense as seniors. Welcoming back Andrew Hodgson is going to help the depth and athleticism. Hodgson can play offense and defense, having the talent to leave a noticeable impression on games in his final campaign.
Ryan Drenner and Joe Seider made significant contributions in their rookie campaigns. They hope to increase the production instead of the vaunted sophomore slump that has caught many in their second years. North Carolina transfer Spencer Parks will add even more depth to the offense. A host of freshmen from New York and Baltimore’s MIAA will push the level of competition and likely get time in their rookie season.
The defense has three additions that will make other coaches envious. Joey Pfister is transferring after two years at Jacksonville University. He started for most of his two years, opting to return home for his junior season. Alec Salvadori came to Towson from Nassau Community College and sounds like he is making an immediate impact. Not to mention Matty Brashears, a freshmen, coming in at 6-4, 230 lbs.
Returning to the team already are a host of defensive personnel. JoJo Ostrander returns for his senior year, leading the defense in front of senior Tyler White in net. Mike Lowe, Tyler Mayes, and Nick Gorman provide the Tigers with a wealth of man hours defending Johnny Unitas Stadium. Emerging talents, like Jack Adams, at defensive midfield could even start the transition game that led the Tigers to the Final Four in 2001.
The Tigers have added scholarships, changed the schedule to welcome stiff competition, and added pieces to the lineup to increase the potential that the team has quickly. Ohio State is now on the schedule, which could have a huge impact on the landscape of the CAA on the national stage. There is a lot to be excited for in Towson as Fall commences.
The Tigers will play Air Force and Princeton in the Fall, in preparation for the Spring. The team will also face Keio University and finish the Fall slate with an alumni game. It is still the Fall, but the Tigers could be a team that breaks into the Top Ten this season and for a number of them in the future. Only time will tell as the Tigers prepare for the season ahead.
