In a Game of Experience, Juniors Pave the Way to Pascack Valley’s Success

Kyle Stackpole

PV Sports Beat

Even since third grade when lacrosse was only a small dose of what it is today, four kids started playing together, not knowing that they would be united today.

Many knew they had the potential to be a dynamic combination of players but didn’t expect it as too much hype could only lead to disappointment.

The hype was well deserved however because these four players have moved on to Pascack Valley and are now making a major impact on the varsity level. They account for more than 75% of their team’s points, making them as lethal of a combo as there is in the county. Talented Seniors Mike Vicchio, Joe Farenilli, and Erik Tracy contribute the other 25%.

When asked about when they knew they could make an impact on the Varsity Level, Soravilla replied, “As soon as we stepped on the field for the first time for our first game last year.”

Alan from the hangover would call them, “The Four best friends that anyone could have”, but I just like to call them The Core Four. The reason for the name is simple. Although only in their third year of high school, these individuals provide scoring and leadership to a team who has continued to improve since they have entered the program.

It is still early in the season, but it has become apparent that these four players will be the key to the team’s success going forward.  The defense will always be solid, but as the saying goes, “If you can't score, you can’t win.”

The chemistry they have built over the years cannot go unnoticed. It seems they know where each other will be at all times, making it almost impossible for the opposing defense to stop.

When asked about the chemistry between the four, Illian said, “We have learned each of each others tendencies and play off that.”

To continue, none of these four individuals are the biggest of the bunch. They realized long ago that strength and bulk wasn’t the answer. The answer was to play hard and play together.

As much as they like to help each other out on the field, it is sometimes a competition about who can score more goals. Illian has the team lead (as well as the county) for now, but one can be sure that the other three will attempt to dethrone him.

Each of the players have unique talents that make Pascack Valley what it is today.

NICK SORAVILLA

Fitting in with the older kids was never a problem for Nick, who is one of the youngest in the grade. He has fit in quite nicely, being part of three sports teams at Pascack Valley. He plays wide receiver and cornerback on the football field, point guard on the basketball court, and midfielder on the lacrosse field. His quickness and agility often go unmatched and help him greatly in all the sports that he plays. He hopes to continue to play all three sports senior year as well, meaning he will play a huge part in the success of the Pascack Valley athletic program.

Favorite Athlete: Lebron James

Best thing about Lax: It is a unique sport that needs teamwork

Best Flow: Jeff Diorio

One word to describe this year’s LAX team: VEGAS!!!!!!

KEVIN ILLIAN

Many may know this name from the gridiron, but he is just as successful on the lacrosse field. He currently leads the county with 48 points, is first in goals with 27, and is second in assists with 21. He is the glue that keeps this team together and will go to any measure to ensure they play their hardest for 48 minutes. As well as fantastic individual play, he creates for his teammates, making them better with every practice and game. Playing varsity as a freshman has taught Illian how to win on this level and thus far, he is doing a pretty good job of it.

Favorite Athlete: Victor Cruz

Best thing about Lax: It is fast paced and very exciting.

Best Flow: Jeff Diorio

One word to describe this year’s LAX team: Vegas

NICK SUNSERI

Although not the biggest of players, Sunseri may be the most physical man the Indians have. He simply outhustles opposing defenders, creating for himself and his teammates on the offensive end of the field. Along with lacrosse, Nick is an outstanding soccer player, following the footsteps of his brother Justin who graduated last year. Sunseri never takes a play off and epitomizes how the Indians use hustle and courage to grind out games.

Favorite Athlete: Alexander Ovechkin

Best thing about Lax: Fast Paced and lots of action

Best Flow: Jeff Diorio

One word to describe this year’s LAX team: Vegas

MICHAEL BULDO LICCIARDI

Along with snowboarding and surfing, Mike Buldo has a passion for the game of lacrosse. His determination and will to succeed has fueled his success on the varsity level. Balancing school and sports was never a problem as Buldo is currently enrolled in multiple Honors Classes. On field consistency is something that Mike prides himself on and will continue to for the rest of the season. 

Favorite Athlete: Michael Jordan

Best thing about Lax: You have to use your head.

Best Flow: Jeff Diorio

One word to describe this year’s LAX team: Vegas

These four have led Pascack Valley to a 10-2 record and show no signs of stopping. They will only continue to improve, making the Indians a serious contender going into the County Tournament.

Experience should be what leads teams to championship banners, but these four juniors from Pascack Valley are showing that chemistry, toughness, and skill are what puts a team in contention to bring home the county crown.

Special thanks to Justin Roth for supplying me with some photos. Check out his website http://www.justinrothphoto.com/