GNAC 2022

D3 Mens Lacrosse
Post Reply
NHLaxFan29
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Jul 22, 2021 12:09 am

GNAC 2022

Post by NHLaxFan29 »

I know this isn't one of the higher profile conferences but there are definitely some solid players and a few good story lines to follow. All of my comments are made without knowledge of any transfers or players using their extra year of eligibility.

Is Lasell still the favorite after Coach Mason left for Bowdoin? The bar has been set pretty high in Newton since Mason took over in 2016 so the expectations for continued success remain. The Lasers do return the GNAC GK of the year in Alex Beauchemin and DPOTY Magnus Leonard. These are some nice foundational pieces for Coach Treusdell to build around and put his own thumb print on the program.

Can Norwich regain the top spot after conference championships in '13 & '19? The Cadets always seem to be in the championship discussion. Parker Campbell returns as an offensive leader. As far as any other question marks in the lineup due to graduation, Coach Anderson never enters a season with an empty cupboard. He always has a deep roster and his guys are fully prepared to step in and perform when needed.

How does St. Joes of Maine replace such a talented group of graduates? Coach Cosentino will no doubt have his returning players ready to jump into action but did they get enough experience in a Covid shortened season last spring? Look for some first year players to potentially play a pivotal role for the Monks as well.

How will Rivier's young roster perform in a full season of play? Are they ready to take the next step or are they still a year away from possible championship contention? There were multiple players who received All GNAC recognition in their freshman seasons and there a number of newcomers who could make an immediate impact for Coach DeLanoy's squad.

Johnson & Wales made it to the semi-final round where they lost to the eventual champions, Lasell. The Wildcats did benefit from a favorable schedule last season but don't sleep on JWU. They are always one of those teams that seem to get hot just at the right time. It should also be noted that they return the reigning GNAC Rookie of the Year and 1st Team All GNAC midfielder Andrew Vasile.

Coach Fink has rapidly put together a team at the University of St. Joseph (CT) that can compete in the conference. The Blue Jays return a number of solid players at some very important positions on the field. Ryan Paltauf, Matt Guerin, and Samuel Barbetti are a just a few names to watch this coming spring. Trey McCann will once again be in net after an impressive sophomore campaign.

Can Emmanuel regain their championship form from the mid 20 teens when they won 3 consecutive conference titles? Coach Craven is very active on the recruiting trail each year and his efforts extend well beyond the local landscape, as evidenced by the number of players on his roster from outside of New England. One player to keep an eye on is the human wrecking ball known as Samuel Burghardt. While playing physical is a big part of his game, this pole also possesses plenty of skill and a high IQ.

Albertus Magnus, Anna Maria, & Dean were all able to register at least one victory last season. All 3 teams are hoping to find more success in '22 but a spot in the playoffs could still be a couple of years down the road.
NHLaxFan29
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Jul 22, 2021 12:09 am

Re: GNAC 2022

Post by NHLaxFan29 »

The Preseason Poll is out.

#1 Norwich
#2 Lasell
#3 St. Joe' s (ME)
#4 Rivier
#5 Johnson & Wales
#6 St. Joe (CT)
#7 Emmanuel
#8 Dean
#9 Albertus Magnus
#10 Anna Maria
#11 Regis

No major surprises but possibly a few spots that could have flipped. It should be a great season!
Post Reply

Return to “D3 MENS LACROSSE”