WBy Patrick Grindel ’18

 

While Ott Field may lay claim to many of Chaminade athletes’ biggest accomplishments, every so often Flyers shed their crimson-and-gold uniforms and venture off campus to achieve feats on their own.

This past Columbus Day weekend, three varsity lacrosse players, Sean Kuttin ’18, Andrew Bonafede ’18, and Will Kusnierek ’18, participated in Project 9 Lacrosse’s annual event.  This invitational event, hosted by Major League Lacrosse athletes Paul Rabil and Mark Millon, aims to bring the 75 best high school athletes together for a rigorous weekend of instruction and evaluation.  

Kuttin battled against 22 of the nation’s best midfielders who are committed to playing at various colleges, including Duke University, the United States Naval Academy, and the University of Notre Dame.  Despite the intense competition, Kuttin rose to the occasion, winning the title of  “2017 Most Dominant Midfielder.”

Having placed second in this competition as a junior, Sean humbly credits others for his rise to the top.  “Anything I have accomplished has been made easy for me by my teammates and coaches,” said Kuttin.  “I would have nothing without this special group.”

Bonafede, who won in his position last year, and Kusnierek both placed in second for their positions (goalie and midfielder, respectively) at this year’s competition.

“Seeing Sean win after coming so close last year was awesome, and what was just as impressive was the strength of the pool,” said Andrew.  “Everyone who participated had a lot of talent, making it a very competitive weekend.”

As their time at Chaminade is quickly coming to an end, these three athletes are now reflecting on their experiences as Flyers.

“There’s no better place on Long Island to play lacrosse than Chaminade,” Sean remarked.  “Being able to represent the Chaminade family whenever I am on the field is my motivation to play my best.”

After leading Chaminade’s midfield in scoring for the past three years, Sean committed to Yale University last May.  His teammates Andrew and Will are bound for Duke University and Princeton University, respectively, as well.

Although he is looking forward to his four years as a Bulldog, Kuttin added, “If I could, I would do all four years as a Flyer over again.”