1998 Riverside Pirate Season Outlook

After losing only two players to graduation, the Pirates hope to improve on last year's runner-up finish in the NCHSLA. However, with two new teams in the league, and some of last year's young teams having matured and improved, it will be a tough challenge. Last year's defending champs, Chapel Hill, have never lost to another North Carolina public school.

Defense

The defensive unit should be the backbone of the team with returning starters and All-State members Sean Hizey (206 gb, 86 lbc, 2 a) and Nick Scroggs (122 gb, 87 lbc) anchoring the unit. Senior goalie Andy Williams (.532 save pct.) also returns along with sophomore backup James Zawadowski. Sophomore Tom Raspet looks to fill the third defense slot while senior Aaron McCall and junior Marc Tillett provide capable backup. Junior Matt Carpenter (54 gb, 26 lbc) will be running at the defensive middie slot. This defense is very athletic, fast and can handle the ball. Look for them to not only stop the opposing offense, but also to key some offense of their own.

Midfield

The midfield unit has solid experience, and some depth. Senior Scott Gordon (37 g, 15 a) and junior Bradley Shore (40 g, 27 a) were both All-State last year and look to lead the offense. However, they will have a lot of help this year from senior Kyle Jackson (18 g, 5 a), junior Nic Tyndall (11 g, 9 a), sophomore Jon Ham (1 g, 4 a), and senior Adam Kilzer, back after a year's absence. Look for a lot of scoring being generated from those six. In addition, juniors Josh Hutchins and Josh Wilson add to the defensive capabilities.

Attack

At attack, all three starters are back along with a key reserve. Seniors Greg Tate (27 g, 12 a), and Grant Bain (26 g, 6 a) are joined by junior Evan Leekley (19 g, 28 a). Sophomore Adam Whitfield (10 g, 5 a) is expected to see a lot of action. If those four can mesh with the middies, the Pirates could produce some high-scoring games.