Halfway through their 2007 campaign, the UConn Men’s Lacrosse team is on top of their conference with a 5-0 record. One of the brightest spots for the Huskies this year has been their stingy defense. Led by Senior Captain Jon Pawelk (Cheshire, CT), the team has held opponents to an average of 4.4 goals against. Juniors Mike Perkins (Trumbull, CT), and Greg Adams (Glastonbury, CT) as well as Freshman Nick Avgerinos (Sudburry, MA) have also contributed to the Huskies strong defense. The UConn defense also owes a great deal of their success to Sophomore Goalie Brandon Pepe (Orange, CT). Pepe has picked up where he left off last season with strong play in the crease, and is currently leading the league in save percentage at .807.
The Huskies strong start can be credited to several factors, including a strong freshman class and several NCAA transfers. With transfers from Bryant, Sacred Heart, Springfield, and Ithaca, the Huskies are at no shortage for talent. Sophomores John Schwamb (Westchester, NY), and J.P. Conolly (Simsbury, CT), as well as Junior Steve Zirolli (South Windsor, CT) have all made instant impacts. Along with returners Brian Skelcher (Hamden, CT) and Owen O’Connor (Sudbury, MA) the Huskies are fielding one of their best, and deepest offenses in years.
With games against traditional powers New Hampshire, Boston College, and Northeastern just around the corner, the Huskies will have their hands full in the coming weeks. These games will be a tough test for the young UConn squad, and a telling sign of just how far they may go this year.
Junior Attackmen Steve Zirolli
