Hicksville's start to this year's lacrosse season was anything but smooth. In fact, following five consecutive conference losses and opening 1-6 with a team heavy on starting freshmen, critics would have been hard pressed to fault Comet coaches and players had they given up the fight and shifted their focus toward rebuilding for the future.

Instead, the Comets orchestrated one of the biggest resurgences in Hicksville High School's athletics history, peeling off wins in 10 of their last 11, nearly reaching the Class A Finals before losing to Long Beach 9-7 last Friday at Hofstra Stadium. After a dramatic overtime win against third seeded Farmingdale two days prior, Hicksville seemed poised to advance once again, using a stifling zone defense to keep the Long Beach offense at bay for the first half. However, after Hicksville took a 4-2 lead in the third, Long Beach exploded with five goals in the period to go ahead 7-5 heading into the fourth.

"We knew it was only a two-goal deficit and it wasn't impossible for us to come back like we did against Farmingdale," stated senior defenseman, Jack Lang. But, after Joey Leonard scored on a low bounce shot to make it 9-7 with just over three minutes remaining, the Comets had several crucial penalties called against them and couldn't counter with enough offense to complete the comeback.

The Comets will not be going to the dance this year but the team has the look of a major contender in 2009. While the loss of contributing seniors Chris Brumber, Jason Cranmer, Jack Lang, Jack Sullo and Pat Foley along with superb goalie Eric Janssen will definitely hurt, Hicksville has some talent waiting in the wings. Underclassmen such as Brandon Gamblin, Ernestas Steponas, Joey Leonard, James Lang and Frank Kircheim, who continue to mature, should all make major impacts next season.

The "Comeback Kids" created quite a buzz in town with their gutty effort, confirming that the heart of lacrosse continues to beat loud and strong here in Hicksville.

"I think the kids really came together down the stretch and our defense was outstanding," said head coach Chuck Arnone when referring to the reason for the team's turnaround this year. Support for the team was outstanding with a large and passionate Hicksville crowd in attendance for both playoff games.

Great job by players and coaches for numerous Hicksville sports teams this year. Take pride in Hicksville - Be a part of the movement - Get involved.