Lancers playing well in early going
SJV boys optimistic about their chances this fall
BY WARREN RAPPLEYEA
Staff Writer

PHOTOS BY FARRAH MAFFAI staff Above, St. John Vianney’s Kyle Mannin and Red Bank Catholic’s John Schmelz take to the air to battle for the ball, while left, SJV’s Chris Quinn and RBC’s Tim Hayes battle for control on the ground during the Caseys’ win on Sept. 17 in Holmdel.

The veteran St. John Vianney boys soccer team is looking to qualify for both the Shore Conference tournament and the NJSIAA state playoffs.

The Lancers are 2-2 thus far after going .500 a year ago, but there is plenty of optimism at the Holmdel school.

In the four games, eight different players have made the score sheet, including senior forward Mike McAteer, who leads with three goals. Sophomore midfielder Brian Grimm has two goals and a pair of assists.

The SJV defense has played well. Sophomore netminder Dave Goodman recorded shutouts over Raritan and Matawan. John Hotchkiss, Tim Ganter, Jeff Levine, Kyle Manning and stopper Matt Seward have also looked strong.

"This is a very talented team in terms of soccer ability," coach Brian Grimm said. "They’re not athletes playing soccer; they’re soccer players."

Offensively, the Lancers have talent. In addition to McAteer and the younger Grimm, Ben Doda and Marco Enfiomusi are formidable on the field.

Co-captain Chris Quinn is another threat; his presence opens space for the other attackers as opponents regularly mark Quinn.

Brendan Slawson, the Lancers’ other captain, is a solid two-way player in the middle.

Other members of the team are midfielder Peter Festa and versatile Joe Iturrillo, both seniors; sophomore fullback Steve Fernicola; and freshman midfielder Rhyan Nelson. Junior Rob Hollywood is the reserve goalie but coach Grimm uses him as a midfielder.

"I think our team will get better as the season moves along," Grimm said. "They work well together and they’re gaining confidence. We’ll also get to play RBC and Wall, the two teams that beat us, again. I know our guys will be looking forward to that."