West Hempstead off big finish

After a slow start, West Hempstead posted its best year in ages in 2018. The Rams got on a run and closed out their season by winning seven of their last eight games.

One of the rewards for last season’s success was a move up to Nassau Conference IV in 2019. West Hempstead should be very competitive in a league that figures to be led by Carey and Island Trees.

The Rams lost a bunch to graduation and a few preseason injuries to key players have made the road tougher to hoe, but the team stands at a respectable 2-3 (1-2 in league play) after a heartbreaking 9-8 loss at Mineola last Wednesday. Grace Destasio scored six goals to lead the Rams.

Third-year coach Suzanne Kenney, who inherited a team that went winless in 2016, is optimistic. “It’s a young group, so that’s a real positive thing for the future,” Kenney said. “I like this group. They come to learn and work every day. We make adjustments to correct things in practice, and they go out and try to execute in the games.”

Destasio returns as the team’s go-to player. The junior midfielder, who scored 83 goals in 2018, is among the county leaders with 31 goals over the team’s first five games. Destasio has remarkable stick skills, and an unmatched work ethic. She scored eight goals in back-to-back wins over Malverne/East Rockaway and Clarke.

“Regardless of who we’re facing, Grace is usually the best player on the field,” Kenney said. “She’s not only the most skilled, but she’s the hardest worker. Teams are keying on her, and she still scores.”

Destasio and fellow junior Korrina Plair-Johnson handle the draws for the Rams. Their ability to win draws and control the ball is a huge part of the team’s success. Plair-Johnson had six goals in the 16-11 victory over Clarke.

Junior Mirtha Sevilla rounds out a productive group of midfielders. Sevilla scored a season-high four goals in the 12-5 win against Malverne/East Rockaway. Senior Amanda Lashley and junior Coraima Garcia handle attack duties for the Rams.

Senior Jenny Lian, a four-year starter, is back for a final year in goal for West Hempstead. Lian has improved each and every year, and serves as a big asset to the young defensive unit. She had a season-high 15 saves in a loss to Glen Cove.

Junior Christine Romero is the most consistent and experienced player on defense. Romero has strong lacrosse IQ, is always in the right place at the right time, and has a knack for forcing turnovers. She’s joined by sophomore Jaida Gayle, and freshmen Catherine Andree and Mackenzie Cates.

“When we take care of the ball, things go well for us,” Kenney said. “We’re playing a new schedule, so it’s hard to know what to expect. The defense is getting better. We need more balanced scoring, and for others to step up and contribute.”

The Rams travel to Plainview-Old Bethpage on Thursday for a 4:30 p.m. faceoff.