Boys' Lacrosse Players to Watch

Michael Handlan, Moorestown, Sr. Handlan is one of the state's most highly touted players and one of its best goal scorers. This University of Delaware recruit recorded 58 goals in his junior season, for a career total of 130.

Andrew Streilein, Lenape, Sr. Streilein paired a team-leading 57 goals with 21 assists last season and should continue to score in bulk as a senior. With an experienced team around him, Streilein could be one of the area's most dangerous offensive players.

Alex Terenik, Middle Township, Sr. Terenik was one of the area's top scorers in leading Middle Township to a 15-3 record in 2013. His 53 goals last season give him 120 for his career.

Joe Eisele, St. Augustine, Jr. Playing a tough independent schedule, the Hermits took their lumps in 2013, but that didn't stop Eisele from shining. As a sophomore, this Delaware recruit recorded 33 goals and six assists against one of the region's most unforgiving schedules.

Kyle Borbi, Shawnee, Sr. Borbi is one of the area's quickest, most elusive players. Injuries cut short the production of this Notre Dame recruit in his junior year, but he still managed 26 goals against one of the area's toughest schedules. A healthy Borbi will be among the area's elite players.

James Higgenbotham, Gloucester Catholic, Sr. Higgenbotham generated 46 goals and 12 assists last year and played a big role in Gloucester Catholic's 11-5 season. This Lebanon Valley recruit again should be a major piece in an overall prolific offense.

Ryan Vallen, Cherokee, Jr. Vallen enjoyed a breakout season for Cherokee last season, recording 24 goals and 14 assists. A solid overall athlete and Arizona State recruit, Vallen can play all over the field and should lead a team that has high expectations.

Brendan Handlan, Moorestown, Sr. Playing in the Skyland Conference, laced with some of New Jersey's top scorers, the Delaware recruit anchors a defense with as tough a task as any in South Jersey. The Quakers defense allowed double-digit goals just once last year, and should be strong again in 2014.

Nick Pressler, Shawnee, Jr. Pressler, another Delaware recruit, returns to head a defense that last year put on an inspired performance in a double-overtime win over Moorestown for the South Jersey Group 3 championship. The Renegades defense allowed more than seven goals just once over its final eight games last season.

Ernie Alvino, St. Augustine, Jr. Alvino, an Air Force recruit, is quick and athletic and, even as a junior, is arguably the area's most seasoned goalie. He had a stellar season as a sophomore, recording a .566 save percentage against a tough independent schedule, and he should only improve as a junior.

- Chris Melchiorre

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