We stay in Suffolk Class A for number 17 of the top 24 preseason rankings with the Connetquot Thunderbirds. They return in 2024 after what was a great regular season in 2023 where they went 14-2 which earned them the top overall seed going into the playoffs, but their season ended in disappointment after a defeat in the semifinals against Smithtown East by a single goal. Although they won’t look quite like last season, those that do return for Connetquot are hoping to turn the tide in 2024.
The Thunderbirds graduated arguably the most prolific public school midfield duo on the island last season in Tyler McCarthy and Tyler Moore who combined for an astounding 201 points. This juggernaut duo propelled Connetqupt to what was tied for the highest average goals per game at 12.8. As they look to see who will step up in their absence, two of their key returning attack/midfielders are senior Jake Gallose (Quinnipiac) and junior AJ Jeffares (St. Johns). Between the two of them they accounted for 79 points and will very likely account for even more of the offense this season.
Playing more pure attack that will be critical this season is junior Carson Turissini, who has elevated his game each season he’s been on varsity. Last year as a sophomore Turissini exploded for 47 goals and 13 assists for 60 points. The attack will also be sparked by senior Ayden Deliso who comes off a 21 goal, nine assist campaign in 2023. With this returning group of juniors and seniors shaping their attack and midfield, the increase in production that is expected will once again make this an offense that can score in bunches.
Taking a look at the defensive end of the field, the Thunderbirds return two of their key defensemen in senior Aiden Dinnigan (Molloy) and junior Lucas Weaver. The goaltending also remains in tact this season with senior Connor FitzGibbon (Lincoln Memorial) and junior Colton Stellwagen. FitzGibbon recored 91 saves last season despite not playing in every game due to injury, while Stellwagen answered the bell when called upon and tallied 102 saves. This is a very formidable goalie duo in which both have experience under their belt which is a luxury that not many public schools can say they have.
