Basketball in Hoop

Earlier this year, the Webutuck High School girls basketball team picked up its first win in seven years. Therefore it’s safe to say the Warriors are learning as they go this season.

And on Tuesday, the Warriors learned that making some clutch, late-game foul shots can lead to a win. Webutuck beat visiting John A. Coleman Catholic, 40-35.

The Warriors improved to 7-6, and will now face Ellenville on Thursday.

“(Ellenville) is one team we don’t know a lot about,” said Webutuck coach Jon Zenz. “But we can compete and it’s going to be fun.”

Coleman made it a one-point game with under a minute left, but Webutuck buried six of its eight foul shots in the fourth quarter to hang on for the win. Kenya Blue, who finished with 12 points, made two free-throws while Maya-K Johnson sank three foul shots in four attempts.

“Coleman hit some 3-pointers and were right there,” said Zenz, who added that his team “gutted out” the win.

“(The free-throws) made me a little less nervous. We’ve been slowly getting better at hitting free-throws and this was probably our best performance ever. We’ll take it. In the fourth quarter (Coleman) got over the limit and we took advantage.”

Johnson led the Warriors with 17 points while Hannah Parks added eight points.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Jessica Wilkinson smiled as her teammates playfully teased her.

Jessica Wilkinson of the Red Hook High School girls basketball team with coach Andrew Makebish after she scored her 1,000th career point Friday.

Entering Tuesday, Wilkinson needed 10 points to hit the 1,000 mark for her career. And by halftime of the Red Hook High School girls basketball team’s game against visiting Poughkeepsie, she had nine.

“We just kind of joked around with her. ‘Come on, Jess. Just score one more,’” Red Hook coach Andrew Makebish said.

She took her teammates’ advice and wasted no time.

Just 31 seconds into the second half, she scored a basket to hit and pass the 1,000-point milestone. She finished with 21 points, 10 steals, five rebounds and five assists to lead the Raiders to a 72-24 win over the Pioneers.

“It’s an incredible milestone for any basketball player,” Makebish said. “She’s a hard worker and I’m glad she’s had the success.”

Wilkinson made sure to distribute the ball too, as fellow Raider Alexa Franceschi scored 16 points and added five rebounds. Chrissy Gildersleeve had seven points.

“As a coach, what makes me proud is that the team is playing well,” Makebish said. “Everybody got involved.”

Poughkeepsie was led by Teryann Chury-Brown, who had seven points. Monica Robles was behind her with five.

Red Hook improved to 10-4 and will visit Marlboro on Friday. Poughkeepsie will host Wallkill on Friday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Brady Robin won his match Wednesday at 145 pounds, shook hands with John Jay’s Paul Bernasconi and left the mat victorious just like he did 162 times.

Robin now sits at 163 wins for his career and was celebrated as the all-time wins leader in Arlington history, passing former state champion Jimmy Duckham for the milestone. Host Arlington defeated John Jay 51-16 on Wednesday in Freedom Plains.

“It feels awesome knowing all my hard work has paid off,” said Robin, who trained with Duckham in his freshman and sophomore years. “I’m sure he’d be proud of me.”

Robin’s coach certainly is.

“I’m very proud of him. To get that many wins in four years is a great accomplishment,” said Arlington coach Fred Perry of Robin, who won the match in a 4-0 decision. “His expression didn’t change. He didn’t show a whole lot of emotion. He’s all business.”

And he had plenty of help from his team.

Brady’s brother, Dennis Robin (99) picked up a win by pinfall in the first period over Marcello Bernasconi. Austin McHugh (152) pinned Ronnie McCabe while Chris Gresis (138) also managed a win by pinfall. Ulises Olmedo (113) won his match, 9-2.

“I was very pleased with the way we wrestled,” Perry said. “Even the young men who came up short wrestled well. It was a whole, team win.”

John Jay produced winners in Randy Earl (120), Tyler Albis (106) and Andrew Anthony (220). Earl won by major decision, Albis won by technical fall over Nick Hund and Anthony beat Nick Basso 13-1.

Arlington (18-2) wrestles in Beacon’s tournament on Friday while John Jay will host Carmel on Tuesday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Arlington’s Chris Gresis wrestles against John Jay’s Matt Fleisher in the 138lb. weight class during Wednesday’s match at Arlington. Gresis pinned Fleisher at 1:20.

Arlington’s Dennis Robin wrestles against John Jay’s Marcello Bernasconi in the 99lb. weight class during Wednesday’s match at Arlington. Robin won the match by pinning Bernasconi at 1:40.

Arlington’s Brady Robin wrestles against John Jay’s Paul Bernasconi in the 145lb. weight class during Wednesday’s match at Arlington. With today’s win Robin became Arlington’s all-time wins leader.

In a tight game Thursday in Rhinebeck, Mike Doxey came through.

Hitting some important late free-throws for the visiting Highland High School boys basketball team, Doxey and the Huskies beat the Hawks 63-59.

“They did a good job of getting Doxey the ball,” Rhinebeck coach David Aierstok said. “Give him credit.”

Doxey led the Huskies with 20 points and drained six late foul shots in six attempts to lift Highland. Nick Palmatier added 16 points.

Highland led by 10 points with 40 seconds left, but Rhinebeck cut the lead to two with 12 seconds to go before the Huskies pulled away.

Rhinebeck led 31-30 at halftime but by the end of the third, Highland took a 43-42 lead.

Hunter Brandt led Rhinebeck with 34 points and buried eight 3-pointers. Teammate Jack Spencer had 17 points and 11 rebounds.

Despite the loss, Aierstok liked the effort his team put forth.

“We’re dealing with a bunch of adversity and people were stepping into the spots and roles,” Aierstok said his team. “It was good. It was a good game all-around. Highland fought hard, we fought back. Give Highland credit.”

Rhinebeck (9-4) will host Pine Plains on Friday. Highland will return to action on Friday, Jan. 29, when it visits New Paltz.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Highland’s Todd Abrams dribbles around Rhinebeck’s Jack Spencer during Thursday’s game at Rhinebeck.

Highland’s Michael Doxey takes a jump shot against Rhinebeck’s Aidan Hack during Thursday’s game at Rhinebeck.

Rhinebeck’s Jack Spencer is covered by Highland’s, from left, Alec Krasinski and Cameron Ness during Thursday’s game at Rhinebeck.

Highland’s Nicholas Palmatier drives the ball around Rhinebeck’s Jack Spencer during Thursday’s game at Rhinebeck.

Highland’s Doran Baker takes a shot over Rhinebeck’s Aidan Hack during Thursday’s game at Rhinebeck.

Basketball in Hoop

Up by seven at halftime, Marlboro High School girls basketball coach Marion Casey told her team it had to keep on going.

The Iron Dukes heeded the words of their coach, and beat visiting Red Hook 53-34 on Friday before starting a winter break. Marlboro will not play another game until Feb. 1, though it doesn’t mean the Iron Dukes won’t be working.

“We have a long week of practice,” Casey said. “I told them they have to be ready.”

Missy Sadler was certainly ready for Red Hook. Despite some early foul trouble, Sadler led the Iron Dukes with 16 points and 18 rebounds. Teammate Taylor Felicello chipped in with 14 points while Julia Rusk added 11 points and 13 rebounds.

Marlboro outscored the Raiders 14-9 in the first quarter before holding a 25-18 lead at the half.

Casey also credited her defense, which held Red Hook’s top scorer, Jessica Wilkinson, to 16 points.

“She’s a great player and that was our plan going in,” Casey said. “I told them ‘everyone has to know where she (Wilkinson) is’ and they did a good job.”

Mackenzie Smith added seven points for Red Hook, which hosts Wallkill on Friday.

Marlboro, which improved to 12-1, will take on Warwick in its next game.

“It’s exciting,” Casey said of her team’s success. “I think they’re excited but it doesn’t matter what our record is. We have to continue to play like we’ve been playing.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

webkey Highschool Wrestling

The Arlington High School wrestling team brought 15 wrestlers to the Beacon Invitational, which took place on Friday.

And the Admirals conquered.

As a team, Arlington won the tournament with 244 points. Valley Central finished second with 211 points, and Saugerties was third with 171. The host Bulldogs placed fifth with 121 points while Roy C. Ketcham was sixth with 120.5 points.

“It was nice. The last few years we were behind Valley Central,” Arlington coach Fred Perry said. “It was a great effort by everybody.”

Ulises Olmedo (113 pounds) took first with a 7-3 decision over Nick Gjelaj of Tappan Zee. Brady Robin (145), Arlington’s all-time wins leader, beat Danny Romano of Valley Central 15-1 to claim first place. Tanner Nielsen (195) beat Valley Central’s Tyler Bohenka by pinfall at 1:49 to take first.

Wrestling: Arlington celebrates Robin as all-time wins leader

“I was really happy for Ulises, he had a great tournament, wrestled his style,” said Perry, whose Admirals host Mahopac on Monday. “Brady was his normal self — all about business. Tanner was real strong, the weight class itself was real strong. He was a top dog.”

Ketcham’s Liam Wilson (126) placed first with a 4-3 decision over Mike Arciero of Clarkstown North. Fellow Indian Jesse Pascale (182) took first place, beating Jimmy Ball of Saugerties by pinfall at 5:17.

Beacon’s Kyle Davis (170) placed first, beating Kingston’s Connor Amato by pinfall at 3:36.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Rachael Moran was in the right spot at the right time — literally the last second.

And she got to play the role of hero.

Moran made a reverse layup with one-tenth of a second left on the clock to lift the Arlington High School girls basketball team a 47-45 buzzer-beating win over visiting Our Lady of Lourdes Wednesday in Freedom Plains.

“When you get a moment like that and get to celebrate as a team, it’s priceless,” said Arlington coach Kim Costello, whose Admirals improved to 7-5. “It proves we can hang in there with the best of them. Lourdes, obviously, is always good. The last three to four years we’ve always had tight games with them.”

While Moran had the game-winning shot and finished with four points, Casey Schweitzer led Arlington with 18 points, six steals, six rebounds and five assists. Rebecca Mahon added 10 points while Crystal Miller grabbed eight rebounds.

“We were good. They were doing what we asked them to do,” Costello said of her players. “My message to them was to fight for 32 minutes.”

Abby Weeks led Lourdes with 21 points. Fellow Warrior Maddie Siegrist contributed with 18.

Lourdes will face Marlboro in the first round of its tournament on Saturday.

Arlington will host John Jay at 6 p.m. on Friday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Arlington’s Tiana Johnson takes a shot as Lourdes’ Marguerite McGahay covers her during Wednesday’s game at Arlington.

Arlington’s Cassidy Clay slaps the ball away from Lourdes’ Madison Siegrist during Wednesday’s game at Arlington.

Arlington’s Rachael Moran drives to the net through Lourdes’ Rebecca Townes during Wednesday’s game at Arlington.

Arlington’s Casey Schweitzer takes a shot over Lourdes’ Marguerite McGahay during Wednesday’s game at Arlington.

John Jay High School’s Marion Dietz makes a move on Roy C. Ketcham’s Dana Dockery during a Dec. 22 game in Wappingers Falls.

The John Jay High School girls basketball team has enjoyed a resurgent season, with a 13-5 record heading into Tuesday’s game at rival Arlington, the only team to beat the Patriots thus far in Section 1 Conference I League A play.

Marion Dietz has been one of the reasons for the success, helping lead the Patriots on both ends of the floor. Dietz has scored at least 15 points in each of her team’s last four games, all victories. She provided 17 points in John Jay’s upset of Our Lady of Lourdes on Boardman Road Jan. 19.

Dietz talked to the Journal about this season, some of the Patriots’ wild wins, and her Super Bowl pick.

What’s your take on your team’s success this season?

We’ve been doing really good. We’ve come a long way from where we were two, three years ago, and it’s nice to see it paying off. I think that we’ve gotten to know each other well, and that’s been a big part of it.

What would you say your team’s biggest strength is, heading into this final stretch of the regular season?

It’s definitely our defense. That’s what we build ourselves on and pride ourselves on.

You guys played a wild game against Mahopac on Friday and wound up coming out with a one-point win in overtime. Describe how you guys were able to win that game?

There was a buzzer-beater at the end of regulation, but we knew we could come together and pull it out. We really wanted to win. It was the hardest-fought win we’ve come across this season; our biggest emotional win was probably against Lourdes, but it was a battle.

At what age did you start playing basketball and why do you like the sport so much?

I think second grade I started playing CYO. It’s always been a family sport. I love it through that.

Why did you pick No. 35 as your jersey number?

When I was a freshman it was the last one left. I like number 15, but one of the juniors had it. But it had a five in it, it’s good.

What do you typically eat after a game?

It’s usually ziti or pizza.

Any favorite pizza spot in the area?

I go to Pizza Village (in Hopewell Junction), it’s really good.

What’s your favorite song currently on the radio?

That’s a good one. Jeesh. Probably “Irresistible” by Fall Out Boy and Demi Lovato. I like the beat.

How about your favorite TV show you’re currently watching?

“NCIS.” The plot lines and the characters are really funny. Gibbs is my favorite.

Favorite subject in school?

Probably math. Even when I don’t really get it, I end up doing OK in it. It just comes to me, a little bit.

And your favorite teacher?

Ms. Keefe — she was my earth science teacher in 10th grade. She was really nice and I still go to her for anything. She’s always there for her students.

Earlier this year you and your team went to Florida for a tournament, but took time to have some fun, too. Describe the trip.

That trip was amazing, to be honest. We did so much! We went on all the roller coasters at all the parks, we had team dinners every night. It was a great bonding experience.

Which roller coaster did you enjoy most?

I’m a big fan of Space Mountain.

With Super Bowl 50 coming up, between the Denver Broncos and Carolina Panthers on Sunday, I have to ask: Who’s your pick to win?

Denver Broncos. (Peyton) Manning all the way.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

They are almost always together.

Beacon High School’s Malique Vaval-Paris flies to the hoop during the Bulldogs’ game against Poughkeepsie in Beacon on Jan. 9.

They can be seen walking through the city, going to Roma Nova on Eliza Street in Beacon, or Sal’s off Route 9D for a slice of pizza. They have the support of the community, as evidenced by drivers in passing cars who stop to honk their horns for them.

“It’s crazy, in my opinion. But it feels great, to be honest,” said Malique Vaval-Paris, a point guard on the Beacon High School boys basketball team.

The Bulldogs went 2-16 last year and did not qualify for the Section 1 tournament. But this year has been a different story. Entering their game against host Lakeland in Shrub Oak Wednesday, the Bulldogs are 12-4.

Their transformation has been a product of coming together over the offseason, hard work and leadership on the floor.

“We’re all close. After school we go out to eat, we hang out,” Vaval-Paris said of the Bulldogs’ rapport. “They’re like brothers to me.”

The Beacon High School boys basketball team huddles up during a timeout during a Jan. 9 game against Poughkeepsie in Beacon.

The closeness is what coach Scott Timpano said has been the key. Timpano took the reins at Beacon prior to last season, succeeding longtime coach Tom Powers. This summer his team worked out for multiple days per week and thus the bonding commenced.

That mix of work and closeness is what has made the difference.

“Everything we did last year as a team wasn’t working. We needed to feed off each other,” Timpano said. “I really think (the turnaround) has been about the amount of time we’ve spent together as a team. In almost every game we’ve had different leading scorers. Everybody is feeling they’re a part of this.”

Beacon returned veterans Vaval-Paris and Jason Antalek, and players like Josiah McCall, Shaheim Fryar, Wilfredo Robles and Xavier Mayo have served as some of the team’s main catalysts.

Beacon High School’s Xavier Mayo gathers himself to shoot against Poughkeepsie in Beacon on Jan. 9.

Mayo, a sophomore, attended Poughkeepsie Day School last year. To him, the team’s unselfishness has paid dividends.

“Everyone is coming together as a whole,” Mayo said. “I feel like we work together a lot more. We’ve become more like a family and we’re working the ball.”

That type of teamwork was put on display on Jan. 19, when the Bulldogs hosted Hendrick Hudson. Despite falling behind early, Beacon staged a comeback to beat the visiting Sailors 65-49. Mayo scored 16 points while Fryar put away 15. McCall added 12 points.

Vaval-Paris remembered how difficult that game was, and how the reserve players came through.

“Our bench saved us in that game,” he said. “They came in and played well from the jump.”

Timpano particularly credited the leadership the team has received from veterans like Vaval-Paris and McCall, on the floor and off.

“They try to draw the best out of everybody,” Timpano said. “When you get that, it’s huge. It gives us something in our favor.”

Notwithstanding the success, the Bulldogs are still aware there is plenty of season left. With that and the memory of last year in mind, their goal remains the same: to win the next game.

Timpano said it would be easy to tell his boys “let’s go win the gold ball,” with sights set on the Section 1 Class A title. Yet, he has adopted the motto of “let the humble never stumble.”

And his players have taken it to heart.

“We can’t be complacent,” Vaval-Paris said.

Added Mayo: “We’re taking it one game at a time and focusing.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Beacon boys basketball

Remaining schedule

Wednesday at Lakeland, 6:15 p.m.

Friday vs. Ossining, 6:15 p.m.

Feb. 2 vs. Walter Panas, 6:15 p.m.

Feb. 4 at Hendrick Hudson, 6:15 p.m.

An overall win and two milestone victories told the story of the Beacon High School wrestling team’s match on Thursday.

high school sports

Against visiting Peekskill, the Bulldogs won 70-6. The team win was highlighted by Malachi Maloney’s 100th career win and the 101st career win for Kyle Davis.

Maloney (160 pounds) reached the century mark in victories in a win by forfeit. Davis (195) collected win number 101 with a pinfall victory in 2:38. Beacon coach Ron Tompkins said both grapplers received plaques for their milestones.

“Malachi has been with me for a while, so it was nice to see,” Tompkins said. “Kyle is a junior, which is very exciting and Malachi is a senior, so it’s nice to see the program continue up the line and see them be successful.”

Along with Maloney and Davis, several others picked up wins for Beacon.

Paul Cohn (120) won his match by pinfall in 1:15. Justin Warner (285) won a 10-2 decision, Tyrese Collins (138) won by pinfall in 38 seconds and Wilfredo Benjamin (152) won by pinfall in 3:56.

The meet was “interesting” to Tompkins, who used to coach at Peekskill. Still, he liked what he saw.

“I’m glad to see Peekskill have a program and finish the season. Overall we wrestled well,” Tompkins said.

Beacon (6-7) will compete in Edgemont’s tournament on Saturday.

“It’ll be good preparation for the upcoming divisionals and sectionals,” Tompkins said.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

high school sports

While the high school winter sports season is in full throttle, changes are coming to a pair of spring sports.

Effective in 2017, the New York State Public High School Athletic Association is adding a fourth enrollment classification to boys and girls lacrosse. Additionally, the state baseball semifinals and finals will be played over two days, as opposed to a doubleheader on one day for teams that qualify.

Currently, lacrosse is split up among three enrollment classes — Class A, Class B and Class C — with Class A being schools with the highest enrollment and Class C having the lowest.

Some local coaches viewed Friday’s changes as a positive. For instance, Our Lady of Lourdes High School boys lacrosse coach Chris Malet likes the idea of four lacrosse classifications.

“I think it’s a good thing,” Malet said, whose Warriors compete in Section 1 Class C.

“It gives smaller schools a chance to compete for a state title,” Malet added. “Almost every sport has (Class) AA all the way down to D, and I never understood why lacrosse doesn’t have it. It’s a natural move, going from three to four classes.”

Rich Saulino, the Red Hook boys lacrosse coach, said he’s interested to see how the addition of a fourth class will impact lacrosse. Red Hook is a Class C team competing in Section 9. The Raiders won six straight sectional titles from 2008-2013, all in Class C.

“Maybe this brings interest to smaller schools,” Saulino said. “And maybe this will act as an encouraging factor.”

Pat Mealy, Roy C. Ketcham’s baseball coach, offered support towards the decision to stretch the state baseball semifinals and finals over two days. In 2005, his Indians reached a New York State Class AA semifinal, and won in extra innings. Shortly thereafter, they had to play the state final game — which the Indians also won.

“It makes absolute sense,” Mealy said of the change. “Fortunately in 2005 we had a group that was able to withstand (the doubleheader). It’s a great move. It needed to be done a long time ago.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

The Beacon High School girls basketball team ended its three-game losing streak on Saturday. And the Bulldogs needed extra time to do it.

Basketball in Hoop

Against host Haldane, Beacon won 52-51 in overtime in what Beacon coach Christina Dahl termed “an interesting game.”

“It was really back and forth the whole way,” Dahl said. “What made us successful was our balanced effort, but we had contributions from everybody who played. That helped us solidify the win.”

Tied 47-47 after regulation, Lauren Schetter scored two of Beacon’s five points in the overtime frame. She led the Bulldogs with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Teammate Brianna Dembo put away 10 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Skyler Kurtz posted eight points, all in the fourth quarter, and snagged nine rebounds.

Dahl also credited her team’s defense, which made an adjustment in the second quarter.

“We started in a zone in the first quarter,” Dahl said. “We went man-to-man in the second quarter and held them to five points. Defensively, people stepped up.”

Haldane led 13-11 after the first quarter before Beacon’s adjustment. Missy Lisikatos paced the Blue Devils with 20 points. Allison Chiera added 14 points.

Beacon (8-9) will visit Walter Panas at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday. Dahl said her team will “work on some things and be motivated for next week.”

Haldane hosts Putnam Valley at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Arlington’s Zach Dingee looks for an opening during Friday’s game against Lourdes.

In a defensive show, the Our Lady of Lourdes High School boys basketball team beat host Arlington 50-36 on Friday.

James Anozie led the Warriors with 18 points, while Chris Mulvey put away 17. Tom Duffy and Shane Walczyk each scored 12 for the Admirals, who fell behind in the early going and couldn’t quite catch up.

“We got off to a slow start against them in that first quarter,” Arlington coach Matt Hoyt said. “We struggled to score against them all night. Their defense was long and we didn’t do a good job getting the ball inside. We had to settle for a lot of outside jumpers.”

Hoyt also said his team struggled to rebound and only went to the foul line six times. Still, Hoyt noticed good defense on both sides. Despite taking the loss, the Admirals holding the Warriors to 50 points was a positive he took from the outcome.

“Our defense came ready to play on that side of the floor,” Hoyt said. “Overall I thought our defense was pretty solid, and I have to credit a lot to (Lourdes) coach (Jim) Santoro and his defense.”

Lourdes will visit Carmel at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday. Arlington (3-13) hosts John Jay Tuesday at 6:15 p.m.

“We have to come up with things to adjust to their size,” Hoyt said of the upcoming game against the Patriots. “But we’ll be ready to go.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Lourdes’ Kevin Townes, left, looks for an open teammate as Arlington’s Tom Duffy, center, defends. Lourdes’ Chris Mulvey, right, stands by.

Lourdes’ James Anozie, left, and Arlington’s Shane Walczyk, right, fight for a rebound during Friday’s game.

The Admirals were in control, then lost their composure. But, they gained it back in just enough time to pull out a win.

Basketball in Hoop

On Tuesday, the Arlington High School boys basketball team beat visiting John Jay 60-57 on its senior night.

At halftime the Admirals held a 34-18 lead, but the Patriots made up all 16 points. John Jay took a 52-51 lead midway through the final frame, but settling down defensively late in the game is what Arlington coach Matt Hoyt said allowed his team to obtain the victory.

“The guys fought through it,” Hoyt said. “The fourth quarter was good, back and forth. I was real proud of them.”

Justin Leigh was at the forefront of Arlington’s offense, scoring 17 points. John Smith helped with 15 points. The Admirals scored 20 points in the first quarter and held the Patriots to nine points in the first quarter and nine in the second.

“We were flying,” Hoyt said of the first half. “Our defense was phenomenal.”

Dan DiMarzo was the Patriots’ leader on offense with 15 points. Teammate Ryan Schumacher added 14.

The Admirals (4-13) have now gone 2-2 over their last four games, as Hoyt has noticed his team’s improvement.

“I think we’ve turned a corner,” said Hoyt, whose Admirals visit Roy C. Ketcham on Friday in the Indians’ “orange out” game. “We’re battling, the guys are working and showing fight.”

John Jay visits Our Lady of Lourdes on Thursday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Spackenkill’s Katherine Lillis keeps the ball away from New Paltz’s Bridget Barry during Tuesday’s game at New Paltz High School.

Spackenkill’s Olivia Zykoff takes a shot on net over New Paltz’s, from left, Hailey Osborne and Jataysha Peterson during Tuesday’s game at New Paltz High School.

Some clutch 3-pointers in the fourth quarter led the Spackenkill High School girls basketball team to a 61-53 win over host New Paltz on Tuesday.

Spackenkill’s Isabelle Herrera dribbles the ball past New Paltz’s Ally Pannuto during Tuesday’s game at New Paltz High School.

Issy Herrera and Nina Hartenfels each buried a pair of shots outside the arc in the final frame — buckets which New Paltz coach Bill DeFino said “sealed the deal.”

“That really broke our back; made the difference,” DeFino said. “Herrera hit some big threes in the fourth. And I’ve been watching Nina Hartenfels shoot from 30 feet out for three years now. You have to give them credit.”

Herrera led all scorers with 19 points and finished with four 3-point field goals. Hartfenfels provided backup with 14 points and drained three 3-pointers. Bailey Riley added 10 points.

At halftime the Huguenots trailed 30-24 and gained the lead briefly midway through the third quarter. The Spartans were able to grab it back, however, and led 41-40 at the end of three.

Spackenkill’s Christina Hartenfels is covered by New Paltz’s Bridget Barry during Tuesday’s game at New Paltz High School.

To go with their timely 3-point shooting, the Spartans made eight of their 10 foul shots in the fourth quarter.

Ally Pannuto paced New Paltz with 13 points and 14 rebounds. Hailey Osborne contributed 10 points, while DeFino said he thought his team “played pretty good defense.”

The Huguenots (4-11) host Franklin D. Roosevelt at 5:30 p.m. Friday.

“I love seeing (Roosevelt) coach (Cliff) Sauer. We have a lot of fun coaching against one another,” DeFino said. “We’re hoping for good things.”

Spackenkill (11-3) will visit Millbrook at 6 p.m. Friday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Beacon’s Hayden Boehm pins Pauling’s Bryce Muller in the second period during Wednesday’s match at Beacon High School.

Beacon’s Kyle Davis wrestles Pawling’s Reece Bijou during Wednesday’s match at Beacon High School. Davis won the match by pinning Bijou in the second period.

It was one of the closer matches the Beacon High School wrestling team competed in this season, but the Bulldogs pulled out a win.

On Wednesday, the host Bulldogs beat Pawling, 42-39, behind a number of wins.

Beacon’s Malachai Maloney (170 pounds) pinned Mike Henry in 24 seconds. Kyle Davis (182) pinned Pawling’s Reece Bijou in 3:22. Hayden Boehm (106) pinned Bryce Muller in 3:29, a match coach Ron Tompkins termed “key.”

Tompkins said he understood Pawling was going to offer a battle, though he was happy with the overall results.

“I knew it was going to be a close match,” Tompkins said. “It was important in the matches we lost to not get pinned, and a lot of them did that. It went our way this time.”

Beacon’s Malachai Maloney presses Pawling’s Mike Henry into the mat during Wednesday’s match at Beacon High School. Maloney won the match by pinning Henry in the first period.

Despite the loss, the Tigers had several winners.

Alex Santana (99) won a 6-0 decision over Liam Ollive. Noah Fleischman (126) pinned Goerge Bekh in 5:55. Carmine Pedoto (132) won an 8-2 decision over Tyrese Collins. Paul Bellucci claimed a 7-0 decision to beat Wilfredo Benjamin, while James Bellucci pinned Davion Omari in 59 seconds. Jack Wrobel (138) picked up a win by pinfall over Jake Robillard in 45 seconds.

Pawling’s Paul Bellucci wrestles against Beacon’s Wilfredo Benjamin during Wednesday’s match at Beacon High School. Bellucci defeated Benjamin by a decision.

Beacon’s Justin Warner (220) and Pawling’s Hernandez (285) each received wins by forfeit.

The Bulldogs (7-7) will now compete in a Section 1 Division 1 sivisionals at Sleepy Hollow High School at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

“We’re looking for to it,” Tompkins said of the divisional.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Long before Dave Gettleman took the wheel for the Carolina Panthers, driving the NFL team toward Sunday’s Super Bowl 50, he drove up Route 9 in Poughkeepsie.

Carolina Panthers center Ryan Kalil talks with general manager Dave Gettleman after defeating the Arizona Cardinals during the NFC Championship game held at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on Jan. 24.

He took in the beauty of the Hudson Valley. And, he wouldn’t have minded staying.

“It was the middle of October, 70 degrees,” Gettleman recalled on Monday. “The leaves are spectacular. And I looked up at the sky and said ‘Lord, if you want me to be here for the rest of my life, I won’t be angry.’”

Of course, the decades that followed outside of the mid-Hudson Valley have proven equally memorable for the one-time driver’s education teacher who helped start the football program at Spackenkill High School in 1973.

GM Gettleman has made right moves for 15-1 Panthers

Now in his 30th year working in the NFL, Gettleman will take part in his seventh Super Bowl and his first as a general manager, when his Panthers face the Denver Broncos in the annual football championship game Sunday night.

Many of those who worked with, or played for Gettleman at Spackenkill have not been surprised by his success, and have relished cheering him on.

Jan 24, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman celebrates after beating the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Championship game at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on Jan. 24.

The 64-year-old father of three has three Super Bowl rings, one earned as a scout in the Broncos organization in 1998, and two as director of pro personnel with the New York Giants in 2008 and 2012. But, none of those teams had Gettleman’s fingerprints on them like these Panthers, who won seven games and lost nine the season before he was hired as general manager and placed in charge of shaping the team’s roster of players in Jan. 2013.

This season, the Panthers have lost just one of their 18 games leading into Sunday’s finale, and the Boston native has gained a reputation around the league for making shrewd moves along the way. In addition to acquiring players like Michael Oher, Ted Ginn Jr., and Jared Allen, who were unwanted on their previous teams but have played key roles for Carolina this season, Gettleman also held back from tinkering with his roster with a late-season deal for a big, and expensive, name.

Panthers not content being in Super Bowl, want to win it all

Part of that acumen for building a team was learned 43 years ago, in Poughkeepsie.

“I was in Poughkeepsie 10-and-a-half years and it was a great time in my life,” said Gettleman, whose wife Joanna is a 1976 Spackenkill graduate. “It helped me. I learned so much. Coaching high school kids, you learn now. I’m still in touch with kids I coached. I’ve gotten e-mails. I’ve talked to them, I’ve had them down for games.”

Carolina Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman walks the field prior to a game against the Indianapolis Colts at Bank of America Stadium on Nov. 2.

In 1972, after finishing up at Springfield College in Massachusetts, where he played offensive tackle, Gettleman heard of two openings at Spackenkill, one being a position as a gym teacher, the other as a driver’s education instructor. But, when he learned the physical education job had been filled, he took the driver’s education position.

Together with physical education teacher Dave Marcy, Gettleman started the Spackenkill football program. He served as the school’s head varsity coach from 1973-78 and again from 1980-81, leading the team to two league titles. It was during that time he formed bonds with his players and fellow coaches.

Eric Spaulding, who played for Gettleman in his senior year in 1978, recalled an incident in which the Spartans had some fun with the coach.

While Spaulding and teammates took part in a routine blocking drill in which four players push a “sled” on which Gettleman was standing, the coach whistled for his players to stop. Instead, they ignored the resounding screech of his whistle and kept pushing the sled into the woods behind the school.

“I think he was pretty much like, ‘Very funny guys. Let’s get this thing out of here,’” said Spaulding, a Poughkeepsie native who now lives in Plymouth, Massachusetts. “That was fun.”

Some of his old friends from the Hudson Valley, like Terry Feeley, who coached boys basketball at Spackenkill for 30 years, have noticed that success seemingly follows Gettleman around.

“He’s got the magic touch,” Feeley said. “I never really spoke to him about the Xs and Os of football, but he is a hell of an evaluator of talent.”

Evaluation is mainly how Gettleman got his foot in the door to the NFL.

After his days at Spackenkill, Gettleman went on to coach at Kingston High School. From there, he began his NFL career in 1986 as a scouting intern with the Buffalo Bills. After six years, including the 1990 and 1991 seasons in which the Bills appeared in the Super Bowl, but lost, Gettleman then became a scout for the Broncos. When Denver won Super Bowl XXXII, Gettleman received his first Super Bowl championship ring.

In 1998, Gettleman joined the New York Giants as a scout, paving the way for his front office position as the director of pro personnel. He held that job from 1999-2012, winning two more rings.

Mike Corbett, Spackenkill’s current varsity girls soccer coach, shared an office with Gettleman in the school’s athletic department. It was Gettleman who recruited Corbett to coach Spackenkill’s junior varsity football team while Gettleman handled varsity matters.

He fondly remembered the type of personality Gettleman had while coaching the Spartans.

“Basically he had an outgoing, positive, assertive type of attitude,” Corbett said. “He was a totally upbeat, positive person. He got the most out of people and we had some great times together.”

Yet once he got to the gridiron, his intensity level heightened.

“He was pretty much all business,” Spaulding said. “He was the boss. He was the head coach and he was big too — intimidating to a bunch of 16, 17-year-olds.”

Now, those who spent time with him in Poughkeepsie want nothing more than to see Gettleman win again. He has plenty of fans rooting voraciously for him.

“It’s nice to see it happen to someone deserving, who’s dedicated their life to football,” Corbett said.

And that support has been appreciated.

“It’s been wonderful,” Gettleman said of the support he’s received from his Hudson Valley friends. “It’s special.”

USA Today reporter Eric Prisbell contributed to this report.A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Super Bowl 50

Who: Carolina Panthers vs. Denver Broncos

When: Sunday, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California

TV: CBS

Dave Gettleman

Spackenkill High School head varsity football coach, 1973-78; 80-81.

Kingston High School assistant varsity football coach, 1982-83; head coach 1984.

Buffalo Bills scouting intern, 1986; scout 1987-93.

Denver Broncos scout 1994-97.

New York Giants scout, 1998.

New York Giants director of pro personnel, 1999-2012.

New York Giants senior pro personnel analyst, 2012.

Carolina Panthers General Manager, 2013-present.

Not only was it the John Jay High School girls basketball team’s senior night on Thursday, but it was its last game of the regular season.

And the Patriots closed it out on a winning note.

Against visiting Our Lady of Lourdes, the Patriots won 59-54.

“It was a great team win,” said John Jay coach Larry Brooks, whose team finished the regular season 14-6. “We have seven seniors and it was a great win for those seven kids.”

Alana Kroner led the Patriots with 21 points, while Sam Fitzgerald, who poured in 11. Sam Baragas added 11 points to round out John Jay’s scoring.

The win also didn’t come easy, as Lourdes led 26-23 at halftime. But Brooks said he knew his team would settle down and came through.

“There really wasn’t much that needed to be said (at halftime),” Brooks said. “Our defense really stepped up in the second half and our offensive execution was the best its been all year. We ran fundamental sets.”

The Warriors (13-6) were led by Maddie Siegrist, who scored a game-high 26 points. Teammate Katie Clarke finished with 17 points.

Brooks credited his seniors for their dedication, and called a win over Lourdes to close the season “huge.”

“They’ve done so much for us over the last three to four years,” Brooks said of his seniors. “It’s been an honor to work with them every day.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

John Jay’s Alana Kroner keeps the ball away from Lourdes’ Abby Weeks during Thursday’s game at John Jay.

John Jay’s Sam Fitzgerald goes for a layup through Lourdes’ Marguerite McGahay during Thursday’s game at John Jay.

John Jay’s Claire Thoma looks to pass the ball to Sam Fitzgerald during Thursday’s home game versus Lourdes.

Lourdes’ Madison Siegrist dribbles past John Jay’s Alana Kroner during Thursday’s game at John Jay.

John Jay’s Marion Dietz looks to pass around Lourdes’ Katie Clarke during Thursday’s game at John Jay.

Basketball in Hoop

The Franklin D. Roosevelt High School boys basketball team’s aim is to run the table for the remainder of its schedule. It began on the right foot facing New Paltz at home on Friday.

The Presidents won their fourth game of the season, beating the Huguenots 71-68.

“Our execution throughout the game was solid,” Roosevelt coach Kevin Hart said. “The kids did a nice job attacking the basket.”

Nowah Rosado led the Presidents with 28 points, including five good shots from beyond the 3-point arc. Teammate D’Andre Orr added 16 points and went 4 for 4 from behind the foul line. Ryan Diehl came off the bench and provided 12 points.

“Nowah really stepped up and played a hell of a game,” Hart said. “Along with Ryan Diehl, who gave us solid minutes coming off the bench.”

Axel Rodriguez led the Huguenots with 24 points.

Roosevelt obtained a 38-27 lead at halftime. Hart said his team has struggled this season in the second half, but the Presidents’ play over the final 16 minutes was encouraging.

“We’ve had a problem in the second half all year, but they responded and stuck with the game plan,” Hart added. “It’s a good step in the right direction, especially for our younger guys.”

Now the Presidents (4-12) will face Arlington Saturday at John Jay in the Officials vs. Cancer event.

“We have four games left,” Hart said, “and our goal is to go 4-0.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

James Anozie poses with his team after scoring his 1,000th point Friday

Before the Our Lady of Lourdes High School boys basketball team’s game against Carmel on Tuesday, Warriors coach Jim Santoro approached James Anozie, his junior center.

The coach told him he was 61 points away from reaching 1,000. Anozie had no idea.

“I said ‘oh, wow! I’m that close?’” Anozie said. “I thought I’d try and score 61 that day, but I only had 24.”

On Friday against host Albertus Magnus, Anozie needed 23 points to reach the milestone. He finished with 36 to reach and pass 1,000 points and lead the Warriors to a 75-61 win over Albertus Magnus.

Boys basketball roundup: Lourdes tops John Jay in ‘The Anozie Show’

In the middle of the third quarter, Anozie made a basket to reach the landmark. Santoro made sure the offense gave him the opportunity to achieve it.

“We ran the offense to get him the ball down low,” said Santoro, whose Warriors finished the regular season 14-5. “He powered it up and converted it on what looks like an easy play, but it’s not.”

Santoro also praised Anozie’s hard work and likes that his player is performing well in games his team is winning.

“It’s always nice to see players like that succeed. It’s a milestone but more importantly he’s putting up those points when we’re winning basketball games,” Santoro said.

Luke Timm backed Anozie up with 19 points while Dean Rotger added seven assists.

Boys basketball roundup: Anozie, Timm lift Lourdes over Nyack

Lourdes was scheduled to play in the Emma Memorial Game at Section 8’s Manhasset at 3 p.m. Saturday. However, the game was cancelled due to inclement weather. Still, the Warriors will travel to Long Island Saturday to volunteer on a Habitat for Humanity project.

“It feels pretty good to give back to the community,” Anozie said. “Playing basketball is a great experience, but doing community service means more.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports