Former Cheshire LAX Standouts Honored On Collegiate Level

March 14, 2010 by Greg Lederer

A pair of 2007 Cheshire High School graduates recently shined on the lacrosse field. Juniors Liz Siekman (Saint Michael's College-Colchester, Vermont) and Kevin Downes (Endicott College-Beverly, Mass.) both grew up playing locally.
Siekman, a mid-fielder, posted a career-high three goals and added an assist during the season opener on March 6, a game which saw the Purple Knights suffer a nail-biting 9-8 loss to Keene State College (Keene, New Hampshire).
Siekman hadn't previously scored more than a goal in a collegiate game.
“It was amazing and definitely a great experience to help my team in that way,” said Siekman. “Our team has great chemistry on and off the field. I think if we keep working hard, we can do great things. The loss doesn't reflect how good our team is.”
Coached by Carla Hesler, Siekman was named to the Northeast-10 Conference Honor Roll. The opener had local flavor, since freshman goalkeeper Christine Collins (2009 graduate) is a back-up for Keene. Siekman captained the 2007 CHS lacrosse team, when Collins was a sophomore.
“I knew it was a different experience having her on the other sideline. I gave her a hug after the game,” Siekman reflected.
The Purple Knights face NE-10 rival Franklin Pierce tomorrow, in Winter Park, Fla.
Downes is already having a breakout season, as he was recognized by The Commonwealth Coast Conference Defensive Player of the Week. During a 1-2 start to the season, he compiled a team-best five turnovers and six ground balls. Downes caused four turnovers and scooped three ground balls on Feb. 27. Just like the Purple Knights, Endicott lost by a goal (7-6) to Stevens Institute of Technology.
“We graduated a bunch of seniors on defense, so we needed juniors to step up and help fill that void,” explained Downes, who has emerged alongside Andrew Pochebit and Bob Crossett. “It feels good (to be recognized). Our team isn't doing as good so far, so it doesn't mean as much as it could. We have a week off, so we are working to get our offense and defense back on track.”
Head Coach Sean Quirk also grew up in Cheshire and attended Springfield College with CHS Head Coach Rich Pulisciano. Sophomore mid-fielder Sam Ozycz is a 2008 CHS graduate as well. After suffering a season-injury last year, Ozycz has won 13 of 22 face-offs for the Gulls.
“We lost one of our main face-off kids and he (Ozycz) has come back for us,” said Downes. “After such a devastating injury, it is rewarding to see him get back in shape and out on the field.”
Endicott returns to action on Tuesday, visiting Colby College.