Nine Section 1 Players Honored as USA Lacrosse All-Americans for 2026

A panel of coaches has officially announced the selection of nine outstanding athletes from Section 1 as USA Lacrosse All-Americans, a prestigious accolade typically reserved for only the top performers in high school lacrosse. This recognition reflects the players' exceptional skills and contributions to their teams.

Among the distinguished players, three members of Iona Prep's CHSAA AA state championship squad received All-American honors last month. The following are the talented individuals recognized from Section 1:

Brian Auker from Mamaroneck, a senior midfielder, is set to continue his career at Boston College. Also recognized is Bret Kennedy, a senior defender from Somers, who will play for Lafayette. Hunter Mezzatesta, a senior goalie from Yorktown, has committed to Virginia. Rye’s Will Niejadlik, a sophomore attack player, is still exploring his college options.

Additionally, Blake O'Callaghan, a senior goalie from John Jay-Cross River, will join Princeton, while Mamaroneck’s Brady Smith, a senior defender, is bound for Bucknell. Nigel Strazzini, another senior defender from Rye, has chosen to attend Harvard. Cam Violante, a junior attack player from Somers, is planning to play at Maryland, and Carsen Winters, a senior attack from Mamaroneck, is also heading to Harvard.

Finally, Iona Prep's Billy Haggerty, a senior attack player, will be attending High Point, while junior long-stick midfielder Dylan Gulotta is set for North Carolina. Tim Plunkett, another senior attack from Iona Prep, will also join North Carolina. This year's selections highlight the depth of talent in high school lacrosse.