JUNIOR  A EJHL NEWS RELEASES
2009-2010

                                                                                                                February 28,2010
APPLE CORE DEFENSEMAN RANCE VUKOVIC
 TO WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE

 Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that
 defenseman Rance Vukovic has committed to Western New England College (WNEC).
  

In 25 EJHL contests, the versatile blue-liner from Lansdale, PA recorded 1 assist and scored
 the only goal in a 1-1 tie vs. Northwood back in November. Prior to Apple Core, the 1989
 birth year attended Kimball Union Academy in New Hampshire.
 

 WNEC is located in Springfield, MA and competes in the ECAC Northeast Conference. The
Golden Bears are coached by Greg Heffernan, Mike Monti and Clay Strahan.
 

                                                                                                                               February 15,2010

APPLE CORE FORWARD CORY LILLIE TO WENTWORTH 

Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that forward Cory Lillie (Southampton, NY) has committed to Wentworth Institute of
Technology.

 In 40 EJHL contests, Lillie has recorded 15g & 19a for 34pts and he was selected to
represent Apple Core at this year’s All-Star game.

Wentworth, located in Boston, is coached by RJ Tolan and competes in the ECAC Northeast
conference.
 

 

                                                                                                                          January 28,2010
APPLE CORE GOALTENDER NICK THERRIEN
TO UTICA COLLEGE 

Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that
goaltender Nick Therrien will attend Utica College in the fall.  

In 22 EJHL contests this season, Nick has recorded a 3.17 GAA and a .916 save percentage
 en route to winning 12 games for the ‘Core. Therrien is a ’90 birth year hailing from
Rochester, New Hampshire.

 The Utica College Pioneers, located in Utica, NY, compete in the highly competitive ECAC
West Conference and are coached by Gary Heenan.

 

                                                                                                                          January 28,2010
APPLE CORE FORWARD MIKE GARLASCO
TO CLARKSON UNIVERSITY

 Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that forward Mike Garlasco has committed to play for Division 1 Clarkson University in the fall.  

Garlasco, a ’90 birth year from Mahwah, New Jersey, is the Apple Core leader in points with 37pts (10g 27a) in 34 games. Mike, who stands in at 5’11” 175lbs, represented Apple Core at the 2010 EJHL All-Star Game.

 Clarkson University is located in Potsdam, NY and competes in the Division 1 ECAC Conference. Mike looks to make an immediate impact on Coach Roll’s Golden Knight roster next season.

                                                                                                                          January 28,2010

APPLE CORE FORWARD LOUIE BALZANO TO MANHATTANVILLE

 Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that forward Louie Balzano will attend Manhattanville College in the fall.  

In 34 EJHL contests, the Staten Island native has recorded 13g and 21a for 34pts and has racked up 51 PIMs. Balzano, a ’90 birth year who stands in at 5’11” 190lbs., will join former Apple Core standout Mickey Lang on Coach Levinthal’s Valiant roster. 

Manhattanville College is located in Purchase, NY and competes in the highly competitive ECAC West conference.
 

                                                                                                                          January 20,2010
NEW YORK APPLE CORE JUNIOR HOCKEY TEAM COOK DINNER
FOR FAMILIES AT THE RONALD McDONALD HOUSE OF LONG ISLAND


 

New Hyde Park, NY– The New York Apple Core Jr. A hockey team is currently
experiencing their best season in over 5 years in the Eastern Junior Hockey League, but it
has been off the ice where they have made a much bigger impact. Since October, Apple
Core players have taken time out of their busy schedule to cook dinner for the resident
families at The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island (RMH-LI). “This shows the
character of the young men who make up the New York Apple Core hockey team,” said
RMH-LI Executive Director Joanne Reda. “Not only did they cook, but the players
purchased and donated all the necessary food and supplies. They are all gentlemen and
they are always welcome at RMH-LI. We wish them the best of luck throughout the
remainder of their hockey season.”

Apple Core, one of the top junior hockey programs in the United States,is made up of
players between the ages of 16-20 and their home rink is Long Beach Arena. For more
information and photos, you can log on to www.applecorejunior.com.

“To say that I am proud of my players is a major understatement,” said Apple Core Head
Coach Chris Cosentino. “This was an experience thatour players will remember forever.”

RMH-LI is a ‘home-away-from home’ for families who are caring for seriously ill children
undergoing medical treatment in area hospitals. Located on the campus of Schneider
Children’s Hospital in New Hyde Park, NY, the House accommodates families in a warm
and supportive environment. Since opening in 1986, approximately 13,000 families from
the United States and more than 80 countries around the world have been served.  Many of
the families are from Queens, Suffolk and Nassau Counties, as well as the surrounding
metropolitan area. For more information about RMH-LI you can log on to www.rmhlongisland.org.         

                                                                                                                          January 13,2010
Apple Core Forward Oliver Koo To Bowdoin

 Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that forward Oliver Koo has
 committed to attend Bowdoin College in the fall.

In 23 games this season, Koo has tallied 13g 15a 28pts for Apple Core. The second year forward from
Greenwich, CT is a 1990 birth year. Other Apple Core alumni who have attended Bowdoin include, Rich Leahy
and Steve Thompson.

Bowdoin College, located in Brunswick, Maine, competes in the New England Small College Athletic Conference
(NESCAC). Bowdoin College is ranked #15 on Forbes.com’s America’s Best College list.

                                                                                                                          January 12,2010
APPLE CORE SENDS FOUR PLAYERS,
PLUS COACH TO EJHL ALL-STAR GAME

 Boston, MA –The Eastern Junior Hockey League (EJHL) announced today that Apple Core  forwards Mike
 Garlasco and Cory Lillie along with defensemen Jake Hoefler and Arthur  Griem have been named to the 2010
 EJHL Southern Division All-Star team. Head Coach Chris Cosentino will serve as assistant coach on the Southern
 Division All-Star coaching  staff. The EJHL All-Star Game is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 18th at
 Tri-Town Ice Arena in Hooksett, NH at 2pm.

Garlasco, a ’90 birth year from Mahwah, New Jersey, is the team’s leader in points with 36pts (10g 26a).

Lillie, an ’89 birth year from Southampton, New York, leads the team with 15 goals.

Griem, a ’90 birth year from Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan, leads the team with a +21plus/minus rating.

Hoefler, a ’90 birth year from Hampstead, New Hampshire, stands in at 6’5” 215lbs. and has recorded 2g 11a
while playing in all 30 games for Apple Core. Hoefler is committed to play for Division 1 Northeastern University.

                                                                                                                          January 04,2010

 APPLE CORE DEFENSEMAN KEVIN REICH TO CONNECTICUT COLLEGE

Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that defenseman Kevin Reich has committed to play for Connecticut College in the fall.

In 26 EJHL contests this season, the native of Montvale, New Jersey has tallied 7g & 16a for 23pts and 46 PIMs. Reich, who is a ’90 birth year, is currently ranked 4th in the EJHL amongst defensemen. He will join former Apple Core goaltender Andrew Margolin on Coach Ward’s Camels roster. Other Apple Core alumni who have attended Conn College include: Tad O’Had, Bryan Jaeger and Peter Helfer.

Connecticut College is located in New London, CT and competes in the very competitive New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC).  Conn College is one of the country’s most prestigious colleges and is ranked #51 on Forbes.com’s America’s Best College list. Prior to joining Apple Core, Reich attended the Taft School.

                                                                                                                          December 29,2009
APPLE CORE DEFENSEMAN JACOB HOEFLER

COMMITS TO NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

 

Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that defenseman Jacob
 Hoefler has committed to attend Division 1 Northeastern University in the fall.
 

The 6’5” 215-pound blueliner is from Hampstead, New Hampshire and is a ’90 birth year. In 29 EJHL contests
 this season, Hoefler has recorded 2g & 11a for 13pts and 44 PIMs. He will join former Apple Core captain
 Anthony Bitetto (Indiana Ice) and former Apple Core forward Zak Stone (NH Monarchs) on Coach Cronin’s
 Huskies roster next season.

 

Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA and competes in the Division 1 Hockey East Conference.
 Other Apple Core alumni who attended Northeastern: Steve Birnstill and Louis Liotti.
 

The Apple Core Junior Program would like to congratulate Jake and the entire Hoefler family on this great
 accomplishment.  

                                                                                                                          December 25,2009
APPLE CORE DEFENSEMAN JACOB HOEFLER
EARNS EJHL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF
THE WEEK HONORS

 The New York Apple Core is proud to announce that defenseman Jacob Hoefler was named Defensive Player of the Week in the EJHL. The 6'5" 215lb '90 birth year has been labeled as “one of the league's best defensemen” by multiple Division 1 college recruiters. In this past weekend's sweep over the Huskies, Hoefler played a huge role both defensively and offensively. He recorded 4 assists in Sunday's win and was a +5 rating on the weekend. Along with defense partner Arthur Griem, Apple Core has established a defense unit that can shut down the opposition's top lines. Hoefler looks to make his Division 1 commitment soon.

 

                                                                                                                          December 21,2009
‘Core Sweep Huskies 

Tyngsboro, MA - The Apple Core EJHL team defeated the New England Huskies, 3-2 and 9-2 this past weekend
 in Massachusetts and improved their regular season record to 18-5-3-3.

On Saturday, the ‘Core scored twice in the third period to comeback from being down 2-1. Greg Strootman
 scored the game’s first goal for New York, with assists going to Mark DiFruscio and Remy Cholhan. Patrick
 Guerriero tipped in a great shot from Kevin Reich to tie the game at two. Kevin Kavanagh also assisted on the
 play.  With just over 5-minutes remaining in regulation, Christian Tasker scored the game-winning goal. Patrick
Guerriero and Mike Garlasco assisted on the play. Nick Therrien made 33 saves in his 11th win of the season.

On Sunday, Apple Core came out with guns blazing and defeated the Huskies 9-2. Forward Nick Barbera scored
 three goals and added an assist to cap off a four-point game. Jacob Hoefler recorded four assists in the game.
 Christian Tasker picked up two goals, while Dominic Trento, Kevin Reich, Cory Lillie and Greg Strootman all
 scored once. Trento, Oliver Koo, Arthur Griem and Louie Balzano also picked up two assists in the contest.
 Patrick Guerriero, Mark DiFruscio, Remy Cholhan, Mike Kim and Kevin Reich recorded one assist each. Ryan
 Benitez made 39 saves in his 7th win of the season.

Team Notes

Regular Season Record: 18-5-3-3…Apple Core is off for two weeks and returns home on Wednesday, January
 6th to faceoff against the Hitmen at 8pm…Forward Chris Buquicchio missed the Huskies weekend due to injury…
Defenseman Mike Basist made his Apple Core debut with the AC Jr. B team and recorded 1g and 3a in the two
 game series. Mike looks to join the EJHL team after the Holiday break…Forward Remy Cholhan is on a 9-game
 point scoring streak…Forward Christian Tasker has recorded 9g in his last 11 games…

                                                                                                                          December 13,2009

‘CORE GO 1-1-1 AT HUSKIES SHOWCASE

Fitchburg, MA – At this past weekend’s highly scouted Huskies Showcase, the New York Apple Core EJHL team
 lost 3-1 to the Boston Jr. Bruins, beat the Valley Warriors 4-0 and tied the Bridgewater Bandits 4-4.

 In Thursday night’s loss to the Jr. Bruins, New York’s poor start to the game was enough for Boston to set the
tone and take advantage. Apple Core did, however, receive great goaltending from Nick Therrien who made 26
 saves in the loss. Apple Core’s lone goal was scored by Christian Tasker who unloaded a missile from the point
 that found the top corner on the power play. The goal was Tasker’s 10th of the season and 4th in as many
 games. Mike Garlasco and Remy Cholhan assisted on the play.

 On Friday, Nick Therrien was able to capture his first shutout of the season as he made 17 saves in the 4-0 AC
win over Valley. Cory Lillie found the back of the net twice and added an assist to cap off a 3 point game. Matt
 Kavanagh and Jake Hoefler also scored. Louie Balzano and Chris Staines both recorded two assists while Remy
 Cholhan, Oliver Koo and Dominic Trento each added single tallies.  

Saturday’s 4-4 tie vs. Bridgewater featured strong physical play and multiple lead changes. Remy Cholhan’s
 shorthanded goal which came off a great individual effort from Greg Strootman tied the game at four with about
 six minutes remaining. Oliver Koo, Mike Garlasco and Arthur Griem also scored in the game. Greg Strootman
 recorded two assists in the game, while Remy Cholhan, Dan Fortunato, Kevin Kavanagh, Louie Balzano, Oliver
 Koo and Cory Lillie all recorded one assist each. Ryan Benitez made 32 saves in the contest.

Team Notes

Regular Season Record: 16-5-3-3…Forward Chris Buquicchio is listed as day-to-day with an upper body injury…
Forward Patrick Guerriero is listed as day-to-day with an upper body injury…Defenseman Kevin Reich and
 forward Nick Barbera missed the Huskies Showcase with flu-like symptoms…Defenseman Mike Basist’s status is
 updated to questionable for next weekend as he returns from off-season knee surgery…Forward Remy Cholhan
 is currently on a six-game point scoring streak…

                                                                                                                          December 9,2009
APPLE CORE FORWARD LOUIE BALZANO
EARNS OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK HONORS

Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that
 forward Louie Balzano has been named EJHL Offensive Player of the Week. He played a
 huge role in Apple Core's sweep of the Valley Warriors last weekend as he picked up 5
 points in the two-game set (1g 4a). Louie is currently sporting a 9-game point scoring
streak where he has registered 7 goals and 7 assists for 14 points over the 9-game span.
 In 23 games this year he has 11 goals and 14 assists for 25 points. Balzano is a '90 birth
 year who hails from Staten Island, NY and stands in at 5'11" 180 lbs.

                                                                                                                          December 7,2009


APPLE CORE SWEEP VALLEY
Eleven goals by ten different players 

Long Beach, NY – You can score four more points for the ‘Core!  New York continued its
 winning ways as they swept the Valley Warriors 6-1 & 5-3 this past weekend in Long
 Beach.

In Saturday’s 6-1 win, Apple core received goals from six different players:  Mike Garlasco,
 Christian Tasker, Louie Balzano, Matt Kavanagh, Cory Lillie and Jake Hoefler . Balzano and
 Lillie both added 2 assists to cap off three point nights. Mark DiFruscio and Remy Cholhan
 also picked up two assists in the game. Chris Buquicchio, Kevin Kavanagh and Patrick
 Guerriero all recorded one assist. Ryan Benitez was sharp in net as he won his 6th game
 of the season making 34 saves.

On Sunday Apple Core’s penalty killers and goaltender Nick Therrien were able to preserve
 the win and get the two big points. With Chris Buquicchio’s empty net goal with two-
seconds remaining Apple Core finished off Valley with a 5-3 victory. Apple Core received
 goals from five different players: Christian Tasker, Remy Cholhan, Kevin Reich, Dominic
 Trento and Chris Buquicchio. Louie Balzano recorded two assists in the game, while Oliver
 Koo, Mike Garlasco, Cory Lillie, Patrick Guerriero and Matt Kavanagh all recorded single
 tallies. Nick Therrien made 43 saves to capture his 9th win of the season.

“On the weekend we were able to score eleven goals from ten different players, which
speaks volumes about our depth,” said Apple Core Head Coach Chris Cosentino. “But once
 again bad penalties late in games made our job harder and if we do not correct that part
 of our game it will come back to bite us soon enough. Players like Patty Guerriero, Chris
 Buquicchio and Greg Strootman have been our biggest penalty killers all season long and
 continue to get the job done when we need them.”

TEAM NOTES

Apple Core regular season record: 15-4-2-3…With the weekend sweep over Valley, Apple
 Core has registered 35 points in the standings tying last season’s total… Mike Garlasco,
 Cory Lillie and Louie Balzano are on a 9-game point scoring streak…Chris Buquicchio is on
 a 7-game point scoring streak…Patrick Guerriero is on a 5-game point scoring streak…
Christian Tasker has a 3-game goal scoring streak…Apple Core heads up to the Huskies
 Showcase in Fitchburg where they will square off against the Jr. Bruins, Valley Warriors
 and Bridgewater Bandits…
 

 

                                                                                                                          November 27,2009

APPLE CORE DEFENSEMAN CHRIS STAINES
EARNS ROOKIE OF THE WEEK HONORS IN THE EJHL
 

Long Beach, NY - The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that  defenseman Chris
 Staines has earned Rookie of the Week Honors in the Eastern Junior Hockey League. The 1991-born blueliner
 from Glen Rock, NJ, played an integral role in Apple Core’s 9-4 win over the Bridgewater Bandits on Sunday as
he recorded 4 assists in the game. Staines currently boasts a +10 rating on the season and has become one of
the most improved players on the Apple Core roster.

 

APPLE CORE EARNS 3 OUT OF 4 POINTS VS. BRIDGEWATER
 & CLIMBS INTO 2ND PLACE 
                                                                                                                           November 25,2009

Bridgewater, MA – All season long, the gritty New York Apple Core EJHL team has done
 a great job rebounding from tough losses and this past weekend in Bridgewater was no
 different. After blowing a two-goal lead in a 5-4 overtime loss on Saturday, the relentless
‘Core were able to collect themselves and pound Bridgewater the next day, 9-4.

On Saturday, Apple Core received 2 goals from Chris Buquicchio, who also added an assist.
 Patrick Guerriero and Louie Balzano also scored in the game. Guerriero and linemate Mike
 Garlasco both recorded 2 assists, while Cory Lillie and Nick Barbera also added assists.
 Nick Therrien made 33 saves in the loss.

On Sunday, rookie defenseman Chris Staines turned in a four assist game and was great
 on the blue-line. Mike Garlasco and Louie Balzano each scored 2 goals in the game, while
 Dominic Trento, Christian Tasker, Cory Lillie, Greg Strootman and “Sniper” Dan Fortunato
 all added single tallies. Mike Kim recorded 3 assists in the game, while Jake Hoefler, Dan
 Fortunato, Chris Buquicchio, Louie Balzano, Dominic Trento, Christian Tasker, Patrick
 Guerriero, Matt Kavanagh and Nick Barbera all recorded one assist in the contest. Ryan
 Benitez made 47 saves in his 5th win of the season.

“Our penalty killers did a great job for us this weekend and they deserve a lot of credit,”
 said Head Coach Chris Cosentino.

 Team Notes

Regular Season Record: 13-4-2-3…Forwards Louie Balzano, Cory Lillie and Mike Garlasco
are on a 7-game point scoring streak…Forward Chris Buquicchio is on a 5-game point
scoring streak…Apple Core will host the Valley Warriors on 12/5 at 4:45pm & 12/6 at
9:30am at Long Beach Arena…HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

 

APPLE CORE FORWARD MIKE GARLASCO EARNS
EJHL OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK HONORS
                                                                                                                           November 18,2009

Mike Garlasco, a '90 birth year from Mahwah, New Jersey, recorded 10 points (2 goals and 8 assists) in his last
 four games with Apple Core and is riding a five-game point scoring streak. His dynamic skill set has been on
 display all season long and he now leads Apple Core with 27 points and is currently ranked 7th amongst the
 league leaders. Due in large part to the hard work and execution from Mike and linemates Chris Buquicchio and
 Patrick Guerriero, Apple Core has won four straight games. Garlasco has been receiving serious interest from
 several top Division 1 programs and looks to make his college commitment soon.
 

APPLE CORE FORWARD PATRICK GUERRIERO
TO ATTEND BABSON COLLEGE IN THE FALL 
                                                                                                                          November 15,2009

Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that forward Patrick
Guerriero will attend Babson College in the fall.  

Guerriero, a 1990 birth year from Manhattan, has played 20 games and recorded 11 goals and 6 assists for 18
 points. Guerriero becomes the 2nd player from Apple Core to commit to Babson in the organization’s history
 (Defenseman Alex DiPietro, younger brother of Islanders goaltender Rick DiPietro, is the other player).
 

 “Patty is one of those heart & soul players that brings an energy to a team that is contagious,” said Apple Core
 Head Coach Chris Cosentino. “Babson has a great program and, more importantly, it is a great school
 academically. Babson is getting a very special player and person.”

 Babson, a located in Massachusetts, competes in the ECAC East conference and is coached by Jamie Rice.
 

Red Hot ‘Core Win Four Straight
                                                                                                                            November 13,2009

Haverhill, MA – The NY Apple Core went into the Valley Showcase this past weekend
 coming on the heels of a 7-3 win over the Philadelphia Revolution where team captain
 Mark DiFruscio netted a hat trick while Kevin Kavanagh, Kevin Reich, Louie Balzano and
 Patrick Guerriero also picked up goals on the night.

 In Haverhill, Apple Core’s scoring did not slow down as they defeated the CD Selects 7-2,
 Bridgewater Bandits 5-2 and the Syracuse Stars 7-5.  

In Friday night’s win versus the CD Selects, Apple Core received 2 goals from forward Greg
 Strootman, while Patrick Guerriero, Oliver Koo, Chris Buquicchio, Cory Lillie and Louie
 Balzano all added one goal apiece. Koo also added 2 assists (to cap off a three point night)
 as did Kevin Reich, Mike Kim and Mike Garlasco. Christian Tasker, Remy Cholhan, Chris
 Buquicchio, Kevin Kavanagh ad Patrick Guerriero all added one assist each. Nick Therrien
 made 40 saves in his 7th win of the season.

 On Saturday morning, Apple Core squared off against division rival Bridgewater Bandits
 and was able to hold off a late game rally to get the 5-4 win. Mike Garlasco picked up 2
 goals in the game while Christian Tasker, Louie Balzano and Kevin Reich also scored.
 Oliver Koo registered 3 assists on the night and Kevin Reich, Chris Buquicchio, Kevin
 Kavanagh, Cory Lillie, Matt Kavanagh and goaltender Nick Therrien all added one assist
 each. Therrien made 32 saves in his 8th win of the season, which has him currently tied
for 3rd amongst the league’s best goaltenders. With about a minute left, Therrien was an
 absolute rock in net and saved the day for his team.

 Only a few hours later, Apple Core had to suit up once again to face a tough Syracuse
 Stars team. With Syracuse coming out and scoring two early goals, the ‘Core were able to
 collect themselves and score 3 goals in just over one minute to take the 3-2 lead and
 eventually go on to win 7-5. Cory Lillie and Patrick Guerriero each scored two goals, while
 Kevin Reich, Oliver Koo and Christian Tasker also scored.  Mike Garlasco and Chris
 Buquicchio each picked up 3 assists in the game, while Remy Cholhan had 2 assists and
 Kevin Reich, Kevin Kavanagh, Louie Balzano, Mike Kim, Greg Strootman and Matt Kavanagh
 all added one assist. Ryan Benitez made several huge saves throughout the game as he
 made 26 saves.  

“The boys are working hard and are filling the net due to that hard work,” said Apple Core
 Head Coach Chris Cosentino. “We definitely need to improve our play in our own end, but
 right now there is a great buzz in our locker-room and the team is ready to rock n’ roll
 every night.”

TEAM NOTES

Regular Season Record: 12-4-2-2…Apple Core travels up to Bridgewater this weekend for
 a huge two-game set. Defenseman Mike Basist suffered a minor set-back in his
 rehabilitation and is looking at a Christmas return to action.

 

Apple Core Goaltender Ryan Benitez  
Commits to Princeton University for 2011
                                                                                                                               November 13,2009

 Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior Program is proud to announce that goaltender Ryan Benitez
 has committed to play for Princeton University in 2011.

 Benitez, a ’90 birth year from Denver, becomes the 16th Ivy League commitment in the prestigious history of the
 New York Apple Core.

 "I would like to thank the Apple Core coaching staff, my teammates and my family who have made this a
 possibility for me and I look forward to a productive second half of the season with Apple Core,” said Benitez.

 In 8 appearances this season, he holds a record of 3-3-1 with 1 shutout and a 3.25 GAA and a .913 save
 percentage. Last month he earned Defensive Player of the Week honors after his 42 save performance vs. the
 CD Selects. 

 “Princeton combines a top-notch hockey program with an excellent academic reputation and I am very excited to
 be a part of it,” Benitez added. “I can’t wait for the first time I can pull on the Princeton jersey and continue my
 hockey career at such an esteemed institution.”

The New York Apple Core Junior Program would like to congratulate Ryan and the Benitez family on this great
 achievement.

 

Apple Core Stymied by
 Springfield Goaltender 
                                                                                                                               November 02,2009

Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Jr. A team hosted the Springfield Pics this past weekend and skated to a 1-1 tie on Saturday and lost 6-4 on Sunday. Despite firing 90 shots over the two-game series, Apple Core had a difficult time beating newly acquired Pics goaltender Courtney Lockwood.

On Saturday Apple Core’s Remy Cholhan scored a 3rd period power play goal to tie the game 1-1. Cholhan’s 9th goal was assisted by Christian Tasker and Jake Hoefler. Apple Core goaltender Nick
 Therrien made 33 saves in the tie, while the Pics Lockwood stopped 44 shots.

On Sunday, Apple Core received two goals from Cory Lillie – one coming while shorthanded. The line of
 Matt Kavanagh, Patrick Guerriero and Greg Strootman provided the other offense as Strootman and
 Guerriero each recorded 1 goal & 1 assist and Matt Kavanagh registered 2 assists. Kevin Reich, Kevin
 Kavanagh, Louie Balzano and Mike Garlasco all recorded one assist each. Ryan Benitez gave up 5 goals
 before being replaced by Nick Therrien in the 6-4 loss.

“It was one of those weekends where you have to tip your cap to a great goaltender and a hard working
team,” said Apple Core Head Coach Chris Cosentino. “There is honestly not too much I would change
 from this past weekend’s games, but we have to rebound and keep moving forward.”

TEAM NOTES

Apple Core season record: 8-4-2-2…Forward Chris Buquicchio will return to the lineup this weekend vs.
 Northwood…Mike Basist is skating well and still on schedule to make his Apple Core debut after
 Thanksgiving…Apple Core squares off against Northwood on Sunday November 8 at the RPI Houston
 Fieldhouse in Troy, NY – Game time is 11:15am.
 

‘Core Splits Weekend Series in Syracuse 
                                                                                                                                October 27,2009

Syracuse, NY – Despite a late rally, the New York Apple Core EJHL team lost 4-3 on Sunday and were unable to earn a weekend sweep of the Syracuse Stars.

On Saturday Apple Core defeated the Stars 7-4. Rookie Matt Kavanagh turned in a 4 point game (2 goals 2 assists). Kevin Kavanagh, Oliver Koo, Kevin Gaughran, Louie Balzano and Dominic Trento also scored for AC. Patrick Guerriero picked up 3 assists in the game, while Kevin Reich and Greg Strootman each recorded 2 assists. Arthur Griem, Louie Balzano and Dominic Trento also added 1 assist each. Goaltender Nick Therrien made 33 saves in his 5th win of the season.

On Sunday, Apple Core came out very flat and might have played one of their worst games of the season as they lost 4-3. Syracuse goaltender Anthony Cadieux was able to fend off a late flurry and shut down the ‘Core as he made 39 saves. Apple Core received goals from Remy Cholhan, Kevin Kavanagh and Cory Lillie. Oliver Koo picked up 2 assists while Kevin Kavanagh, Mark DiFruscio, Mike Garlasco and Arthur Griem also recorded 1 assist each. Apple Core goaltender Ryan Benitez made 35 saves in the losing effort.

“We are not going to win any championships giving up four goals a game while we take penalties all night,” said Apple Core Head Coach Chris Cosentino. “When we play our game there is not a team in the league that can skate with us, but we keep giving teams countless opportunities to take control and it is making our job a lot harder than it has to be. We are not here for moral victories. We need to get the job done in every shift of every period in every game – and once we can do that consistently then I will look at us as a championship caliber team. But we have a lot of work to do before we get to that point and we need to continue to get better every day and move forward.”

Team Notes

Regular Season record: 8-3-1-2…Forward Mike Kim is listed as day-to-day with a shoulder injury…Forward Chris Buquicchio is listed as day-to-day with a head injury…Defenseman Michael Basist should be back from off-season knee surgery by Thanksgiving…The team has announced the signing of  forward Nick Barbera.
 

 

APPLE CORE DEFENSEMAN KEVIN REICH EARNS
EJHL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK HONORS
                                                                                                                                  October 22,2009

The hard-nosed defenseman from Montvale, NJ scored two goals against the Jr. Bruins in a 5-5 tie, but it was his
 defensive prowess that has helped Apple Core to their red-hot start. Along with defense partner Kevin
 Kavanagh, the former Taft School captain has stepped into one of the top parings in the entire league. Reich, a
 true competitor, played a pivotal role in shutting down the Jr. Bruins, Jersey Hitmen and New Hampshire
 Monarchs at this past weekend's showcase in Hooksett. Reich is currently tied for 6th among the defensemen
 scoring leaders with 8 points (2 goals & 6 assists) in 12 games. Reich, who earned a 4.5 high school GPA and
 scored 1840 on the SAT, is proving to be one of the top defensemen in the entire Eastern Junior Hockey League
 and hopes to commit to a top collegiate program this season.

 

STRONG SHOWING AT MONARCHS SHOWCASE
HAS SCOUTS, LEAGUE BUZZING
                                                                                                                                  October 19,2009

 Hooksett, NH – After earning 4 out of 6 points at the Monarchs Showcase this past weekend against the Jr.
 Bruins, Hitmen and Monarchs, the New York Apple Core has established itself as a team to beat in the Eastern
 Junior Hockey League and has college and pro scouts buzzing.

On Friday, Apple Core squared off against the Jr. Bruins and skated to a 5-5 tie.  Boston was able to score three
 late goals to catch the ‘Core and earn a point. Apple Core received 2 goals from defenseman Kevin Reich, while
 Greg Strootman, Remy Cholhan and Cory Lillie also recorded goals. Louie Balzano and Mike Garlasco picked up 2
 assists in the contest while Cholhan, Christian Tasker, Mark DiFruscio, Dominic Trento, Kevin Kavanagh and
 Jacob Hoefler all added one assist. New York goaltender Ryan Benitez made 28 saves in the contest.

On Saturday, Apple Core fell 3-2 in overtime to the Jersey Hitmen. Forward Chris Buquicchio scored both goals
 for Apple Core (one coming while shorthanded).  Dan Fortunato and Patrick Guerriero recorded assists in the
 game. NY goaltender Nick Therrien made 32 saves.

On Sunday, Apple Core defeated the New Hampshire Monarchs 8-4. Forward Oliver Koo recorded an impressive
 5 goals in the contest. Mark DiFruscio scored 2 goals and Cory Lillie also scored. Christian Tasker and Mike
 Garlasco recorded 4 assists in the contest while Lillie also added 3 assists and DiFruscio 2 assists to cap off 4
 point games.  Remy Cholhan picked up 2 assists and Jacob Hoefler recorded 1. Goaltender Nick Therrien dazzled
 in net as he defeated his former team making 25 saves and one incredible glove save late in the game.

Despite the tough schedule Apple Core was able to earn a point in each game at the heavily scouted event and
 improved their season record to 7-2-1-2.

TEAM NOTES

Apple Core travels up to Syracuse to take on the Stars in a two game set this weekend. Forward Kevin Gaughran
 is day-to-day with a broken hand. Forward Mike Kim is day-to-day with a shoulder injury. Forward Chris
 Buquicchio is out at least a week with a head injury. Defenseman Mike Basist continues to skate and is working
 hard to return from off season knee surgery.


 


 APPLE CORE GOALTENDER RYAN BENITEZ EARNS EJHL
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK HONORS
                                                                                                                                  October 16,2009
Ryan, a 1990 birth year, is currently leading the EJHL in GAA (1.88) & Save % (.951). The Denver, CO, native is
 also a phenomenal student who boasts a 4.05 GPA, 2150 SAT and 33 ACT. This past weekend he made 42
 saves in Apple Core's 9-1 victory over the CD Selects. Due to his strong play and impressive academic
 background, Benitez is proving to be one of the most highly sought after players in the league.
 

‘CORE SWEEP CD SELECTS
Improve to 6-2-0-1
                                                                                                                                  October 12,2009

 Albany, NY – After a hard-fought, yet disappointing, series the week before where Apple Core only picked up
 one-point in an overtime loss to the Baystate Breakers, the ‘Core bounced back and swept the CD Selects 4-3
 and 9-1 in Albany.

On Saturday, Nick Therrien made 37 saves in his 3rd victory of the season. Forward Patrick Guerriero scored 2
 goals, while Mike Garlasco and Chris Buquicchio added single tallies. Rookie Matt Kavanagh recorded 3 assists in
 the game. Buquicchio, Guerriero, Dominic Trento and Kevin Reich all added 1 assist each.

On Sunday, Apple Core found their scoring touch as they defeated CD 9-1. Forward Oliver Koo scored 4 goals
 and added an assist to cap off a 5 point game. Mark DiFruscio, Remy Cholhan, Dominic Trento, Corey Lillie and
 Louie Balzano also scored for AC. Christian Tasker recorded 4 assists in the game. Jake Hoefler and Corey Lillie
 both recorded 2 assists each while Dan Fortunato, Mark DiFruscio, Kevin Reich, Chris Buquicchio, Remy Cholhan
 and Mike Garlasco all added 1 helper in the contest. Goaltender Ryan Benitez was great in net as he made 42
 saves. Benitez now leads the EJHL in goals-against-average (1.88) & save percentage (.951).

Apple Core heads up to the Monarchs Showcase to square off against the Jr. Bruins, Jersey Hitmen and NH
Monarchs.  

TEAM NOTES

Forward Kevin Gaughran is out 2-3 weeks with a broken hand…Defenseman Michael Basist is getting closer to
 making his EJHL debut as he recovers from off-season knee surgery. 
 

 
APPLE CORE WIN TWO OUT OF THREE IN MARLBORO
                                                                                                                                                                                       September 28,2009
 
Marlboro, MA – At this past weekend’s Jr. Bruins Shootout the New York Apple Core Junior A team defeated the
 Green Mountain Glades 3-2 and New England Huskies 8-0, but lost to the Jr. Bruins 7-1 in the team’s 2nd game
 of the weekend.
 
On Friday vs. the Glades, the ‘Core came roaring back from being down 0-2 and received two late game goals
 from Remy Cholhan and one from Christian Tasker. Tasker recorded a three point night. Goaltender Nick
 Therrien made 24 saves in his 2nd win of the season. Mark DiFruscio tallied two assists in the contest while
Arthur Griem and Jake Hoefler each added one helper a piece.
 
“We showed our character coming back late in our third consecutive game against Green Mountain,” said Head
 Coach Chris Cosentino. “I think we had a rough first half, but were mature enough to pick up our game and get
 the job done which was nice to see.”
 
On Saturday morning the ‘Core lost to the Jr. Bruins, 7-1. Apple Core’s lone goal was scored by Louie Balzano on
 the power play from Kevin Reich and Remy Cholhan.
 
“We got an old-fashioned butt kicking,” said Cosentino. “The Bruins are a good team, but we just were not
 prepared to compete against their speed and talent level. It was a good eye opener for our guys.”
 
On Saturday night, New York bounced back from their 7-1 loss to the Jr. Bruins and beat the Huskies 8-0.
 Goaltender Ryan Benitez made 17 saves in the shutout. Mike Garlasco scored twice in the game while, Chris
 Buquicchio, Louie Balzano, Mark DiFruscio, Christian Tasker, Corey Lillie and Patrick Guerriero all picked up
 single tallies. Garalasco had a four point night while Remy Cholhan added three assists in the game and Kevin
 Reich added two assists.
 
“Every coach always wants to see how their team will bounce back from a tough loss and I was happy with the
 way we responded in that game,” said Cosentino. “We have a very good foundation of character in our
 lockerroom. We just have to be more prepared to handle grind and compete hard every shift.”
 
 
Apple Core has a big series at home this weekend vs. the Bay State Breakers. Both teams will be battling for sole
 possession of 1st place in the Southern Division. Game time on Saturday, October 3rd is 7:30 pm and Sunday,
 October 4th at 10 am at Long Beach Arena.
 
Team Notes
Defenseman Mike Basist has begun light skating and his rehabbing well from off season knee surgery. Forward
 Kevin Gaughran is listed as day-to-day as he recovers from an upper body injury. Forward Greg Strootman is
 listed day-to-day with a groin injury.
 

APPLE CORE SWEEP GLADES 
                                                                                                                                                                                       September 20,2009

Long Beach, NY – The New York Apple Core Junior ‘A’ team came out of the gate firing on all cylinders as they
 swept the Green Mountain Glades, 3-2 & 6-1, respectively. Apple Core received excellent goaltending
 performances in both games from newcomers Nick Therrien and Ryan Benitez.

 In Saturday’s 3-2 win, Therrien made 41 saves in his first win in an Apple Core uniform. Patrick Guerriero netted
 two goals and Chris Buquicchio also added a goal for the ‘Core. Greg Strootman recorded two assists while Mike
 Garlasco and Corey Lillie registered one assist each.

 “Nick (Therrien) was great in net and we received some timely goals,” said Head Coach Chris Cosentino. “We
 did a good job controlling the game in the third period.”  

In Sunday’s 6-1 win, Benitez made 41 saves as he defeated his old team. Apple Core received goals from six
different players: Patrick Guerriero, Remy Cholhan, Mike Garlasco, Chris Buquicchio, Christian Tasker and
Dominic Trento. Dan Fortunato, Mark DiFruscio and Louie Balzano all recorded two assists each. Mike Kim, Corey
 Lillie, Greg Strootman and Matt Kavanagh all picked up one assist each in the game. Buquicchio and Tasker also
 added one assist each to each of their goals.  

“It was a big win for Ryan (Benitez),” said Cosentino. “I think we found success in our aggressive puck pursuit,
which is still an aspect of our game we will be improving all season long.”

 Apple Core will squares off against Green Mountain once again on Friday at the Jr. Bruins Shootout in Marlboro,
 MA. The ‘Core will also play the Jr. Bruins and Huskies at the Showcase.
 

MARK DiFRUSCIO NAMED EJHL CAPTAIN
EJ Team finishes training camp, preps for pre-season 

August  30th, 2009
 

Long Beach, NY – EJHL head coach Chris Cosentino announced that
 forward Mark DiFruscio has been named team captain for the 2009-10
season. DiFruscio, who hails from St. David’s, Ontario, was the team’s
 leading scorer last season with 17 goals and 25 assists for 42 points in
 43 EJHL contests.

 The EJ team recently completed the most challenging training camp in
 the organization’s history. Over the course of five ten-hour work days,
 the team.

underwent more than 10 hours of on-ice training, intense dry-land
training (which included an exhausting four mile run on the Long Beach
 boardwalk) and numerous video and team meetings.

The team’s pre-season schedule includes the Hartford Wolfpack
 Showcase (9/5-9/6) and Woodchuck Showcase (9/11-9/13). The Apple
 Core 2009-10 EJHL season begins at home on September 19th and 20th
  against the Green Mountain Glades.

 “The boys are working hard,” said head coach Chris Cosentino. “We
 still have a lot of work to do, but I like the way we are developing as a
 team.”