Lynnfield Football Team Prepares for Fall with Determination

The Lynnfield football team is gearing up for its fall season, having engaged in a rigorous summer of training that includes weightlifting, 7v7 leagues, and conditioning routines. With the preseason set to officially begin on August 15, 2024, the team faces the challenge of filling significant gaps after the departure of a talented senior class, considered one of the strongest under head coach Pat Lamusta since his tenure began in 2018.

The impact of last year’s senior class was evident as the Pioneers secured every major accolade in the postseason Cape Ann League All-Star selections. Notable achievements included Tyler Adamo being named Most Valuable Player, Madux Iovinelli receiving Offensive Player of the Year, Jared Bernabei and Jesse Dorman earning Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Year, respectively. The team also established numerous new program records across various gameplay phases.

With a substantial number of starters lost, Lamusta sees this as an opportunity for both returning and new players to showcase their skills and earn playing time. This potential was on display during the annual Northeast 7v7 East Regional Tournament at Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody. The Pioneers began their tournament with a hard-fought 14-8 victory over Wilmington and later faced eventual champions St. Mary’s, losing 22-12. They bounced back with a 26-16 win against Salem, ultimately finishing the tournament with a 2-2 record and securing the second seed for the playoffs.

Despite being eliminated in the first round by Greater Lowell with a score of 20-16, tri-captains Matt Tracy, Ben Gazit, and Luke DiSilvio expressed optimism about the team’s performance. Tracy acknowledged the pressure of stepping into the quarterback position previously held by Adamo, stating, “I’m just trying to pick up where the team left off last year.” He highlighted the team’s strong offensive showing, with standout performances from players like Dan Lemieux, who scored three touchdowns.

DiSilvio emphasized the team’s readiness for the upcoming season, noting their improved offensive performance in their final pool-play game against Salem. Gazit, a linebacker, remarked on the team’s enhanced communication on the field, which he believes will serve them well as they move closer to the start of the season.

The Pioneers continued their preparation by participating in the 7v7 Passing League in Lynnfield, where they faced off against local teams including Woburn, Essex Tech, Peabody, Triton, and Beverly. Lamusta pointed out the benefits of 7v7 play, stating, “It’s a great opportunity for the players to build camaraderie and chemistry,” while also allowing individuals to refine their skills in various aspects of the game.

Last season, the Pioneers achieved an impressive undefeated record in the Cape Ann League, winning the Baker Division title with a 4-0 record. This accomplishment marked their second consecutive league title and solidified their dominance within the league, having claimed nine titles in the last twelve seasons. The previous campaign ended in disappointment, however, with a narrow 36-34 loss to Fairhaven in the quarterfinals of the Division 6 state tournament.

As the team looks forward to the new season, Gazit has set ambitious goals. “The goal is to get back to where we were and do at least one better than that,” he stated confidently, believing the Pioneers possess the talent to achieve their aspirations. With a blend of returning experience and new energy, the Lynnfield football team is set to embark on another challenging yet promising season.