NEW PALTZ — New Paltz sophomore Mario Lavacca (Port Washington, NY) was recently named All-Region by the National Soccer Coaches’ Association of America. Lavacca was named to the Third Team. Mario is the first Men’s Soccer player to be recognized since Matthew Faline (Warwick,NY) and Thomas Anson (Lake Ronkonkoma, NY) received the same distinction in 1997.
“Mario changed the complexion of the game when he played,” said Head Coach Stuart Robinson. “His deceptive quickness for a big man made him a central player for us. He was injured for a portion of the season and we were a different team without him. Every opposing team this season keyed on him as far as defensive strategy.” In fact, the Hawks, who finished the season 7-11 were 1-6 without him in the lineup.
“It’s tremendous for Mario to receive an honor like this,” said Assistant Coach Chris Gondek. “He’s without a doubt our most dangerous player. He’s got the rare capability to simply take over a game.”
Lavacca attended P.D. Schreiber HS and played club ball with Bavarian Hota. A participant in a number of elite club soccer tournaments prior to attending New Paltz, Lavacca has brought that high level of achievement to the men’s soccer team. A two time All-SUNYAC selection, Mario was SUNY New Paltz’ leading scorer for the second year in a row. He managed to score nine goals and assist three others while seeing limited action in the second half of the season due to an ankle injury.
