The John Jay Alumni Lacrosse Game Returns and Builds Bridge

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On Friday November 24, The John Jay Alumni Lacrosse game was back after a 15 year absence. At Contest Field, the intent of the match up is to bridge the gap between the youth program, the varsity program and the alums. “We’re trying to keep the legacy and heritage alive all the way down to the youngest players,” said Matt

McMahon of John Jay Youth Lacrosse. The main reason the event was held right after the youth clinic, there was actually a lot more at stake.

“I’m going to try not to get hurt,” Mark Gillen voiced the inescapable concern.

In this, his game plan carefully took into account the 33 years that have passed since he last played. “I’m just going to plant myself right in the crease,” the 1990 grad explained without shame.

In full compliance as a younger alum, Finn O’Callaghan paid proper heed to making sure the first aid kits stayed closed. “We’re going to watch out for their knees,” the 2022 grad assured.

Molly Gallagher, on the other hand, wasn’t as forgiving of all the old fellas. “I played last year. They don’t have a lot of mobility,” the John Jay goalie deadpanned with good cheer.

Of course, there’s more to slinging the rock than just youth, agility and peak conditioning, according to Vince Foti. “I’m still going right at these guys. I’ll show them what manhood does to your game,” the 2015 playfully faked bravado.

Not even trying, Scott Vaccaro freely conceded the limitations of his age. “I’m just going to find someone slower than me to cover,” joked the 1996 grad.

Maybe not so funny for his daughter, who didn’t try to hide how much embarrassment she’d endure with him on the field. “A lot,” Layla Vaccaro said.

Obviously kidding, the school age kid was proud and confident that dad would still measure up. “I think he’ll do good,” said the young lacrosse player.

Scott also had the backing of his wife - however tenuous. “I’m scared, but I believe in him” said Megan Vaccaro. “He’s got skills.”

No doubt Jackson Reiger has them, he scored the first goal. Quickly finding a seat on the bench, his stamina was another matter. “It’s good to be out there with all the boys,” the 2017 grad huffed and puffed his celebration.

Foti didn’t roll over either - despite an effort that took one on the chin. “I had two shots and got laid out,” the former middie stood tall.

Dan Rosell remained upright too. “I feel like I never left,” he drenched himself in sarcasm.

In step, his wife doled an equal dose. “He’s kicking butt,” she held back her smile.

Dan’s daughter did not dance around the truth, though. “He’s hilarious,” Nina Rosell assured.

So with a measured take needed, Luca Duva delivered amongst all the fun. “They can move, I’m impressed,” the John Jay senior said. “They got stick skills too but need some oil on the gears.”

All in good fun, Declan Whelan encapsulated the day’s actual sentiment for everyone. “The game brings a sense of community, and I’m proud to be here,” concluded the 2023 grad.