There's a new coach across town as well for the Freedom boys' lacrosse program, as John Piccone enters the fold for the Patriots this season.

While expectations may be tempered from last year's squad, Piccone is pleased with the effort put forward by the Pates.

"These boys have answered my expectations for this season," said Piccone. "I did not know what to expect but these are a good talented bunch of kids."

Senior Brendan Driscoll and junior Alex Bush lead the attack, while John McGinty (Jr, MF) Joe Dittmar (Jr, D), Nick Kopko (Sr, D) and Hunter Hostage (Sr, G) also spearhead the Pates squad.

"Our biggest strengths this year are our attack and goalie," Piccone said. "Our biggest team strengths are how our kids play together. We have a mixed bag of under classmen and upperclassmen."

As far as play on the field, Piccone knows where his team needs to improve as he dissects this year's group.

"It would be running out clears and our long game due to having more gym time then being able to go outside," he said. "We had some indoor turf time at the various places, but it's not the same as going outside."

Coming off a 6-9 campaign a year ago, where the team finished 5-5 in conference play, the Pates will have their hands full in a competitive EPC that features top teams like Emmaus, Easton and Parkland.