Freedom is always a postseason staple in boys lacrosse and the Patriots figure to be back in the mix again this season.

The Pates return a veteran group following their 8-10 finish last year and look to be back in contention this year.

Back for the Freedom this year are Nicholas Lyden (Junior, Midfield); Connor Depaolis (Junior, Attack); Jaxson Stametz (Junior, Goalie); Gabriel Solivan (Senior, Midfield); Tyler Grillo (Senior, Attack); Brady James (Senior, Defense); Chase Sipel (Junior, Midfield); Miles Andreas (Junior, Attack); Thomas Ray (Senior, Attack); Liam Sipel (Junior, Defense/LSM) and Dominick Aurin (Sophomore, Defense).

Newcomers include freshmen Matthew Lyden (Midfield); Nick Silva (Midfield) and Mason James (Defense).

“We are returning a good amount of guys from last year’s team,” said first-year head coach RJ Guffy. “We have a bunch of younger guys filling roles on both sides of the ball. Returning our starting goalie is huge for us to quarterback the defense. All of our leading scorers are back, so that’s always nice to have. Looking forward to compete and look to be successful.”

Freedom opens their season this week against Central Catholic.