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Chaminade Flyers Ready to Soar: Kemp’s Squad Eyes Catholic League Glory

Special thanks to Metamorphosis Landscape Design for sponsoring this year’s series

by Ryan Manno

After a dramatic ending to last season, the Chaminade Flyers enter the spring determined to build on their foundation and compete for the Nassau-Suffolk Catholic League championship. Head coach Pat Kemp believes the team is ready to start strong and carry momentum throughout the season.

“The biggest goal every year is to win the Long Island Catholic championship,” Kemp said. “Last season we laid a strong foundation within the organization and this year we want to build on that and take it to the next level. Ultimately, we want to be at our best when it matters most, both on the field and as a team.”

Last season ended in heartbreak for the Flyers, losing a best-of-three championship series to Kellenberg, with each game being decided by a single run. Kemp reflected on the lessons the team took from that experience.

“What it showed us is that we clicked at the right time, but we were about .500 during the regular season,” Kemp said. “This year, we want to get going early, establish momentum, and carry that through the playoffs. We can’t wait until the end of the year to play our best baseball.”

The Flyers will move forward without one of the most impactful players in recent program history. Collin Anderson, a Duke freshman and the Catholic League Offensive Player of the Year, hit over .500, leader in several offensive categories and served as one of the team’s captains. Kemp praised Anderson’s leadership and contributions.

“Colin’s production and leadership are going to be missed,” Kemp said. “But we’re confident in the seniors and juniors stepping up. It takes all nine guys on the field and all 28 on the roster to win, and this team understands that. Leadership doesn’t just come from titles; it comes from how you show up every day and how you hold each other accountable.”

Offensively, Kemp expects returning players to be the foundation of the lineup. Nolan Fernandez, an All-League first baseman who led the team in RBIs last season, is one of those players.

“Nolan is an unselfish player,” Kemp said. “He knows when to drive in runs, when to move a runner over, and how to set the tone for the lineup. We want him to continue leading by example.”

Shortstop Jake Madsen, a Catholic commit, is another key returning contributor. He played pivotal roles in last year’s playoff series, including a game winning RBI in Game 1 against Kellenberg. Kemp believes Madsen’s experience will be crucial this season.

“Jake has shown he can rise to the occasion,” Kemp said. “He’s a steady presence in the middle of the infield and a leader on the field, and we expect him to continue producing in big moments.”

Outfielder Bryce Valls is expected to make a major impact this season. Kemp said the team is looking for the 6’4 junior to have a breakout campaign. He’s put up some impressive metrics including a 101 exit velocity and a 6.5 60-yard dash.

“Bryce showed flashes last year,” Kemp said. “He has the talent to be a difference maker in the outfield and at the plate. We’re excited to see what he can do this season.”

Pitching will again define the Flyers’ identity. Kemp is confident in a deep and talented staff.

“Our pitching staff has a lot of experience returning this year,” Kemp said. “Carlos Pereira is one of our senior anchors. He’s committed to Queens College and has been a rock in the rotation, especially in big games. Jack Pfeifer, committed to Molloy, forms a dynamic duo with Carlos. He’s reliable, competitive, and thrives under pressure. Nicholas Sweeney was called up from JV last year and pitched a gem in Game 1 of the championship. He’s shown poise beyond his years and will be counted on.

Andrew Caramico, committed to St. John’s, brings consistency and experience and has the potential to shutdown any lineup. He held the opposition to a .193 AVG last season and sits in the upper 80s and has touched 91. Jason Sudol, committed to LeMoyne College, is returning from injury and has the talent to make a major impact this season. Junior Christos Dimitrakakis, the tall right-handed pitcher committed to Villanova, adds depth and versatility to our rotation. He has recently seen a jump in velocity from the low-to-mid 80s to touching 90.

Sebastian LoGiudice, a crafty southpaw, saw valuable innings on JV last year and is expected to toss meaningful innings for the Flyers. Additionally, sophomore Christian Calabro has impressed in the offseason, showing the potential to contribute right away.

“Pitching Coach Joe Romero preaches unselfishness,” Kemp said. “Everyone has to be ready when their number is called. We can’t rely on just one or two guys. Success this season is going to come from the entire staff stepping up.

The coaching staff expects this depth to pay off throughout the season.

“We’re very confident in both our rotation and bullpen,” Kemp said. “These guys know the culture, they know what’s expected, and they’re ready to perform. Pitching will be the backbone of this team, and I’m excited to see what they do.”

Leadership will continue to be a major factor for the Flyers. Kemp highlighted the role of his three captains: Pereira, Fernandez, and Matthew Manopella.

“They lead by example,” Kemp said. “Leadership isn’t about the loudest voice in the room. It’s about how you show up every day, how you practice, and how you support your teammates. The senior class drives this team, but anyone can step up and be a leader.”

Chaminade opens the season at home against St. John the Baptist, a team Kemp has a personal connection with from his early coaching days.

“That first game is important,” Kemp said. “I got my coaching start in the Catholic League at SJB, and it’s great to go back and play my old team. Their shortstop is one of the best in the league. We beat them, 7-4, in the playoffs last year, and this game is about setting the tone for the season. We want to be ready from the first pitch.”

Kemp also emphasized the Flyers’ overall team identity and philosophy heading into the season.

“We want to be a balanced team,” Kemp said. “Pitching and defense are paramount, and offensively, it’s about taking advantage of mistakes and playing smart baseball. We want to instill the motto of 90 feet. Take advantage of 90 feet and don’t give away 90 feet. If we do that, we can compete with anyone in the league.”

With returning talent, pitching depth, and leadership from both upperclassmen and juniors, Kemp believes the Flyers are poised for a successful season.

“This season isn’t just about winning a championship,” Kemp said. “It’s about building a program, developing players, and creating a culture that lasts. We have the talent, the mindset, and the work ethic to compete at the highest level, and I’m excited to see what this group can accomplish.”