East finishes fifth in ECIC II

Williamsville East finished the regular season portion of its schedule in fifth place in ECIC Division II.

The Flames were 4-8 in league play and 4-10 overall. East hosted Lew-Port on Tuesday in a Section VI Class A prequarterfinal. The winner plays at 6 p.m. on Thursday at Eden.

East's regular-season wins came over Williamsville South, twice, Iroquois and Lake Shore.

During the season, East coach Randy Ball said his team was competitive and most matches went three games.

"We knew it was going to be a rebuilding year so our record wasn't a surprise," said Ball. "With a little bit of luck, we could have easily have been 7-5."

"We were starting some first-year players at several positions," he continued. "These players were learning on the fly. The team managed to stay together through the ups and downs of the season, so I can say that I am very proud of them for fighting through those tough times."

Ball said the team's strongest players were senior setter Chris Schiumo and 6-foot-7 junior middle hitter Mark Rutecki.

"Chris had a very good year," said Ball. "He provided leadership as the captain and ran the offense. He had to keep the team composed even when we weren't playing well."

"Mark had a great year and with a stronger supporting cast, would be getting more recognition for his play," he added. "He led the team in blocks, kills and was one of our team's best passers. Mark works very hard in practice and should be a very strong player next year and could be one of the stronger players in the area."