Cicero-North Syracuse’s first major examination should come against New Hartford on September 12. The matchup brings together programs that have dominated their respective classes in recent seasons, with the report describing both as defending champions.
Cicero-North Syracuse reportedly defeated Liverpool 2-0 in last year’s Class AAA final. Liverpool will have another chance to make an impact when it meets Baldwinsville on September 28, a rematch of the previous sectional semifinal decided on penalties.
Class AA again appears to revolve around West Genesee and East Syracuse Minoa, finalists in the last three editions. West Genesee reportedly won the latest meeting 1-0, adding another sectional crown before losing to eventual state champion Albertus Magnus in regional play.
The rivals meet twice in the regular season, on September 15 and October 8. East Syracuse Minoa also begins a new coaching chapter with Dan Kincaid, whose first reported test is against Cicero-North Syracuse on September 10.
New Hartford is aiming for a sixth straight Class A sectional title after reportedly overwhelming Jamesville-DeWitt 5-0 in last year’s final. Coach Frank Duross Jr. has acknowledged the departure of experienced players, while pointing to a blend of younger arrivals and returning veterans.
That balance will be tested against Marcellus on September 12 at the Hall of Fame tournament in Watertown. Marcellus reportedly owns the last two Class B state titles, adding weight to an early-season meeting New Hartford won 3-1 last September.
Sectional play is scheduled to begin on October 20, with finals on November 1 and the state championship stage on November 15. The next storyline is whether the established champions can turn early-season pressure into another deep postseason run.