David Bucchino won’t be in net when the next Bow boys lacrosse season starts, but he’ll still have an impact in the crease.

In addition to working closely with his protege during practices, the recently graduated Bucchino steadied the Falcons en route to a second consecutive Division II title, earning him the honor of Indian Head Athletics Athlete of the Month for June.

During Bow’s three postseason contests, Bucchino allowed just under six goals per game, but it wasn’t only his work during games that impressed Falcons mentor Chris Gaudreau.

“He’s just got it. His talent as far as being a leader and getting other kids to follow is even more impressive,” said Gaudreau. “Not only does he have talent, but he carries himself in exactly the way you’d want him to.”

Next year, the Falcons turn to a junior netminder with little varsity experience. John Fanaras was the backup goalie this year, and he was able to soak in a great deal of advice from Bucchino, a fellow left-hander.

“There have been a lot of skills I picked up from him, from hugging the post and keeping the angles,” said Fanaras. “I also got to see the way he handled himself in a lot of big situations. He holds his composure very well, and that’s something that every goalie should take into consideration.”

Both Fanaras and Gaudreau said Bucchino carries the same intensity he has during games while on the practice field.

Bucchino, who plans to play lacrosse at Elmira College next year, said it will be difficult to move on from the Falcons, yet he knows he’s leaving the team in good hands with Fanaras taking his place.

“I told him before I left that he had big shoes to fill, but he’s ready. I have a lot of confidence in him,” said Bucchino. “They gave me a lot of respect. It’ll be really hard for me to leave, but I definitely went out with a big bang.”

During the end-of-year awards ceremony at the high school, Bucchino was given the Male Sportsmanship Award – not just for the spring season, but for the entire year.

Gaudreau will miss Bucchino next season, both on and off the field.

“He’s really a coach’s dream,” said Gaudreau. “He attacks the ball, and he makes saves that you wouldn’t expect him to be able to make. Every game there were four or five goals that he kept off the board. He just saved us.”

(Editor’s note: The Athlete of the Month receives a $50 gift certificate courtesy of Indian Head Athletics.)