Ravens Roundup

Surrounded by his family and coaches, Luca Sanders '24 signs with Denison University to play lacrosse. Image from fall 2023.

Mitch Canuel '25.

Julia Poore '27.

Kristine Keswic named head coach for girls varsity volleyball.

Ravens Roundup

Luca Sanders ’24 Plays in U20 European Lacrosse Championship for Italy

Italia Lacrosse participated in the European Men’s U20 Championship in July in Wroclaw, Poland. On the roster was 2024 graduate Luca Sanders. It was a historic milestone for the first Italian Under 20 team and for Sanders as well. The team’s entrance on the world stage was marked by a debut match against host nation Poland following the opening ceremonies. Italia suffered a 9-3 defeat but gained three victories within eight days and challenging matches. They ended their campaign with three wins and four losses with a 19-3 victory over Latvia.

New England Baseball Journal Highlights Mitchell Canuel ’25

A recent New England Baseball Journal issue highlighted Abbey Raven Mitchell Canuel ’25 as part of its “Prep Insider” feature, noting the Westport, Massachusetts native has continued “a steady upward trajectory.”

During the past season, Canuel was 6-2, allowing just six earned runs while striking out 47 and walking only six opponents in 47 innings. He batted .349, with 22 hits and 19 RBIs. His ERA was O.89. He swiped 15 bases in 15 attempts and earned All-NEPSAC and EIL First team for a second consecutive year.

In the Journal article, Derek Gittus, who completed his twenty-first year as head baseball coach at Portsmouth Abbey, noted that Canuel’s high baseball IQ was evident upon arrival as a first-year student in 2021. “Despite his youth, he started every game for us that spring as a shortstop, catcher or relief pitcher. His strong passion for baseball spread among his teammates. Our young team grew around him as he grew as a player, and we won the EIL title,” Gittus said.

Canuel chose to attend a NEPSAC school to secure a high-quality education while also securing the competition and exposure needed to play at the college level. “The talent is intense and challenging,” Canuel said in the article. “You’re not only playing with other kids with the same mentality and aspirations but also against other schools with high standards.”

At 5-foot-8, 155 pounds, Canuel has attended several showcases to demonstrate his abilities in front of multiple college programs. During the summer, he is coached by his father, Freddie, who founded the Mass Rebels travel team. He admits he is grateful for the time his father has invested in him over the years while also acknowledging that playing for your dad is not always easy.

Visualizing a college career has helped Canuel mature in his approach to baseball. He works diligently in his classes and pays attention to diet, sleep and detailed workouts.

“Moving forward, I want to continue to work hard in the classroom and during my training,” Canuel said. “I will be focusing on strength and conditioning this fall. I am looking to play at the collegiate level, ideally as a two-way player, while also attending a strong academic college.”

Canuel has also been named captain of the 2025 Ravens team, which is looking to earn another championship title.

Julia Poore ’27 Participates in The New Balance All-America Games

The New Balance All-America Game is one of the definitive gatherings for the lacrosse elite. With rosters assembled through tryouts across the country, Abbey Raven Julia Poore ’27 represented the School as a member of the Conny team in the Command division of the underclass games held in Elkridge, Maryland, at the end of July.

"Julia’s speed makes her a dangerous attacker,” says Assistant Athletic Director Julia DellaRusso, head coach for girls varsity lacrosse. “She defeats her defenders one-on-one, so opposing teams know she is a threat. I know when the ball gets into Julia's stick, it will always find the back of the net.” DellaRusso added.

Poore led the team with both goals and assists, earning EIL All-League and an honorable mention on the All-NEPSAC team.

Kristen Keswick Named Portsmouth Abbey Girls Varsity Volleyball Head Coach

Kristen Keswick has arrived on campus and is ready to serve as head coach for girls varsity volleyball.

A former Amherst College player, Keswick has worked with several youth and club volleyball organizations and coached at the collegiate level at Rivier College. She strives to build relationships with her players and create a positive team environment where every player can succeed. She became familiar with NEPSAC sports while supporting her daughter, who played volleyball and basketball at Tabor Academy before moving on to play at the collegiate level.

“The Portsmouth Abbey girls volleyball program is one of the premier programs on campus. We have two full teams that compete at the highest level against some of the best competition in New England. As we went through the hiring process, Coach Keswick stood out amongst the other candidates we interviewed because of her passion for working with young people and her commitment to a positive athletic experience,” said Director of Athletics Chris Milmoe. “I can’t wait to see what this year brings,” he added.

Preseason Snapshots

The weather could not have been more cooperative for preseason as Raven athletes headed back to campus. With the school year upon us, we look forward to the competition ahead and know that, as this year’s athletic theme states, our Ravens are "Stronger Together."

View Preseason album