The boys’ varsity soccer team had an extreme season of challenges and successes. After starting off the season with some losses, the team was able to rise above, prove what they were capable of, and have a memorable season.
By far the most standout moment was the team beating the previous county champions, Wayne Hills, not once, but twice. The first time, they won by a score of 2-1 and then 1-0. These wins showed that the team was capable of a challenge and it set the tone about what they could achieve.
The boys’ soccer team brought their all to the Passaic County Tournament. Once the county bracket started, the team won the first round against Paterson Charter. The game was won at 2-1 after a tough match ending in overtime.
Continuing, the boys qualified for the state tournament, and while they were the 12th seed, that did not stop them. They came out extremely strong against the 5th seed, the Manchester Falcons. Starting the game down 1-0, the team continued to persevere and ended the game beating Manchester 2-1.
Photo courtesy of LRHS
The entire team played their own parts, but some players stood out this season. Junior Michael DaSilva led the team, ending the season with 11 goals and 25 points in total. DaSilva played a huge part in the team’s overall successes.
On the defensive side, they could not have done it without goalie Benjamin Kasko. Kasko had a strong 65 saves only a month into the season, which unfortunately stopped short due to an injury. Soon after, Hayden Whitaker-Currie stepped up as goalie ending the season with 85 saves, helping the team succeed.
The team’s positive results during the season were also due in part to head coach David Falcon, whose leadership and belief in his players kept the team together through wins and losses. Along with captains Maximus McCrohan, William Lopez, Steven Alicea, and Derek Schneider, the players showed extreme dedication and determination for the team, ending the season with an 8-11 record.
While there were some tough losses, the team never failed to continually work hard and keep the momentum going. Under Falcon’s direction, the team’s wins proved that hard work, belief, and teamwork can turn any season into something truly memorable.
