Explosive Offense Propels Blue Devil JV Girls’ Soccer
An explosive offense propelled the Huntington High School junior varsity girls’ soccer team this fall. Four players combined to score 30 goals as the Blue Devils won 10 games.
Captained by sophomores Alexandra Lourenso and Cathryn Ricciardelli, the 21 player team was coached by Maria Canino. Huntington compiled a 9-4-1 mark in league play and went 10-5-1 overall.
“Our biggest accomplishment was the growth these girls had in their skill, awareness on the field and control as the season progressed,” Canino said. “The turning point came when we lost to West Islip on a penalty kick, 1-0. The girls played so well and so together. I think that’s when they realized they could compete with tough teams. We took that moment and moved forward. They worked hard at practice and we saw positive results because of their willingness to commit.”
Ricciardelli paced the team with 11 goals from her forward position. “Catie was a lead force for the team,” Canino said. “She had a great mental approach to the game. Catie is a very mature player and I can’t wait to watch her continue her career in this program.”
Freshman offensive midfield Natalie Gonzalez found the back of the net nine times. “Natalie is a very skillful ninth grader who has the ability to score from anywhere in the box,” Canino said.
Sophomore outside midfield Grace Connell tallied six goals and sophomore defensive midfield Amber Stieve had four goals. The Blue Devils’ offensive depth allowed the team to win eight games by two or more goals.
“This was a great team to work with,” Canino said. “The girls worked very well together to achieve a common goal. They worked hard and stayed focused throughout the season. I am very proud of them for that.”
Canino was also pleased with the steady improvement demonstrated by her team. The Blue Devils lost 5-0 to Smithtown West on September 9 before topping the Bulls a month later, 2-1. Huntington lost to North Babylon early in the year, 4-2. Three weeks later the Blue Devils tied the Bulldogs, 1-1.
In addition to the team’s captains and leading goal scorers, the Blue Devil roster included Christina Aureliano, Megan Bacik, Katherine Burton, Niamh Condon, Isabella Floro, Hailey Gallagher, Paige Lennon, Kiara Rafailan, Jacqueline Salgado, Bridgette Starr, Julia Tesoriero, Sarah White, Jenna Yabroudy and Alexandra Gerbavsits.
“I am hoping for everyone to return next year so we can build,” Canino said. “I expect some players to advance to varsity, as well.”