Huntington JV Girls’ Soccer Up for a Challenge

The Huntington High School junior varsity girls’ soccer team played hard this fall under head coach Maria Canino. The squad was captained by Olivia Corcoran, Gianna Skrobela and Anabella Rafailan.

“Our biggest team accomplishment was the growth these girls showed,” Canino said. “At the beginning of the season we were low in numbers and struggled a bit with competing with other teams. By the end of this season the girls were able to come together and show how much they improved, many times receiving compliments from referees who had seen them play earlier in the season.”

The Blue Devil JV was led by sophomore goalkeeper Nicolina Santoli, sophomore forward Anabella Rafailan, freshman midfield Gianna Skrobela, freshmen defenders Olivia Corcoran and Makenzie Conklin and eighth grader Molly Barba.

Canino praised her top players:

Nicolina Santoli: “She showed so much growth this year and had so many saves on the season,” Canino said. “She really prevented so many possible goals.”

Anabella Rafailan: “Anabella played a huge role on our team this year,” Canino said. “Named as one of our captains, she truly led this team by example. She was also a major playmaker on the field for us up top.”

Gianna Skrobela: “She is one of our toughest players, always reliable and able to be a playmaker,” Canino said. “Gianna is also a huge benefit because she is able to play multiple positions successfully.”

Olivia Corcoran: “She really protected us in the back,” Canino said. “Olivia was able to take control of the back of the field and show how strong of a defender she is with her knowledge, skill and speed.”

Mackenzie Conklin: “She is someone who really broke out of her shell this season,” Canino said. “Conklin’s dedication, hard work and skill made her a main player to count on this season.”

Molly Barba: “Absolute playmaker in the middle,” Canino said. “Molly is someone who when she’s on the field, she has a presence and a very good one.”

“This team was up for a challenge this year,” Canino said. “I have a lot of respect for these girls and their hard work.”