Rebuilding or Reloading?

Coming off a third place finish last season in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference and the loss of three starters to graduation including record setting midfielder Tim Hamill and five key reserve players, some would think that John Amorim's team will be in a rebuilding year. Not Coach Amorim. He feels very confident about his returning players along with the talented recruiting class he brought in this year.

Heading the list of returnees is senior Joe Dolchanczyk, juniors Aurelio Nestico and Kevin MacKenzie, and sophomore Al Hewitt. Coach Amorim expects these guys to elevate their play with the huge loss of talent from last year's team. "I feel very confident is these players' ability to lead on the field. Joe has a tremendous ability to read the game and positions himself very well as our sweeper. Aureilo is a very talented forward with skill in both feet. Kevin and Al are tremendous ball winners, and are relentless in their play. None of these guys want to lose and it is that kind of attitude that will filter onto the other players on the team."

The goalkeeping position is wide open this year with three very talented keepers vying for the starting spot. "Last year, we felt Evan Nash was the most consistent goalkeeper. We also have two others who are very capable and just as talented in Kevin Pennell and Chris Augustine. The spot is wide open this year and I will enjoy seeing the guys compete."

Coach Amorim also brought in some talented freshmen players to help fill the voids left by graduation. Heading the list of newcomers include James Latronica, Ed Szambelak, Chris Glover, and Gus Alegria. Coach Amorim believes that each one of these players will be immediate contributors and will be vying for starting positions.

This year, the Tigers will compete in a tough Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference and non-conference schedule. "We will again be challenged with tough conference and non-conference games this season. However, we feel that by playing better competition during the season will help us in post-season play" commented Coach Amorim. Amorim believes that conditioning and consistency will be crucial to the team's success. "The players know what they needed to do over the summer. If they come back ready and in shape, I feel we will be successful." commented Coach Amorim.

This year's goal, as always, is to capture a conference title. This year's team looks like it is set to do just that. Only time will tell.