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Another look at 2017 City Footfest

By Joe Palladino

WATERBURY – When something works, even if we were against it, we’ll admit it: Jamboree Day at Municipal Stadium was brilliant.

I was told that attendance for the city football jamboree on

If you arrived at the Stadium at noon, as I did, for the soccer jamboree then you have your own story to tell about what it was like when dozens of cars tried to exit the parking lot as dozens of cars arrived.

It was Times Square, Piccadilly and Shibuya Crossing all rolled into one. And it was good. Municipal Stadium should be a crossroad for city sports, even if that crossroad gets crazy.

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The city soccer jamboree kicked off seven non-stop hours of play at 1 p.m.

In an effort to move things along, the time between matches was shaved a bit, which taxed officials a tad, but, the ball never stopped rolling.

Since there was no trouble to speak of at the football jamboree this year, I suggest that we give the soccer kids the early start time next year, no? Certainly, that will not happen. Jamming the jamborees into one day wasn’t perfect, but it was as close to a perfect day as The Muni has ever hosted.

Jamboree 2017: We were two matches into the jamboree on Saturday and one thing was evident: The level of play was noticeably improved. I asked a soccer aficionado, “Is it me, or do we see something good going on here?” He agreed. The jamboree took a giant step forward.

Here’s one reason why: Teams had more training days this year, and most had already scrimmaged. The jamboree has been played in the past less than one week after practice opened. This time, teams had up to 10 days of training, not five. The difference was noticeable.

Between the CIAC’s first approved day of practice until opening day, soccer teams, all teams except football, have 15 training days, and that includes two Sundays when many schools do not assemble. Add in scrimmage dates – some schools schedule as many as four – and the number of training days shrinks to seven or eight.

Memo to CIAC: That’s not enough time. Not even close.

Jamboree drama: Too much happened to get it all into print, but the 2017 jamboree was drama-laden. For one thing, Wilby had a shot at winning the title in the final match, thanks to a dramatic goal by Jacabo Perez against Waterbury Career Academy. Perez scored the clincher in the 2-1 game with just 15 seconds to play.

Career did not win or tie a match on Saturday, again, due to a another late goal, this time from Crosby. The Bulldogs’ Jose Quinones broke Spartans’ hearts and another 1-1 tie when he scored with 34 seconds to play.

Yes, you can say, oh bother, isn’t it just a scrimmage? Yes it is. But for city soccer players this jamboree means just about everything. You really should see for yourself in 2018. Book it, Sept. 1, 1 p.m., Municipal Stadium.

By Mark Jaffee

Moments after the Crosby High football team wrapped up the Waterbury Football Jamboree championship Saturday, Bulldogs’ head coach David Jurewicz huddled with his team and cautioned his players about refocusing on the season opener and its opponent – Woodland.

“Woodland is a much-improved team,” said Jurewicz. “We have to be ready and focused.”

The Bulldogs host the Hawks Friday at 7 p.m. at Jimmy Lee Stadium.

A year ago, the Hawks struggled to a 1-9 season, including eight straight defeats to start the season.

The entire 45-player varsity was in the stands watching the Jamboree Saturday. Woodland head coach Chris Moffo noted that he wanted his players to view game situations.

After eight losses last year, the Hawks dominated Kennedy from start to finish and rolled to a 40-20 win for their only win.

“It was a rough season,” admitted Moffo.

But Moffo, now in his second season, knew the Hawks would face growing pains, considering they had only five seniors on the 2016 roster.

“They were very eager to get back to work and the coaching staff as well,” said Moffo. “At the conclusion of the season, we felt as a team, they matured and got better. We preached to the kids that they’re not young anymore. They now understand what is expected. The kids worked very hard in the offseason and we put a lot on them and they have responded well.”

Moffo said the Hawks’ senior tri-captains Jackson Henry, Joe Kmetz and Justin Morrone, “have represented the team very well. They’re really good role models for the younger kids.”

Moffo said that the Hawks practiced with the Hopkins School of New Haven, coached by ex-Woodland coach Tim Phipps, and scrimmaged at Newington last week. Newington is coached by ex-Wolcott head coach Jason Pace. Pace and Moffo were high school teammates at Wolcott.

“We worked on a lot of things and I believe it was a good experience,” said Moffo.

Are the Hawks ready to make the next step?

“Nothing has changed,” said Moffo. “Our expectations are never to be mediocre. Every day, no matter what happened last year, is to come to work and show that we have progressed and how we have improved. We have guys pushing each other in practice every day. Having open competition is something we didn’t have last year with so many underclassmen playing and being thrown into the fire and having to learn on the fly. Competition is very helpful.”

Reach Mark Jaffee at mjaffee@rep-am.com or follow him on Twitter@TheRealJaffman

ANSONIA – Jarvis Stadium has been home to some of the biggest moments in the storied history of Ansonia Chargers football. For the most decorated program in the state, the green grass field with the blue and white bleachers is home.

But before the final preseason scrimmage against Shelton on Friday afternoon, it was the scene of a much different Chargers tradition – team picture day.

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Smiles and laughs were bright on the faces of players donning the navy blue jerseys with the big, bold white “Ansonia” written on the front as they posed for team and individual photos.

In the sea of happy faces, two players were focused on more than just pictures. For seniors Markell Dobbs and Cody Teodosio, the season can’t start soon enough.

“It feels good,” Teodosio said. “I’m ready, especially since it’s senior year.”

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Both Dobbs and Teodosio stood above the pack during the 2016 season as Ansonia captured its 20th state championship, a Connecticut record.

Teodosio, an All-State linebacker, led the Chargers’ stout defense, which allowed only 84 points to opponents in the regular season.

On offense, Dobbs separated himself as one of the best running back in the state, rushing for 2,406 yards and scoring 32 touchdowns. Going into the new season, he said, the key to continued success will be following marching orders from coach Tom Brockett.

“We know what Coach expects of us,” Dobbs said. “We have to go out and do what we have to do.”

Expectations are high for Dobbs, Teodosio and company. But Brockett said being able to keep players focused on the new season, not on past success, has been a tried and true plan for the coaching staff.

“Any time you’re coming off a winning season, you have to battle complacency,” Brockett said. “Fortunately, we’ve done a really good job with our program battling that.”

The in-practice competition between Dobbs and Teodosio has been a major factor in keeping the team motivated and focused.

“We pretty much compete against each other in practice all the time,” Dobbs said. “I challenge him. He challenges me. We talk junk to one another, and we keep it fun.”

The relationship between the two leaders on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball will put the Chargers in prime position for another run to the state title.

There was one thing that made both players smiled from ear to ear Friday afternoon, but it wasn’t the cameraman.

“A state championship,” they said.

The Gilbert School

Head coach: Daniel Gant (2nd season)

2016: 1-14-1

Key players: Senior Amber Basso; Juniors Jillian Wexler, Marcela Moriera, Dileysi Sarmiento, Skyeshay Smith.

Outlook: The Yellowjackets bring back their core players, so that win total should trend upwards in 2017.

Coach’s comment: “We’re excited to play this season and hope to be competitive within the league. We are looking to build off the foundation we laid last year and hope to surprise some people.”

Housatonic Valley Regional

Head coach: Steve Dodge (1st season)

2016: 12-5

Key players: Seniors Emily Geyselaers, Molly Dowd, Teagan Lynch; Junior Josie Horoski.

Outlook: Graduation hit the Mountaineers hard, but Housy will still be stingy on defense and strong in the middle. It is never easy to get a ball past Dowd in goal.

Coach’s comment: “We will try to fill in for key players that graduated. We have a couple of freshman that will see some playing time and we should be fairly competitive this season.”

Lewis Mills

Head coach: Jared Sheikh (1st season, 9th overall, 139-27-10)

2016: 17-3 (BL runner up, Class M semifinal)

Key players: Seniors Chloe Waldron (All BL, All State), Alyssa Wrabel (All BL), Lauren McCard, Brooklyn Murdick; Junior Hannah Anderson; Sophomore Morgan Sokol.

Outlook: Head coach Jared Sheikh is back in the BL (he once coached the Nonnewaug boys). He’s got a great group to work with here. The Spartans will be superb again, they will score, they can defend, they are quick, and they can play physical too. In other words, Mills will be Mills.

Coach’s comment: “The team has a good balance of skilled leadership and young talent.”

Litchfield

Head coach: Marissa Quesnel (1st year)

2016: 8-9

Key players: Seniors Molly Andrulis, Amber Marino, Alanna McKenna, Alexa Guerrera, Caroline Donovan, Ali O’Neill; Juniors Claire Vallionis, Sydney Donohue; Sophomores Allie Davenport, Christina Orsini, Francesca Luzzi, Aileen Lennon.

Outlook: The middle of the pack in the Berkshire League looks to be a very competitive place in 2017, and if any team is ready to jump up and challenge the leaders, it may be Litchfield.

Coach’s comment: “With several key returning players and several new faces, our main focus is to use our experience to our advantage. We anticipate capitalizing on our opportunities and are looking forward to a great and successful season.”

Nonnewaug

Head coach: Nick Sheikh (10th season, 117-18-9 at Nonnewaug, 132-27-9 overall)

2016: 15-2-1 (BL champion)

Key players: Seniors Mary Bibbey (All BL), Brooke Malkin, Jennifer Charette, Libby Bennett, Emma Yocis, Sophie Fenn, Emma Boushie; Juniors Azria Malloy (All BL), Rachel Pieger, Sarah Sandor, Nicole Mercer; Sophomores Cassandra Barbino, Carmen Lo, Danielle Forte.

Outlook: The Chiefs will be good again, but, you knew that already. Nonnewaug has the pieces in place to launch a solid title defense, with skill and speed at every position, and, always a key, experience in net with Charette.

Coach’s comment: “The goal is to be near the top of the league again this year and try and win the BL title. Many young players will need to step up for us to match past years successes.”

Northwestern

Head coach: Jared Stotler (5th season, 31-33-5)

2016: 9-8-1

Key Players: Seniors Gina Weingart (All BL), Addie Hester, Hannah Reola, Morgan Daley, Maggie Dougan, Callie Smith; Juniors Emma Propfe (All BL), Kelly Worthington.

Outlook: The Highlanders return talent and could make a push for the top rung of the BL. Northwestern opens against Nonnewaug, so, that’s a fine howdy-do to start the season.

Coach’s comment: “We return a solid nucleus of players from last season’s team. Our younger players will need to step up to provide us with depth. Our goal is to make the tournament and finish in the top half of the league. We will learn a lot about ourselves with some tough early games.”

Shepaug Valley

Head coach: Tara Flaherty (8th season at Shepaug, 18th overall)

2016: 3-11-2

Key players: Seniors Cassidy Borger, Lily Keefe, Avery Serra.

Outlook: The seniors must lead them, because the Spartans are loaded with underclassmen. The good news is that Shepaug has a terrific group of freshman.

Coach’s comment: “Our goal for the season is to maintain a positive outlook and finish in the top of the league, while continuing to improve and develop our younger players. We also are looking to make it further in the state tournament.  We will focus on honoring and respecting all aspects of the game: The rules, officials, opponents, team, and ourselves.”

Terryville

Head coach: Brian Rosano (5th season, 38-35)

2016: 14-6 (Class S semifinal)

Key players: Senior Maria Cesare, Sydney Lopes; Juniors Jordan Pilbin, Lindsey Hotchkiss; Sophomores Amy Roqi, Selena Beaulieu.

Outlook: The Roos come off a wonderful season with a deep Class S run, but have also lost a ton to graduation. Cesare will be the cornerstone in goal with a school-record 34 victories already.

Coach’s comment: “We replace six starters, including three-time All-State forward Jenna Covello. The team does have varsity experience at key positions, but the success of the season will depend on how quickly our younger players adjust to this level.”

Thomaston

Head coach: Jeffrey Dickau (3rd season, 5-25-2)

2016: 4-11-1

Key players: Seniors Mackenzie Doyle, Kaitlyn Root; Juniors Marina Dauti, Naime Gilani, Madison McCarthy; Sophomore Alexandra Houle.

Outlook: The Bears have the talent to keep moving up the BL ladder. The numbers keep climbing in the program, and Thomaston will now also play a junior varsity schedule.

Coach’s comment: “Although we have three key losses in the back, including a three-season starting goalkeeper and two central defenders, we bring back a strong nucleus of experienced, multi-year starters. The program looks to make forward progress, as well as adding a few more wins to our tally from last season.”

Wamogo

Head coach: Mackenzie MacLeod (5th season)

2016: 2-14

Key players: Senior Caitllyn Maliszewski; Junior Mckenzie Hoyt; Sophomore Justine Lago, Marli Waldron, Lexi Weik

Coach’s comment: “After graduating 11 seniors I was worried coming into the pre-season. However, I am very optimistic about the potential this young team has. The girls are working hard and getting better each day. I look forward to an exciting season.”

The Gilbert School

Head coach: Brad Toomey (3rd season)

2016: 0-16

Key players: Seniors Dylan Thomson, Will Hubbard; Junior Joe Bruggman; Sophomore Hunter Smith.

Coach’s comment: “After some growing pains in 2016, how fast Gilbert matures will be key for the 2017 campaign.”

Housatonic Valley Regional

Head coach: Jim Terrall (8th season)

2016: 6-9-1

Key players: Calvin O’Connor, Johan Diaz, Zach Wilerson, Jacob Burcroff, Eli Hill.

Coach’s comment: “Looking to improve on last year and make state tourney. Figure on upper-middle of the Berkshire League.”

Lewis Mills

Head coach: Ben Kulas (7th season, 94-22-11)

2016: 16-3 (Class M quarterfinal)

Key players: Seniors John Mudgett, Brady Fox; Juniors Nick Lutrzykowski (All BL), Carter Viets (All BL), Dylan McCall.

Outlook: The Spartans have a load of players back and are experienced in all positions with nine returning starters. This crew will contend, for everything. Replacing Joe Fortuna’s 29 goals and 13 assists will not be easy, but Lutrzykowski will score plenty.

Coach’s comment: “We look forward to learn from last year’s experiences and becoming stronger because of them. Defense will be a focus. We gave up 20 goals in 2016, 16 more than the year prior. It’s crucial that we don’t give up as many goals this season, especially come November. This is a smart, coachable group that should have no problem with learning and adjusting when and where needed.”

Litchfield

Head coach: Rob Andrulis (17th season, 152-114-20)

2016: 3-12-1

Key players: Seniors Ryan Murphy, Austin Marino, Jacob Honig; Juniors Charlie Shanks, Miles Chapman, Augie Hurtado, Colby Bunnel, Carson Mello; Freshman Tim Donovan.

Outlook: The Cowboys will contend for a state tourney berth. It will be better in 2017.

Coach’s comment: “After a disappointing season, and with a good group of returning players, we hope to have a much better campaign this season and accomplish our goal of playing in November in the state tournament. We are optimistic that we can achieve that goal.”

Nonnewaug

Head coach: Toby Denman (12th season, 148-39-13)

2016: 16-1 (BL champion)

Key players: Seniors Chris Rosato (All BL), Daniel Swanson (All BL), Jake Willis, Alex Gonzales, Dean Jones, Connor Hanggi, Luke Shea, Mickey Shea, Jacob Firlings, Jack Salerno, George Lyman, Frank Cosenza; Juniors Andrew Ray, Will Coleman; Sophomore Josh Cheatham.

Outlook: The Chiefs lost a load of senior stars, and still return seven players from the starting lineup and are still stocked with seniors. The lineup should be as  quick and potent as ever, with most of the experience in key midfield and defending positions.

Coach’s comment: “We should be strong up the middle of the field, and hope to blend some experience and newcomers into a group that hopes to contend for the top spot in the league.”

Northwestern

Head coach: Andrew Campbell (15th season, 143-73- 24)

2016: 9-8

Key players: Seniors Jackson Dropick (All BL), Jameson Weber, Tim Strzepa, Michael Neumann, Trevor Duffy, Caleb Preato, Duane Blische, John Ayers, Caleb Boucher.

Outlook: Does that look like enough experience to you too? And, that talent is distributed throughout the pitch. The Highlanders will be a threat to the traditional BL powers. There may well be a bit of crowd at the top of the BL race this season, and Northwestern will be in the midst of it.

Coach’s comment: “I have 11 seniors and lost just three starters from last year’s team. We have size and speed, and are willing to play at a fast pace with anyone. It only remains to see whether we can score consistently and stay focused.”

Shepaug Valley

Head coach: Jim Stinson (8th season, 46-70-13)

2016: 4-10-2

Key players: Seniors Alan Stinson, Nick Fleming; Juniors Ethan Hibbard, Jack Pesce, Jack Kennedy, Gavin Block, Chance Dutcher.

Coach’s comment: “We are a young team, but have played together for a few years now. They are willing to work hard. I like the chemistry of this team. I think that we will be in every game that we play.”

Terryville

Head coach: George Smith (8th season at Terryville, 19th overall, 175-113-26)

2016: 9-7-2

Key players: Seniors Adam Pelz, Ethan Rheault; Juniors Garrick Webster, Colin Bamrick; Sophomore Dana Mazur.

Outlook: The Kangaroos had a solid 2016, and lost in the Class S second round in OT.

Coach’s comment: “After losing 13 seniors, including spark plug Doug Welton, we have a few positions to fill, but we return a solid core of players who have had a taste of the post season and are eager to return.”

Thomaston

Head coach: Martin Giroux (19th season at Thomaston, 27th overall)

2016: 8-9

Key players: Seniors Jack Brody, Brandon Galeski, Ditan Gilani, Dan Osorio, Jonathan Wilson; Juniors Nick Azzara, Nesim Belica, Ben Brickett, Andrew Colavecchio, Marc DiBeneditto, Peyton Goodrich, Patrick Hyres, Mergim Kutlovci (All BL, All State); Sophomores Ian Bethin, Shawn Galeski, Chet Pierce, Sal Tregia.

Outlook: Something’s brewing with Thomaston soccer, and that potion may be ready this season. Thomaston has it all, especially depth, and is ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with any BL team. This is yet another bunch of Bears that you do not want to poke.

Coach’s comment: “The core of our defense returns. A challenge for this team will be link-up play in the midfield. We also feel we have players who can put the ball in the net. We look to distribute the scoring more evenly this year. Yet, at the same time, we have a good group of underclassmen challenging for starting positions.”

Wamogo

Head coach: Pat Odell (3rd season, 20-15-2)

2016: 11-8 (Class S quarterfinal)

Key players: Senior Sam Gabriel-Deveaux; Junior Reid Turtoro; Sophomore Eric Fowler.

Outlook: The Warriors had a great run to the state quarters last season, but the club must replace 10 seniors and three transfers from the 2016 team.

Coach’s comment: “Hard work, cohesiveness, and a commitment to teamwork will go a long way with this group. Our response to adversity will determine if we can improve on last year’s record and find our way into the CIAC tournament.”

COMMENTARY BY JOE PALLADINO

These are the days you circle on the fall calendar, when Nonnewaug plays Lewis Mills in soccer. It is always a championship-caliber event. Already well-seasoned, this rivalry got even spicer when the Spartans hired Jared Sheikh to coach girls soccer.

Sheikh, you see, was a Nonnewaug soccer star in his day, and for sevens seasons head coach of the Nonnewaug boys. But now, he’s gone over the wall.
“It will be fun to coach on the same field as Jared,” said current Nonnewaug girls coach Nick Sheikh, Jared’s brother. “All three of us brothers, Tyler included, who is currently coaching at Knox College in Illinois, are very competitive, but we’re very close as well.”
The girls BL soccer race is never without a Nonnewaug-Mills component. An upstart will join the chase, most recently Housatonic, but this season looks like a Chiefs-Spartans affair, with upstart to be determined.
“Coaching alongside my two brothers is incredibly rewarding,” Jared Sheikh said. “We are always sharing notes. I hold Nick in the highest regard as a teaching and coaching professional, and his rate of success certainly backs my claim that he is one of the best coaches in the state, in soccer and tennis. I’m sure a strong sibling rivalry between the two of us would make a great story for local sports fans, but the reality is that we would much rather work together to improve the quality of soccer for our respective programs than tear each other down. We will leave the rivalry where it belongs, with the kids.”
That’s for sure. The players always tell you that they never look past a BL opponent, but you know, that other team, be it Mills or Nonnewaug, is always on their minds.
“We go into every game thinking that it is going to be good competition,” said Mills’ all-state striker Chloe Waldron. “We think of every opponent as if it is a Nonnewaug game, or a Housy game.”
At a Mills practice last week, Jared Sheikh was not happy with his team’s play. He blew the whistle and shouted, “If you make that mistake against Nonnewaug…,” yada, yada, yada.
Yes, these teams need each other, love each other, and dislike each other to a degree, but not in the technical area, where coaches roam a few feet apart.
“It will be a blast,” Nick Sheikh said, “and an honor. I can’t think of anyone else I’d rather have there. It will be fun, but, it is all up to the kids. They’re the ones who play.”
So grab your calendar, circle Oct. 5, at Nonnewaug, 3:45 p.m., and then Oct. 31, Halloween, at Mills, the high school, also 3:45.
No trick, it will be a treat.
Send comments to jpalladino@rep-am.com, and follow on Twitter at @RAOffTheRecord.

By JOE PALLADINO
Republican-American
The defending champion lost outstanding talent to graduation and still returns seven starters. The runner-up was a state quarterfinalist and returns nine starters.
We are talking Nonnewaug and Lewis Mills boys soccer, and it makes you wonder: What’s the rest of the Berkshire League to do?
But the coaches remind us that talent is afoot throughout the BL for 2017 and, among others, Northwestern, Thomaston, and Litchfield come to mind as rising contenders for a BL title.
“As top heavy as our league is, we have to win every game to win the league,” said Mills head coach Ben Kulas. His team lost twice last season, both times to champion Nonnewaug, by 2-1 scores. “We know Nonnewaug is going to be good. Yes, we have to beat them, but if we drop a point anywhere else we’re not going to win the league.”
Mills lost 30-goal man Joe Fortuna and a top middle defender in Lorenz Gunzl to graduation. Nonnewaug ran the BL table last season (16-0), and the Chiefs lost star striker Nate Firlings, middle men Leland Malloy and Jacob Matta, and keeper Ryan Rescsanski.
No one weeps for either team in the County.
“We graduated a solid, decorated senior class,” said Chiefs coach Toby Denman, “but we bring back an eager group, guys who played significant minutes last year, and we add in a couple of solid newcomers. Our thinking is that we should be in the mix.”
If there is ever a mix without Nonnewaug or Mills, we all faint. The hope is that the BL race is a multi-team race. The hope is that 2017 is a mad scramble.
“It certainly is better if it isn’t (just Lewis Mills and Nonnewaug),” Denman added. “We see Northwestern our first game. I anticipate that being just as big as any Mills game.”
That one is Friday at Nonnewaug. Plant the flags, hang the nets, pump your balls to 9 PSI. It’s time to play soccer.

SOUTHINGTON Blue Knights

2016 record: 11-1 overall, 4-0 CCC D-I West (CCC D-I West champion, Class LL semifinalist)

Head coach: Mike Drury (seventh season, 62-8)

Assistant coaches: Rob Thomson (defensive coordinator), Chuck Drury, Rob Levesque, Devin Mannion, Garry Coles, Derek Bird, Mike Forgione, Ryan Gemmell, Armando Candelaria, Steve Daniels (statistician), Jeff Tye (videographer)

Returning starters: 7 on offense, 7 on defense

Key returners: Will Barmore (Sr., QB), Ryan Montalvo (Sr., RB-LB), Brandon Kohl (Sr., RB-DB), Tim O’Shea (Sr., WR), Jack Herms (Sr., WR), Jake Monson (Sr., OL), Jimmy Star (Sr., OL), Joe Koczera (Sr., LB), Ian Hall (Sr., LB), Sean Scanlon (Sr., DL), Anthony Vecchio (Sr., DB), Evan Johanns (Jr., K)

Key losses: Vance Upham (RB-LB), Anthony Plantamuro (WR-DB), Matt Gundersen (WR-DB), Dave Pastor (OL), Richie Rivera (TE)

Key newcomers: J.J. Clark (Sr., OL), Owen Bouchard (Jr., OL), Jamie Lamson (Jr., WR), Jimmy Ringrose (Sr., WR), Will Downes (Jr., WR), Jacob Drena (Jr., WR), Tanner LaRosa (Jr., WR-RB), Cole Brock (Sr., DL), Jack Terry (Sr., DB), Ryan Gavronski (Jr., DL), Shaun Wagner (Sr., DB), Matt Thompson (Jr., DB), J.T. Martin (Jr., DB)

Drury’s take: “We return a lot of players who have varsity experience. The senior class is a tight-knit group who has worked extremely hard this offseason. We will have several new faces in all three phases of the game, and the success of the team will be determined by those players stepping up and playing big roles. We open up with Glastonbury for our third time in my tenure.”

Brennan’s take: The Blue Knights have been one of the state’s most consistent teams during the regular season under Drury, as they’ve overmatched most of their CCC opponents over the last few seasons. Their only two losses in nearly four years have come to Darien, which has been the consensus top team in the state over the last two seasons. With the Blue Wave being expected to take a slight step down and Southington returning 14 starters, it could be the Blue Knights’ chance for some postseason revenge. They will need to be better on the defensive side in big games, and the combination of Koczera, Scanlon, Montalvo and Kohl figure to be key in that effort. Barmore will likely see an expanded role at quarterback, especially if some quality targets on the outside develop around him.

By Kyle Brennan

POMPERAUG

2016 record: 3-7 overall (0-5 SWC Colonial)

Head coach: James Reed (fourth season, 8-23)

Assistant coaches: Travis Swim (defensive coordinator, LB), Mark Matrigali (offensive coordinator, RB), Dave Brennan (DB), Rob Mazuroski (freshmen), Mike Murgatroyd (freshmen, DL), Andrew Reel (junior varsity, WR), Jake Parsell (junior varsity, OL), Tom Teta (freshmen)

Returning starters: 3 on offense, 5 on defense

Key returners: Matt Lenczewski (Sr., QB), Troy Harwell (Jr., RB-DB), David Satkowski (Jr., OL-DL), Mike Benson (Sr., OL-DL), Mario Lambiase (Sr., WR-DB), Cole McGrath (Sr., RB-DB), Emmett Reilly (Sr., OL-DL), Jared Bernabe (Sr., WR-DB), Ryan Brown (Sr., RB-LB), Joe Christiano (Jr., OL-LB), Tyler Goodson (Jr., TE-LB), Aidan Henry (Jr., TE-LB), Alex Hummell (Jr., RB-DB), Noah Leo (Jr., RB-LB)

Key losses: John Dinsdale (OL), Brian Flood (DL), Jacob Gran (OL), Matt Hadad (S), James Hartman (OL-LB), Jake Harwell (RB-LB), Mike Houle (OL-LB), Joe LaCava (RB-LB), Mike Murgatroyd (RB), Tom Satkowski (RB-LB)

Key newcomers: Tyler Desmarais (Sr., OL-DL), Pat Duncan (Sr., P), Tyler Fernandez (Sr., WR-DB), Jason Hirschauer (Sr., K), Owen Wilson (Jr., OL-DL)

Reed’s take: “We graduated a ton of experience and talent, but I believe in our returning players. They’ve made this the most productive offseason I’ve had in my four years at Pomperaug. Even though we don’t return a lot of starters, the guys who will play for us have a lot of experience. We played a number of close games last year, and I think that education will service us well in 2017. Returning All-SWC defensive end Mike Benson, plus returning starters Emmett Reilly and David Satkowski, will make the defensive line very strong.”

Brennan’s take: It’s hard to believe that the proud Pomperaug football program has struggled through five straight losing seasons, but that’s been the case in Southbury. The Panthers’ offense has been a problem area, as over the last three seasons they’ve averaged 16, 12.9 and 17.9 points per game. With only three starters back on the offensive side, they won’t be able to rely on that type of experience to account for a breakthrough. Reed hopes that the team can be built on the defensive line, where the team’s biggest strength lies. That group will make an impact and help keep games close, just as it did last season. In three of the Panthers’ losses last year, their defense gave up three touchdowns or fewer. Pretty simply, their offense has to pick up the slack if Pomperaug wants to get back on the right side of .500.

By Kyle Brennan

CHESHIRE

2016 record: 6-4 overall, 4-3 SCC D-I

Head coach: Don Drust (sixth season, 28-24)

Assistant coaches: not provided

Returning starters: not provided

Key returners: Jack Raba (Sr., QB), Elijah Allston (Jr., RB), Bryce Levenduski (Sr., RB), Eric Angelone (Sr., WR-DB), Michael Jeffery (Sr., WR-DB), Nick Nelson (Sr., OL-LB), Will Graikoski (Sr., QB), Dan Covel (Sr., OL-DL), Tommy Wnuk (Sr., WR-DB), Ethan Bronson (Sr., K-P)

Key losses: Brian Weyrauch (RB-LB), Pat Bourdeau (OL-DL), Mike Millea (WR-DB), Matt Nugent (DB), Cesar Pascal (OL-DL)

Key newcomers: not provided

Drust’s take: Drust did not reply to multiple requests for comment.

Brennan’s take: Cheshire has all the makings on its roster of a team — especially on the offensive side — that could finally return to the state playoffs for the first time since 2009. Raba enjoyed a solid junior season at quarterback, and he has three proven targets returning in Jeffery, Angelone and Wnuk. Allston could be poised for a breakout season in the backfield, and Levenduski can spell him when needed. The Rams’ offensive depth could be their biggest asset in the tough Southern Connecticut Conference. Nelson and Jeffery will be the anchors on the defensive side of the ball. There’s no such thing as an easy schedule in the SCC, but Cheshire won’t get any time to ease into the fall. They open with Shelton at home, followed by a nonconference trip to Norwich Free Academy, and then another home game against North Haven. The story of Cheshire’s season could be written by the time September is over.

By Kyle Brennan

The Lewis Mills boys soccer team is ranked No. 2 in the state in the Connecticut Boys Soccer Coaches Poll. Rival Northwestern is also in the Top 10 in the M/S poll (8th), while Nonnewaug is just outside the Top 10 at 11th.

Others receiving votes: Hall (25), Newtown (12), Shelton (10), Simsbury (8), Wethersfield (7), Trumbull (7), Bethel (6), Avon (6), New Milford (4), Brookfield (2), Masuk (2), Wilton (2), Norwalk (2) Lyman Hall (1), Guilford (1), Cheshire (1)

Coaches voting: Dan Woog, Staples; Chris Laughton, Norwalk; Mark Landers, Glastonbury; John Blomstrann, E.O. Smith; Dave Yanosy, Southington; Jim Lewicki, Wilton; Joe Mancini, Pomperaug;  Stan Latkowski, Daniel Hand; Artur Branco, Cheshire; Paul Winstanley, Joel Barlow; Zeke Seguro, Hall; Arnie Jandreau, Lyman Hall; Dave Zlatin, Avon; Tony Fernandes, Bethel;Dave Lavery, Brookfield; Vic Santos, Independent

Others receiving votes: Nonnewaug (12), Somers (7), Old Lyme (7), Montville (6), Plainville (5), Morgan (4), Waterford (3), Cromwell (3), Lyman Memorial (2), East Hampton (2)

Coaches voting: Colin Delaney, Montville; Rob Andrulis, Litchfield; Dave Emery, Granby Memorial; Tim Brown, Plainville; Roy Gurnon, Ellington; Andy Campbell, Northwest Regional; Joe Mendonca Jr. , Waterford; Sam Barnes, Old Saybrook; Ben Kulas, Lewis Mills; Ryan Fabry, Lyman Memorial; Vic Santos, Independent

Chase Collegiate

Head coach: Logan Condon (2nd season)

2016: 3-11-1

Key players: Seniors Sam Crone, Sam Dassatti, Sarah Feldman, Veronica Johnson, Brooke Varnum (WNEPSSA All Star, All HVAL).

Outlook: The Highlanders will be better, they have to be better, they must be better, thanks to a solid group of experienced players.

Coach’s comment: “We have a solid core of veteran players to build on the foundation we set from last season. We have a few young faces who will add to our successes for this coming season. There has been a notable growth from where we were at the start of last season and I have already been impressed with the level of play.”

Cheshire

Head coach: James Luis (5th season)

2016: 17-4 (SCC champion)

Key players: Seniors Elizabeth Lurz, Sam Matthews, Jill Klem; Juniors Kaitlyn Loura, Lila McNamee, Paige Perez.

Outlook: The Rams won it all in the SCC, but certainly seek a deeper run in Class LL . There is experience, speed and talent here so expectations are high.

Coach’s comment: “They have worked hard over the offseason to prepare physically and mentally for the competitive teams in the SCC. We are looking forward to playing these talented teams because it only benefits our players to go up against strong athletes.”

Pomperaug

Head coach: Jillian Cipriano (1st season)

2016: 15-4-1 (Class L quarterfinal)

Key players: Seniors Jamie Collimore, Natalie Connors, Holly MacFarland; Junior Olivia Paulison.

Outlook: The Panthers were an SWC semifinalist, and then were beaten by eventual state champ St. Joseph in the Class L quarters. The next wave of talent is capable of doing the same. Collimore will be the leader up top.

Coach’s comment: “We are a young, ambitious squad ready to compete with the competitive teams in the SWC and push forward to excel in the state tournament.”

Wolcott Tech

Head coach: Ray Royals (9th season)

2016: 8-9

Key players: Seniors Tricia Campanelli, Lexus Jeroski, Sierra McIlwain, Hannah Moison, Sarah Roussis, Amanda Yarrison; Junior Cameron Dzeidzic.

Outlook: The Wildcats were a state tourney team in 2016. With a solid core of returning seniors look for Tech to duplicate that postseason run.

Coach’s comment: “The team has a positive attitude during practice and are focused on earning their way into the state and league tournament. The seniors have demonstrated strong leadership and are constantly helping the underclassmen improve. It is this encouragement and dedication that will lead this team into a successful season.”

Chase Collegiate

Head coach: Joe Campos

Key players: Seniors Justin Butler (All State), Griffin Puc, William Bianchi, Sean Kurutan; Juniors Stefanos Bilis, Peter Lyu, Daniel Nejaime; Freshmen Simon Kopecky, Conrad Coyanda-Parkzes.

Coach’s comment: “We should be in the upper half of our league because we have a lot of returning players with varsity experience. Justin Butler is one of the elite players in the state. Puc, Atkins, Bianchi, and Nejaime will be key in which direction our season goes. Kurutan will be back in net for his second year. Our freshman have provided a spark of excitement and several will see the field often and early in the season. We have a solid core of veteran players from which we hope to build on the foundation from last season.”

Cheshire Academy

Head coach: Ed Banach (6th season)

2016: 7-10-1

Key players: Senior Osasu Fredrick-Llekhuoba; Juniors Luca Mazzella, Carlo Portillo Eckman, Omid Azodi; Sophomores Owen Kempton, Ethan Benjamin, Hunter Simone.

Outlook: The Fighting Cats will certainly have a bounce-back season, led in goal by Cheshire’s own Kempton, who helped lead Team USA to the gold medal at the  Maccabi Games.

Coach’s comment: “We will be competitive in NEPSAC’s large school preps. South Kent Prep and Berkshire will be favorites.”

The Forman School

Head coach: Scott McCarty (37th season, 265-276-69)

2016: 12-5

Key players: Seniors Conner Boyer, Matt Crockett, Mazwe Cuba, Jalen Currin; Juniors Natthan Lehner, Owen Goellner, John Blake; Sophomore Zack Bugbee.

Outlook: The Lions lost eight starting players from last season.

Coach’s comment: “I feel we will be competitive in our league. Forman will defend well as we have most of our line back from last season. We will have many young players attacking the goal so I expect us to struggle scoring this season. I am excited for this season as I feel with time we should do well.”

Kaynor Tech

Head coach: Mike Dorchinsky (3rd season)

2016: 1-15

Key players: Senior Pierce Blom (All CSC); Erick Silva.

Outlook: This season will be different for the Panthers, who now play in the new Tech conference, Kaynor will be better and may well be a tourney team.

Coach’s comment: “Last season was a rebuilding year for our program and I see a big improvement this year. We had many starters with little to no varsity experience. This season we have a great mix of veteran players and a talented ninth grade class. The future is bright and it begins this season for us.”

Pomperaug

Head coach: Joe Mancini (17th season)

2016: 11-7-1

Key players: Seniors Micheal Kolwasky, Peter Duda; Juniors Zach Hoed.

Outlook: The Panthers lost a lot of talent to graduation.

Coach’s comment: “Looking to qualify for the league tournament and the state tournament. We have a young team so leadership will be a key for us.”

The Taft School

Head coach: Ozzie Parente (5th season, 45-15-10)

2016: 17-2 (Founders League champion, New England semifinalist)

Key players: Senior Carter Veley (NEPSAC all-star), Mthabisi Tshuma (NEPSAC all star, WNEPSSA all star); Junior Marvin Sibanda (All- State); Sophomore Sammed Bawa.

Outlook: Taft lost 15 players to graduation from a loaded championship team. Chances are Big Red will be solid again.

Coach’s comment: “Taft will look a lot different this year. It’s a small group of returning players, but it is also a talented one that has the experience of competing in important matches. New additions to the team will be a big boost, and the team will rely on younger players to fill in the roles vacated by last year’s seniors. It might take a little while to figure things out, but our goal remains to be competitive in the Founders League and to get back to the New England Tournament for the third consecutive year.”

Wolcott Tech

Head coach: Vincenzo Viscariello (1st season)

2016: 7-9-1

Key players: Seniors Hunter Seibert, Tyler Akerley; Juniors Hunter Miket, Angel Lopez, Colby Suminski; Sophomore Jonathan Chimbo.

Outlook: Like the girls, the Wildcats were a state tourney team last season, and with experienced players back they will be again this season. It will be interesting how both the boys and girls teams adjust to the new Tech conference. Viscariello is back on the sideline. His last stint was with Wamogo.

Coach’s comment: “The team is looking to be competitive and work their way toward qualifying for the league and state tournaments. Our team has great chemistry and they are always helping each other out to make the team better. We have strong leadership which will help guide us on our pathway to success.”

Ansonia

Head coach: Ryan Santo

2016: 11-6-2

Key players: Allan Fernandez, Julian Guevara, Jason Monteiro, Michael Weir.

Outlook: Ansonia burst into the final four of the NVL tourney last season. The Chargers will score goals, that’s a given, and if they play defense too they’ll be a threat to get back to semis, and beyond.

Coach’s comment: “Expecting great things with the returning team ready to compete with the rest of the league.”

Crosby

Head coach: Mike Sullivan

2016: 3-12-1

Key players: Senior David Ojeda, Ebram Ibrhaim; Juniors Anthony Orellana, Shaq Downswell, Jose Quinones; Sophomore Dalip Asanov, Josel Pimental-Alves, Dylan Kinsella; Freshmen Mostafa Mabrouk, Garrett Henry.

Outlook: Coach Sullivan is back after a one-year hiatus, and it looks already like the Bulldogs have responded. Orellana is as good a scoring threat as any other in the league, and the league is loaded with striker talent. Kinsella already looks like one the league’s top keepers.

Coach’s comment: “This team possesses an exorbitant number of underclassmen who will undoubtably gain invaluable experience throughout the season. Kinsella is mature beyond his years and will lead our defensive unit, while Anthony Orellana and Jose Quinones will guide the midfield. Of the ample quality soccer players that have come through Crosby throughout the years, Orellana has the ability to finish his career as the best ever.  Mostafa Mabrouck is a polished freshman who will be fun to watch over his career.”

Derby

Head coach: Chris Kalesavich (5th season, 15-48)

2016: 2-14

Key players: Seniors Bevon McLean, Evan Sharpe; Junior Alex Vazquez; Sophomore Paolo Cepeda.

Coach’s comment: “I am beyond lucky to coach a group of inspiring and respectful young men. We are becoming more of a family than a team, and are looking out for one another on and off the field. Our student athletes have taken the initiative to go above and beyond the sport of soccer and learn CPR, and a few student athletes have their American Heart Association two year CPR certification. It is more than soccer in our program, even though we have already made great strides in regards to our on-the-field play. We are excited to compete and grow as a family.”

Holy Cross

Head coach: Gabriel Goja (2nd season)

2016: 6-10

Key players: Juniors Kyle Moser, David Desaulniers; Sophomores Jack Villano, Chris Moreira, Brian Silva, Luciano D’Amelio, Christopher Christiano.

Outlook: Cross won six games last season, and did not play in the postseason. That will change in 2017. The higher talent level was evident in the city jamboree. One key is the big guy in net, the 6-4 Moser.

Coach’s comment: “An exciting group with experience and young talent that is eager to build upon the foundations from last year. Our goals and ambitions remain the same: Compete in the NVL tournament, qualify for the state tournament, and finish the regular season with a winning record.”

Kennedy

Head coach: Antonio Teixeira (15th season, 128-98-28)

2016: 8-10-1

Key players: Seniors Donaldi Sino, Thahasi Dupi, Edis Lame, Nikola Tili; Juniors Will Mahony, Brian Portela, Michael Trinkely, Ray Lo, Abraham Jimenez.

Outlook: The Eagles have yet another solid wave of talent coming through, but, the team lost much to graduation. In the jamboree Kennedy was big, fast, and willing to mix it up. This will be one tough match on any team’s schedule.

Coach’s comment: “Team is young, inexperienced, and talented, with a young group of players coming in. They are hungry to win.”

Naugatuck

Head coach: Ryan Kinne (2nd season)

2016: 17-1-3 (NVL champion)

Key players: Seniors Yan Silva (All NVL, All State), Aren Seeger, Matt Carroll, Christian Jacobi, Vinny Knupp; Juniors Jake Corbo, Tommy Martins, Alex Teixeira, Matheus Santis.

Outlook: Wait, Yan Silva is back? Again? He’s been a starter and impact player since freshman season, and can control a game like few others in the league. Seeger is as active a keeper as you will see. The Greyhounds seem to graduate 15 or 16 every year, and come back with 15 or 16 more guys with plenty of varsity of experience.

Coach’s comment: “We’re excited about the makeup of our team and look to continue to make strides forward as the season goes.”

Oxford

Head coach: Charlie Egervari (14th season)

2016: 15-4-1

Key players: Jack Kolvig, Aaron King, Ali Kalici.

Outlook: Oxford was the big surprise in the NVL last season, smashing into the NVL championship game. It will not be easy to duplicate that trip after losing a ton of talent through graduation, especially in goal.

Sacred Heart

Head coach: Gianni Perugini (5th season, 34-90-5)

2016: 5-9-3

Key players: Seniors Noah Francisco, Isaac Gonzalez, Garret Jones, Klediol Kaso, Noah Knappe, Andrew LaChance, Evan LaFerriere, Christopher Petro, William Petrucci, Anthony Mirabilio-Mulhall, Nicholas Barrett, Jack Vaillancourt; Gabriel Melo, Adam Pepin, Marco Sanchez, Andrew Szmajlo, Evan Battiste; Sophomores Leandro Fernandes, Nicholas Warner, Matthew Francisco.

Outlook: The Hearts, at last, have great numbers, experience, and depth. It is time to make a trip to the state tournament and annual event. Ah, but can the Hearts also nudge their way into the NVL tourney?

Coach’s comment: “The program has attracted record numbers of student-athletes this year and we will look to build a competitive program on multiple levels. The three years of varsity experience for this senior group should make this a successful season and with the addition of some key players we look forward to the challenges ahead.”

St. Paul Catholic

Head coach: Joe Abele (2nd season)

2016: 7-10-1

Key players: Seniors Matthew Goodwin, Stefan Zwolinski; Junior Adam Van Linter; Sophomore Ethan Rembish.

Coach’s comment: “We have a young, technical team this year. Hunger and ambition will be the key to the season. We are looking to improve on last year’s record having a year under our belts with our new system of play.”

Seymour

Head coach: Joseph Perrucci (29th season)

2016: 9-7-1

Key players: Seniors JP Viruet (three-time All NVL, two-time All State), Korben Gilmer, Dominic DaSilva, Bryan Merritt, Victor Biblekaj, Raymond Guard, Naveen Madivala; Junior Tomas Griffin, Dibran Trepca, Emilio Mesiti; Sophomore Johnathan Pereira; Freshmen Ethan Bryce, Oleh Stayuk, Chris Seara, Justin Wichhman.

Outlook: Viruet is one the NVL’s most dynamic players. When the ball is on his feet you rise up out of your seat. This is an 11-man game of course, and the good news for the Wildcats is that there is experience and depth.

Coach’s comment: “Every player will be important to the success of Seymour Wildcat soccer. We have a great core of returning players along with promising new players. As we mesh Seymour could, and hopefully will, live up to our expectations and have a very strong and competitive season.”

Torrington

Head coach: Mike Fritch (8th season, 80-47-5)

2016: 12-6-1

Key players: Seniors Naseem Thompson (All NVL, All State), Edward Cardenas, Jacob Pestritto, Alex Segovia; Juniors Brett Stater, Jimmy Friscia, Brendan Cisowski; Sophomore Xavi Rodas.

Outlook: Thompson is one of the NVL’s most potent offensive threats. Team’s put two and three players on him, and he seems to love it. If the Raiders defend they will be in every match. Torrington won only one postseason match last season.  That should change.

Coach’s comment: “Coming off a surprisingly successful 2016 we are looking to take our game to the next level. The team has been focused on improving on last year’s league standing, while all along playing for good seeding come state tournament time. Kids were very dedicated in the offseason and I am looking forward to them bringing that determination and passion into this season. We have a few veteran players to replace from last year’s team, and there seems to be a good collection of sophomores and juniors fighting for those minutes. I am looking forward to the season and feel that big things can be accomplished.”

WCA

Head coach: Dave Vecca (2nd season)

2016: 1-15

Key players: Seniors Oscar Coyt; Juniors Justin Lugo, Valerie Lopes, Tino Toucet; Sophomores William Carrillo, Jonathan Edwards, Gary Gega Brandon Lage.

Outlook: One step at a time for the Spartans, who get ready for season two as a varsity program.

Coach’s comment: “After our inaugural season in the NVL the team is dedicated to improving their skills. Despite graduating five starting players, the group brings back enough experience and speed to be competitive. The team has set both short and long term goals that we want to achieve. Players have stepped into new positions and are committed to proving themselves in the NVL.”

Watertown

Head coach: Vitto Caligiuri (6th season, 65-26-7)

2016: 12-6-1

Key players: Senior Valdet Nuredini, Domeniko Skrelja, Brendan Law, Ethan Zoldy, Eric Zoldy, Ben Graham, John Tedesco, Riland Cenka; Juniors Hayden Beauty, Jake Champagne, Anthony Longo, Johnathan Polletta, Tyson Torsiello, Owen Garceau; Sophomores Troy Tedesco, Moni Jusufi, Zach Fenn, Vincent Orsini.

Outlook: The Indians were certainly not happy with a first-round exit in the NVL tourney, and they must deal, as most teams do, with the loss of quality players. But, this is Watertown soccer. There is talent at the ready.

Coach’s comment: “There will be a lot of changes this year. Changes to how we have played in the past few years will be made. We have learned some valuable lessons, and we have a lot of young talent that will look to make their mark this year. Some of them will be thrust into starting positions and how they adjust will be key to our season. They clearly have the talent to do so but it takes a lot more than talent to produce at this level.”

Wilby

Head coach: Tom Hunt (3rd season, 2-29)

2016: 2-14

Key players: Senior Shawn Henry; Junior Marc Calle, Leo DeGraca, Gustavo Medina, Daniel Caseres, Daniel Navarro; Sophomore Orlando Coehlo.

Outlook: Fortunes are about to change for the Wildcats. These guys can play soccer, and in Medina they have a midfielder who can dominate every phase of the game.

Coach’s comment: “The team’s hard work is starting to show. Their knowledge of the game, skills, and their tenacity to improve after every practice has set the foundation. The players are looking forward to attaining the team goals. With the addition of some underclassmen competing for playing time we are all looking forward to the season. The team will focus on and take it one game at a time.  We will look to improve after each match.”

Wolcott

Head coach: Bryan Plona (12th season, 70-93-17)

2016: 6-8-3

Key players: Seniors Jonathan Maldonado, Tyler Sgrott, Arber Nasufi, Alex Martinez, Alex Hale, Noah Elliott, Michael Harkin; Juniors Sean Cepelak, Jonathan Rogozinski.

Outlook: If you talk NVL boys soccer, and you do not talk Wolcott, you do not know what you’re talking about. The Eagles are for real, and will be a big factor this season. This team is experienced, and it always helps to return your top goal scorer (Maldonado, 15), and goalkeeper (Sgrott).

Coach’s comment: “We return nine starters, and have a great core of returning players. Experience will not be a problem, although Maldonado will need help in the offensive department. Sgrott will anchor the defense in net. The Eagles will compete to make the NVL and state tournaments this season.”

Woodland

Head coach: Tony Moutinho (16th season)

2016: 13-3-3

Key players: Seniors Christian Poirier, Senol Music, Jack Laperriere, Andrew Spofford, Juliano D’amelio; Juniors Timothy Mendes, Joshua Powanda, Maciej Lewicki, Ryan Swanson; Sophomores Dante Polleta, Devon Polleta, Cole Barrows.

Outlook: The Hawks were an NVL semifinalist in 2016, and are one of many teams with a legitimate shot at making it to the title game. There is skill at every position, and proven scorers. Two anchors on defense are gone, though: central defender Xavier Gibson and keeper AJ Oliveira. That is a key area for Woodland.

Coach’s comment: “We have big spots to fill this season, specifically in goal and on defense. However, we do have a lot of returning varsity talent that will keep us in any game. With some luck we can win a large share of our games this season.”

Ansonia

Head coach: Vince DellaVolpe (1st season)

2016: 1-14-1

Key players: Seniors Tori LaRovera, Ekaterina Kazachkova; Juniors Autumn Ries, Julia Catale, Ekettee Weamie, LaRissa Rodriguez; Sophomores Bianca Romano, Lizzette Herrschaft, Hailey Bellido, Natasha Rivera.

Outlook: The Chargers bring back a bunch in a deep junior class. The won-lost record will be better.

Coach’s comment: “The girls have been a joy to work with thus far. They have been practicing very hard and we hope to be competitive and play with high energy week in and week out in a talent-filled Naugatuck Valley League.”

Derby

Head coach: Francisco Salazar (9th season, 9-130-5)

2016: 0-15-1

Key players: Senior I’ashia Cooper; Juniors Blerta Balidemaj, Alyssa Meneo; Sophomores Kaitlyn Gerkens, Rachel Layseca.

Coach’s comment: “After losing our goalie Annalisa Salazar, and our scoring threat Ashleigh Schlemmer we knew we were going to be in a rough spot this season. Our numbers are at the lowest that it has ever been. We have 13 players and hoping to pick up a few more before the season starts. But, low numbers or not, we will show up and look to improve game by game and continue to compete with Derby pride.”

Holy Cross

Head coach: Philip A. Mongelluzzo, Jr. (2nd season)

2016: 13-5-3 (NVL runner up)

Key players: Seniors Kiley Harnish (All State, All NVL), Erin Goggin, Nicole Rohlman, Maddie Smith; Juniors Madison Bushka, Meghan Diorio, Carly Defoe, Adalisse Padilla, Morgan Murray, McKenna Ellsworth, Elise Pelletier, Jasmine Thorpe; Sophomores Alyssa Milburn, Tori Schaffner.

Outlook: The Crusaders took the NVL championship game down to penalty kicks before losing to Watertown in a thrilling 2016 final. Can Cross take the next step? The pieces are in place to have a go. There is experience at every position, led by Harnish and her 23 goals.

Coach’s comment: “I am very excited to watch our team continue to grow and mature. We have amazing senior leadership, and a large freshman class where several players will provide substantial minutes at the varsity level. We expect our defense to be our strong suit, and with the return of Bushka to our talented junior class we feel we are well-equipped to improve on our success last year.”

Naugatuck

Head coach: Lisa Mariano (3rd at Naugatuck, 11th overall)

2016: 6-11

Key players: Seniors Alyana Sosa (All NVL), Erin Doris, Hailey Boulanger, Bridget Rosikiewicz.

Outlook: Naugatuck has outstanding talent in key positions. Sosa can dictate a game.

Coach’s comment: “We have several new faces on varsity this season. Should be a great year for individual and team growth.”

Oxford

Head coach: Alicia Salvatore (6th season, 40-46-3)

2016: 9-7

Key players: Senior Alex Adames, Carley Van Buiten; Sophomore Jessica Kondic.

Outlook: Goalkeeper Rachel Videira graduated after four splendid seasons, so the Wolverines will start the rebuilding project right there.

Coach’s comment: “Our defense, led by captains Alex Adames and Carley Van Buiten, will need to hold off our opponents, and our center mid, Jess Kondic, will be a key presence on the field as she returns for her second year. Our mix of new and returning players fill in the rest of the field for a well-rounded team.”

Sacred Heart

Head coach: Mike Mentone (2nd season at Sacred Heart, 17th overall)

2016: 4-12

Key players: Seniors Nellie Drewry, Rachel Stack; Juniors Siobhan Gilmore,  Grace Stone, Ashley Cyr, Ashley Acurci; Sophomore Emma Minicucci.

Outlook: The Hearts open the season already dealing with injuries, and the numbers are down a bit this season.

Coach’s comment: “We look to improve and get better every day that we step on the pitch. We have a mature group of girls back with a lot of varsity time. We also have some underclassmen who we look to contribute right away. Our goal is to qualify for the NVL and state tournament.”

St. Paul Catholic

Head coach: Jim Husbands (4th season)

2016: 12-6-2 (Class S quarterfinals)

Key players: Seniors Briana Senese, Kendall Davis (All NVL, All State); Juniors Addison Davis, Carolyn DelDebbio, Isabella Griffin, Julia Dess, Catherine Ciampi, Emma Cretella; Freshman Nina Zwolinski, Sophia Gerst, Romi Bagdasarian, Hannah Sanford, Delaney Jordan.

Outlook: If it looks like the Falcons are loaded, it’s probably because the Falcons are loaded. St. Paul has experience in all the right places, led by Kendall Davis up top, back after a 30-goal season, and defender Addison Davis. The Falcons will certainly improve on 2016’s first-round exit in NVL tourney.

Coach’s comment: “We are looking to go much farther this season. Two talented seniors, a deep, experienced group of juniors, and a very talented group of freshmen give use a good mixture of experience and youth. Addition of Flavio Pereira (former St. Paul girls coach 2009-2013) to the coaching staff will be a great help in player development.”

Seymour

Head coach: Gary Freeman (1st season)

2016: 6-11

Key players: Seniors Mia Pinto, Mia Accavallo, Felicia Lage, Nicole Maher; Juniors Melyssa Gagliardi, Carson Zealor; Sophomore Patricia Jurkowski.

Outlook: The Wildcats qualified for the NVL tournament last season, but missed out of the state playoffs by just one win or a tie. With a sold core returning, Seymour has a great chance to improve its postseason opportunities.

Torrington

Head coach: Mario Longobucco (8th season, 56-62-6)

2016: 5-11

Key players: Seniors Cassie Fedor, Shannon Reardon, Cara Baker, Alexis Apruzzese, Maddie Cardozo, Kristina Michaud; Freshmen Abby McCarthy, Payton Graham.

Outlook: The Raiders will have growing pains as the team folds in youth and inexperience.

Coach’s comment: “We continue to fight the numbers game with 17 total this year. Six of those have never played a minute of soccer in their lives.”

Watertown

Head coach: Christina Nunes (3rd season, 28-13-2)

2016: 17-4-1 (NVL champion, Class M quarterfinal)

Key players: Seniors Emily Hill, Tori Wolfer, Sophia Shea; Junior Meadow Mancini (All NVL, All State).

Outlook: The Indians triumphed by PK in an exciting NVL championship, and then marched deep into the state tournament. The talent loss is significant, and it is time to rebuild again, but, that’s something they excel at in Watertown.

Coach’s comment: “After losing eight seniors last year there are a lot of starting positions up for grabs. My junior class has been a solid bunch since their freshmen year and they will continue to be impact players. I’m looking for my sophomores to really step up this season because they have the potential to be impact players and the key to our success.”

Wolcott

Head coach: Chris Riviezzo (11th season, 75-83-13)

2016: 12-3-4

Key players: Seniors Taylor Riviezzo (All NVL), Marissa Morales, Sam Hickey, Anna Forrest; Juniors Tiona Watts, Alexa Artega, Ali Maringola, Bella Piacentini, Alie Gough, Sam Lagasse, Lauren Sullivan.

Outlook: The Eagles won the Brass Division, only lost one game last season in the NVL, and were a league tourney semifinalist. They return enough talent to expect the same, and more. There is a ton of parity at the top of the NVL, and Wolcott belongs smack in the middle of the championship hunt.

Coach’s comment: “We have a strong group returning and if we can stay healthy I anticipate competing for a league title once again.”

Woodland

Head coach: Cait Witham (5th season, 64-14-5)

2016: 15-3-1

Key players: Seniors Haley Andrews (All NVL), Eliza Smith, Megen Sirowich; Juniors Haley Wolfanger, Julia Casimiro, Julliana Villano, Julia Accetura, Michealla Mastropietro; Sophomore Olivia Kotsaftis.

Outlook: The Hawks will be in the middle of the NVL title chase again because that’s what they do. Andrews can run the show with the best of them.

Coach’s comment: “We return a good blend of starters from last year and some younger players who will need to step up to the challenge of playing at the varsity level. As always I have high expectations for this group of players.”

By STEVE BARLOW
In her first 17 seasons of coaching girls volleyball at Seymour High, Cathy Federowicz had enjoyed six Naugatuck Valley League championships and lots of success, but never a state championship. It was so frustrating that she began to wonder if a state title would always elude her.

“We’ve had years where we thought we had all the pieces in place, but it didn’t happen,” Federowicz reflected. “You try to say, ‘If it doesn’t happen, I guess it’s OK,’ when deep down inside you really, really want it. You drive yourself crazy thinking ‘What more can I do? What am I doing wrong?’”

She is frustrated no more. Last year, the Wildcats, after losing Torrington in both the regular season and NVL tournament, turned the tables on the Raiders in the Class M state final with a 3-0 victory that gave Seymour its first state title.

“That group of girls was not going to let it end in the wrong way,” said Federowicz. “Now our goal is to see if we can do it again.”

If the Wildcats do repeat, it will be without five key players who graduated, including All-Stater Shari Minalga and tournament MVP Faith Thurmond. From last year’s 24-2 team, Seymour does return outside hitter Caty Ragaini, setter Alyssa Cosciello and defensive specialist Kaitlyn Esposito. The Wildcats also got a transfer from Naugatuck, Molly Kennedy, who will be a middle or outside hitter.

Torrington lost four key players, but the Raiders have a strong program and should contend again. Holy Cross returns a strong nucleus, while Woodland, Kennedy and Naugatuck are also traditionally strong. And Federowicz thinks St. Paul could make some noise.