Young Finley Soccer Team Battles Experienced Foes

A young J. Taylor Finley Middle School boys’ soccer “white” team battled a set of experienced foes this fall. While the squad was overwhelmingly dominated by seventh graders, a never-give-up attitude helped the Blue Devils remain competitive.

Finley physical education teacher Travis Smith coached the team. “This team has great soccer skills and field awareness,” the coach said. “They worked hard and will continue to bring great success to the high school program.

Shea Monge and Kenny Canas led the goalkeeping corps. Seventh graders Oliver Frintzilas, Matthew Krill and Kevin Harris and eighth graders Gabriel Hernandez, Sebastian Mendia, Michael Flores, Edgar Reyes Benitez, Anderson Carranza and George Reyes anchored the defense.

The team’s main playmakers included midfields Ezequiel Saravia (three goals), Brian Fuentes Reyes (four goals), Francesco Romero (two goals), Domenico Leotta, Daniel Rodriguez (three goals), Miguel Herrera (one goal), Cameron Miller (one goal) and Owen McGaw.

Leading the offensive forwards were Emmet Cocoman, Edwin Arvelo (one goal), Andy Avarez Zelaya, Elder Vigil Ordonez, Christian Mendez-Martinez and Joshua Koiyet.

The highlight of the season was a 5-1 victory over Northport. “The team played well together as a unit against a very good Northport team,” Smith said. “It was a great team win with outstanding effort.”

With 14 players eligible to return next fall, Smith is confident of fielding a highly competitive team. “I am looking forward to another great season,” he said.