Blue Devil Spring Season Varsity Captains Named

Huntington High School spring season varsity coaches have announced their team captains. Some of the students are returning to their previously selected leadership positions while many are new to wearing a “C” on their uniform.

The coaches of 12 spring varsity teams have selected an exceptional group of teenagers to serve as Blue Devils captains. Most of the team leaders are seniors.

Spring captains include:

• Boys Lacrosse: Daniel McNulty, Thomas Girimonti, Patrick Knieriem, Brian Hrybenko

• Girls Lacrosse: Kayleigh Bender, Devon St. John, Reese Rinaldi

• Girls Spring Track & Field: Jannel Marroquin, Marilin Villatoro Benitez

• Boys Spring Track & Field: David Dax, Jahmar Francis, John Genova, Ethan Goleski, Nikolai Lulewich

• Baseball: Harrison Baliber, Kaedon Halbeisen, Dylan Hayden

• Softball: Adriana Abbatiello, Kate Barba, Ruby Meidenman

• Boys Tennis: Tyler Godin, Nicholas Plachta, Ryan Scanlon

• Girls Flag Football: Aylana Powell, Ariana James, Zaida Correal

• Girls Badminton: Megan Lewis, Diana Diaz Portillo, Mayra Aguilar Rivera

• Boys Badminton: Harry Cuadra, Alexis Smith, Jordan Argueta

• Girls Golf: Brooke Parks, Jane Callery

• Unified Basketball: TBD (Possibly weekly or game captains)

Huntington UFSD athletic department officials have asked varsity head coaches to make the position of captain a meaningful one, providing leadership opportunities and assigning real responsibilities. Coaches have been asked to refrain from making the position of captain a ceremonial one.

According to US Sports Camps, the five qualities that make for a great captain include:

Lead by Example: As the team captain, your attitude and actions set the tone for the rest of the team. If you goof off or slack off during practice, you are giving permission for your teammates to do the same. Remember that you are a leader and people will follow your example- good or bad.

Be Positive: Having a positive attitude even during the hardships will build a stronger team dynamic. Be optimistic! Your mood helps motivate your team to think ahead, to believe in themselves. Your team will go further and be more successful throughout your season, working as a cohesive unit.

Communication: Communication involves talking and listening. Team captains are not just all about giving out instructions. You must consider what all your teammates have to say. Listening is just as important as talking, it promotes respect and allows the team to know that their opinions are valued and appreciated.

Teach Leadership: Share your leadership qualities with other teammates, share what you’ve learned. Pass on the qualities you possess, what makes you such a great leader. Your will team will grow. Having multiple leaders on your team improves your team’s attitude and productivity, so share your thoughts and dreams.

Caring: As a captain you need to care about the team and pay attention to each individual teammate, on and off the course. If you see someone struggling or having a bad day, spend a little extra time figuring out what’s bothering them. This may mean talking to them after practice or after class. Help them work through it as best you can. Show them that you’re there for them. Be supportive!