Blue Devil JV Girls’ Soccer Compiles 8-4-1 Mark

Huntington’s junior varsity girls’ soccer team turned around its fortunes from last fall and compiled an 8-4-1 record. Freshman forward Claire Dello-Iacono led the squad with 12 goals.

The Blue Devils’ 16 player roster was coached by Washington Primary School physical education teacher Maria Canino. “Our best team accomplishment was our growth this year,” the coach said. “When we played teams a second time around the results each time were more positive, even if the outcome was not a win.”

In addition to Dello-Iacono, the top players included freshmen defenders Violetta Fox and Hanna Boyle, eighth grade defender Olivia Corcoran and sophomore goalkeeper Gabriella LoScalzo.

“Claire was a driving force up top,” Canino said. “Claire was able to show her physical skill and also her knowledge of the game on the field.”

In addition to playing tough defense, Fox also scored a pair of goals. “Violetta was a vital part of this team,” Canino said. “Her skill level, knowledge and aggressiveness for the game allowed her to not only be a strong defender for us, but to also score two goals.”

Boyle managed to score three goals while playing defense. “Hanna was a key part of the team,” Canino said. “She was able to control her side of the field on defense and also push up top.”

Despite being in eighth grade while playing on the high school level, Corcoran “was solid on defense and super reliable,” the coach said.

LoScalzo made more than 20 saves during the season. “Gabriella had a standout year in goal,” Canino said. “She was able to keep us in games through her routine saves and big saves.”

The Blue Devils were competitive with everyone on their schedule. After struggling to win games last year, Huntington played well in a tough league.

“This was a great team this year,” Canino said. “Not only were they able to grow physically and mentally, they were a team that knew how to enjoy the moments as well,” Canino said. “I am very proud of this group of girls.”