Kennedy Cougars Eye Soccer Championship

When coming as close to placing first as Kennedy High School Cougars varsity boys soccer team did last year, one would only expect the team's resolve to bring home the championship this year to be doubled.

While this may be true, Coach Jason Elias is nonetheless quite proud of his team's performance last season: 10-1-1 league record, second place in League AA-II, lost in the first round of the playoffs.

"They are an incredible group of seniors, led by Steven Katz and Jordan Stein," Elias said. "Best league record in JFK boys soccer history."

Looking forward, Coach Elias outlined his plans for the returning members of his team in the upcoming season.

"Drew Satnick, who played sweeper last year and was an All-County honorable mention, returns as a four-year varsity starter. He will most likely move up to central mid if we can find someone to step up and fill the most important position in our system," said Elias. "Coaching a player of Drew's ability and soccer IQ for four years has been a privilege. This year we will count on his leadership as much as his talents. Goalie Tom Anagostou and four-year varsity player Justin Harrison will be looked to for leadership and guidance."

Of course, unforeseen circumstances can change even the best-laid of plans. In any sport, for example, the threat of injury is always looming.

"A difficult injury to our top forward, Andrew Hirsch, will force us to look to other players to fill his role," Elias said. "Junior Eric Friedlander will be looked to for control of the offensive midfield."

Elias also touched upon other players who will need to step up if the team is to bring home a championship this season.

"Seniors, like Mitch Kaplain, Andrew Boyer and many others will need to become key cogs in order to have a successful campaign."

The JFK Cougars soccer schedule for the upcoming year can be viewed by clicking here. According to Elias, the Calhoun and Mepham rivalries should be a highlight of the season.

In the end, Coach Elias expects no less from his team going into this year's soccer season than he expected from them last year: hard work and dedication.

"A high school season always comes down to seniors. I expect a lot from this group," he said. "They know how successful last year's seniors were, and I hope they will work to reach the same level of success."