Mepham Boys Soccer Primed for 2011 Season Under Experienced Group

The Mepham Boys soccer team is looking forward to get back onto the playing field in 2011 for another chance at winning the Conference championship, and potentially the Nassau County title.

Mepham concluded last season with a 8-3-1 overall record and a fifth-seed in the 2010 Class AA playoffs. The Pirates lost a thrilling first-round game to Syosset in penalty kicks after a scoreless regulation. A year prior, the team fell in the first round as well, dropping a 3-2 decision to Farmingdale.

The 2011 season has hopes for Mepham to earn their first Conference title since the late 1980’s. Eighth-year head coach James Koester will lead the team into action with a wealth of experienced returning this year.

“Our expectations are to be one of the four playoffs teams and I think our guys have a legitimate shot to win the conference. Beating Great Neck South is a task, but I think these guys could do it,” said Koester. “They have an opportunity to win one or more playoff games because we’ve been very close lately.”

Junior midfielder Dante Ippolito will play a large part in determining Mepham’s success this season. Ippolito, who earned All-County accolades last season, has been a member of the Varsity program since eighth grade.

“I expect us to make it far this year after only graduating a few players,” said Ippolito. “We have the skill to make it into the later rounds and finals of the playoffs this year.”

Steve Polimeni will provide senior leadership in the midfield on a team that graduated just four members of last years’ team, including former captain Anthony Duranone. Senior Mike Eisenberg looks to lead the defense in front of another key returning senior, goalkeeper Steve Fotinos.

“For Mepham, we can win the conference this year. Everyone is hoping to get there and we have the talent, so if we put it together, we can win it,” said Polimeni. “We have been working a lot on possession and keeping the ball on the ground and getting good touches." 

Playing in Conference AA-III, Mepham will have their eyes set on taking down Great Neck South, the 2010 Conference champions. Long Beach, Bellmore Kennedy and Carey also figure to provide competition for the Pirates this season.

Mepham will open up their schedule at home on Tuesday, September 13, against Herricks at 4:45 p.m. 

“Our attitude and how well we come together as a team will be huge in terms of how we do in the season,” Koester added.