Garden City Coach Reflects on Title Run

Mike Heedles, coach of the Garden City High School girls' varsity soccer team, is still basking in the glow of the school's first state championship in the sport. It was a magical run for Heedles and the Lady Trojans, who defeated a perennial state power (South Side), won a thrilling Long Island title match on penalty kicks before capping it off with a victory over Rye, the state's top-ranked team, in the championship game.

Garden City Patch recently spoke with Heedles about the past season.

Patch: You have had talented teams in the past. What made the difference this season?

Heedles: A major difference for this season was the re-alignment of our conference. In years past we played in the black and blue league. Every game was a dogfight and since we struggled with scoring – we lost a lot of close matches. This year, other than a few weaker teams, we played a solid conference schedule along with our non-leaguers being against larger programs – so we had a little more balance. We were winning games against good programs and the team was able to see how hard work pays off. Another big key to this season was the leadership. The team was lead by senior captains Christina Cesarini, Barbara Sullivan and Liz Mahoney. They set the tone in the most positive ways. They lead by example on and off the field. They made sure that everyone was on the same page – from team bonding, to taking care of equipment, to communicating on the field.

Patch: Your defense was especially strong, with 14 shutouts this season. What do you attribute that to?

Heedles: For one, we have three excellent goalkeepers in Christina Mangels, Tracy Rendano and Kelsey Tierney. They all bring a lot of experience by playing on high-level club teams and train all year long. Secondly, the keepers are supported by a senior-dominated line of defense, lead by first-team, All-State player Christina Cesarini and Nassau County All-Class players Amand Murolo and Michelle Rotondo as well as returning junior Srey Powers, who was selected to the New York State tournament team. Finally, it was stick to our defensive philosophy – Take pride. Take ownership. Get behind the ball. Make a stop!

Patch: Any changes to your coaching philosophy over the years?

Heedles: We were able to utilize our reserves with more confidence. They earned it. Everyone was involved and everyone knew that when they were on the field they should make a difference.

Patch: Championship teams often get on magical runs. Was there a point where you thought this could be a special season?

Heedles: The goal against South Side in the county final with two seconds left to play in the first half. That was [the] statement.

Patch: What went through your mind when the ref blew his whistle signaling the end of the state final against Rye?

Heedles: Amazing. Historic. Not only did we win a state title. We did it by beating the No. 1 team. Extremely proud.