Petriello’s Leadership Propels Huskies To Section Final

The 2009 varsity soccer season isn't an easy one to summarize. The varsity team lost more then they won but was able to win the big games and make it to the section finals.

Needless to say, it was an up-and-down season.

Thankfully for Harrison, the soccer team had the keen leadership and the skilled talent of senior Jon Petriello. Petriello was a vocal leader on the field during games and in practice, keeping a level head in the best and worst of times.

"John is not only a strong all-around player, but a natural leader," fellow senior Nick Pyle said. "He could always rally the team's spirit no matter what the circumstances."

After the team got off to a slow start last fall, the coaching staff went to Petriello and asked him if he would be willing to switch from striker to left back for the varsity squad. The selfless Petriello agreed with the coaching staff because he knew it would help the team win games.

"I was not shocked with the position change and I was always willing to make the switch, especially if it meant winning games," Petriello said. "We started to win games and both the team and I responded favorably to the move."

Once the move was made the team was able to feed from Petriello's enthusiasm and natural athletic talent. The switch made the team a more cohesive unit and it helped Harrison win several key games down the stretch.

Thanks partially to Petriello's leadership, the team advanced all the way to the section finals.

"John is a hard working and dedicated player," team captain Bryan Merlos said. "He would do whatever it takes to help bring our team to victory."

Now that Petriello's High School career is over he will be furthering his academic life at Rhode Island University. Petriello also considered top schools like Hofstra University, but after months of consideration he decided Rhode Island was best for him and his family.