The MacArthur High School boys varsity soccer team completed a season to remember. Faced with a record of 0-25-5 during the previous two seasons, the team was determined to turn things around, attending early morning weight training sessions in the spring and continuing with soccer training throughout the summer. It was evident early on that the group had grown close, which helped them to overcome numerous adversities throughout the season.
For the first time since 2007, the Generals won the AA Conference. The team finished the regular season with a record of 10-1-2, led the conference with 10 shutouts (second in Nassau County) and received their highest seed in the playoffs (No. 3) in over 10 years before losing 1-0 to Plainview in the quarterfinals.
Sophomore Greg Baumstein and senior Matt Norcini received All-County awards, while junior Frank Micieli received All-County Honorable Mention. Junior goalkeeper Kevin Mayer and seniors Rob Bennet, Pat Newins, Ryan Palusko and Chris Pappas also received All-Conference awards. Justin Perez was the recipient of a Scholar-Athlete Award and Anthony Rocchio was the winner of the “Unsung Hero” coach’s award.
James Barrett, Matt Bascelli and Christian Kennedy were integral parts of the Generals’ defense, while Joe Giammarusco, Patrick Hurley and Ben Zilka proved pivotal in controlling the midfield. Nick Butcher, Matt Gino, James La France, Chris Lara, Diego Rodriguez and Diego Sanchez provided key game moments as well.
