November marks the end of the outdoor soccer season. This has always been a bittersweet time for the young players of Great Neck. For the parents who are outside week after week shivering as they cheer on their teams, none are too sad to bid another season farewell. But for those devoted players the end of soccer season means a long hibernation until spring. This was too long a wait for Nathan Vallejo and his father Cesar, who in years past served as the soccer coach for Great Neck South Middle School. Cesar, with some help from his own soccer buddies in the community, put together a team of 8- year-olds who would compete with the Rough Riders at Mitchell Field.

The boys understood that the competition would be tough. They would be up against the best players from all over long Island. Every Thursday night the Sports Boys meet at South Middle School to practice, learn strategies and develop teamwork. The boys are rewarded with soccer ball patches for good sportsmanship. Jacob Portnoy, Dylan Silverstein, Jordan Greiff and Kyle Berlinsky proudly wear their patches on their sleeves. At game time, the tension in the stands is thick. Laurie and George Neiderman are nervously waiting for the whistle to blow signifying the start of the game. Out runs their son Jacob who is a starter this game, along with Jorey Garcia, Alan Ponieman and Nathan Vallejo. Goalies Jonathan Farkas and Max Chafiian anchor the defense along with Corey Rutkin, while their newest addition, Andy Cifuentes contributes to their potent offense. Mitchell Field is the big time for these young boys, with the bright lights and the stands full of cheering fans. "I never knew kids' soccer could be so exciting," said George. The Sports Boys are 4 and 0.

The roster includes: Jonathan Farkas, goalie; Max Chafiian, goalie/defender; Nathan Vallejo, defender; Jacob Niederman, defender; Jacob Portnoy, defender; Corey Rutkin, defender; Alan Ponieman, defender/midfield; Jordan Greiff, midfield/forward; Kyle Berlinsky, midfield/forward; Dylan Silverstein, forward; Andy Cifuentes, forward; and Jorey Garcia, forward.