Welcome to our 20th fall season. Hope all of you have enjoyed your summer and are ready for another fun-filled soccer season.

I'm disappointed that only nine teams submitted articles from this weekend's tourneys. Since the deadline was missed, there'll be no articles to be submitted next week for the paper! Regular season articles for travel must be at my house by 6:30 p.m. the day you play. Boys' Intramural articles are to be at Diana Riccardi's house by 7:30 p.m.

Important Notice: All coaches must carry permits when using any of our fields. Dates, times and specific location listed on permits must be adhered to as indicated - no exception!

Attention parents of Boys' National Div. - coaches are needed for these boys. Anyone who can give time for them, please call Dominic Marrano, 437-4508. Remember these are your children.

Table reservations for our 20th Anual Dinner Dance can be made by calling Annette Giarratani, 437-9149 or Gerry Kassoff at $95 per couple - NHP Inn Friday, Nov. 6.

Travel Coaches, please pick up your journal pictures' packet from my house this weekend. Picture Day is scheduled for Sept. 23, 24, 25 at Hillside Grade School from 6-10 p.m.

Our 20th Anniversary Journal is now accepting subscriptions. Be a part of this celebration and take out an ad.

The StrayCats made their fall debut and captured second place in this weekend's American Re-Fuel Tournament. The team was undefeated with four victories going into the championship game Sunday afternoon. The team has only practiced together a few times this season , but if this is any indicator, the StrayCats are on their way to an exciting and successful season.

StrayCats 2 - Massapequa Scoring Eagles 1

Our opening game was against the division one Scoring Eagles. This is a team we've faced at least a half dozen times and never been able to beat. Today we broke the jinx. Alison Fliegel opened the scoring by connecting on an indirect kick in the first half. Half backs Lindsay Rella, Alyson Rose and Kerri Lippolis (making her debut) were able to close down the Eagles usual powerful offense. Ashley Campson and Nicole Southern held down the backfield in this early AM contest. After the Eagles tied the game on a penalty kick, Jessica Bussardo put the Cats ahead for good on a goal straight down the middle. Lauren Castilla played solidly in the stopper slot and as you can see, goalie Vicki Nikic was nearly flawless.

StrayCats 2 - Bethpage Stars 1

Just as in the opener, the team came up on top in a close contest. Mary Hess, Michele Galante and Kristina DiCostanzo sparked the offense with their hustle. Eileen Hunt played the entire game in goal and was able to duplicate the results of the first game. Megan Stevens (making her debut) alternated between midfield and forward providing crisp passes. Alison Fliegel put the team on top, scoring on a breakaway. The Stars knotted the game but just as in game one, Jessica Bussardo scored the winner off a fine pass by winger Michele G. Jessica Lippolis played solidly in the back field as well as Beth DeMarco who streaked across the goal line at the end of the game to keep us on top.

StrayCats 3 - Manhasset Bullets 0

In the first game Sunday morning, the StrayCats dominated and emptied the Bullets bullets. Alison (two goals) and Jessica B (one goal) picked up where they left off yesterday. Vicki and Eileen shared duties and combined for the shut out. Alyson and Kristina gave the team excellent relief in the backfield. Kerri and Jessica combined for some fine passing and midfield play. Lauren C. excelled in the midfield. Lauren DeSimone (making her debut) showed her versatility playing both forward and fullback.

StrayCats 3 - Garden City Bullets 1

A win would secure second place (the team's best finish in an outdoor tournament) and the ladies didn't disappoint in knocking off the division two Garden City Bullets. In this game the team had to come from behind for the victory. Mary and Michelle alternated at left wing and helped push the ball down field into Bullet country. Lauren D. and Megan scored their first of what will be many goals for the StrayCats. Megan's score came off a nice pass from Jessie. Lindsay showed the importance of playing position and being aggressive as she scored the team's third goal on a rebound off the left post. Beth and Ashley cover very well for each other and shut down Garden City.

StrayCats 2 - Northport Blue Shadow 3

This was the championship game and the fans saw an action packed contest. Northport had beat up on everyone, scoring 21 goals while allowing only one, but the StrayCats gave them all they could handle. Jessica scored the first goal two minutes into the game on a pass from Lauren D. The Blue Shadow was quick as they marched down field for a one goal lead after the half. The StrayCats don't know how to quit and in the second half, Megan fought for a loose ball and fed a pass to Lauren D. for the tying goal. Vicki was dynamite in goal and showed excellent judgment and poise as she charged out of the net to make too many saves to count. Although dropping this game, the team showed it can compete with any one while earning the respect of a solid Northport team.

The Cheshire Cats rode their defense to the second place trophy at East Meadow. We started slowly against the Wantagh team which would eventually take first. Laura Carey, Lisa Virzera and Sarah Mahan were masterful at challenging and breaking up the play of a good passing team. Michele Cohen at keper and Athena Chen at sweeper stopped anything which got past. Unfortunately, we could not stop them all and fell by a 1-0 score. We did not know how important this effort would prove as Wantagh would average four and a half goals against the rest of the field.

Things picked up in the next game against South Merrick. Michelle Labarbera was dragged to the ground in front of their goal. Fortunately, she managed to net the penalty shot. Katie Warren, Alison Dihler-Barnett and Jennifer Norme combined for several offensive runs but nothing else would go in. Jenna Brusso, Jami Contwill and Kara Beardsley combined to control the middle of the field. A late goal by South Merrick left us with a 1-1 tie.

We faced Levittown next and had what has become a too familiar scenario with thm. We dominated the play. Jenna and Kara provided outstanding play at both halback and forward. Lisa and Katie demonstrated versatility by shining at dual positions. However, we still lost 1-0. We need to learn how to stop scaring this team and start beating them instead.

We now had an 0-2-1 record when we started the fourth game against the host East Meadow team. However, the Cheshire Cats do not give up. Daniele Young and Meghan O'Leary were now combining in goal and were magnificent for a shutout. Alison gave her best performance of the tournament in a defensive marking assignment which threw East Meadow's star player off her game. Miriam Varghese and Stephanie Chan shared the stopper and sweeper positions to perfection. Laura and Sarah continued to provide defensive strength on the outside. Finally, our offense clicked and Jennifer nailed the game winner in this 1-0 effort.

Our final outing was a friendly but hard played game against a Valley Stream team we know well. We have always had strong defensive efforts when we play them and this was no exception. Miriam and Stephanie again combined to anchor the defense. Meghan and Daniele again combined to pitch a shutout in goal. We netted the game winner when Michelle L. scored on a corner kick from Jami.

All that was left was to see if we had managed to place. We were pleasantly surprised when all the tiebreakers broke even until the goals against became the key. Our defensive effort from forwards to keepers had not only given up the fewest goals of any team in the tournament but had also given us second place. Congratulations to all on their fine play.

The Lady Lynx, making its debut, compiled a 2-3 record. After our first tournament it is apparent the Lady Lynx are on their way to becoming a fine soccer team judging by our play this weekend and the comments of our opponents which reflected the Lady Lynx "no retreat, no surrender" attitude. To summarize this weekend, we took our lumps but we also gave some lumps.

Lady Lynx 5 - Stony Brook Road Runners 1

The Lady Lynx came out flying in their inaugural game on their way to an impressive 5-1 win over the Stony Brook Road Runners. The Lady Lynx were led by the red hot Jenny Jung's four goals, her first of two hat tricks of the day with the most spectacular goal coming off a beautiful deep corner crossing pass from mid-fielder Michele Contrada. Tracy Rostholter also stepped up and after collecting a perfect feed from Jenny Tempone, blasted the ball to the back of the net. Stony Brook had little success against the Lady Lynx defense, led by Vivian Quan, as they smothered the Stony Brook attack. Brigid Fee capped a solid day at defense with an end to end run which culminated with a perfect pass to Jenny Jung which Jenny converted.

Lady Lynx 3 - Plainedge Tigers 0

The Lady Lynx found themselves locked in a battle and turned to the rock solid goaltending of Caitie Clark and Katie Gilroy and the stingy defense anchored by Lauren Keavney before the mid-field combination of Jamie Silverman and Michele Contrada could kick start the offense. After a scoreless first half, the offense did break through led again by Jenny Jung's second hat trick and assisted by the precision passing of Honor Adams, Lora Tloczkowski and Adriana Cavallaro.

Lady Lynx 0 - Massapequa Meteors 6

All good things must come to an end as was the case with the Lady Lynx who were overmatched by a much bigger, more experienced Massapequa team. The bright spot the Lady Lynx during this game was the outstanding mid-field play of the feisty Jackie Nese and the no-quit attitude of our girls who fought till the end.

Lady Lynx 3 - Albertson Dynamite 5

The Lady Lynx fell behind early by three goals and were forced to play catch-up the rest of the way. Our girls pulled within one goal late in the game led by a tenacious, well-earned goal from Michele Contrada and two stunning goals from the left side by Jackie Nese, who carried the offense in the second half but were turned back in the end by a tough Albertson defense.

Lady Lynx 1 - Valley Stream United 4

Although not reflected on the scoreboard, the Lady Lynx hung in tough against a superior opponent. Our girls played inspired soccer in the Valley Stream end led by the "Lil Guys," namely Honor Adams, Lora Tloczkowski, Jaime Silverman and Jackie Nese. The goaltending tandem of Katie Gilroy, who stopped two rockets, and Caitie Clark stood tall against a barrage of Valley Stream shots.

The Aristocats faced some tough competition in the always competitive Ref-Fuel Tournament, and took advantage of the opportunity to fine tune their play as they moved to full-sized play. Our new players stepped in to contribute immediately, and we welcome the Art, Ezat, Ocner and Piliero families to the team.

Game 1

Aristocats 0 - Farmingdale T-Birds 3

A sluggish start against the T-Birds hurt when Farmingdale knocked in an early goal. Our girls worked themselves into the game with some nice pasing by forwards Melissa Fulgenzi and Jennifer Fabian. A very questionable offsides call took a breakaway goal away from Suzie Jozkowski. Our defense was anchored by the tough play of Alison Art at sweeper, and Alison Luby and Diana Amoroso controlling the sides. Midfielders Theresa Piliero and Lauren Marra worked hard to get the attack going. The T-Birds put the game away when their aggressive play led to a couple of late goals. In a game which was much closer than the score reflects, the Aristocats suffered a loss which was one part being unlucky and one part being slightly flat.

Game 2

Aristocats 1 - Valley Stream Angels 0

The Aristocats bounced back in their second game with some determined effort from the opening whistle. Midfielder Ashley Felcon drove between two defenders and blasted in a rocket for the early score. With the wind at their back, the combined offense provided by Suzie Jozkowski, Diana Cotilletta and Melissa Fulgenzi kept the Valley Stream goalie under siege. Aristocat Keeper Danielle Losonci made an incredible save to preserve the first half shutout. Second half play was a continuation of the first with Aristocats Jennifer Fabian and Emily Ocner providing many scoring chances. Our back was impenetrable thanks to the aggressive play of Alison Art at sweeper, and Alicia Ezat and Diana Amoroso shutting down all attacks on the side.

Game 3

Aristocats 0 - Sachem Shawnee 3

The Aristocats' ship sank in the first 10 minutes of this game when a sluggish start and some aggressive play by the Div. 1 Shawnee quickly put the team in a 2-0 hole. From that point on, our girls picked up the pace and worked tirelessly to get back into the game. Forwards Emily Ocner and Melissa Fulgenzi used their speed and some sharp passes to penetrate the Sachem defense. Midfielders Theresa Piliero, Ashley Felcon and Alyson Bader stepped up to battle for control of the center of the field. Alicia DeMarco was rock solid at sweeper. A soft goal at the end caused the final score to not really reflect the closely contested nature of the match.

Game 4

Aristocats 2 - CSH Rockets 0

The Aristocats showed up to play some quality soccer on Sunday. They seized control of the play early against the CSH Rockets, a team which has always given them difficulty. Jennifer Fabian provided the early score on quick shot off the goalie's hands. Forward Emily Ocner followed soon after with a beautiful turn and shot into the far corner of the net. Outstanding midfield play was provided by Lauren Marra, whose aggressive, skillful play was a model for the team's performance in this game. Ali Art showed her versatility with some classy midfield play. Diana Amoroso and Alicia Ezat were there to turn away the CSH drives. It was a wonderful team effort that set the tone for the day.

Game 5

Aristocats 0 - Syosset Screamers 1

The Aristocats displayed some of their best play of the weekend in their final game against the tough Div. 1 Syosset Screamers. Ashley Felcon and Lauren Marra continued their dominant play in the middle of the field, as the Aristocats had the better of the play early on. Forwards Suzie Jozkowski and Melissa Fulgenzi used their speed and ball control to get off many good shots. A tough, evenly played first half ended just after Syosset snuck the only goal of the game in. In the second half, our girls gave the same quality effort. Our defense of Alicia DeMarco at sweeper, and Alyson Luby and Alison Art on the sides was spectacular turning away countless Syosset attacks. Goalie Danielle Losonci was steady in the net all weekend long, but in this game she displayed her value to the team with some incredible saves due to intelligent positioning and aggressive play.

The Aristocats brought home the third place trophy with two wins and three losses in a very competitive division. More importantly, the tournament provided the opportunity to tune their team play for the upcoming season. If we can keep Sunday's momentum going, Aristocat supporters can look forward to more exciting, skillful soccer. Thanks to all of our families for their support throughout the weekend.

Lady Cougars - East Meadow Tourney

Game 1

Lady Cougars 1 - Farmingdale Flames 2

In the first half, the Flames put on heavy pressure, but goalie Samantha Laszlo came up with some clutch saves. NHP came on strong right before the half with Kim Carini, Allie Bresso and Alison Kiernan attacking the goal. The second half had all the scoring with the Cougars getting the first goal from Stefanie Kovacic on a pass from Nicole Denara. The Flames tied the score with a well-executed corner kick. With time running down, a Flames midfielderr sent a long, high shot that bounced over the goalie's head for a 2-1 win.

Game 2

Lady Cougars 2 - Plainedge Lady Riders 2

After a slow start for both teams, Plainedge broke the ice banging it in after a scramble in front. Stefanie Kovacic brought the Cougars even on a tough angle shot. Kim Carini had the assist after some hard work from Teresa Ferraro. Great defense from Dena Wlodarczyk, Caitlin Kennedy and Jessica Connaughton. In the second half, Teresa Ferraro fed S. Kovacic for the go-ahead goal. Again, the Cougars couldn't hold the lead and after another scramble in front, the Lady Riders scored for a 2-2 tie.

Game 3

Lady Cougars 3 - Rockville Centre Sharks 3

The Lady Cougars came out storming getting goals from Stefanie Kovacic, Kim Carini and Andrea Flori. Allie Bresso had two assists and Teresa Ferraro added another. The whole team played with much more emotion against a hungry Sharks club. Again, late in the second half, the Cougars couldn't hold the lead with the Sharks scoring on a broken clearing play. Then, with 18 seconds left, the Sharks were awarded a penalty shot. The shot went wide but on a questionable call they were given a second shot on an encroachment call and this time they capitalized for the 3-3 tie.

Game 4

Lady Cougars 0 - Thundercats 1

Unfortunately, poor scheduling forced our two teams to play each other. The Thundercats applied the early pressure and after some tough saves by goalie Samantha Laszlo they scored on a shot just inside the post. The rest of the game was played with some exciting two way action. The Lady Cougars were led by the aggressive defense of Jessica Connaughton, Caitlin Kennedy and Dena Wlodarczyk. Alison Kiernan, Allie Bresso and Andrea Flori were tough in the middle. Nicole Denara and Teresa Ferraro were all over the field forcing turnovers and setting up the offense. Stefanie Kovacic and Kim Carini were focused and created many rushes to the net. Credit has to be given to the Cats defense which played outstanding all day. The Lady Cougars would like to thank their sister team for a great game and wish them luck in the upcoming season.

Game 5

Lady Cougars 6 - East Meadow Phantoms 0

The Cougars ended the tournament on a winning note with a total team effort. Cougars' goals were scored by Nicole Denara (2), Kim Carini, Teresa Ferraro, Andrea Flori and Stefani Kovacic. Great hustle from Alison Kiernan and Allie Bresso kept the Phantoms trapped. The defense was very stingy with strong play from Jessica Connaughton, Dena Wlodarczyk and Caitlin Kennedy. Goalie Samantha Laszlo added another shutout to her record. Thank you team coaches Dan Carini, Dan Flori and Lovorko Kovacic and all the parents for your continued support. We also would like to wish Coach Dan Carino's son a speedy recovery after sustaining a broken leg this weekend playing soccer.

Saber Cats Take 4th Place at East Meadow Tournament

Saber Cats 5 - East Meadow 1

The Saber Cats roared past their first opponent, East Meadow, by a score of 5 to 1. Maiken Bursig led the offense with two goals. One of the goals was made possible with a great pass from Stefanie Russotto. The other goals were scored by Cristina Cannella, Courtney Campson and Danielle Cass. The defense played well with strong performances from Alison Stern, Christina Bognacki, Stefanie Russotto and Cristina Cannella.

Saber Cats 1 - Plainridge 2

In the second game, the Saber Cats played a very strong first half but gave up two goals in the second half to lose 2 to 1.

Almost the entire first half was played on Plainridge's side of the field with a good defensive performance from Christina Bognacki, Danielle Cass and Stephanie Russotto. Jessica Fliegel played goalie in the first half and kept it a shut out.

Maiken Bursig scored the only goal for the Saber Cats. Cristina Cannella had a great shot that just missed. Laura Galante, Nicole Davis and Kristin Armon played well on offense by keeping the ball near the Plainridge goal.

In the second half, Plainridge scored two goals for the win.

Saber Cats 1 - Rockville Centre 6

The Saber Cats did not get into their first game on Sunday. Maiken Bursig scored the only goal for the Saber Cats.

Saber Cats 1 - West Islip 1

The second game on Sunday had an ominous beginning. West Islip scored early and initially controlled the game. But the Saber Cats clawed their way back into the game. A tight defense put up by Jessica Fleigel, Christina Bognacki and Alison Stern. Stefanie Russotto was goalie for the entire game and did a great job. Cristina Cannella, Courtney Campson, Danielle Cass and Kristin Arman worked hard at keeping the ball in Islip's end of the field.

Maiken Bursig scored the goal for the Saber Cats after receiving a great pass from Nicole Davis. The girls should be complemented for playing a terrific game against a tough West Islip team.

Saber Cats 2- Smithtown 1

The Saber Cats needed to win for fourth place. The Saber Cats were ready to play and came out with a beautiful pass from Nicole to Courtney to Maiken who scored. Unfortunately, Smithtown came back and scored. After an intense team huddle at halftime, Maiken charged through the defense and scored. Stefanie and Jessica were flawless in goal. Congratulations Saber Cats on a well-played tournament!

Congratulations to the Jaguars for a successful weekend opening the fall '98 season with a second place finish at the East Meadow Tournament. A good start on Saturday morning, some tough times Saturday afternoon and a fantastic finish on Sunday night. I would like to welcome Aldo Alleva, Robert Bridges, Gabriel Ferreira and Thomas Rowinski and their families to the Jaguars. Their contributions played a big part toward the success of the weekend. Also, I would like to thank Jimmy Catapano, Daniel Correia, Chris Fabrizi, Stephen Gilroy, Tom Kennedy, Michael Marrano, Chris Raulli, Vincent Timpano, Greg Tloczkowski and Philip Zysopoulos for their efforts, they gave it their all. Great way to start the season and let's keep it up. Thanks, Paul, for a great weekend.

Game 1

Bengals 1 - Massapequa 0

The Bengals came out with a positive and ready-to-play attitude. A very competitive game kept the boys alert and ready for action. Tom Heller started a fantastic play with a pass to Matt D., who sent the ball over to Pete, who then crossed to Tommy J to put the only goal of the game in the net. Great offensive pressure from Ryan C., Chris Lang, John K., and Seb. The defense held up very strongly with Fernando, James, Salvatore and Ryan L. supporting one another. Within the last minutes of the game, John Moffa saved the ball from going into our net, which kept the Bengals in the lead. Not to forget our goalie, Chris S. for his terrific saves in goal, which ensured our shut out.

Game 2

Bengals 2 - Syosset 6

The Bengals came out ready to bettle against one of the first place teams in this tournament. Unfair calls lowered the spirit of the Bengals. The boys put the ball in the goal in the first half, but the ref stated it was never in and disallowed the goal. Being down three goals going into the second half, the boys knew they had to come back to stay in the game. With a trip in the box, Ryan Campson put in our first goal in on a penalty kick. Tommy Jelcic, with the assist of the team, managed to squeeze in another goal. Overall, the boys tried their hardest and the score should have been at least 3-3, giving the ref the benefit of the doubt.

Game 3

Bengals 3 - Albertson 2

The pressure was on for the Bengals to perform well and aggressive against another top placed team. The boys' skills and teamwork paid off in this game. Chris L., Seb, and Tommy H.'s offensive plays kept the ball moving, helping Fernando to assist the first goal to Matt D. With the pressure on, Tommy J. took a shot that rebounded off the goalie, which Ryan Campson put in for the next goal. Pete had another great aggressive game along with Ryan L. and newcomers Sal and James. John Moffa had two breakaways from defense, which kept the plays very exciting. Our last goal was scored on a breakaway from Matt to ensure the win. Chris S. had numerous saves which locked up this very competitive game. Great work boys and let's keep it up.

Game 4

Bengals 3 - Levittown 0

The Bengals started off slowly but finally got going with a first goal with Fernando assisting to Tommy Heller. Our next goal was on a well placed corner kick from Ryan C. to Seb who sailed the ball into the net. Tom Jelcic scored the final goal unassisted. Chris L., John K., and Matt kept the pressure in the offensive line. Defensive players John, Pete and Sal were real strong stopping the opposing team from getting through. James saved a breakway from scoring on us and our goalie Chris had a diving save to secure another shut out for the Bengals.

Game 5

Bengals 1- Smithtown 2

Even though the team faced a tough loss, the Bengals should be proud and hold their heads high by placing third in the very competitive tournament. Their skills and hard work as a team showed us what this season will be like. We would like to welcome our new players Salvatore, John K., and James Ort to our team, as well as their parents. Once again, great job boys and teamwork and practice pays off!

The Pumas had a very successful "first travel tournament" going 2-1-2 in a very tough division stacked with "A" teams.

Game 1

Pumas 2 - Massapequa 1

Total team effort was the story in game one. Excellent goaltending by Chris Gantz and Bobby Hugli. After winning the ball from two opponents, Joe Tempone sent a perfect cross to Chris Kassoff who banged home the Pumas first goal. With the score knotted at one, Matt Siracusa put home a rebound for the game winner, big assists to Frankie Tloczkowski and Chris Gantz. Superb midfield play by Michael Howard and excellent defense by Seth Levine, Giovanni Palazzo and Sal Costa.

Game 2

Pumas 5 - Valley Stream 9

The boys got caught sleeping in this one, and found themselves down 4-0 less than five minutes in. Scoring came from five different players, STevie Mastrandrea, Chris Gantz, Michael Howard, Ryu Kawana and Matt Siracusa. Assists to Chris Kassoff (3) and Joe Tempone.

Game 3

Pumas 0 - Auburndale 0

Pumas bounced back with a great game against the eventual division winner. Excellent two way play by Giovanni Palazzo and Stevie Mastrandrea. Superb offense by Sal Costa and Seth Levine. Michael Howard and Ryu Kawana controlled the midfield play and Chris Gantz and Bobby Hugli were outstanding, combining for the shut out in net. Chris Brewer was strong at sweeper.

Game 4

Pumas 1 - East Meadow 0

Biggest game of the tournament as the boys successfully defended the "NHP-East Meadow Challenge Cup," and keep the cuip in NHP for another year. This game was for the entire Wildcats club. Super goaltending again by Bobby Hugli and Chris Gantz combining for another shutout. Lone goal by Frankie Tloczkowski and big assist by Chris Kassoff. Outstanding two-way play by Seth Levine, Sal Costa and Stevie Mastrandrea. Excellent passing by Joe Tempone and Giovanno Palazzo.

Game 5

Pumas 2 - RVC 2

The Pumas controlled the play throughout this game, but couldn't put it away. Superb goaltending again, this time by Michael Howard and Bobby Hugli. Goals by Ryu Kawana and Frankie Tloczkowski, with a big assist by Matt Siracusa. Solid two-way play by Joe Tempone, Chris Kassoff and Seth Levine. Another strong game at sweeper by Chris Brewer.

The coaches thank all the Puma families for a great weekend.