Congratulations to our new travel coaches for the U-10 boys - John Riccardi and Neal Nathan; for the U-10 girls - Anne Sawicki and Joe Heller. Best of luck! All Travel Coaches: Fall registration packages will be available for pick up at Anne Sawicki's house at 56 Park Avenue, Garden City Park, on June 19 and 20, between the hours of 7 and 9 p.m. If you cannot make these times send a representative from your team. Questions, call Anne Sawicki, 741-4736. GU-16 tryouts will be held Saturday, June 26, 4-5 p.m. at New Hyde Park Memorial High School. Questions, call Mike Hennessy, 437-6482.

Our last week of the season saw us travel to the LIJSL fields in Plainview for the annual tournament and barbecue. Our numbers were depleted due to conflicts with other activities but the enthusiasm was sky-high! The first match had NHP against Garden City. Stefani Egre and Jessica provided all the offense needed as we coasted to a 3-0 win. Karen Babyak was the spark plug at midfield. Game 2 vs. HBC was a different contest. We started slowly and only Ehrin McHenry's super save in the first half kept the game close. The offense showed up in the second half and NHP coasted to an easy victory. John Ferrante, Lucas Epstein and Samantha Epstein carried the attack. The final against Plainview/Old Bethpage was the closest game of the day. While we lost 1-0, we were in the game to the final whistle. Eugene Simmons was outstanding in goal. Derek Epstein provided the much-needed support at midfield with terrific defense and great passing. The day ended with players, parents and coaches enjoying hot dogs and hamburgers. All players were presented with beautiful trophies and T-shirts. Another super ending to a super season.

Have a great summer and see you all in the fall.

Correction from last week: Adriana Alessi scored on the penalty shot in the "parents vs. the players" game.

All girls born between Aug. 1, 1984 and Dec. 31, 1986 are invited to try outs for the Stray Cats (girls U15) travel team. Tryouts will be held on Thursday, June 24, between 5:30 and 7 p.m. at the Center Street School. Should you have any questions, please call Rich Hess at 747-3198. Thursday, June 24, 5:30 p.m. at Center Street School. Girls born after Aug. 1, 1986 are eligible. We are looking for five to seven players. Call Cecil at 739-3022. Boys U-11 (born between Aug. 1, 1988 and Dec. 31, 1989). Thursday, June 24, 4:30-6 p.m. Denton Avenue. For further information, call Sean McGonigle, 294-4906. Girls U-16 Division II. Born Aug. 1, 1983 or later. June 22 and 24 at Denton Avenue School, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Any questions call Myron Bell at 326-1176 after 6 p.m. U-14 girls for the fall season, June 25, 6:30-8 p.m. at Denton Ave. School. Bring soccer ball, cleats and water. Questions, call Pete Cusumano, 358-1651. Girls born between Aug. 1, 1984 and Dec. 31, 1985 are invited to try out for the Cheshire Cats (GU-15). Tryouts will be at Denton Avneue School on Friday, June 25, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. If you have any questions, please call Ronald Barnett at 248-4305. The NHP Lady Lynx will be holding an open tryout for girls born between Aug. 1, 1987 and Dec. 31, 1988 on June 21 and 22, 6 p.m. at Manor Oaks School. Anyone in this age group is welcome to try out for all positions. If you have a question, please call Joe Clark at 488-4437 or Steve Contrada at 437-8912. Firecats Firecats 7 - East Meadow Diamonds 3 Things looked dismal during the first half of the game with the Firecats getting off to a slower than usual start resulting in a two goal deficit. However, with a late arriving Melissa well warmed up, Staci recovering from an early knee injury and Ali's sinuses finally clearing, the Firecats finally got their collective act in gear. Two quick goals tied the score, the first from Janette, unassisted, who had been denied in several early attempts, then from Melissa on a well placed pass from Jen Mason. The defense still needed some tightening so East Meadow pulled ahead 3-2. Then Eleni, always the anchor, got into stride, supported as always by Jen Bauman, Lauren and Christine. Jen Mason was everywhere despite the rising heat and humidity passing up to Ali and Staci. Goal three was a low ball fed to Ali by Jen Mason. With the score tied Jen Mason lofted a ball over the keeper's head for goal four. The next three were scored by Melissa who received the ball from a solid midfield and front line including Mary, Lindsay, Nicole who did not let up. After a frustrating first half Molly remained vigilant and aggressive, while the Firecats wore the Diamonds down. One more game to go Cats - let's maintain the momentum.

Stormcats 0 - Massapequa 3

The Stormcats finished a very lackluster season with a dismal loss to the Stallions of Massapequa. Although the boys started with a flurry of shots the Stallion goalie was up to the task. Special thanks to all the boys: Eric Andreuzzi, Justin Brobst, Chris Dijanic, Dan Duras, Joe Incalcatera, Robby Kassoff, Joe Marrano, Michael McHale, Robert Morici, Alex Nyestat and Christian Uy. Our goalie Danny Gangale went out in style shutting down the Stallions for the first half. Danny is leaving the Stormcats after two spectacular seasons. Good luck to him and to all our boys, have a great summer. See you all next season!

P.S. Congratulations to Claudia and Robert Morici on the birth of their son. This is their fifth wildcat member.

Lady Leopards 0 - Cold Spring Harbor 1

The Lady Leopards dropped a tough 1-0 decision to Cold Spring Harbor. The Blazers went on the attack early and scored midway through the first half. The Cats defense kicked in and shut them out the rest of the way. Samantha Didrikson and Lauren Lidowsky led the defensive effort. Michelle Colletti was strong at marking back. In the second half, the Lady Leopards went on the offensive but could not find the back of the net. Cathy Caballero and Whitney Blake were the catalysts. Diana Buccella and Laura Sasso played well in the midfield. Jennifer Capasso energized the front line.

Kickcats 3 - E. Islip 1

As usual, the Kickcats traveled to East Islip for an early morning game where they slept through the first half. With an unbeaten streak on the line, the girls fell behind 1-0. After that "half-time meeting," they took it upon themselves to take over the game. With some great teamwork, Kristina Peros fed Corrine Tisei the ball for our first goal. Corrine put another one in with the help of Marissa Roberts, Amanda Ramos, Melanie Pinzon and Lisa Karcic. The last goal of the game was scored by Ilana Domb, with a beautiful shot from Kristina's beautiful pass.

With our solid defensive plays, Janyne Eisner, Bridget Holahan, Marielle Ferstenberg, Shaina Pollack and Michele Amato heped Katie Simmons and Devon Geraghty keep the score at 3-1 and only giving up four goals for the entire season.

Get well soon Jess and have a great summer girls. Remember....23rd/6 p.m. Keep in shape girls! - Your coaches.

Tigers 2 - Plainedge Lightning 1

The Tigers played a terrific game against a tough Plainedge team. Dan Goldberg scored just minutes into the game off a nice pass from Andre Burnett. Rich Caridi scored the second goal assisted by Carmine Gronda. Nick Fishman played goalie in the first half as well as playing defensively. Rich was in goal the second half and made many great saves. With minutes to go Plainedge put the pressure on but with the way the Tigers were playing and the key saves in goal the Tigers shut out their opponents. Allen Williams, Dylan Mayer, Joe Mercadante, Sean McGonigle, Ray Anderson, Brendon Schweitzer, Dan Wortley and Luigi Muto played different position and did an impressive job holding Plainedge to only one goal. Impressive game boys.

Tigers 7 - Levittown United 3

On Sunday, June 13, the Tigers played a makeup game against Levittown. Despite playing away from home this Tigers team played exceptionally well. Sean McGonigle played tough in goal against a determined Levittown squad. Levittown scored minutes into the game but that didn't stop the Tigers from exploding. Nick Fishman scored the first goal as well as being keeper. Allen Williams scored the second goal fed to him by Joey Mercadante. With seconds left in the half Allen with a nice spin move scored again. The Tigers continued to play impressive soccer. Andrew Burnett shot a powerful high kick from the corner to score the third goal. Carmine Gironda scored the fifth goal off a terrific pass from Dylan Mayer who also had numerous shots on goal. Dan Wortley scored goal #6. Rich Caridi scored the final goal with a nice left footer. Luigi Muto, Brendon Schweitzer and Ray Anderson played tremendous with several shots on goal. Awesome game. Nice way to end the season.

Cheshire Cats 0 - East Meadow 0

The Cheshire Cats ended their season on a mixed, but generally upbeat note. The girls dominated most of the game and had several good opportunities. Unfortunately, we were plagued by our season long inability to put it in the net and had to settle for the 0-0 tie against East Meadow. Michelle Cohen did her usual excellent work at keeper to record the shutout. Lisa Virzero showed she is all the way back from injury and played her best game of the season. Jenna Bresso and Kara Beardsley provided excellent midfield work and set up several good chances. Megan Heinemann and Jemi Cantwell were outstanding during their times at midfield as well. Finally, Meghan O'Leary was outstanding at her stopper role and Alison Dehler-Barnett showed some nice defense and good moves as she stepped into a fullback role.

Lady Jaguars 12 - Terryville Valencia 4

In our season finale against second place Terryville, our girls were led by Lauren Baumann, Elizabeth Montreuil and Stefanie Weitzel battling to a 1-1 at halftime, Pamela Fiorillo banged in the tying goal.

The second half our girls made too many mistakes which Terryville pounced on for their second half goals.

The coach would like to thank all the girls for their effort during this trying season.

Aristocats 2 - Valley Stream Angels 1

The Aristocats limped through their final game of the season, earning a victory with a last minute score. Suzie Jozkowski put the Cats up with just 30 seconds gone by, with a gritty effort to touch home a loose ball in front of the Valley Stream goal. Unfortunately, that was the extent of our offense for most of the first half. For some reason, this was not the best of days for the Aristocats. Without the incredible play of Alicia DeMarco at sweeper, the team would have been in the hole by a few goals at halftime instead of tied at 1-1. Second half play was much like the first as midfielders Lauren Marra and Jennifer Fabian worked hard to get the attack going, but not much seemed to work. Alison Luby had a standout game at outside marking back. Danielle Losonci finished her season with another skillful, confident game in the net. Despite the team's difficulties in putting together any sustained effort, Ashley Felcon drove home a long blast in the final minute for the victory. The coaches would like to thank all of the girls for their tremendous efforts all throughout this year. From the fall, through indoor and the spring, the Aristocats enjoyed their most consistent and successful year with two finishes near the top of their division. Thanks to all of our Aristocat families for your support.

Lady Pumas 2 - Hauppauge 5

The Lady Pumas were on the road to take on the top ranked Hauppauge team. Adopting a conservative strategy, our girls were able to contain the opponent for the first 15 minutes during which Roe F., Christy and Madelyn were instrumental on defense. By then our Ladies were leveling play in midfield with Puja, Teri and Monika making some good passes for the forwards. But on two quick counterattacks Hauppauge opened the score and made it 2-0 on a clear offside position. Down 0-3 at half time, the Pumas reacted well in the early stages of the second, as Sabrina's chip found the back of the net by the seventh. Opponent's physical play was taking its toll on our girls, who were unable to sustain the pressure, allowing two more goals before Ai reduced the deficit. Busy afternoon for Laurie in goal, with good number of saves.

Next week's final game requires the best of the efforts from all of us! Let's do it!

Jaguars 8 - Mineola Red Heat 2

Great game by all Jaguars today completely dominating their opponent. Goal scorers were Robert Bridges (2), Danny Corriea (2), Vinny Timpano, Chris Fabrizi, Gabby Ferriera and Phillip Zysopouslos (Happy Birthday Rose). First time in six weeks the whole team was there. Great games from Stephen Gilroy, Michael Marrano, Greg Tloczkowski, Chris Raulli, Aldo Alleva and Tom Rowinski on both ends of the field. A special thanks to Jimmy Catapano for his unselfish play and hard work which does not go unnoticed. Great job boys.

Lightning Cats 1 - Oceanside Waves 1

Great soccer play by the Lightning Cats this game kept the Oceanside Waves to a mere ripple with a tie of 1 to 1.

The Cats dominated the field with the brick wall of defense led by Katie Roth shutting down their offensive play.

Heads-up play by Marisa Azzato as she aggressively bolted to the ball with a great jumping save in the first half deflating the offensive push the Waves were trying hard for.

Thje Waves managed to sneak one in on a weak shot jut seconds before the end of the first half.

The second half the Cats offensive was led by a quick cross from Melissa Southern to Kim Grammas who drilled one in from 18 meters and tied the game up early in the second half. The Waves couldn't gain control again as Samantha Selvaggio kept winning the race for the ball and pushing it up for the attack. Another strong shot by Kim G. ripped into the goal but was disallowed by the Ref when he called a penalty. A tough break for the Cats with only minutes left to play. Great effort by all made for a great and fun game to watch by all.

Both coaches would like to thank all the girls: Nicole Desimone, Colleen Grace, Cassie Green, Shannon Lovisi, Kristina Masci, Sarah Ricchuti, Katie Roth, Samantha Selvaggio, Katelin Shea, Melissa Southern, Grace Emanuele and Marisa Azzato for an enjoyable season and experience and wish each of them a great summer...Thanks girls.

Thundercats 3 - Garden City 0

An incredible game to mark the end of a wonderful, successful season. Alie Antman recorded a shutout in goal, saving some beautiful shots. Maria Saitta scored two goals, one off a corner that went off their keeper's hands. Goal three started with Sara Aron Bayoff fighting for the ball passed it off to Colleen Marino who crossed it to Rebbecca Heinneman who slammed it in. Analise Siciliano, Elyse Messina and Cindy Scianablo exhibited beautiful passing but just couldn't send it in the net. Jenna Peverano, Paige Darby and Lyndsy Cilia were like a wall that Garden City couldn't penetrate. The defense set up some beautiful starts of play to the midfielders. I applaude you all for your hard work and determination. I've seen so much growth this season individually and especially as a team. I'm very proud of you - Coach Ellen.

Magic Cats 4 - Port Washington 5

The Magic Cats must have had a late night and did not wake up until the second half. The boys down 3-0 mounted a comeback. Elvis DaCosta played aggressively and scored our first goal. Justin Soluria scored two answering goals and we tied it up at three. Port Washington did not give up and scored two more goals and made it 5-3. Pasquale Imbriano used his quickness to make it 5-4 as he placed one past the goalie. Good effort in midfield by Evan Chen, Dan Aruch, Dan Fini.

Lady Starcats 0 - Elwood Wolverines 1

This was a close exciting contest from the opening kickoff right to the final whistle.

In the first half we had our chances as Meaghan Houst and Erin Gilmartin both made several fast breaks down field taking a multitude of shots on goal that just missed their mark. Midfielders Deanna Perniciaro, Kerriane Stein and Christine Cusumano kept up the pressure by winning the ball and feeding the offensive attacks. Defensively, our girls were just about perfect led by Jessika Wong at sweeper, Caroline Romano, Alison Monti and Nisha Ohri, Kaitlyn Kennedy was terrific in goal. Monica Soluri played a very strong and tenacious first half at stopper.

In the second half, Elwood came out very aggressive, staging repeated attacks into our zone - Monica, in net in the second half, made several great saves. Unfortunately, 10 minutes into the second half, Elwood managed to sneak one in goal. Our girls responded by starting up a barage of offensive attacks of their own - our Cats staged wave after wave of attacks where shots on goal were fired by Sam Rosen, Meaghan, Erin and Kaitlyn - the Elwood goal was peppered with shots -but the net just could not be connected.

Although this was a tough loss, our girls have nothing to be ashamed of. They played their hearts out and deserve our heartfelt congratulations, not only for this exciting game, but for their entire very successful season.

Thanks to all the girls, parents and asst. coaches for a great season. Have a great summer.

Stray Cats 3 - Stonybrook Red Demons 1

One of the reasons Vicki Nikic can be dangerous on the soccer field is her ability to read the game. Today was no exception as she saw the open shot from midfield and launched a shot from way outside the 18 meter for the first goal of the day. The defensive duo of Ashley Campson and Beth DeMarco were right on target as they denied the Demons offense any opportunity at the goal. Alison Rose played an excellent game from midfield and earned an assist as she laced a pass through the Demons defense to Alison Fliegel who had the game winner on a rocket shot. Midfielder Lindsay Rella and stopper Lauren DeSimone both had big games denying the Demons offense the opportunity to mount an attack. Forwards Kristina DiCostanzo and Michele Galante used their speed to the teams benefit. Michele took a loose ball the length of the field late in the second half and connected for the third goal of the day. Keeper X'Ania Saldana provided the coaches a chance to relax as her sure play shut the Demons down.

Stray Cats Girls U-14 Waldbaum's Champs!

Playing on a hot, humid day and having to come from behind to win, the Stray Cats defeated the West Hempstead Silent Thunder by a score of 4 to 2 and became the girls U-14 Waldbaum's champions. Despite being down by a goal in the second half, the speed and depth of the Stray Cats proved much too much for the Thunder. Alison Fliegel put the Stray Cats on top in the first half on a direct kick she drilled to the back of the net from above the 18 meter. Our lead was short lived as the Thunder went up by a goal at the end of the half. During half time the Stray Cats made up their mind what the outcome of the game would be. Showing the poise, confidence and heart that has been the backbone of this team, the Stray Cats came out ready to play. It was like night and day. Forward Jessica Busardo tied the score on a high shot past the keeper assisted by Ashley Campson's pass. Forwards Mary Hess, Michele Galante, Keri Lippolis and Kristina DiCostanzo changed the tide of the game with their speed and relentless attack at the Thunder keeper. Excellent backfield work by Vicki Nikic, Beth DeMarco, Nicole Southern and Jessica Lippolis in the second half completely shut down the Thunder. The unselfish play of Megan Stevens was evident as she sent a pass to Jessie B. who converted for her second goal of the day. Jessie soon returned the favor and led Megan with a pass that Megan deftly put in the goal. The midfield play in the second half really picked up as Lindsay Rella, Lauren Castilla and Alyson Rose refused to allow the ball to the Thunder offense. Lauren DeSimone's versatility was evident as she provided quality play in stopper, forward and midfield positions. The Stray Cats' keeper, X'Ania Saldana, provided stellar play in the net. Her poise and take charge attitude in goal continues to keep the Stray Cats at the top of their game. A chance at the division championship (only one game to go), State Cup semi finalists and now Waldbaum's champions has been a dream season. Let's go Stray Cats!

Lady Lynx 3 - Syosset Storm 2

With quiet determination and steely resolve, while staying focused on the task at hand, the Lady Lynx triumphed over the Syosset Storm last Saturday at Manor Oaks Field. This was a tremendous win as it solidified the Ladies hold on second place and sets up a battle for the division championship next week against first place Plainedge.

The Lady Lynx came out and quickly took control of the game as the Lynx defense seized the midfield line and allowed zero penetration and the Lady Lynx attacks were quick to apply the necessary pressure and go up 1-0 as Jackie Nese took a beautiful outlet pass from Adriana Cavallaro. Jackie, who scored in her third consecutive game, sent her shot screaming to the Syosset net and we were on our way, or so we thought. Syosset quickly found a seam in the center of the Lynx defense and scored on a breakaway, but our girls never blinked. Two minutes later Jamie Silverman sent a long shot to the Syosset goal which the Syosset keeper saved but could not control the rebound. The loose ball found Tracy Rostholder in traffic and not having a quality shot Tray bumped the ball back to Michelle Contrada who sent the ball top left and the Lady Lynx were back on top. On our way? I think not. Syosset scored the equalizer and we went to the half tied at two.

The Lady Lynx, knowing that the journey to the top is a long one, refused to see the journey end before reaching the pinnacle. The battle cry became "we can" and Brigid Fee charged the hill with the flag. Brig absolutely took over in the defensive end with long clearing kicks and a "not in my house" attitude. This attitude became contagious as the girls, with the defense roaring, played 30 minutes of ball control, waiting for the opportunity to strike. Patience paid off as the girls worked the ball to Jennifer Jung who fired a shot that the Syosset keeper could not handle. As the ball came out, Tracy Rostholder swept in behind the goalie and calmly drove it home and this time the girls made the lead stand up.

The last stop on the journey is Plainedge and possibly a division championship. Hey girls, I hear the view is great from the top. How 'bout dem Lynx.

Pumas 4 - E. Meadow 0

After a slow start, the Pumas closed out the season with four straight wins, and outscored their opponents 12 to 1. They saved the best for last winning 4-0 today. Solid goaltending by Chris Ganz and Giovanni Palazzo, along with strong defense by Chris Brewer, Sal Costa and Michael Howard combined for the shutout. Stevie Mastrandrea, Joe Tempone, Matt Siracusa, and Bobby Hugli controlled the midfield play. Superb two-way play by Frankie Tloczkowski, Chris Kassoff, and Matt Warren. Goals were scored by Bobby Hugli, Matt Siracusa, and Chris Kassoff (2). Big assists go to Michael Howard, Matt Warren, Chris Brewer, and Joe Tempone. The coaches want to thank all the Puma players and their families for a great season.

Battlecats 2 - Elmont 3

Tough loss after being in the lead. Robbie Guercio scored off a Chris Siracusa centering pass that was right on the money and then it was Chris again hitting inside the box. Superb midfield play from Brian Eilbott and Juan Flores. Jeff Moculeski, Larry Lewandoski and Peter Burger never gave up on defense. That sweeper/stopper combo of Frank Crecco and Chris Sigmund was as usual most impressive. Overall, the season boasted impressive offensive punch, smart midfield playing and excellent defensive skills supported by fine goalkeeping. The boys had a good season and they know it.

The Lady Tigers capped off their U-10 season by splitting two games last weekend and finishing second in Division 1 with a 7-0-2 record and a spring season of 13-3-3. On Saturday, the Lady Tigers took a quick 2-0 lead in the first half against Valley Stream only to see it fade on some questionable calls to a 3-2 loss. But the Tigers bounced back the next day and beat the defensive powerhouse Plainedge Fury 6-0. Nicole Cavalaro tallied four goals on the day while midfielder Ali Timpano added the other two and an assist. The Lady Tigers just missed adding two more scores off some strong shots that hit the post by right forward Dana Hammer and another from 25 yards out by Jamie Bourazeris. Catie Loskofsky stepped in at midfield provide strength to the attack. Debra Prevete had two assists on the day and Raquel Cantu assisted on another off a strong defensive play. Domanie Kokkoris and Denise Prevete shut down the opponents offense on several occasions and terrific support by Francine Leung and Marion Delepena held the Fury to only five shots inthe game. Keeper Lyndsey DeSarbo has recorded her fifth straight shutout against Plainedge. The Lady Tigers completed their U-10 year with a record of 31-8-7 while scoring 130 goals and only allowing 56. Congratulations to the girls and coaches Vinnie and Bernadette and we hope your U-11 season will be as fun, exciting and successful.