The JV Football Bulldogs have a new look and new attitude. The new look is comprised of a new all-Island Trees alumni coaching staff: Head coach Jim Volpe '87, assistants Tom McCormick '82 and Jim Schepp '85. In addition to the new staff, are fresh recruits from the middle school. They will join a good cast of returning players to form a solid foundation for a successful future team. The most impressive characteristic of this team is their positive attitude. Teammates constantly encourage one another to work hard and do their best. This never-say-die squad refuses to lose and have found ways to win two close games this season to make their record 2-0. Fine teams must have fine leaders and I think we have three: Center/LB Jeff Ritter, RB/SS Mike Buonomo and RB/LB Ryan Linzie.

The opener was Sept. 19 at East Rockaway vs. The Rocks. On the Bulldogs' first possession of the season, they marched down the field on the abilities of young quarterback Gerard VanLeuvan and the running of Rich Catherall. The 12 play, nine minute drive resulted in a touchdown and a 6-0 Bulldog lead. The lead held up all game thanks to tenacious defense. The defense forced five turnovers (four fumbles, one interception) the most crucial coming on their own three yard line with less than three minutes in the game. The ball was recovered in the end zone by Gerard VanLeuvan to save the day.

On Sept. 26 the Bulldogs played in another nail-biter vs. the host Malverne Mules. The Dogs won 13-6. Island Trees scored on their first two possessions making the score 13-0. The offensive line - Jude Brewer, Tom Lombardi, Dan Wilson, Jeff Ritter, Ray Mayleas and Joe Ambrogio, did a tremendous job dominating the line of scrimmage. Again after scoring early, the Bulldog defense had to preserve the lead. Hard hitting and playing aggressive-style ball, the defense forced three turnovers, one interception by Aaron Maltezo and recording several quarterback sacks. Norberto Cabarcas and Mike Buonomo had a big defensive day.

The 2-0 Bulldogs look to continue their unbeaten season vs. North Shore in their next game. Come support this exciting, gritty and talented bunch of Bulldogs.

The Boys JV soccer team beat Hewlett 1-0 on Sept. 17. Kevin Bragman scored the only goal of the game. Bryan Mercer had six saves in the game, the biggest with two minutes remaining in the game.

On Sept. 19 the team traveled to Roslyn. Matt Ostrowski and Steve D'Ambrosio had goals in the team's 2-2 tie. A. J. Latuputty and Mike Santor contributed in a big way to help the team keep its winning record.

On Friday, Sept. 25 the team defeated Valley Stream South 4-3. Kevin Bragman scored two goals; Matt Ostrowski and Steve D'Ambrosio scored the other two goals. Outstanding goaltending by Bryan Mercer helped the Bulldogs to the victory.

Winning 2-0 at halftime, the Bulldogs allowed two goals against Wantagh and the game ended in a tie. Steve D'Ambrosio scored both goals for the Bulldogs. Pete Kostaras played an excellent game in goal to earn the tie. The team's record is now 3-1-2.

The boys seventh grade soccer team shut out Wisdom Lane last week. Goals were scored by Giuseppe Agostino and Mike Garger (two goals). Matt Lucia and Bruce Davidson made great saves.

The girls eighth grade soccer team had a home game on Oct. 1 aainst Grand Avenue JHS. They played a strong game with Katrine Yevoli in goal and Melanie Hallas scoring a goal with the assist by Candace Grosser. Grand Avenue was beat, up until the fourth quarter. The Lady Bulldogs came up short, final score 3-1. Nice job girls.