The Jericho Shooting Stars Boys U8 Soccer Team won its second consecutive outdoor tournament on Sunday, Nov. 24 at Stillwell Field. Jericho captured first place in the Boys U8 White Division of the Syosset Intramural Soccer Tournament, playing in games that were rescheduled because of a Columbus Day rainout. The Shooting Stars were undefeated and unscored upon on the three-game event, winning by scores of 1-0, 1-0 and 2-0.

Game one against a tough Plainedge opponent, was highlighted by the toughness of winning goalkeeper Noah Starr, who made a number of difficult saves under severe pressure, particularly in the second half. Defenders Matthew Epstein and Jesse Buller teamed up to form an airtight defense as they turned away numerous scoring opportunities. Andrew Fox scored the only goal of the game, assisted by the aggressive play of center midfielder Zachary Cohen.

Game two, a grudge match against Albertson, was also a defensive struggle. Goalkeeper Jesse Buller tossed a shutout, denying a number of difficult shots, while Michael Gang and Ryan Tarasoff dominated the defensive zone and kept their opponents at bay. Derek Medolla was a standout at midfield, darting across the field, controlling the ball and making precise left-footed and right-footed passes. The only goal of the game was scored by Bradley Wank, rocketing the decisive shot into the net for his first goal in tournament play.

Game three, a 2-0 victory over Dix Hills, was highlighted by a booming corner kick assist by Brian Lowenstein. The ball soared across the field, through a pack of players surrounding the mouth of the goal and was netted on the opposite side by Andrew Fox for his second goal of the day. A little while later, Zachary Cohen scored his first goal of the tournament to give Jericho some breathing room with a two-goal lead that it would not relinquish. Goalkeepers Noah Starr and Zachary Cohen preserved the lead, making it three straight games in which Jericho shut out their opponents.

The Shooting Stars have achieved trophy placement in seven consecutive tournaments, finishing in first place three times, second place three times and third place once. The players are developing soccer skills, fitness, teamwork and camaraderie by competing against teams from other towns beyond the fall intramural season. The coaches, Epstein and Starr, are proud of their team and thank the players for their effort and the parents for their support.