The Jericho Rockets soccer season finally got under way after several weeks delay because of the difficult weather. It was worth waiting for as the Rockets came away with a 2-1 victory over the Levittown Red Devils.

The game was defined by a strong wind, which had a major impact on the game. Scoring the first goal of the season and putting the Rockets in front was Nicole Kapner. Kapner played a strong game at midfield after coming off an injury that had sidelined her the past couple of weeks. Also scoring for the Rockets was Sam Perlstein. Sam played a well-disciplined game in the field at right outside halfback.

Sam was also the goalie in the second half when the Red Devils had the wind at their backs. Sam was superb in repelling attack after attack. Julie Avrutine played goal in the first half and also did a marvelous job.

A strong defensive unit led by Shelby Bates at sweeper helped both keepers. Playing outside fullbacks were Shelby Rudolph, Melissa Rudofsky and Marissa Krauser. Special mention goes to new stopper Reisa Feigenbaum. This was Reisa's first game at stopper and she played extremely well at stopping the attack and beginning the counterattack. The defensive unit has been a major key to the success the Rockets have had in the past. Their strong play will continue to define the difference between winning and losing.

At the offensive end, the dynamic duo of Ali Kinzer and Hillary Kesner did a smashing job. Although they were unable to put the ball in the back of their net, their inspired play kept pressure on the Red Devils throughout the game. Lindsay Hamburg also did an excellent job at striker. Playing in her first travel game Lisa-Marie Stabile did a superb job blending in with the offensive unit.

The midfielders did a sensational job controlling the middle of the field. Shana Feibus played the best game of her career. Playing both outside midfield positions, Shana was hustling, passing and making spectacular plays and breaking up attacking plays on the field. Playing her normal tenacious self was Rachel Podbielak. Assisting in the middle was Nicole Wanderman. Also playing her first travel game was Jordana Zwerling. She did a very good job playing in the middle of the field.

The girls have practiced hard in the last few weeks and their hard work has paid off. Also helping the cause is their trainer Jen Carlson. Jen has done a great job with the girls. Her knowledge of the game and patience with the girls in her teaching methods has clearly paid dividends.

This is the first time in three years the Rockets are undefeated!