“Surprise!”
That’s what I heard at my grandmother’s 85th birthday party this past weekend, and it made me think of a story idea.
Just kidding. The party was real, but I didn’t think of the story that way.
Anyway, here’s what’s on my mind as we approach the fall sports season.
We’ve got the same schools and places, but with different faces taking on new roles. Among local programs, there are five teams – among others – I think could do some damage across the next few months.
Teams that will surprise people, so to speak.
First off, I’m going with Lynn Classical’s girls soccer team, helmed wonderfully by Jessica Gambale, who grew up in Swampscott.
Now, look, I know the Lady Rams will be without Rachel Dana (lockdown defender) and Lauren Wilson (reliable goalie), both of whom have graduated, but there are three returning seniors to help fill those holes: Kaydee Rouse, Tatiana Lazo, and Gianna Parker.
“Kaydee is a versatile player who stands out in any key position,” Gambale said. “Gianna is a speedy player who has a knack for the net. … Tatiana is a playmaker who has great visuals of the field.”
Despite falling short of the state tournament last fall, it was only two years ago when Classical won 15 games and clinched that all-important spot.
I don’t know. I see it coming again this season.
Next, Lynn English football, with its ship being commanded by first-year coach and former star of the Bulldogs, Tyllor McDonald.
English went 3-8 last season after another Turkey Day defeat to Classical, but here’s who’s returning – and, trust me, you’ll recognize some of these names.
Shane Knowlton Simard, Jaiden Rosario, Zimari Omosefe, Jordan Em, Jordan Hernandez, and Limbert Thomas III will all be back. Hernandez led the team in tackles last fall, on top of scoring two touchdowns.
English visits Lawrence at 7 p.m. on September 6 to kick things off.
Speaking of new head coaches, let’s continue to welcome April Martinez to Saugus’ girls soccer program.
Continuously one of the top teams in the Northeastern Conference, I think the Sachems will take it up another notch this fall.
“I always dreamed of taking on this team,” said Martinez, who wore the same jersey back in high school. “I’m hoping to continue to build the program.”
As for the team’s captains, consider it a checked box. Layla Manderson, Tori Carter, Taylor Deleidi, and Madison Botta will all be back. They’re already working on their responsibilities ahead of the season, according to Martinez.
Run, St. Mary’s, run. Forgive me, I’ve watched “The Flash” TV show one too many times.
When it comes to the cross country Spartans, coach Tristan Smith admits to losing some key athletes, but remains very optimistic.
On the girls’ side, Kelsey Kwiatek, Nina Lopes, and Rylee Stanford are ready to go – on top of newcomer Jazmin Rodriguez, who’s coming over from the soccer team. For the boys, Lucian Paula and Cristian Rodrigues are two eighth-graders projected to lead the way, followed by Xavier Paula.
St. Mary’s hovered around .500 last fall (boys: 4-3; girls: 3-4), so let’s see what the program has in store for us.
Lastly, I’ve really enjoyed what second-year coach Jaymie Caponigro has brought to Swampscott’s girls soccer group. In her first season in charge last fall, the Big Blue went 8-5-5 and reached the second round of the state tournament.
Despite being on the younger side again, according to Caponigro, effective players in Maddie Goldman, Sam Ward, Fiona Keaney, Greta Siefken, Jane Raymond, Cecilia Tripp, Lyla Rogers, and goalie Eve Byrne will all be lacing up the cleats again.
With all of that talent, a double-digit win season is definitely a possibility, if you ask me.
Fall athletes, go get ’em.
