Even though Fort Hamilton’s soccer team might not have walked away with the title of champions on a cold, windy November night at Randall’s Island, there are many reasons to be proud, as well as hopeful for what is to come. The perseverance, dedication, and grit demonstrated by the soccer squad are clear indications of the team’s progress and potential for success.
Coaches Khodorkovsky, Sornoza, and Rabbah led the team to an undefeated season, where they went 10-0 and became the first Fort soccer team to clinch a PSAL championship berth. Their playoff run started with a 2-1 victory against Thomas Edison High School, followed by a 3-1 victory over New Dorp, and finally a 2-1 defeat of Martin Luther King Jr. High School in the PSAL Semifinals at Randall’s Island.
The championship match between Fort Hamilton and James Madison High School on November 17th drew an energetic crowd and created a bevy of emotions as the two teams took turns scoring on one another. Fort Hamilton took an early lead after a thunderous kick by senior Duran Pepic. However, James Madison scored two goals of their own. But just as time was expiring, and it seemed as though all hope was lost, Pepic scored a goal, forcing the game into overtime. The game had to be decided by penalty kicks, which was eventually won by James Madison.
Despite the way the season ended, players and coaches expressed pride in their successes this season and optimism for a stronger season next year.
“I am most proud of the way the boys were able to come together through adversity and make individual sacrifices for the good of the team,” said Coach Khodorkovsky. “The display of unity was really inspirational and the support we received from the Fort community was amazing and essential to our success.”
Pepic credited the coaches for the team’s success, as well as the individual performances of numerous players on the pitch.
“Their dedication on and off the pitch cannot go unnoticed, as they were the key to our success,” he said.
Among the reasons for the team’s performance is the stellar play of star goalie Juan Carlos Soliz-Cazares, who made numerous stops to keep the Tigers in the championship game.
As the seniors shift their attention to the possibility of playing on the collegiate level, the returning players look to work on improving their game and hopefully returning next year to finish what they started.
“I wish all the seniors the best of luck in college and beyond,” added Coach Khodorkovsky. “They are all unique individuals with many talents. Some will play college soccer at different competitive levels and some will focus purely on academics, but regardless of which path they choose, the experience of this season will stay with them always and benefit them for years to come.”
