With the school year beginning again, fall sports are preparing for a great season. This year, new captains will be leading their teams into success, teamwork, and a sense of community.
Being a captain is a great responsibility given to the athletes that the rest of the team trust and respect in order to lead the team not only in the right direction, but to victory. All of the captains this year are working their hardest to create a comfortable environment where players can grow and learn.
Boys Soccer captains this year are juniors Tye Haley and Luke Hackett and senior Gianni Troia. Together they are working to help and mentor their team in order to perform their best.
Hackett states, “I am beyond excited for this season. We have a great team, and working with Tye and Gianni makes soccer fun and rewarding.” The boys are already off to an exciting season.
Senior Nora Hayes is captain for Girls Cross Country. She is the longest standing member of the team, having been part of the team since her freshman year.
According to Coach Shannon Worcester, “Hayes is uniquely qualified to lead our group, her character and charisma help her connect to every member of the team.” Having a captain that creates team comradery will benefit runners and their experience.
Seniors Max Newton and Thomas Melillo are Boys Cross Country captains for their team. Both Newton and Melillo are avid runners and enjoy working with their peers. Last year, Newton had a severe knee injury that resulted in surgery that ultimately caused a setback in his track achievements.
However, Newton says, “Despite being injured and unable to compete, I’m honored to be one of the captains. I look forward to collaborating and getting the team enthusiastic.”
Newton and Melilo both have a competitive spirit and will strive for a great season for their team.
This year’s Girls Soccer is run by Seniors Taylor LaFountain, Isabella Fallon, and Katie McTigue.
LaFountain writes, “I think this will be a really fun season, especially being my last one. The team is working together really well. We have a bright season ahead!”
The girls have a “Kick it For Cancer” game coming up on October 16. Make sure to attend, watch the team and support a good cause.
Girls Volleyball’s captain is Bella Valentin. She has been playing volleyball since her freshman year and has made it her goal to be captain since then.
Valentin recalls, “I saw how much people looked up to their captains and had an impact on the team. I wanted to be a part of something where we could be inclusive and comfortable.” The team has won two varsity games so far and will hopefully keep up the good energy throughout the season.
Girls Swim and Dive has four captains, seniors Olivia Jones, Grace Kiernan, Ellen Pan, and Lily Vernucci. They have been working together, hosting team hangouts, and collaborating with their coach Mr. Brian Dooling.
Coach Dooling writes, “The team is very close and these girls have already shown how well they can work together and encourage their teammates. I have great confidence in them leading their team through a great season!” Stay tuned for updates on their success.
Last but not least, Foran’s football captains this year are seniors Brandon Payne, Josh Smith, and Jack Beaupre.
Coach Garrett Walker states that “each captain brings his own unique leadership qualities that will help guide our squad… with these youngmen leading the way we are set for a great year.” The football team is composed of players of all grades, and it’s important that underclassmen have someone to look up to.
Beaupre states, “As a captain I preach family. I want the team to realize that we are brothers and have eachothers back. When you gain this bond, the team plays at a different level.”
School beginning can be nerve racking for most. It’s important that students have a place where they can collaborate freely and feel comfortable. Fall sport captains are doing their best to create a sense of community and excitement. All teams’ seasons have started, stay tuned to see their wins.
