It’s the beginning of the school year and the air smells like turf and grass. The soccer season has begun! The boys varsity soccer team has 5 wins, 1 tie, and 1 loss so far. The 2025-2026 varsity team is led by Coach Jonathan Hernandez and this year’s captains are senior Mark Persaud, senior Dwightberto Valladez, and junior Jose Escobar.
While dedication, commitment and perseverance can lead them and their teammates to victory, Coach Hernandez reminds players what matters most.
“Heart, gotta have heart,” Coach Hernandez said.
Despite sweat and tears the boys team still pushed their way to the top and made sure to leave it all on the field. Their game against Smithtown East is Valladez’s favorite memory of being on the team so far.
“They are a highly ranked team and we beat them in overtime,” said Valladez.
This team’s only focus isn’t winning, but learning from difficult lessons and working their way through them.
“The hardships have taught me valuable lessons, the experiences in this team have taught me many things I would have never learned if I didn’t join,” Persaud said.
This soccer team has players who have been working with each other as early as little league in Bay Shore. The boys support each other and help one another face difficult challenges. The players build relationships with one another, seeing each other everyday at practice and school. Yelling and supporting one another as one whole. They demonstrate sportsmanship and respect to each other as well as their rivals.
After every game, win or lose, they come together with the opposing team and shake hands. Congratulating one another despite the score board and wishing each other a good season.
Coach Hernandez keeps the team motivated by trying to focus on their best qualities and their achievements during the season.
“Our coach’s ability to refocus a group at halftime helps the entire team go back out and play as if the game has just started despite if we were winning or losing” Persaud said.
Under the stadium lights, a screaming crowd, and a sweaty jersey, the boy’s strength and determination will lead them to have a good season.
