The Jesuit web site presents a new feature to the school community:
A weekly commentary about prep athletics at Jesuit and
around the Catholic league. Junior Connor McMahon
will work this beat and offer his insights about high school athletics. |
Jesuit Soccer on a Roll
Thursday, January 28, 2010 Jesuit’s varsity soccer team has been pummeling opponents as of late, allowing no more than one goal in any game this year. With district play in full swing, the boys in Blue and White are cruising by the competition. The soccer team is undefeated thus far and shows no sign of slowing down any time soon. Blue Jay soccer is one of the elite soccer programs in the nation. With a consistent top five national ranking and state championships in 2007 and 2009, the expectation to win every time they take the field is high.
Senior goalie Joe Hart makes a
stop at the Tampa Tournament
earlier this season.
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Therefore, the Jays have to be prepared to see their opponents’ best game, day in and day out. According to senior midfielder Jordan Schwartz, “We know that every team is going to play their hardest, so we have to take every game seriously.”
This attitude of not accepting a loss has kept the Blue Jays undefeated this season; but can they hold on to their hot streak? Why not? The squad has not missed a state semi-final since 1998; and with a team loaded with talent, don’t look for the streak to end this year. With players like junior midfielder Steven Cabos and senior forward Alexi Petrou leading the offensive charge, opponents’ goalies usually get a good work out. On the opposite side of the field, Jesuit sports one of the toughest defenses in the state. The relentless efforts of senior goalie Joe Hart, along with senior defender Alex Brignac, who tracks down anyone in his territory, the Jays’ defense is superb at keeping the ball at the other end of the field. Along with the talent and great coaching, chemistry holds the team together. For example, the night before district games, the squad gathers for a team dinner at a player’s home. Jesuit Head Soccer Coach Hubie Collins believes that these types of events foster team unity. Spending time as a team creates chemistry, which translates to success on the field. With this kind of momentum, expect the soccer team to make a strong run at another state title. Side Lines:
· With the basketball team (2-0 in district) taking on St. Augustine Friday night, look for the winner to have the inside track to take district.
· The wrestling team is dominating district competition; and with a recent win over Brother Martin, the team seems to be stepping up their game in preparation for state.
· Jesuit rugby has started off the season 2-0 by defeating Brother Martin and Rummel.
Bouncing Back: Basketball Senior Scelfo Talks about Injury
Friday, January 22, 2010 After a scary injury that made his basketball career flash before his eyes, senior Dominick Scelfo has returned to the hardwood for the Blue Jays just in time for district play. After being named to The Clarion Herald’s Elite Basketball Team and as District 10-5A MVP last season, Dominick was looking forward to what was sure to be a very promising senior season. 
Senior Dominick Scelfo (11) works for
a basket at the district opener
against Rummel.
|
However, Dominick hit a speed bump on October 2 at
St. Louis University which caused him to miss half of his senior campaign. Dominick’s injury occurred when he tried to plant his leg, but instead felt his knee collapse, tearing both sides of his meniscus. “I really thought that my basketball career was over.” However, after having his knee surgically repaired and spending many long hours in rehab, Dominick is back and ready to go. He said that his injury has really helped him put things in perspective. He has accepted a scholarship from Cornell over offers from Saint Louis University, University of Texas-San Antonio, Samford, and UNO. “My injury made me realize what can happen to any athlete. I want to go to Cornell because a solid education is something that will always stay with you.” Surely Dominick looks to have a bright college future after his days in the Blue and White. Dominick helped lead his team to a district championship last year and looks forward to even better things this year. With key players from last year’s team like seniors Colby Kiefer, Brady Hadden, and Joshua Dudley returning, the Jays have a shot to go all the way. Dominick said that he looks forward to playing for a state championship if the opportunity presents itself. Side Lines: · When asked what his favorite shot on the floor was, Dominick Scelfo replied,
“The one that goes in.” · Senior Louis LaCour and the lacrosse team hope to make another strong title run this
year. The Jays are an early favorite to win it all. · Wrestling district dual meets are here. Expect the Jays to breeze by their competition. · The baseball team is getting ready to start practice. Without Jordan Rittiner ’09 and
Mason Katz ’09, the team will have big shoes to fill. Look for the Jays returning infielders
seniors Briggs Barrios, Ethan Oddo, and junior Josh Faciane to anchor the team. | 
