(Photo courtesy @JLHSAthletics)

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief & Editorial Editor

Senior Hannah Engel and junior David Lickteig were recently named October’s Student-Athletes of the Month. 

Engel, a senior on the volleyball team, helped Law to four wins this fall – Amistad twice and East Haven twice. 

“I think I was nominated because I had put in a lot of hard work and effort into this season and was grateful my coaches and school community recognized it,” Engel said.

Loch said that Engel improved greatly over her four years at Law. Engel was used to playing front row but a handful of times she would be moved to back row. 

“I felt Hannah had a really good season this year,” Loch said. “She has really improved and started finding her ‘groove’ with hitting. Over the past few years I worked with Hannah on keeping the ball in front of her to give her a stronger hit.”  

Within the first few weeks of the season, Engel was becoming a stronger hitter than before. There were times she even had to play back row and over the course of the season, and her skills in the back row improved.  

“My coaches have worked to improve my skills and also to get each player on the team better,” Engel said. 

Lickteig, a junior on the boys cross country team, was also honored with the October award. Head Coach Mr. Beler described Lickteig as a top runner all season, where he was constantly improving. 

“He has a unique combination of stamina for distance but also a strong speed skill set,” Beler said. “This is important due to the variety of courses we run. Some are hills-based, which are geared towards stronger runners, some are flatter, which favor the faster runners. David’s skill set allows him to excel on both types of courses.”

Lickteig said he is excited for the next two seasons of this school year where he is a member of the boys indoor and outdoor track teams. 

“I feel happy that I was nominated for and achieved Athlete of the Month,” Lickteig said. “It feels nice to be recognized for all the athletic achievements I helped gain for our school.”

Lickteig’s times have already drawn attention from colleges, where he hopes to continue his success next season.

“David won the Milford Championships and is officially the fastest cross country runner in Milford,” Beler said. “He had been the #1 runner in Milford all season.”

(Photo courtesy @edits.by.ethan)

By Matthew Sanchez – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law girls soccer team was a force to be reckoned with this season. 

The team broke the school record for regular season wins, finished with a record of 13-3, and qualified for the SCC and State tournaments. Sophomore Emily Vella scored 20 goals – the most goals in a single season in Law girls soccer history. 

“I am beyond proud of my team this season,” Head Coach Mrs. Francisco said. “Even if we didn’t make it far in the State Tournament, we still accomplished so many things this season.”

Senior Captain Taylor Coretti said that this was her most memorable soccer season. 

“I think my senior season was the best out of all four seasons,” Coretti said. “This is because we had a winning record and I felt confident in my playing. I think having a strong team play beside you helped me a lot with my own personal play.”

Senior Madelyn Baranowsky said she was proud of how she was able to set an example for the younger players. Baranowsky is sad to see her career end, but was proud of what the team accomplished. 

“I was able to set an example of working hard to meet our goals while also having fun,” Baranowsky said. “What I will miss most about Jonathan Law is the great community and school spirit.”

Junior Molly Croce is extremely proud of the work done by the team this season.

“I think this season went very well,” Croce said. “We had a lot of success even though we had many injuries. We qualified for both the State and SCC tournaments, along with breaking the school record for regular season wins. Overall, I would say this season was pretty successful and we really came together as a team this season.”

Freshman Cora Aitkenhead said she is excited for the future of the girls soccer team.

“There’s no doubt that law is heading in a great direction,” Aitkenhead said. “Every single player on the team put in tremendous effort this season and we’re already looking forward to a strong season-finishing comeback next year. While we’ll be losing many talented seniors, playing in their honor will only fuel our drive to win, and our coaches’ expertise and passion will continue to be crucial to our growth. The best is yet to come.”

(Photo courtesy @JLHSTrack)

By Vaughn Kraynak – Staff Reporter

The Law boys cross country season recently wrapped up their season on Saturday, October 26, at the Cross Country State Championship. 

The championship took place at Wickham Park in Manchester, CT. Head Coach Mr. Beler said he was proud of how the team competed at States – and all season long.

“Our team’s strength was our constant improvement,” Beler said. “The majority of our team improved meet by meet.”

Beler prides himself on a team that shows they have what it takes to be serious competitors at the State Championship.

“At States, a combination of how much everybody improved,” Beler said. “But most importantly, my captain Harry Fisher ran his PR at States.”

Guiding the team alongside Fisher was Senior Captain Ryan Chay.

“I try my best to embody the greatest traits of a captain to carry on the old way,” Chay said. “After practice as an underclassmen, I’d have to wait a long time for my ride to pick me up, so as a captain I made it known that anyone could ask me for a ride.”

Teammates said that Chay has represented what it means to be a captain and what it means to be a Lawman. 

“In terms of my biggest strength, I think it was helping make possible cherishable memories among the underclassmen and helping them bond,” Chay said. “In terms of the team’s greatest strength, it was automatic acceptance. 

The boys cross country team accepted all new teammates with open arms, including the only new freshman, Aaryan Doshi.

“My biggest improvement this season was my 5K time,” Doshi said. “I started out with 28 minute runs and made it down to 22 minute runs by the end of the year.”

Doshi proved himself on the course, running a new PR by over two minutes at the SCC Championships.

“My favorite moment during the season was running my PR,” Doshi said. “It felt awesome hearing everybody around me cheering me on.”

Sophomore Pierce Marini also made a name for himself this season, finding himself running alongside the seniors at the varsity level.

“Coach Beler has helped me succeed with his thought-out practices,” Marini said. “He sets something up to prepare us for every situation.”

Marini plans on improving himself even more next season as well as helping his teammates. 

“I improved myself most on my pacing while running this season,” Marini said. 

Sophomore Eli Bludevich began his first season as a member of the XC team this year.

“I plan on improving by running everyday,” Bludevich said. “Increasing my distance will help me achieve my goals.”

Hunter Kendzierski (Photo courtesy @editsnxg)

By Henry Smith – Staff Reporter

Sophomore wide receiver Hunter Kendzierski is looking to help the Law football team make their way to the playoffs.

Kendzierski is a first-year starter who was a kick returner last year. He has set two goals for himself and the team for the rest of the season.

“My goal for the rest of the season is to make it to the playoffs so we can have extra games,” Kendzierski said. “I also want to get a trophy on Thanksgiving.”

Kendzierski plays wide receiver at the X position. In the offseason, he worked on his strength and agility.

“I trained 3-4 days a week in the weight room over the summer,” Kendzierski said. 

Law Head Coach Chris Haley said that Kendzierski’s biggest asset is his toughness.

“His impact on the team is one of toughness and effort,” Haley said. ”He is one of only a few multi-sport athletes in the school that remains firmly committed to off-season strength and performance training regardless of what season he is in, this helps him remain explosive and durable year round even with a smaller build.”

“Hunter’s burst and change of direction makes him very explosive on the field; as he continues to grow in the offense and find space more effectively he will continue to excel” Haley said.

Kendzierski recently helped the Lawmen to a 28-6 win against New Fairfield to improve to 5-2 on the season.

Kendzierski and quarterback Matthew Witteman have had non-stop chemistry since their time playing together on the Milford Eagles football team.

“Hunter and I have a very good connection as we have been playing on the same team since 7th grade,” Witteman said. “We are always on the same page which helps us a lot on the field.”

Kendzeirski has been playing football since he was 10 years old.

This season, Kendzierski has scored four touchdowns in seven games. He scored touchdowns against Brookfield, Rham, East Haven, and Notre Dame West haven.

“Hunter’s ability to block has vastly improved, and that makes me very proud,” sophomore guard Eli Fernandez said. “I love seeing receivers getting pancake blocks.”

Freshman Dylan Gaillard said that Kendzierski is mentor to the team’s younger players.

“Hunter is a leader on the team because he really helps out the young players if they don’t know the routes or need help,” Gaillard said.

Eli Fernandez (Photo courtesy @shotbyben)

By Dylan Gaillard – Staff Reporter 

With the 2024 football season halfway completed, sophomore Elijah Fernandez is looking to help the team to a strong finish. 

Fernandez is the starting left guard and he works as hard as he can for the team’s success.

“He’s constantly pushing himself, whether it’s in film sessions, lifting, or on the field, he’s always asking questions to get better,” Offensive Line Coach Andrew Paulus said. “Despite being only a sophomore, he’s already incredibly talented and committed to refining the little things.”

Coaches said that Fernandez is a trendsetter – when he works hard, everyone else does. 

“Eli is a weight room freak who takes lifting very seriously and it shows up on every Friday night,” Offensive Coordinator Ryan Pearson said. “Eli is our tone setter and when we know we need a statement run or need to set the tone for the game we run it to him.”

While Fernandez is only a sophomore, he is a role model for the rest of the line.

“Eli has helped me tremendously since me being a freshman on varsity is difficult,” freshman Ryan Woods said. “He has helped with the plays and gets me through practices and games.”

This past offseason, Fernandez worked very hard to be the best he could be for the 2024 season. 

“Last offseason, I lifted every day for two hours, having the weight room open after school really helped me,” Fernandez said. “My mom would make protein packed meals including all the nutrients I needed to grow bigger and more powerful for the season.”

Teammates said that Fernandez is always reliable and rarely makes mistakes. 

“Playing right beside him is a privilege because he knows what he’s doing and I never have to question him on anything,” Junior Jack Lefevre said. “Eli teaches them to be smart and just use your head. Playing offensive line is not difficult unless you make it.”

Sophomore Matt Witteman said he has complete faith in Fernandez on game night.

“Eli and I have a great connection because we have played on the same team since Milford Eagles,” sophomore Matthew Witteman said. “I trust and feel comfortable with him protecting me on Friday nights.”

Fernandez’s goal is to makes everyone’s life easier, coaches and teammates.

“As a new coach, fresh out of college football, I had my own doubts about making an impact, but players like Eli have put me at ease,” Paulus said. “His dedication and respect for the game make my job easier, and I’m genuinely grateful to be able to coach him.”

Dan Halusa (Photo courtesy Nate Galicinao)

By Amilio Venditti – Staff Reporter

As he closes out his final soccer season, the impact that Senior Captain Daniel Haluza has made on the Law boys soccer team and the community is evident.

Haluza has helped the team in numerous ways as he is a highly versatile player. He is relied on as an offensive and defensive player and a fearless opponent.

“Dan has been one of our most impactful players game in and game out,” Head Coach Mr. Gruber said. “He controls and covers so much ground it’s impossible to replace him with one player.”

Haluza played only one position for all four years of his high school soccer career – center defensive midfielder.

“I enjoy being able to come up with new ways to receive a pass and distribute the ball to my team so that we can stay fluid and progress up the field,” Haluza said. “As a CDM I have to play quickly and hold my ground, players run at me from all directions and it is important that I work to control the center.”

Haluza leads the team by encouraging his teammates and motivating them to be better. At both practice and games, he puts in 100% effort which inspires others around him to follow in his footsteps.

“Dan inspires our team by organizing extra practices and boosting morale during tough times,” sophomore Harkaran Sekhon said. “His collaborative leadership fosters unity, enhances our performance, and I really appreciate his unwavering positivity, which keeps us motivated.”

Haluza has made it very easy for the beginner and first year players to adapt and understand the game.

“Dan makes sure to let everyone know where and when to be,” sophomore Arnav Saxena said. “Being my first year, Dan has helped to be a romodel and mentor for me.”

Haluza has found a way to keep himself physically and mentally prepared for game day. 

“I believe it is important to be the hardest worker on the field and to always be prepared in anything you do,” Haluza said. “Physically, the day before a game I make sure to stretch and drink at least two gallons of water so that I do not cramp.”

Off the field, Halusia makes sure to put the “student” in “student-athlete” at Law. He is a part of the Math, Spanish, and Science Honor Societies while maintaining a 4.75 GPA with 10 AP classes and 230 community service hours.  

“Dan has helped me time and time again for class work and homework,” senior Michael Montes said.

Although he has enjoyed his time playing high school soccer, Haluza has other interests pasts graduation

“I do not plan on continuing soccer after high school; I want to focus on education,” Haluza said. “Soccer has taught my valuable lessons in terms of my work ethic and focus, but I have chosen to fully pursue medicine in college.”

Haluza started soccer at eight years old when he joined the Milford United youth soccer team. He started out as a striker but quickly switched to midfield.

“I am from Europe, so a lot of my life was already surrounded by the sport before I even started playing,” Haluza said. “That’s what really led me to want to play the sport.”

(Photo courtesy @shotbyben)

By Reid Moulton – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law football team has started their season 5-2 and has made a real statement in the SCC.

Law started their season with a 41-14 loss to Brookfield, but then went on a four-game winning streak following the loss. After a loss to Hamden, Law took down New Fairfield last weekend by a score of 28-6.

As the Lawmen start to finish the regular season, they currently stand fifth in Class M, and hope to continue this magical season with a playoff berth.

“What is making the team successful is the same thing that has made for any successful Law football team for six and a half decades – tough players choosing to sacrifice for the common good,” Haley said. “Like most teams, the biggest opportunity for a leap forward is from Week 1 to Week 2. The team evolved from that point forward to hang tough and outlast Notre Dame, which set a trajectory for the season. Last year, an opening loss to Barlow followed by a loss to West Haven set a different trajectory. “

Junior Captain Nick Cosmas leads the team in tackles per game (9), interceptions (5), and sacks (5). Cosmas has made a big impact with the defense, helping them win in close games.

“The team has evolved through a lot of studying and hard working practices,” Cosmas said. “The work efficiency we have and the knowledge we have to go against teams is unmatched around the state, we feel more prepared for games then ever.”

Sophomore quarterback Matt Witteman has also come up big for Law in close games, including scoring the game-winning touchdown against Amity to help the Lawmen win 15-14.

“This team is really special,” Witteman said. “With everyone being able to contribute to the team, it helps us win games, and is a real reason why this team is successful. Everyone has started to know their role and everyone knows the connections they have with each other.”

Senior safety Connor Woods also plays a big role in the Lawmen defense, helping the defensive pass game and allowing minimum points a game in the air.

“I think the team has evolved a lot,” Woods said. “We did not have a lot of confidence coming into the season, but now, the way we play, and the way we are coached, we know we can beat anyone. We are very well coached and everyone is bought in, we all want the same thing, to make it to the state playoffs.”

Junior center Jack Lefevre is the leader of the offensive line and contributes by leading the line and helping Witteman get the ball off.

“I think that all of us believe in each other, offense believes in the defense, defense believes in the offense, and we have chemistry to be a good, successful football team,” Lefevre said. “I think we evolved by just gaining experience as a team. We’re a young group and as we get more experience, we get better.”

Zach Hyatt and Ryan Woods (Photo courtesy @shotbyben)

By Cora Aitkenhead – Staff Reporter

Freshmen Zach Hyatt and Ryan Woods have already made their mark on the Law varsity football this season. 

Hyatt and Woods start on the varsity team as offensive linemen, where their job is to protect the quarterback from the onslaught of defensive players. The boys have nicely adjusted to the team atmosphere and are loving their time with the Law football team. 

“My favorite thing about playing at law has been the relationships I have made with some of my teammates and also waking down that hill on a Friday night during a home game it will be a feeling I will never get over,” Woods said. 

Zach too is proud to be a part of the Law community and represent the school and team on and off the field. 

“My favorite thing about playing for law is the team and coaches were like a family and we fought sometimes but at the end of the day were all there for eachother,” Hyatt said. “Kind of like when we lose people say we suck but when we win they party alongside us.”

Head Coach Chris Haley is pleased with the effort the boys have put in and is ready to see how they grow and fulfill their positions for the rest of the season and future seasons to come. 

“They’ve taken well to it, and continue to improve each week,” Haley said. “There’s been a lot of building the airplane while we fly it this year, but things seem to be settling down as we approach the late season.”

As a freshman on varsity, Ryan has the privilege to play with his older brother, senior defensive back Connor Woods.

“Knowing it’s my only year with him I am trying to cherish every minute,” Connor Woods said. “But I know next year he will be very well-seasoned and be able to play a big role in their season next year.”

Both Zach and Ryan have been playing football for a long time; however, since beginning to play together, they have found a new passion in the game, and are able to face the struggles of adjusting to high school football, not alone, but with a friend alongside them. 

“This is my seventh year playing football but only my second year playing with Ryan,” Hyatt said. “My favorite thing about playing with Ryan is the chemistry we have and that it’s comforting to know there’s another freshman on varsity so it feels like I’m not alone.”

As far as pre-game rituals go, Hyatt trusts a meal of chicken, rice, and broccoli. Ryan, however, instead of sharing a pre-game ritual, shared a lighthearted team tradition. 

“I have no pre-game rituals but there is a team celebration which is if we have a big win at home we go to our locker room and turn on the speaker and play ‘Heaven Is A Place On Earth’ by Melinda Carlyle,” Ryan Woods said. 

The Law football team is currently 5-2 and has three games left in their regular season. 

“This year has been another rung on the ladder for the program,” Haley said. “Last season was the first step in playing against a respectable schedule; this year, we’ve seen the same, handled ourselves better in situations, and continued to punch above our weight.”

Law’s next home game will take place on November 15 at 7 p.m. against Shelton. 

(Photo courtesy @shotbyben)

By Dani Kotansky – Staff Reporter 

The Jonathan Law volleyball team recently capped off their 2024 season with a record of 3-15.

Many freshmen joined Head Coach Ms. Loch’s team this season, and senior captains Addy Barber, Alexandra Fino, and Ellie Coddington played their final season at Law. Sophomore Jocelyn Larracuente felt that overall the team had a great season together. 

“This season was honestly an amazing season,” Larracuente said. “Even though we didn’t achieve every goal we wanted we still became closer as a team and created a great atmosphere.” 

Barber finished her final season at Law this year and reflected on the time she spent on the team. 

“Our team is our own little family and Law volleyball will always hold a special place in my heart,” Barber said. “It didn’t really hit me until Senior Night that my time was almost up, but I definitely focused a lot on enjoying my last games with some of my best friends.” 

Senior Julia Ryan said the freshmen on the team were able to adjust quickly to the differences of high school sports. 

“The freshmen were able to learn through the upperclassmen and gain relationships with us as we would encourage each other before games with little notes,” Ryan said. 

Loch mentioned the progress she hopes to see in the team next season.

“Hopefully the girls work on some skills in the offseason to get better and stronger as a volleyball player next season,” Loch said. 

While there may have been challenges along the way, that only gave the team chances to grow. 

“The season had ups and downs with injuries and playing new teams but it gave us many opportunities to improve our skills,” Larracuente said. 

Freshman Sammy Marini shared how she felt to be surrounded by such a great group of girls.

“Something that the team does well is getting excited for each other,” Marini said. “When you get a kill or a block or even a good pass, you have 23 teammates cheering you on, and I think that’s a big part of where we shine at Jonathan Law.”

Seven seniors will graduate from Jonathan Law this school year, giving chances to many younger athletes on the team. 

Junior Nadia Nuzzo will return next season and she has goals she would like the team to achieve. 

“Some goals for next season would be to keep the same team dynamic,” Nuzzo said. “I also think another goal we can have is to communicate more on the court, and lastly, we would all love to have the opportunity to make it to states.” 

Loch emphasized the importance of teamwork and cooperation for future seasons. 

“The varsity girls have been together for a few years now and know the dynamic I expect the team to have,” Loch said. “It’s important to be able to collaborate on the court and work together.”

(Photo courtesy @gruber_coach)

By Christian Galligan – Staff Reporter

After a successful regular season, the Law boys soccer team opened postseason play with a 4-1 win over New London in the first round of the Class L State Tournament on November 2.

Law next plays on Tuesday, November 5, against East Haven at Lawmen Stadium at 6 p.m.. 

“Simply being locked in every moment, from the players on the field to the subs coming in.” Head Coach Mr. Gruber said. “Energy and effort need to be 100 percent through all 80 minutes and overtime if needed. Each player at this point in the season knows their role and what is expected from them.”

Although the team had its struggles earlier this year, they feels it’s all behind them and they feel ready for a deep State Tournament run. As the season progressed, the team became more like a family and their play on the field improved.

“Early in the season, we struggled to play together as a team and understand our identity,” senior Ivan Galicinao said.  “But as we continued to practice and understand our system we started to play the way we knew we could play.”

The team has been working very hard to stay together and work through the downs of the season to stay together and make a strong push deep into the state tournament.  The team has different approaches to every game, but all hope to remain on the same page.

“We’ve been preparing from a game-by-game standpoint, each practice depending on the next opponent determines the way that we practice,” senior Captain Ryan Nastasia said.  “If we’re playing a weaker team we practice being on the ball more. If we are playing a stronger team we practice defending and staying connected as a team.”

The Lawmen will continue to use what they felt worked best throughout the whole regular season – defense.

“From the start, we were able to defend at a very high level, and play well out of the back,”  Senior Lucca Venditti said.

The team’s hopes are very high and they feel they have all that it takes to reach the ultimate goal at the end of the State Tournament.  

“In these playoffs, we have a great chance,”  sophomore Evan Esposito said. “We will have to continue to play our best brand of soccer and elevate all levels of the game, including our defense.”

Molly Croce (Photo courtesy @shotbyben)

By Taylor Coretti – Staff Reporter

Junior Molly Croce is assisting the Law girls soccer team as they continue their run through the postseason.

Croce has been playing with the Law girls soccer team since she was a freshman. She has been a starting varsity player for all three years, and is a big contributor to the team, scoring seven goals and having seven assists this season. 

“I’ve scored some good goals in important games, like the SCC Tournament game against Guilford,” Croce said. “I feel like I have found consistency and confidence in my playing, which has improved since last season.”

Head Coach Mrs. Fransisco has seen a lot of growth through Croce’s play throughout the past three seasons and believes she is a key player on the field. 

“The biggest growth Molly has shown is her confidence on the ball,” Fransisco said. “She now knows that her speed is a threat and that her skills are strong enough to beat players 1v1.”

Croce was also recently named to the All-SCC Second Team this year. 

“Becoming All-SCC Second Team has had an impact on me because it was a big confidence booster, especially going into postseason,” Croce said. “Soccer is all about the success of the team but it feels nice to be recognized for my individual contributions.” 

Junior Captain Layla Alogna plays midfield with Croce. She finds that Croce is a positive player and is able to connect with everyone on the team. 

“Molly’s the player that you know you can always trust,” Alogna said. “She has chemistry with everyone on the field and is the teammate to always make you laugh.”

Junior Fiorella Gargiulo has been playing alongside Croce for many years and she loves that she is able to share this sport with her.

“Molly and I have been playing soccer together for over 10 years on and off,” Gargiulo said. “Playing with her is an instant confidence boost and I’m so excited to be on the same club team again this spring.”

Sophomore Abigail Merenda also plays outside midfielder like Croce, and mentioned how uplifting Croce is on and off the field. 

“I love playing outside mid with her,” Merenda said. “She always brings me up whenever I make a mistake on the field and is always there for me whenever I need advice.”

Taylor Coretti (Photo courtesy @shotbyben)

By Abigail Merenda – Staff Reporter 

As the Law girls soccer team finishes a record-breaking 2024 regular season, and prepares for the Class L State Tournament, Senior Captain Taylor Coretti is excited to end her final season on a high note. 

Coretti has been on the girls soccer team for four years. She made the varsity team as a freshman and was named captain before her senior season. 

“I feel like I have accomplished a lot when it comes to playing soccer,” Coretti said. “When I was a freshman, I never played soccer before and I think over the past four years, I improved a lot and was able to keep a starting spot on varsity.” 

Coretti has faced a number of challenges over her four years. 

“Some challenges I have faced are some injuries, but I was able to get better and continue playing soccer,” Coretti said.

Head Coach Mrs. Francisco has been coaching Coretti since her freshman year.

“Taylor has been very fun to coach over the last four years,” Francisco said. “She is ruthless and a natural athlete and watching her soccer IQ develop over the years has been exciting.”

Coretti has made many strides on and off the field and has proven to be a respected captain. Francisco said Coretti is always connecting with her teammates and making them feel comfortable. 

“Taylor is ‘the people’s captain’ meaning she is always welcoming and friendly to all her teammates,” Francisco said. “She includes all teammates in drills and groups, while also knowing when it’s ok to have fun and when to focus. She also shows her teammates what it means to come back stronger after injuries.” 

Senior Co-Captain Madelyn Baranowsky said she loves being a leader on the team with Coretti. 

“Being a captain with Taylor is so much fun,” Baranowsky said. “She has this amazing and funny personality that makes any situation fun whether it is practice, team bonding, or a game.”

Coretti has become close with many of her teammates, especially her left back defender and fellow senior Tessa Piselli. Piselli has loved every moment playing defense with Coretti. 

“The best part of playing with Taylor is how she lifts everyone up,” Piselli said. “She encourages everyone to have a positive attitude during practices and games.” 

According to her teammates, Coretti has made such an impact as being captain and a player on the team. 

“Taylor has made a huge impact on every single person,” junior Fiorella Gargiulo said. “Especially as captain this year, Taylor knows exactly when to lighten the mood or when to lock in. She is a ‘brick wall on the field’ as Cisco says.”

Coretti said she is going to miss the connections she has built with her teammates the most.

“What I am going to miss the most is the bond I have built with this team,” Coretti said. “I have never been on a team like this one before. The coaches and my teammates make it so comfortable to be around. I will also miss playing with everyone because they are all so amazing at the game and it will be sad knowing I won’t be playing with them after this season.”

(Photo courtesy Law Girls Soccer)

By Madi Black and Courtney Russo – Advocate Editors

Sophomore Emily Vella made her mark on the Law girls soccer team this year by breaking the school record for goals in a season.

Vella scored 19 goals in the regular season and one more in first round of the SCC Tournament. 

“My goal is to break the career scoring record this season,” Vella said. “I was excited that I broke the single season scoring record.” 

Sophomore Talia Hagan complimented Vella on her hard work on and off the field. 

“Emily as a player is trustworthy and strong on the front line,” Hagan said. “My favorite thing about Emily is her support on and off the field.” 

Many of Vella’s teammates and captains have been impressed with her play this season.

“My favorite thing about Emily is her passion for the game and her kindness on and off the field,” Junior Captain Layla Alogna said. “Emily is a strong player with incredible foot skills and composure with the ball.”

Head Coach Mrs. Francisco said that Vella is an all-around player, not just a goal scorer.

“‘The best players make those around them better’ is the best phrase that describes Emily,” Francisco said. “Not only is she fast, has impeccable ball skills, and a crazy amount of power in a small size, but she is also always looking to make our team better and stronger by looking to give assists, crosses, help back on defense, and more.”

(Photos courtesy @JLHSAthletics)

By Ella Franzman – Editor-In-Chief & Editorial Editor

Sophomore girls soccer player Emily Vella and senior boys soccer player Lucca Venditti were named September Athletes of the Month. 

Each month, two student-athletes are honored with this award for their achievements in and outside of school. 

“I think qualities that fit an ‘Athlete of the Month’ are coachable, respectful, having good sportsmanship, and being a hard worker,” Vella said. “Being Athlete of the Month makes me feel good because it means that my hard work has been paying off.”

Vella has had a great start to her girls soccer career at Jonathan Law and continues to be unstoppable. In the team’s first 10 games, Vella scored a total of 13 goals, including three hat tricks.

“Emily isn’t just an incredibly skilled player, scoring a hat trick in three separate games; she is the type of player that makes the players around her better,” Head Coach Mrs. Francisco said. “She is a playmaker, always looking to score but also always willing to give an assist, take a corner, play a different position, just do anything to help.” 

Vella not only plays on the soccer team but plays on the girls basketball team and is a member of the girls outdoor track team. Vella emphasized how excited she was that people saw her work paying off and voted for her. 

Venditti, meanwhile, has been a member of the boys soccer team since freshman year has now stepped up to be the goalie for his senior season. Venditti saw some time in the net last season, but for the Lawmen it was mostly Declan Wywoda. 

“I think I had some great saves that lead to us beating foran, and some all around good saves even in games that we lost,” Venditti said. “I am very excited that I was able to win this honor and look forward to continuing with the quality I have been showing.” 

The boys just recently qualified for states after defeating Lyman Hall 4-2 on their Senior Night. The Lawmen now sit 7-5-2 with two regular season games left. 

“I think Lucca embodies what a Jonathan Law athlete of the month stands for. Strong academics and high level play on the field,” Head Coach Mr. Gruber said. “Lucca has made some big saves on the soccer field that led our team to get some much needed results. He has been a leader on and off the field to our younger players and has been a pleasure to coach.” 

Venditti looks to continue to help the team in his last three regular season games and then throughout the postseason to try and extend his senior season as long as possible. 

Vella and Venditti were nominated for Athlete of the Month differently than previous nominees. In previous years, a Google Form would be posted on the Jonathan Law Athletics social media pages and anyone could nominate athletes for Athlete of the Month.

This year Athletic Director Tom Drew decided to switch things up. 

“By adjusting the way we select our athletes of the month we have increased participation significantly,” Drew said. “The convenience of a poll rather than filling out a nomination form has allowed for more voices in the Jonathan Law community to be heard when selecting this monthly honor.”