FORT FAIRFIELD — Despite the youthfulness of their squad which includes nine freshmen and only two seniors, no team will look at the Tiger boys soccer team as a pushover game. Despite starting the season 0-3-1, 10th-year coach John Ala knows they are close.
“We could easily be 2-1-1 with a few plays going differently. We are a young squad,” Ala stated, “but I really like this team. We have a lot of ability and are hoping to peak by the end of the season.”
The two seniors on the team will be looked to for leadership and to set the example all over the field. Striker Carter Shaw has stepped his game up and should generate offensive opportunities particularly on free kicks and corners. Ryan Pelkey, a backfielder, gives the Tigers an element of toughness with his physical style and work ethic.
The junior class is immensely talented, and will have to continue to make strides if the Tigers are to get to the next level. Johnny Theriault leads the junior class, and may well be one of the top offensive players in Class D. He possesses a rare combination of speed and quickness to go along with a big foot. He will draw interest from opposing defenses all season. Sweeper Caleb Daigle is fast and strong and is the leader of the defense. His character and work ethic make him a super role model for the younger players. Hunter Beaulieu starts at the stopper spot and gives the Tigers a strong physical presence, while Michael McLellan may well be the quarterback of the Tiger offense and will have to get on the scoreboard for Fort to be successful.
The sophomore class has already made big strides from a year ago. Striker/midfielder Lance McKenney is well conditioned and his speed will create a number of opportunities. Goalie Dalton Cassidy is as strong as any net minder in Class D and improves every time out. Ala noted that Cassidy has made big saves in every game to give the Tigers a chance to win. Thomas Krause is an excellent one-on-one defender who may well draw some of the tough defensive assignments, while Josh Ricker, another defender, is the most improved player from a year ago. He has a big frame and has improved his foot skills in particular.
A big freshman class will be given opportunities throughout the season to gain valuable experience, and their growth may well decide the fate of the Tigers. Leading the class is outside midfielder Chris Giberson. A smart player with a lot of natural instincts, Giberson’s athletic ability sets him apart. Ryan Player is, as described by Ala,” as good a freshman as I have seen.” He is an exciting offensive weapon who makes plays all over the field. Landon Kinney and Keenan Charette are picking up quality minutes in the midfield and get better and better as they learn the game.
Greg Jellison, a forward, has quick feet and good touch, while Seth Cote, a defenseman, has a knack for getting in the proper position to defend well. Carter Bruce is earning minutes at striker, while Nate Barnes and Brennan Griffeth are working hard and improving each time out.
Ala, who is assisted by John Cole and Ryan Noyes, sees the post-season as a realistic goal.
“We are hoping to get into the playoffs, and be playing our best soccer by the end of the season,” he said.
