Well-balanced Jets ready to roll

East Meadow is looking to build on its recent run of playoff experiences and a roster with a strong blend of returning veterans and talented underclassmen stands to serve the Jets in both the short and long term in Nassau Conference AA-II boys’ soccer.

Each of East Meadow’s primary lines — forward, midfield and defense — welcomes back a three-year senior. “We are very young but we have some very good soccer players,” coach Kevin Regan said, noting the impact new assistant coach Bob Elder has already made. “It’s exciting. We have three seniors that have been with the team for three years, and they set the tone for the other guys. They’re not only good soccer players, they’re good leaders.”

Senior William Morales, the most experienced forward on the team, boasts a strong left foot and perhaps more importantly, has proven to be the consummate teammate according to Regan, good news for his new linemate, freshman Billy Walsh. Morales has developed a knack for making strong runs upfield, in turn creating opportunities for teammates. The hard-working Walsh and junior John Posillico could be the perfect Jets to work with Morales. “He’s got a real nose for the goal and he likes to score,” Regan said of Walsh. “This guy’s a forward. He’s a marksman and he wants to score.”

Senior Joe Martinico anchors the midfield after acting as on-call talent in each of his first two varsity seasons. “He’s been a solid player all along. He’s very technical and tactical and knows the game.”

Senior Anthony Stano and a trio of sophomores will log time alongside Martinico, including Danny Espinoza, a returning starter, Ryan Lao and Eric Gershoff. Playing with a combination of tenacity, strong soccer skills and outstanding soccer IQs, the sophomores find themselves in the middle of an up-tempo offense. “They are very good with the ball at their feet and know what to do when the ball’s not at their feet,” Regan said.