Chemistry a key for Hewlett

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Losing a four-year starting center-midfielder to graduation, as well as another rock in the middle to injury has Hewlett girls’ soccer coach Gil Kreiss relying on some young talent in a crucial part of the field.

“It’s tricky to be so young at such an important position, but it’s also great for the future,” Kreiss said. “We not only need to develop chemistry there, but overall we need to come together quickly.”

The Lady Bulldogs already needed to replace Sydney Corda, who graduated in June, and the task became twofold when they learned senior Alex Levy would miss the season with a torn ACL. However, Kreiss is excited about the present and future with sophomore Samantha Panzarella and freshman Katie Korin at the position. Korin scored a goal in each of the first two games.

“Samantha was a starting outside back last season but she’s used to playing midfield on her club team,” Kreiss said. “She’s a smart player. Katie’s talented and also plays for a high-level club. They both play with toughness and desire.”

On the outside, senior Kim Levy brings a lot of experience, speed and tenacity. She’ll also see some time in the center of the field, Kreiss said. “Kim’s been a substantial contributor for years,” he said. “She’s smart with the ball and can make things happen.” Senior Morgan Kallenos has earned a starting role after contributing as a reserve a year ago and is off to a fine start. “Morgan is improved and really playing well,” Kreiss noted.

The offense returns a major piece of the puzzle in senior forward Hasseena Lamousnery, who had a big 2014 campaign but missed last season after undergoing surgery. “She creates a lot of her own scoring chances,” Kreiss said. “She’s just got to get her legs going and regain that scoring touch. She’s an excellent finisher.”

Senior forward Kylie Halpern scored twice in the first four games and controls the ball well and distributes. Junior Jolie Green, who found the net in Hewlett’s 2-1 non-league loss to Baldwin on Sept. 13, can be a consistent offensive spark, Kreiss said.

The defense features a good amount of depth, led by senior captain Gillian Moser. “She’s a four-year starter who can play in the middle of the defense or outside,” Kreiss said. “She’s just steady and brings a calmness and intensity at the same time.” Senior Katherine Sossan, a fifth-year varsity player who began her career as a forward, will help anchor the defense along with junior Michelle Pham, who returns following surgery that kept her out all of last season.

Other key pieces in the back include seniors Nikki Roberts and Erin Schechter, and sophomore Alana Schrager. Freshman Katie Stupak could split time on defense and midfield.

In goal, junior Karlie Stolls is a returning starter with a strong skill set. She made 15 saves in the opener at Roslyn. “She does a lot to keep us in games and communicates very well,” Kreiss said.