Thursday, October 1, 2026
Babylon’s boys’ soccer team entered the season with more questions than answers but through hard work, discipline, and a shared belief in defensive identity, the Panthers find themselves sitting atop the League IV standings with a 9-1 mark.
After graduating a large senior class, coach Dennis McGovern and his staff faced the challenge of reshaping nearly the entire roster. Only four returning players returned to lead a group of largely untested talent. What’s emerged is a resilient unit that’s learned to win by relying on effort, structure, and chemistry rather than past accolades.
“I took all the trophies away,” McGovern said. “I didn’t want them to feel like they had to live up to the past. This is their team. They don’t have to play for what came before. They have to leave their own mark.”
That message has resonated. The Panthers have rattled off a string of impressive wins, including victories over Wyandanch (2-1 Sept. 3), Riverhead Charter (2-0 Sept. 4), Smithtown Christian (8-0 Sept. 9), Greenport (6-0 Sept. 11), and Southold (2-1 Sept. 15). The only losses have come against Kings Park (2-1 non-league Sept. 22) and Southampton (2-0 Sept. 30.)
Senior goaltender Trace Serrone, now a veteran presence in net, has been a difference-maker yet again. The two-time county champion has 43 saves and 8 shutouts. He’s the best keeper in the league,” said McGovern. “It’s not even close.” His leadership has anchored a defensive mindset that’s become the team’s calling card.
Standing tall, literally, in front of him is Ronen Dee, a 6-foot-3 converted forward who’s transitioned to center back and thrived. “He used to play up top, but now he’s bought into what we’re doing,” McGovern said. “He’s a huge piece of our defense.”
The senior has still made sure to be an asset on offense and showed that in the season opener with a goal.
At the heart of the midfield, Danny Murphy provides the engine that keeps Babylon running. A relentless, box-to-box presence, Murphy is in his second varsity season and embodies the team’s motto: “Judge the season by your last performance.” He also has proved to be a great passer, leading the team in assists with five.
Defensive stalwart John Stricoff takes on each opponent’s best player and consistently wins the battle. “He’s an exceptional athlete who is always the first to the ball,” McGovern said.
Up top, the offense has found rhythm as the season has progressed. Christian Pena leads the team in both points with 12 and goals with 8, including a thrilling game winner in double overtime, to give the Panthers a 1-0 victory over Mattituck on Oct. 8.
Youngsters like freshmen Richard Sorto and Antonio Bartolotta have stepped into key roles far earlier than expected. Sorto’s ability to win 50/50 balls and Bartalato’s skill on set pieces have made them invaluable contributors. Bartolotta specifically has made a huge impact, thanks to six goals this season, which is currently the second most on the team. Meanwhile, sophomore Logan Barrusso, who joined varsity as a ninth grader, continues to impress.
For Babylon, success isn’t measured in banners or past titles. It’s about growth, unity, and identity. “We emphasized defense, and they’ve bought into that,” said the coach. “We want them to keep working hard and make an impact every chance they get.”
