Thursday, October 1, 2026
Despite facing a season of growing pains and tough competition, Copiague’s boys’ soccer team continues to grind with heart, determination, and a belief that its first win is just around the corner.
“We graduated some good players,” coach Jim Konen said. “We aren’t as skilled as we’ve been in past years, but this group put a lot of time in during the offseason. I was hoping team chemistry would carry us, but the defense has struggled. Not enough of our guys play on club teams and that makes a difference.”
Even with those challenges, the Eagles have found a few bright spots, including standout senior forward Ismael Garcia. A four-year varsity player, Garcia has been a force on the field all season, netting seven goals despite facing constant defensive pressure. Four of those goals came in the season’s first game against Connetquot, a contest that ended in a 4-4 draw on Sept. 3.
“Ismael gets quadruple-teamed and still finds ways to make plays,” Konen said. “He’s been lights out and clearly the best player on the field, but he hasn’t had much help. We’re hoping that other guys scoring in our last game is a sign of things to come.” Some of those other goal scorers include Matthew Canales and Oscar Fuentes, who each found the back of the net once in a 3-2 loss to Patchogue-Medford back on Sept. 27.
After tying the first game against Connetquot, the Eagles followed it up with another 4-4 draw, this time against North Babylon in the second game of the season on Sept. 5. Since then, Copiague has lost five straight.
In goal, senior Kendel Serranno has been nothing short of heroic. With multiple games featuring over 20 saves, Serranno has kept the Eagles competitive in matches they otherwise may not have had a chance in. “Kendel has been phenomenal,” said Konen.
Senior midfielder Andres Arango has also stepped up in a big way. Known for his relentless motor and all-around contributions, Arango has been a leader on and off the field.
“He’s a do-it-all player,” said Konen. “Andres has been everywhere for us and is just a great kid who plays so hard.”
The team’s backbone has clearly been a core of five senior leaders. Along with Garcia, Serranno, and Arango are Jon Contreras, and Josue Perez-Padilla. All five play nearly every minute and have shouldered much of the responsibility on the pitch.
Beyond the seniors, there are promising signs for the future. Freshman Kenny Peralta has impressed with his development and has shown flashes of becoming a key player in years to come.
“Kenny’s had a good year and we’re excited about where he’s headed,” Konen said.
Junior Hector Vasquez has also been a steady contributor, giving the Eagles a solid presence and showing the depth that the team is working to build.
Despite not yet earning their first win, Konen continues to mix up practices, keeping the energy high and the Eagles focused.
“They’re a great group of kids,” he said. “They’re still working hard and dying to win games. We’ve been so close in so many of them so I know a win is coming. I can feel it.”
