Uniondale girls soccer has been a pleasant surprise to many in Nassau Class AAA, starting with coach Kevin Daly. After losing more than 10 seniors between seasons, the Knights currently hold a 5-4-2 record and are quickly forming a promising new core.
“I’m shocked in a good way,” Daly said. “It’s the small details that make a difference, but the future is definitely bright.”
With one game remaining against Freeport, Uniondale is on pace to finish fifth of 13 teams in Nassau Conference AAA/AA 3, putting the Knights in strong company as they rebuild. Heavy hitters like Glen Cove and Valley Stream Central have proven too tough, but Uniondale has had its moments as well, with experienced playmakers thriving alongside surprising new stars.
While captain and midfielder Brianna Marquez has not scored as many goals as a senior, Daly said her unrivaled work rate and dedication have been second to none. She continues to lead Uniondale, inspiring the likes of freshman midfielder Emely Orozco-Miranda.
In an exceptionally productive campaign, Orozco-Miranda has immediately stepped up to become a focal point in Daly’s system. Her instincts around the goal have only led to more opportunities.
“Any time we get a goal, she’s usually involved, whether she puts the corner in directly or crosses it or takes a free kick,” Daly said. “She’s a top scorer, but she’s also got a real strong kick on her.”
Sophomore Genesis Samper, described by Daly as Uniondale’s “most skillful player,” made an immediate impact in early September and has maintained momentum, scoring two goals in a 3-0 victory over Hempstead on Oct. 3.
Joana Guerra, another playmaking underclassman, was not always a key piece in Uniondale’s system, but she has gradually stepped into a leading role at various positions. Daly has been immensely happy with her progress since stepping up from junior varsity.
“She didn’t get much playing time for the first half of the season, but over the last four games, she’s been one of the top three players every game,” Daly said. “She really has. She’s come on at right back and then we’ve moved her into center on defense and even into center midfield. She just has a knack for never letting the ball get past her.”
Senior Kendra Gordon, best known for her contributions on track and field, has been a revelation in her first attempt at high school soccer. Her speed has transferred well to another discipline and she has become another scoring threat for the Knights.
Daly said starting senior goalkeeper Ashley Bonilla has received friendly competition from Patriece Henry that has led to both goalkeepers growing stronger over time. Bonilla kept a clean sheet in a 0-0 draw against Elmont on Oct. 10.
While Marquez serves as Uniondale’s senior captain, Daly has also recognized the need to build for the future, making sophomores Valerie Bonilla and Kim Hernandez captains for their early displays of leadership. All signs are pointing to the future for Uniondale, and Daly is more than ready for an exciting couple of years.
