Hopatcong Schools Celebrate High School Boys Soccer Team's Success

Although the team fell short of its goal to finish its season with a 500 record, the 2013 Hopatcong Chiefs Boys Soccer Team season was in many ways a success, according to Superintendent of Schools Cynthia Randina.

The schools chief said the year offered much in the way of good news, including the appearance of new head coach Wilson Cusano. She also praised the program's emphasis on optimism and fun.


"The Chiefs had reason to be optimistic at the start of the season by posting a convincing win over Butler and getting off to a 3-1 record in the first four games," Randina noted. "Important wins over North Warren and Wallkill Valley later in the year allowed the Chiefs to 
qualify for the state tournament for the first time in several years."

She also pointed out excellent performance by team members Marcelo Pizarro, who landed six goals and four assists this season; Charlie Lopez, who played an important role for the team in the middle of the pitch and earned an All-League Honorable Mention; and Vaughn Cusano, who scored 13 goals, had five assists and earned first team All-League and All-State honors.

The Chiefs finished the season 7-13, which longtime fans will recognize as good news, given that Randina called the record its best in years.

The superintendent also noted that the team has hope for the future. While key contributors such as Mathias Mereles, Jacob Halma, Josh Halma, Nick Turnage and goalkeeper Jon Yohanan are graduating and moving forward, experienced players like Vaughn Cusano, Lopez, Jake Mayer, Sam Gomes and Nick Araya "will ensure that the 2014 Chiefs will be ready to compete in the Freedom Division."

Coach Cusano said coaching at Hopatcong High School is an honor "mostly due to the fine young men whose dedication, work rate and integrity made it rewarding," he said.

"I look forward to next year with enthusiasm and optimism," the coach said.