TBy Scott McKinnon ’18

The varsity soccer team continued their winning ways on Tuesday, October 20, when the team fought the St. Dominic Bayhawks.  This game was not just another league game; it marked the 2015 Senior Game, a time-honored tradition for the oldest members of both squads to reflect on a terrific four years as student athletes.

In this meaningful match, the Flyers pounced on the Bayhawks early and often.  The players displayed an offensive onslaught from the start.  In the first 20 minutes, Chaminade netted three quick goals put in by Jason Ward ’16, Matt Vowinkel ’17, and James Mattiello ’16.  Overall, Chaminade showed complete dominance in the first half; their strikers were relentless, constantly pressuring the Bayhawks into bad passes and wrong choices.  St. Dominic also struggled to push the ball past mid-field, which led to a 5-0 score by the half.

When play resumed on the pitch at St. Paul in Brookville, a new, effective approach was turned in by the Flyers; instead of relying on their high octane, fast-paced offense seen in the first half, Chaminade showed a more conservative style.  The offense became relaxed and moved the ball with outstanding chemistry.  Even though the attack was not focused on scoring, the ball stayed on the Bayhawk side of the field for most of the half as the Flyers exerted constant pressure on their opponents.

Whenever the Bayhawks threatened the Chaminade center backs, the Flyers consistently  cleared the ball with ease.  Mike Dell’Unto ’18, a close follower of the squad, showed up to support his fellow Flyers. “The offense and defense came to play against the Bayhawks. I am excited to see what kind of run this skilled team will be able to make in the playoffs,” he said.

Overall, in the second half, Chaminade kept firm grip on the game.  When the final horn sounded, a score of 6-0 greeted the exhausted Flyers.

After this emotion-filled game, team captain and senior Nicholas Lavinio ‘16 said, “The seniors definitely played their hearts out today.  We’re one step closer to reaching our ultimate goal: the State Championship.”

As the regular season comes to a close, the playoff picture is becoming clearer by each game, and the Flyers are soaring into it.  This match was just another hurdle the team jumped on its way to the top.  Come and be a part of the journey to the championship, beginning with the first playoff match tomorrow, Wednesday, October 28.