September on the Vineyard: The Fall Sports Season Takes Flight
September on the Vineyard ushers in a vibrant atmosphere filled with anticipation as the local student athletes gear up for a thrilling sports season. From the manicured fairways of the golf courses to the rugged hiking trails of the state forests, this is the time when schools rally together, donning their colors with pride and passion. The stage is set for an exciting athletic journey, beginning with the first league matchups on Thursday.
The Soccer Showdown Begins
The soccer teams kick off their seasons with high-stakes games this Thursday. The girls’ soccer team will host Monomoy at 3 p.m., eager to build on a remarkable season last year, where a young squad achieved a double-digit win count and secured a playoff appearance. As the only Vineyard team to hold on to the coveted Golden Anchor trophy by sweeping Nantucket, expectations are high for another competitive season. Led by seasoned seniors Reese Malowski, Esme Colon, Eleanor Mone, and Ella Ehrman, along with dynamic sophomores MacKenna Metell and Iyla Story, the girls are poised for action and are sure to capture the hearts of fans.
The boys’ soccer team, conversely, is looking to rebound after narrowly missing the playoffs last year. With new head coach Rodrigo Silva Honorato at the helm, alongside assistant coach Esteban Aranzabe, the team aims to improve upon last season’s performance. Their journey begins with four consecutive away games, providing them the opportunity to challenge top teams in the Cape and Islands league. Their home opener against Lowell Collegiate Charter on September 13 promises an electric atmosphere, especially since the following day features a showdown against Nantucket.
Aiming for Excellence on the Green
The Vineyard golf team aims to bounce back from a rocky season with determination and grit. With only two seniors having graduated, the returning players look to capitalize on their experience, and this year could mark a turning point. Junior Jacoby Light, who already has postseason experience under his belt, will be a key player to watch as he strives to guide his teammates toward success. Their matchup against Sturgis West at Farm Neck on Thursday is the first step on this journey.
Field Hockey: Setting New Goals
Field hockey kicks off its season on Friday with a match against Nauset. Under the guidance of coach Kaitlyn Benoit for her second year, the Vineyard girls are expected to develop a strong identity and competitive spirit within the tough Cape and Islands league, which boasts teams like Sandwich and Monomoy that regularly vie for state championships. Their home opener against Nantucket on September 14 is set to be a spirited affair that fans won’t want to miss.
Cross Country: A Race Against the Best
Meanwhile, the cross country teams gear up for their much-anticipated season opener with the 18th annual Vineyard XC Invitational on Saturday. This year’s event draws runners from 28 schools across Massachusetts, showcasing immense talent and sportsmanship. Last year, the Vineyard boys had three finishers in the top 50, while the girls boasted two. Seniors like Sophia Alves and junior Enzo Reis are expected to be front-runners again, and with promising young talent rounding out the roster, there’s optimism for standout performances.
Football: Facing New Challenges
The football team faces a drastically challenging schedule this year, having shifted from the Lighthouse division after the formation of a co-op team by Monomoy and Saint John Paul II. The Vineyarders will now contend with formidable opponents such as Sandwich and Falmouth. Nevertheless, with experienced quarterback William Nicholson leading the squad and a robust offensive line intact, the Vineyarders are primed to meet the challenge head-on. The defense, anchored by strong players including Harrison Lazarus and Xander Laiacona, is also geared up to make crucial stops throughout the season.
The season kicks off this Friday against Mashpee at 6 p.m., a rematch against a team that had bested them significantly last year. The Vineyarders are focused on winning the turnover battle to turn the tide in their favor. Their home opener on September 20 against Sharon is anticipated, promising excitement for both players and fans alike.
As the various teams across the island prepare to embark on their fall campaigns, spirits are high and the community unites behind these young athletes, eager to support their journeys and cheer for their success on the fields and courses of the Vineyard.
