A Season of Redemption
The Somers High football team entered the offseason bearing the weight of three defeats from last year, including a painful loss to Rye that snapped a streak of three New York State Public High School Athletic Association titles and four Section 1 championships. Those setbacks, rather than demoralizing the program, sparked a renewed hunger among the players and staff.
Coach Anthony DeMatteo, now in his second year at the helm, has woven the disappointment into a mantra of accountability. He says the team’s newfound competitive spirit is rooted in a desire to rewrite the narrative, turning past disappointments into a driving force for daily improvement.
Key Players and New Faces
Returning seniors anchor the offense and defense. Tristan Iglesias, Sr., a dual‑threat quarterback and receiver, will spearhead the attack, while Dean Monachelli, Cameron Violante and Troy Rossi add depth at wide receiver and defensive back. Their experience provides a steadying presence for a squad eager to prove itself.
A wave of junior talent is also set to make its mark. Freshmen such as Cole Kennedy and Ryan Selimaj, alongside newcomers like Hudson Ruby, Luke Balancia, Jayden Abruzese, Alex Gallino, Bekim Sinanaj, Tayton Castro‑Prado, Evan Murolo, Jayden Reynolds and Ryan Bateman, are expected to contribute immediately, injecting fresh energy into both sides of the ball.
Testing the Waters
The schedule reflects the team’s ambition. Somers will test itself against high‑profile opponents, including a showdown with Iona Prep and a rematch with Rye, while preseason activities feature a joint practice with Monsignor Farrell and a scrimmage in New Canaan, Connecticut, designed to expose players to tough competition early.
Defensively, the team leans on a deep pool of talent. Players such as Carmelo Gioffre, Chris Fink, Connor Kasdan, Derek Kuchinsky and Ryan McAuley will anchor the line, aiming to tighten a unit that has historically struggled against potent offenses.
Beyond individual roles, the culture of accountability has been instilled from a young age through rigorous practices and constant dialogue. The coaching staff emphasizes that every rep, every drill, and every game is an opportunity to embody the championship mindset they have been cultivating.
With a roster that blends veteran poise and youthful vigor, Somers enters the new season poised to challenge the traditional powerhouses of Section 1. The combination of a hardened mindset, a demanding schedule, and a culture of relentless improvement sets the stage for a legitimate championship run.