The Fall 2025 soccer season was a rebuilding year for the Cougars of South Bronx Prep/ The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology. What started with a shortage of junior and senior players, became an opportunity for freshmen to step up and undertake major roles on the team. And despite a 2-7-1 record, the future looks promising.
“The freshman have been the bright spot of the season,” said head coach Mr. Marascia , who just completed his third year as the coach of the boys soccer team.
“It’s been a very positive experience. Each year we continue to get better,” said Mr. Marascia.
Many of the freshmen came with experience from the middle school soccer program, which gave them the confidence and skills to compete at the varsity level with no problem.
“This is the first year that the middle school kids that I coached were on the team. They were my heavy lifters this year. They came in large groups and they worked hard as a team,” said Mr. Marascia
Senior Alex Gomis (Class of 2026), captain of the soccer team, saw the number of younger players as both a challenge and an opportunity for the team.
“I wanted to be a leader. It’s important because there are a lot of freshmen on the team, and I feel that I am a good leader for them,” said Alex.
With only a handful of senior upperclassmen, Alex knew his leadership would be key in helping the freshmen adjust to the advanced pace and higher expectations in the varsity play.
“I lead by example showing up to practice and being present at games,” said Alex.
One of these freshman was Ethan Jimenez (Class of 2029), who plays right wing and right halfback. Ethan, who played on the middle school team, responded to the challenge of joining the varsity team.
“Getting to play on the varsity gives [the freshmen] experience for the competition to come,” said Ethan.
One of the season highlights was an 11-1 victory against South Bronx United, a game where Ethan scored a goal.
“I think I did a lot, but I could have done better. I gave a lot of passes, but sometimes they didn’t take shots,” said Ethan.
Senior Emily Ruiz (Class of 2026), manager of the soccer team, also recognized the unity that came from the young groups.
“The soccer team brought everyone together,” Emily said.
Despite the age gap and inexperience, the Cougar team proved that determination and teamwork can bridge any divide. Their first varsity season together wasn’t just about learning how to win, but, more importantly, it was about learning how to adapt and lead.
“I’m excited. They move the ball so well. It’s not about the talent it’s just the age gap. When that shortens, we are going to be very very talented,” said Mr. Marascia.
As for the future, the current MS223 8th graders and the current HS223 9th graders were middle school semi-finalists just a year ago. When the 8th graders get to the high school, the hope is they leave quite a mark with the high school team.
“With the upcoming 8th graders participating I am hoping that our high school program will have as much success as our middle school program,” said Mr. Marascia.
