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| Bellingham Boys Soccer Team Starting to Jell
By Ken Hamwey Bellingham Bulletin Sports Writer The boys soccer teams at Bellingham High have been through some tough times. The program, which concluded its 25th year in October, has had to endure countless losing seasons, a winless campaign in 2005, and one season when no home games were played. An 8-8-2 record compiled in 1994 during coach Mike Suffoletto’s tenure is the best record in the program’s history. Boys soccer at Bellingham has had more than its share of down times. But, as the lyrics from an old song suggest: "The times they are a-changing." This year, coach Carlos Costa’s Blackhawks finished their season with a 6-10-2, which represents four more victories than last year and six more than two years ago. Bellingham posted victories over Dover-Sherborn and Westwood, teams that once viewed the Blackhawks as easy foes on their schedules. "There are several reasons why we're more competitive," Costa (pictured right) said. "There’s more collaboration among the high school and youth coaches. We’re on the same page in terms of the skills we want taught. "Another reason involves coaches stepping up their education, going to seminars and meetings. I've taken courses with the National Soccer Coaches Association that deal with setting up training programs, knowing about nutrition, and building an atmosphere for success." Costa also points to an image change at the high school. "Classmates of our players now want to come to games because we’re winning more," Costa said. "Winning is a positive experience and it’s replacing low esteem." Costa also credits the school’s administration for its support, even in tough times. "We’ve never been denied equipment or funds," Costa said. "There's been a commitment to make soccer one of the top four sports at the school." The turnaround involved a variety of players, but senior co-captains Keaton Troy (striker) and Greg Patt (center midfielder) are a good starting point. "Keaton was a captain last year," Costa said. "He’s very skilled with his feet and has a good game sense. Greg got our offense rolling, an excellent defender who controls and releases the ball to our wings with precision." Senior Joe Melanson was a dynamo at center defense. Costa called his play "efficient, solid and steady." Seniors Nick Urmston and Mike Silva also excelled on defense. Urmston battled injury but returned to the lineup and cleared the ball effectively. Silva worked diligently and, as Costa said, "was motivated to improve." Senior striker Steve Tavares added speed and quickness to the squad and had a high shot percentage. Senior midfielder Dan Desper was not only dependable, but also able to motivate his teammates. Three juniors played prominent roles - Kamali Webson, a central defender; Brandon Elz, a central midfielder; and Patrick Slaney in goal. "Kamali was strong in the air and quick to the ball, Brandon carried the ball efficiently and knew how to get position, and Patrick showed good reflexes and instincts," Costa said. During Costa's first year on the job (2005), the Blackhawks were winless and suffered numerous blowouts - 12-0 losses were not unusual. This season, Bellingham lost a majority of its games by only one goal. "I’m pleased with our progress and even though we missed the tournament by four points, I'm not discouraged," Costa said. "Compared to previous years, our season was a success. You have to take baby steps before you become a tourney team. Going to the tournament next year will be a realistic goal." Costa, a native of Portugal, played soccer at Woonsocket High. After graduating from Rhode Island College, he spent three years at Blackstone-Millville, where he was an assistant soccer coach for three years. When he arrived at Bellingham, he became the jayvee coach in 2004. Costa also served as a volunteer trainer for 10 years with the New England Revolution. "The key for us at Bellingham is to be positive, identify problems and solve them," he said. Carlos Costa and his soccer players look like they’re on the right track. By Ken Hamwey Bulletin Sports Writer |
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