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WRECKERS VOLUNTEER FOR CT CHALLENGE: Mike Smith and Jackson Lesser (Saturday night), and Alex Gendell, Sanders McNair and Michael McCarthy (Sunday morning) volunteered at the CT Challenge, a bike ride for cancer survivors organized in part by Mark Noonan '83. This is the 3rd year in a row the Staples boys soccer program has provided clean-up support to the event, which this year drew over 400 riders.

DAN DONOVAN '82 NAMED ONE OF PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY'S '100 MOST INPSIRING PEOPLE': The former Staples and Lehigh University star -- now founder and president of Envision Pharma, Inc. -- was cited by Pharma Voice, a leading trade publication, for drawing on "a combination of desire, drive, determination and discipline to create a market that did not previously exist -- publications planning software -- and to establish a start-up that has blossomed into an industry leader in a critical area of pharmaceutical development....He encourages his staff to think creatively and to extend beyond the obvious answer to get to the heart of a client's needs."

KYLE MARTINO '99 EXCITES CROWD IN BECKHAM DEBUT: The Los Angeles Galaxy fell to English FA Cup holder Chelsea 1-0 at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California, but the former Staples midfielder almost put his side ahead midway through the 1st half with a diving header off Cobi Jones' long cross. Martino's scoring attempt flew just wide, but he played spirited offense and hard defense in front of a sellout crowd of 27,000 that included celebrities like Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, his wife Maria Shriver, and Drew Carey.

Kyle Martino battles Michael Essien for a loose ball.

JACKSON LESSER'S VOLLEYBALLERS FINISH 13th AT JUNIOR NATIONALS: The rising senior, a key member of the Connecticut Juniors (17's), traveled to Atlanta for the 2007 Boys Junior Olympics National Tournament. They tied for 13th, out of 52 teams.

GREG BACHMAN EARNS WILLIAM REXFORD AWARD FOR LACROSSE: The Duke University-bound graduate was honored for his courage on and off the field. Congratulations, Greg!

LIAM BOHONNON NAMED ALL-AREA TENNIS PLAYER BY NORWALK HOUR: The paper said: "After last year's MVP campaign with (Ross) Heller, was solid once again for Wreckers. Excelled at singles (11-6) as well as doubles (4-1) while reaching class L state semifinals for 2nd straight year with Heller....Through their efforts, Staples tied for 4th in Class L. A 2-time All-Area pick who should play big role in 2008."

NICKY HOBERMAN NAMED WESTPORT NEWS TOP MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR: The Wrecker sweeper (below) earned kudos from sports editor Eliot Schickler for his "stellar performance" in soccer, ice hockey and outdoor track. Head coach Dan Woog was pleased with the choice: "In a class filled with superb athletes, Nicky stands out. He earned a starting spot on defense early in his junior year, and never let go. This year we moved him to a crucial spot -- one he'd never played before -- but with his natural instincts and intelligence, he adapted instantly. He brought his own style to the position, and was a ferocious force all year long. Union College has no idea what a competitor they're getting." Schickler also cited Brendon Cristobal, Keaton Cristobal, Preston Hirten, Ben King and Matt Lamb as "Top Staples Male Athletes" for the fall season. Congratulations to all!

PETER CASTIGLIA '95 GETS MARRIED IN NEW MEXICO: The former goalkeeper and Union College graduate married Bianca Prumo in Albuquerque, where they live. Peter works as project manager/geologist for an environmental consulting firm, while Bianca writes computer programs for GPS and other satellites. Congratulations to the newlyweds!

JAKE BLAUVELT LEADS KICKBOARD PAINTING PROJECT: The rising senior oversaw the refurbishment of the side of the kickboard facing Jinny Parker Field, which had grown shabby. Blake Watterworth was there all 3 afternoons as well, while Adam Liu and Francesco Mioli helped too. Thanks for this important contribution!

15 WRECKERS VOLUNTEER AT WSA JAMBOREE: Over 100 1st through 8th graders celebrated the beginning of summer with a 2-hour fun event at Wakeman Field, sponsored by the Westport Soccer Association -- and more than a dozen Staples boys soccer players helped out, knocking the ball around with future Wreckers. THANKS for showing great enthusiasm, and for giving back to your sport, club and town: Jairo Alvarado, Jason Bennett, Santiago Cuertas, Tomer Gat, Alex Gendell, Andrew Glenn, Justin Hawrysh, Jack Hennessy, Adam Liu, Francesco Mioli, David Moyer, Frankie Rende, Dave Sharpe, Kenta Shirafuji and Mike Smith.

RAIFORD COCKFIELD '97 EARNS MBA FROM STANFORD: After earning his MBA from prestigious Stanford University, the former tri-captain and Wesleyan University player heads to Hong Kong, where he will work for Lehman Brothers, doing private equity work. On the way he will stop in France, for a wedding (not his own). His mother, Staples media center specialist Angela Cockfield, also reports that Shiv Taylor '97, recipient of both an MBA and medical degree from the University of Connecticut, is interning in surgery in Boston.

LIAM BOHONNON, ALEX HOBERMAN FINISH IN 5K RUN TOP 10: Liam, a rising senior, came in 8th (19:53) at the recent event, a Staples High School Student Assembly-sponsored event that raised money for scholarships. Alex, a rising junior, was 2 seconds behind (19:55), in 9th place.

U-23 SEASON UNDERWAY; 1ST HOME GAME TUESDAY, 6:15 AT WAKEMAN: The newest addition to the Westport soccer scene opened its season on the road, with a 2-2 draw against Seymour and a 4-1 victory over Newtown. Come cheer the U-23's this Tuesday, June 26 (6:15 p.m., Wakeman), in their home opener. The roster includes Matt Geringer '05, Preston Hirten '07, Nicky Hoberman '07, Derek Kennedy '05, Robbie Kramer '05, Matt Lamb '07, Trevor Lamb '04, Chris Meinke '05, Cal Mintz '04, Dave Sharpe '07, Jim Wolf '01, and several other local D-I and D-III college stars. Mike Dobbs '97 and Kurt Dasbach are the 2 allowable over-age players, while Brian Sullivan '82 is listed as coach. Thanks to team organizers Greg and Amy Lamb P'01, '04 and '07 for helping revive the heritage of the legendary Bridge Grille and Kixx U-23 teams of the 1970s and '80s.

PAUL MELITSANOPOULOS NAMED STAPLES GOALKEEPER COACH: The Norwalk High School and Western Connecticut State University standout becomes the 1st official keeper coach in Wrecker history. He will split time with the boys and girls programs, working with goalkeepers at the varsity, junior varsity and freshman levels. Paul started for Norwalk High as a sophomore; as a junior, the Bears reached the quarterfinals of the state "LL" tournament. He captained the team as a senior, earning first team All-FCIAC honors. He was a 3-year varsity player at WesConn, where the Colonials won the Little Eastern Conference Championship -- beating national Top 20 team Keene State University (with keeper Cal Mintz '04) along the way. Paul has coached with the Beachside Soccer Club since 2002, working with field players and keepers from ages 4-18. This spring he coached the Westport Soccer Association U-16 squad. "With no set varsity keeper for this fall, Paul will fill a great need in our program," boys head coach Dan Woog said. "He's got a great way withplayers, and will give them specialized training to help them -- and Staples -- reach the highest level possible." Trivia: Paul's brother Dean plays at Brown University, where he is coached by Mike Noonan '79 and Ken Murphy '76.

MATT SYCH WINS COLEMAN BROTHERS SCHOLARSHIP; CRAIG WOLGAST RECEIVES DEHUFF AWARD: Staples soccer players earned 2 of the athletic department's highest honors, at the 6th annual Scholar-Athlete Dinner at Continental Manor. Matt was awarded a $4,000 scholarship from the Westport Soccer Association's Coleman Brothers Foundation; it honors Scott and Keith Coleman, a former Staples soccer player and wrestler (respectively) killed at the World Trade Center on 9/11. Craig won the Thomas DeHuff Award, one of Staples' major prizes. It is given annually to a Staples senior who combines "the gifts of thescholar and the spirit of the athlete, with the willingness to try and the desire to share."

WSA U-18's ROMP; U-16's FALL: After starting the spring season slowly, the Westport Soccer Association U-18 squad ended on a high note. Their 6-1 victory over Darien gave them 17 goals in 3 games -- all victories. Jairo Alvarado and Jason Fitter scored 2 goals each; Alex Gendell and Nicky Hoberman added single strikes. The U-16's, playing the entire match with only 10 men, dropped a 3-1 decision to Greenwich. Kenta Shirafuji finished from a tough angle, after a fine solo effort. Both teams improved greatly this year. Congratulations to coaches Jason Golesky and Paul Melitsanopoulos, and thanks to managers Dede McDowell, Rich Woodhull and Terry Rende.

BOYS SOCCER PROGRAM HELPS HOST WSA JAMBOREE: Westport Soccer Association players of all ages are invited to a Fun Day: Friday, June 22, 2-4 p.m., Wakeman B). There will be skills stations, then a chance to play fun games on random teams with players of all ages -- including members of the Staples soccer boys and girls teams. "We are delighted to partner with the WSA and Mickey Kydes Soccer Enterprises for this event," said Staples boys head coach Dan Woog. "On the day after school ends, this is a perfect opportunity for young WSA players to have relax, have fun, and hang out with players in a program they may one day play for. It should be a great afternoon." Staples players wishing to volunteer for the event should click here.

JACKSON LESSER, MIKE SMITH INDUCTED INTO NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY: The 2 soccer players were among only 24 juniors tabbed for the prestigious organization, whose motto is "Character, Scholarship, Leadership, Service."

LIAM BOHONNON NAMED TENNIS CAPTAIN: The national paddle champion, who played #1 and #2 singles for most of the season, and reached the semifinals of the state class "L" tournament, will be the sole captain of the 2008 Wrecker tennis squad.

WRECKERS WIN END-OF-YEAR ACADEMIC HONORS; PERFORM IN CONCERTS, PRESENT SENIOR OPTIONS: Senior Greg Bachman was named 1 of 5 Advanced Placement Scholars with Honor at Staples'annual awards night ceremony. Earlier, sophomore Nick Weir was cited for finishing 4th in Connecticut, and 6th in the United States, on the National French Contest Level 3 exam, while freshman Jack Hennessy earned a Fine Arts Award for Excellence in Design and Performance. In addition, Matt Hammer presented his Senior Option project ("Cold Words of Failure Blow Through the Kremlin: An Analysis of Post-Soviet Russia"). Musicians who performed in spring concerts included Taylor Stuart (choir), Kevin Clark (chorale), Mike Smith (trumpet), Russell Oost-Lievense (percussion), Wes Langham (alto saxophone), Eliot Bass (trombone), Michael McCarthy, Adam Liu and Francesco Mioli (cello), and Greg Bachman, Keaton Cristobal, Eric Meyer, Ryan Milligan, Justin Rodriguez and Tomer Gat (violin).

WSA U-18's ROUT MONROE; U-16's TIE AND LOSE: The U-18's won by a convincing 6-2 margin over theundermanned visitors, in their best performance of the season. Jake Blauvelt got the 1st 2 goals, off a feed from Alex Hoberman, and a fine 1st-time strike off a great long pass from Jon Golembeski. Nicky Hoberman added a penalty kick, Jackson Lesser headed in a corner kick by Tomer Gat, and Jairo Alvarado nailed 2 goals, including a strong shot from beyond the 18. The U-16's also had their best game, a 1-1 draw with Norwalk. Kenta Shirafuji fed Brian Mayer for the tally. Ryan Segedi looked good in goal, aided by solid play from Rem Woodhull and Ben Fagan. The day before it was Weston 3, Westport U-16's 0. Turning in solid efforts were Justin Hawrysh, Wes Langham and Dillon Moreo.

ALEX MCDOWELL EARNS LACROSSE AWARD: The junior received the "Coach's Award," for his commitmentand play this year. He practiced with the varsity for much of the season, and also contributed to the junior varsity squad.

GREG BACHMAN TO BE HONORED AS STAPLES SOCCER SCHOLAR-ATHLETE: The red-haired defender has been selected to represent the boys soccer program at the 6th annual Scholar-Athlete Dinner (Monday, June 18, 6 p.m. at Continental Manor, Norwalk). In addition, Ben King -- who was recently named to the Class "L" All-State team -- will be honored for boys volleyball. Each of the 33 varsity sports selects 1 scholar-athlete; as part of the ceremony, each honoree responds to 1 question (about his or her sport, academic passion or outside interest) from emcee Dan Woog.

JACKSON LESSER SELECTED FOR JUNIOR NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL TEAM: Fresh off a state championship, the 11th grader was selected for the Connecticut Juniors national team. He heads to Atlanta in July, for a major tournament.

BEN KING, JACKSON LESSER, GENNADIY GUREVICH HELP WRECKERS WIN STATE VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: Top-seeded Staples defeated #6 Southington 3-0 at Conard High School in West Hartford, capping an undefeated season and earning their 6th Connecticut crown in 7 years. Ben, a senior tri-captain, has already earned first team All-FCIAC honors. Jackson and Gennadiy return to the court next year.

SEAN SODERSTROM NAMED PEPSI SCHOLAR-ATHLETE OF THE MONTH: The senior was cited for his All-State track performance in the 4x400 relay. Congratulations, Sean!

CRAIG WOLGAST EARNS ALL-FCIAC BASEBALL HONORS: The slick-fielding shortstop was named to the All-Central Division team for his contributions to this year's team. The Wreckers made the state tournament, but bowed in the 1st round. Well done, Craig!

Twelve of the 17 graduating seniors gathered for a pre-prom photo. Kneeling (left to right): Matt Sych, Ben King, Morgan Block (former soccer player, current track star), Taylor Stuart, Justin Rodriguez; standing: Brett Kaplan, Preston Hirten, Brendon Cristobal, Matt Hammer, Sean Soderstrom, Keaton Cristobal, Craig Wolgast, Nicky Hoberman. Matt Lamb arrived just after the photo was taken.

WRECKERS, WRECKER HOPEFULS WIN STATE CUPS; WSA U-18s, U-16s: South-Central's U-17 squad -- with Brendon Cristobal and Keaton Cristobal -- romped to a 6-1 victory over Cheshire, while the Beachside U-14 team rode a goal from Westport 8th grader Brendan Lesch to a 1-0 win over archrival Oakwood. Beachside -- which starts 2 other Westporters, freshman Andrew McNair and 8th grader Greg Gudis -- and SouthCentral head to Maine on the July 4th weekend, representing Connecticut at the US Youth Soccer Region I tournament.

Two other premier clubs with Staples connections fell in the finals, also at Newington High School). Preston Hirten and Matt Lamb's U-18 Beachside side lost 1-0 to South-Central, while Matteo Marzoli's U-15 South-Central squad was defeated 3-2 in double overtime by Oakwood. Marzoli assisted on the goal that put his team up 2-1. In other premier club news, 8th grader Charlie Greenwald's U-13 squad, Bridgeport Jogo Bonito, won the 3-day Lincoln Page Tournament on Long Island, and will compete in the USA Cup in Minnesota in July. Charlie paced Jogo Bonito's Memorial Day victory with 5 goals.

The Westport Soccer Association U-18 club went on the attack, shutting out Weston 5-0. Jackson Lesser scored twice -- once on a penalty kick, once from the field; Tomas Mondino curved in a corner kick, and Jairo Alvarado and Nicky Hoberman tallied as well. Also looking strong for the U-18s were Alex Hoberman and Alex McDowell. The U-16s , with only 10 players, lost twice on the opening day of the Southington tournament: 1-0 to Seymour, 3-1 to the hosts. The following day -- Sunday -- they fielded a full squad at 8 a.m. West Haven showed up with only 5, however, and Westport picked up a forfeit win.

ERIC STEFFEN '96 CHECKS IN FROM SOUTH AFRICA: The former Staples co-captain and assistant coach, and Wesleyan University standout, is nearing the end of his 2-year stint as a Peace Corps volunteer. He's done remarkable things, including organizing a mammoth AIDS Awareness event; he's also learned a lot abouthimself and the world. Click here for the latest entries in his insightful blog. There's a lot there -- but it's worth it!

NICKY HOBERMAN, BRENDON CRISTOBAL, KEATON CRISTOBAL LEAD TRACK TEAM TO CLASS 'L' SILVER: The Wreckers finished just 4 points behind New Canaan at the state class meet. Brendon and Nicky comprised half of the 1st-place 4x400 relay team; Keaton and Brendon were half of the 2nd-place 4x800 team, and Nicky was part of the 4x100 quartet that finished 4th.

CHIP YOUNG '68 THROWS OUT 1ST PITCH: The former Staples defender, basketball player and baseball star, and Brown University soccer All-American, did the honors before a recent Pawtucket Red Sox game at McCoy Stadium. Chip, a Rhode Island institution, has been active in state literary, athletic and environmental activities for over 35 years.

Chip (right) enjoys his moment in the spotlight. Check out the message on the scoreboard behind him.

SANDERS MCNAIR, RYAN MILLIGAN, REM WOODHULL PRESENT AT SCIENCE SYMPOSIUM: The 3 soccer players, all members of the 3-year self-directed Authentic Science Research course, showed their work to a large, enthusiastic crowd. Sanders, a sophomore, is studying "Primate Intelligence Shown Through Cooperation and Hint Seeking." Ryan, a junior, is researching "The Effects of Different Study Methods on Individual Success in Testing," while 10th-grader Rem is working on the always-popular "Dissimilatory Reduction of Mn(IV) and Fe(III) by Shewanella Bacteria."

POSSIBLE ADDITION TO STAPLES SOCCER PROGRAM: Click here to see if this player has what it takes to wear the Staples "S."

BEN KING NAMED MVP OF VOLLEYBALL FCIAC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME: The tall, curly-haired senior tri-captain, who in the fall patrolled the backfield for Staples, recorded 8 kills and 5 blocks, as the Wreckers topped archrival Trumbull 3-1 before a large, raucous crowd at Fairfield Ludlowe High School. Junior Jackson Lesser, a varsity midfielder, added 11 kills and 6 blocks. For King and Lesser, it was the 2nd FCIAC title game of the year against Trumbull. Last fall, Staples and the Golden Eagles drew 0-0 in the finals.

CHARLIE STOEBE '04 EARNS ACADEMIC ALL-IVY HONORS: The former Staples soccer tri-captain and 3-sport star earned his 2nd Academy All-Ivy mention this spring, after anchoring Dartmouth College's New England championship 4x400 relay team, and placing 2nd in the 400 at the same meet. A psychology major, Charlie will serve as tri-captain for both the indoor and outdoor Big Green track teams next year.

DAVE SHARPE FACES RED BULLS AT GIANTS STADIUM: The graduating goalkeeper's Westchester FC U-18 team combines to form a U-20 PDL team, to face the Red Bulls' PDL squad following the MLS match against the Chicago Fire. Unlike the main attraction, however, this one will not be broadcast on ESPN2.

WSA U-18, U-16 TEAMS SHOW IMPROVEMENT: The Westport Soccer Association squads turned in strong efforts, despite finishing on the short end of recent scores. The U-18s lost 3-1 to a potent Norwalk side. Tomas Mondino scored, while Frankie Rende, Alex Gendell and Jackson Lesser turned in particularly strong perfromances. The U-16s fell 4-1 at Monroe. Westport's goal began with a punt from keeper Ryan Segedi. Sergio Cuertas headed it on to Kenta Shirafuji, who needed just 2 touches to finish. Nick Weir and Remington Woodhull stood out for Westport.

8TH GRADERS PREPARE FOR STAPLES: With nearly a dozen 8th graders playing high-level spring soccer, the future of the Staples program looks bright. In recent U-14 state cup action, Beachside (which also features freshman Andrew McNair) defeated Fairfield United (with freshman Andrew Glenn). Beachside then topped Danbury, and plays for the state championship against Oakwood at 11 a.m. on Sunday, June 3 in Newington. Some of the fierce Beachside-Fairfield United action is pictured below.

Left: Luke Yeager controls the ball, as Greg Gudis (Beachside) challenges. Frankie Bergonzi backs up the play. Right: Sean Gallagher (white) and Brendan Lesch duel. (Photos by Lisa Krosse)

JV, FRESHMAN SCHEDULES POSTED ONLINE: The junior varsity and freshman fall schedules have been announced -- click on the "This Season" and/or "Calendar" tabs on the home page for complete information. NOTE: Schedules are still tentative; more games will be added.

DAVE SHARPE NOW HEADED TO VILLANOVA: After initially planning on Canisius University, the 2-year starting goalkeeper has decided to attend Villanova University in the fall. Dave plans to try out for the soccer team.

3 FORMER WRECKERS NOW OVER-40 TEAMMATES IN SANTA FE: Jim Leonard '78, Eric Zuckerman '80 and Rob Wilder '84 all play on the same squad -- "aptly named the Dinosaurs," Rob says. "Because of injuries we probably won't all play together until June. No matter, we still talk of Staples often." Jim is the headmaster of Santa Fe Prep; Eric has a graphic design firm, and Rob is an author, as well as a teacher and soccer coach at Santa Fe Prep.

JACK HENNESSY STARS IN VARSITY BASEBALL DEBUT: Last fall's freshman co-captain was called up by coach Jack McFarland prior to the game against 13-3 Westhill. The 3rd baseman batted leadoff and went 1-for-2, with 2 walks and 2 stolen bases. The Wreckers won 11-6, and McFarland was quite pleased with the rookie's performance.

MIKE WHITE '03 GRADUATES, GETS JOB AS INVESTMENT BANKER: May is a big month for Mike, with graduation from the University of Virginia, and his new position with mergers and acquisitions firm McColl Partners in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Staples soccer program expects an enormous donation from Mikesoon.

CHRIS O'DELL '95 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of son Calvin, on May 9. Mother (Mary) and sister (Alexis) are all enjoying watching Calvin run several miles a day.

KYLE MARTINO '99 UP FOR MLS GOAL OF THE WEEK: After last season's injuries, the Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder got off on the right foot this year with a surgical strike against the New England Revolution. Click here (and scroll down) for both the goal and a halftime interview.

WSA U-16's SPLIT 2 MATCHES; U-18's DROP 2: The Westport Soccer Association U-16 squad shut out Somers 4-0, in the 1st round of state cup play. Santiago Cuertas scored 2 goals, while Remington Woodhull and Kenta Shirafuji added 1 each; keeper Ryan Segedi saved a penalty kick. The following day they fell 4-0 in Fairfield. The U-18's lost 6-1 to Suffield in the 1st round of state cup action. Frankie Rende looked strong in defeat; Westport's lone tally was an own goal. The next day, playing with only 9 players due to Mother's Day commitments -- and without a regular keeper -- they dropped a 7-2 decision in Bridgeport. Jake Blauvelt and Tomer Gat scored.

DAN DONOVAN '82's COMPANY WINS WORKPLACE HONOR: Envision Pharma -- the Southport, Connecticut-based scientific communications and technology company whose founder and president, Dan Donovan, is a former Staples soccer captain and Lehigh University star -- was named the Number 2 medium-sized company to work for in Connecticut by the Better Business Bureau and Best Companies Group. A committee reviewed all companies on their performance and benefits offered, as well as feedback received from a survey. Dan's hiring process includes long-term engagement, and flexibility born of an understanding that employees have lives outside of the office.

STEVE BAUMANN '70 NAMED PRESIDENT, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER OF NATIONAL SOCCER HALL OF FAME: Steve "Reno" Baumann, one of Staples' all-time greatest players and the former head men's coach at the University of Pennsylvania -- his alma mater, where he earned All-America status -- is combining his two passions: museums and soccer. His selection caps a national search. Since 2004 Steve has served as executive director of the Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena, California. He previously held high positions at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, and The Franklin Institute Science Museum in Philadelphia. After graduating from Penn, he played with the Miami Toros of the North American Soccer League (1974-77), then spent 10 years teaching and coaching in Virginia. The Staples soccer program congratulates Reno, and looks forward to an exhibition at the Hall -- located in Oneonta, New York -- dedicated to Wrecker soccer.

SENIORS ANNOUNCE POST-GRADUATION PLANS: The Staples soccer program bids a fond farewell to 17 seniors on June 21. We'll miss them, but they're ready to take the next exciting steps in their lives. Here's what they're doing:

Brad Green: Gettysburg College (tentative)Matt Hammer: George Washington University

Congratulations and good luck to our 17 awesome seniors -- and thanks for all you've done for our program over the past 4 years!

WSA U-16s SPLIT MATCHES; U-18s TIE: The Westport Soccer Association U-16 squad made a goal by Nick Kljusev stand up for a 1-0 victory at Wilton. Justin Hawrysh, Dillon Moreo, Kenta Shirafuji, Nick Weir and Remington Woodhull, along with keeper Ryan Segedi, looked particularly solid in the strong team win. The next day, playing without Segedi, the U-16s surrendered 3 2nd-half goals and fell 3-0 to undefeated Stamford.The U-18s, who like the U-16s are improving game by game, rallied to tie New Canaan 1-1. Jake Blauvelt scored, off a feed from Jackson Lesser.

DARIN MCCOLLUM '99 ANNOUNCES ENGAGEMENT: The former defender and his high school sweetheart, Jennifer Witkin, will be married July 14 in Newport, Rhode Island. Darrien, who received a bachelor of arts in economics from Skidmore College, is now a derivatives operations association at OpHedge Investment Services in Rye Brook, New York.

JASON ASTER '02 CHECKS IN WITH HILARIOUS ALUM STORY: The former striker was vacationing with hisfamily in the Dominican Republic when he saw a man and his daughter, walking on the beach. Jason asked if he was from Westport, and had played Staples soccer. The man, shocked, asked how Jason knew. "How could I forget you, man? You kicked me in the head at my first Turkey Bowl," Jason replied. That's how he met Brian Sullivan '82, who ragged on Jason and his brother for the rest of the week (see photo below). Jason graduates this spring from Austin College. He studied for a year in China, gaining fluency in Mandarin. In June he returns to that country, 20 minutes from Macau and an hour from Hong Kong. He will work for USE Limited, helping create gathering and distribution facilities for mid-sized American companies. He played college soccer through sophomore year, but gave it up when he interned at a Washington think tank and then traveled to China. He scored two goals in his career, still plays pickup games, and looks forward to short goal whenever he gets back to Westport.

WSA U-18, U-16 TEAMS DROP MATCHES: Both games were against Norwalk; the U-18s fell 3-2, while the U-16s lost 3-1. After a scoreless 1st half the older squad led 2-0, on goals by Alex McDowell and Jason Fitter, but allowed 3 late tallies. The U-16s gave up a penalty kick; drew level on an excellent free kick by Remington Woodhull, then surrendered a free kick goal 10 seconds before halftime. Ryan Segedi played strongly in goal for the U-16s.

ANDY UDELL '88 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of Adam Robert (6 pounds, 12 ounces). Father (a LehighUniversity alumnus and member of the All-Patriot League Team of the 1990's Decade), mother Cheryl, sister Nina and brother Max are all doing well in their Westport home. Adam looks forward to joining the Staples boys soccer program in 2021.

MIKE SHARPE P'02, '07 OPENS GINGER MAN RESTAURANT: The tavern/restaurant, located on the site of the former Amberjacks in South Norwalk, is drawing rave reviews. It features a cask-conditioned ale, 52 beers from around the world on draft, and 100 varieties of bottled beer. The food menu -- classic American fare -- is superbly done. The Ginger Man features another Staples soccer tie: General manager Mike Dobbs '97 is a former Wrecker captain and freshman coach.

WSA U-18 TEAM FALLS TO WILTON, 3-1: Jason Fitter scored early in the 2nd half, but the homestanding Wilton side stormed back with 3 unanswered scores to take the season opener.

ERIC MEYER, MATT LAMB REFURBISH STAPLES SOCCER SHOWCASE: The seniors contributed their contributions to the Staples boys soccer program over spring break, dedicating several hours to redecorating the trophy cabinet outside the gym. They brought order to the jam-packed showcase, rearranging the dozens of trophies, plaques and memorabilia in a more orderly and handsome fashion. Stop by to admire their hard work soon!

DAN WOOG NAMED FCIAC BOYS SOCCER COACH OF THE YEAR: The award, announced by FCIAC executive secretary John Kuczo, will be presented on June 12 -- along with all other sports' Coaches of the Year -- at Testo's in Bridgeport. "This is definitely an honor for our coaching staff, and for the entire Westport Soccer Association," Woog said. "It belongs to Kurt Dasbach, Chris Odell, and everyone in the WSA who helps prepare Westport players to be Staples Wreckers. We also appreciate all the work done by premier coaches. And, of course, we're fortunate to have so many hard-working, creative, intelligent and skillful players in our program. Soccer is a team game, and this is truly a team award."

ROB WILDER '84 WRITES ABOUT WRITING FOR WESLEYAN MAGAZINE: Click here to read the former defender's account of the backstory behind Daddy Needs a Drink, his hilarious book about parenting. Rob, his wife Lala, daughter Poppy and son London now live in Santa Fe.

ERIC STEFFEN RUNS PERSONAL BEST HALF-MARATHON: The former Wesleyan University star and Staples assistant coach clocked either a 1:24.56 (his watch) or 1:25:08 (official time) at the Longtom Half-Marathon in Mozambique, a fundraiser for the Kgwale Le Mollo (KLM) Foundation that provides secondary school scholarships for disadvantaged rural students. "I didn't know what to expect, because although I trained quite a lot, I don't have anyone to run with in my village, except for flocks of 10-year-old 200-meter sprint specialists," said the Peace Corps volunteer from his post in South Africa. "But maybe they provided just the right motivation." Eric was joined by Aaron Rashba, a good friend and former housemate who flew all the way from San Francisco to run with him. Eric reminds friends and Staples soccer fans that the KLM is accepting donations until April 30; click here for more information.

CHARLIE STOEBE '04 NAMED TO ACADEMIC ALL-IVY LEAGUE TEAM: The 2003 Staples soccer tri-captain was honored as a member of the Dartmouth College track team. He had some of this winter's fastest Ivy League times at both 400 and 500 meters, and is on Dartmouth's All-Time Top 10 list for both events. Academic All-Ivy selections are based on both academic and athletic performances.

KYLE MARTINO '99 SET TO PLAY WITH BECKHAM: The 2002 MLS Rookie of the Year has returned from winter training in England and the Netherlands fresh, recovered from injuries, and eager to begin the Los Angeles Galaxy season. For interesting insights on the former Connecticut Player of the Year's journey, click here.

PRESTON HIRTEN TO PLAY SOCCER AT HOBART: The Wreckers' all-state midfielder/forward has been accepted at Hobart College, and named a Faculty Scholar, which carries a $15,000 annual award. Hobart, a Division III powerhouse under coach Sawn Griffin, went 12-4-3 last year, and reached the 2nd round of the NCAA tournament following a 5-3 penalty kick win over Elizabethtown. They were ranked 19th in the nation. To learn more about the Statesmen, click here.

RYAN MILLIGAN WINS SCIENCE FAIR PRIZE; SANDERS MCNAIR, REM WOODHULL ALSO COMPETE: Ryan, a junior, earned 1st place in the Research Project division at the 7th Annual Southern Connecticut Invitational Science and Engineering Fair, a prestigious event featuring high-powered judges. His research proposal was called "A Study on the Effects of Different Study Methods on Testing Results." Two sophomores also participated. Sanders' research proposal involved "Social Learning and Imitation by Orangutans," while Rem's examined "Shewanella Bacteria and Electrically Conducive Bacterial Nanowires."

KURT DASBACH MAKES THE NEW YORK TIMES : Staples' superb assistant coach is featured in a story on suspension training (Thursday, February 1, 2007). Kurt's work with the Inkaflexx straps -- highly popular with several varsity Wreckers -- is prominently mentioned. There is also a photo of Kurt supervising a workouot at Equinox in Darien.

GENNADIY GUREVICH'S ENGINEERING TEAM HEADS TO WASHINGTON FOR NATIONAL FINALS: The junior is part of Staples' team which, for the 2nd consecutive year, has reached the final round of the National Engingeering Design Challenge. The team -- which placed 2nd last year -- travels to the nation's capital on February 15-17 to show their solution to this year's problem: design a device to improve life for people with disabilities. Staples' students designed a retractable shelving system to enable someone in a wheelchair to utilize upper and lower shelves with ease.

SCOTT HUDDY CHECKS IN FROM ENGLAND: The 2006 junior varsity coach has returned to his homeland, and is working for the large telecommunications firm NTL Telewest as a sales executive. The company recently merged with Virgin Atlantic, so he promises to fly over next fall to catch a game or 2.

KEVIN CLARK RELEASES CD: The junior varsity player -- who goes by the stage name "Element" -- has released a new rap CD, "Missing Element." Click here to learn more from his website.

MATT SYCH ACCEPTED AT UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT: Best wishes to the senior striker as he heads off to Storrs!

WRECKERS EARN NATIONAL ACADEMIC HONOR : The 2005 Staples team has been awarded the National Soccer Coaches Association of America/adidas Team Academic Award, "for exceptional academic performance." To qualify, the team's average GPA must be 3.25 or higher. This is the 3rd time in 4 years the Wreckers have won the award.

BRETT KAPLAN ACCEPTED AT EMORY UNIVERSITY: Congratulations to the senior striker!

OBITUARY: WILLEM OOST-LIEVENSE P'08: The father of tri-captain Russell Oost-Lievense, 57, died peacefully Friday afternoon, December 22, following a 2-month battle with cancer. Donations in Willem's name may be made to the Whittingham Cancer Center, 24 Stevens St., Norwalk, CT 06856. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Staples soccer family are with Russell, his mother Marian, and his 2 sisters.

COLLEGE PLAYERS WIN LOEFFLER TOURNAMENT; $1,268 RAISED FOR SCHOLARSHIP FUND: The team of Jim Wolf '01, Jason Alvarez '02, Chris Meinke '05, Igor Pikayzen '05 and Robb McDowell '05 won the annual Albie Loeffler Indoor Tournament, held in the Staples fieldhouse. They defeated a varied side of Kurt Dasbach, Todd Coleman '84, Jono Sollinger '86, Trevor Lamb '04 and Preston Hirten '06, 3-2 in the finals. The $1,268 raised for the scholarship fund -- which is awarded each spring to a deserving Staples athlete -- is an indoor tournament record; so is the turnout of 42 players. The event featured the second Staples father-son combination (Stuart McCarthy '79, Michael McCarthy '10); the return after 23 years of Jeff Dyment '84; a visit from Antonio Pastor '84, who now lives in Worcester, Massachusetts, and an after-party at the Lambs', hosted by Amy Lamb P'01, '04, '07 and Lisa Hirten P'07.

NICKY HOBERMAN ACCEPTED AT UNION COLLEGE: The Norwalk Hour All-Area defender (and hockey tri-captain) joins a long list of illustrious Wrecker alumni who will play soccer for the Dutchmen. Congratulations, Nicky!

JOHN CLARK ACCEPTED AT UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS: The stalwart freshman and junior varsity player, who made the difficult decision to not play soccer senior year in order to concentrate on diving, was highly recruited by UMass's swimming and diving team. John is currently ranked as the third best diver in Staples history.

BRENDON CRISTOBAL, PRESTON HIRTEN, NICKY HOBERMAN, MATT LAMB, DAVE SHARPE NAMED TO ALL-HOUR TEAM: Of the 10 players selected by coaches to the all-area squad, half were Wreckers. Brendon was called a "sparkplug for offense"; Preston was cited as "a tough, physical and unselfish midfielder"; Nicky was described as "quick, fearless and tenacious"; Matt was called a "quick, cagey, skilled midfielder," and Dave was identified as a "vocal team leader." The Hour's MVP was Norwalk's Mike Fraioli.

MATT HAMMER ACCEPTED AT GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY: The varsity defender is the 1st of the Wreckers' 17 seniors to hear from college this year. He got into his early decision school -- a perfect place, considering his interest in history and government. Congratulations, Matt!

WRECKERS SHINE IN CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: Nearly a dozen Staples soccer players sang, danced and played in the music department's 66th annual gift to the town. Among the participants: Taylor Stuart (choir), Kevin Clark (chorale), Mike Smith (trumpet, symphonic band), Russell Oost-Lievense (percussion, symphonic band), Francesco Mioli (cello, symphonic orchestra), Tomer Gat, Greg Bachman, Keaton Cristobal, Eric Meyer, Ryan Milligan, Justin Rodriguez (all violin, symphonic orchestra).

6 PLAYERS AND COACH HONORED BY CONNECTICUT POST: Brendon Cristobal, Preston Hirten and Matt Lamb were named to the newspaper's All-Star first team. Dave Sharpe was selected to the second team, while Russell Oost-Lievense and Matt Sych were cited for Honorable Mention. All except Oost-Lievense are seniors. In addition, Dan Woog was named Coach of the Year.

BRIAN BURNS '94 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH OF DEWEY: He checked in at 8 pounds, 7 ounces. Everyone -- including big brother Sarge -- is doing fine.

MICHAEL MCCARTHY EARNS BLACK BELT: The freshman midfielder capped 7 years of training in tang soo do, a Korean version of karate, with this tremendous achievement. Congratulations, Michael!

DAVE SHARPE, CRAIG WOLGAST WIN BLOCK 'S' AWARDS; ALEX GENDELL, RUSSELL OOST-LIEVENSE, MIKE SMITH ELECTED '07 CAPTAINS: The annual soccer banquet, held at Continental Manor in Norwalk, saw a slew of honors for all 3 Staples squads. Sharpe, selected by his teammates as Most Valuable Player, was cited by coach Dan Woog for his excellent positioning, sure hands, quick reflexes and superb leadership. Wolgast was awarded the second Block "S" as Most Improved Player. Woog noted his skillful and tenacious work as a central defender, noting "he not only got better game by game -- sometimes he improved from one half to the next." Two seniors, Matt Lamb and Matt Sych, shared the Alumni Award, for their understanding of the history of the Staples soccer program, and their efforts to continue that tradition. Woog called next year's captains --currently juniors -- a "great choice. They are strong, smart players, and they will pick up right where this year's group left off."

Other awards included two All-FCIAC junior varsity certificates, which went to Alex McDowell and Adam Liu; the Stephen Martin Award, given to freshman Nick Cion for his excellent attitude, solid work ethic and strong spirit, and the Jeff Lea Award, for long and meritorious service to Staples soccer by an adult, which went to former social studies teacher, long-time timekeeper, program adviser and friend Dave Harrison P'91.

Craig Wolgast and Dave Sharpe show off their Block "S"s (and FCIAC championship medals). (Photo by Pete Wolgast)

JAY ZAMBELLI '85 CHECKS IN FROM SEATTLE: The bad news is: He blew out his knee playing soccer with Tim Purcell '85. The good news is: Jay is a licensed acupuncturist in Washington and Oregon; his cabinet-making business is going very well, and he and Tim visited former goalkeeper Andrew Cornish '85 in Wyoming, where he lives on the access road to Jackson Ski Area. Jay says his crew plans to round up former teammates like Tim Nicholson and Kenny Schwartz, to play in the Albie Loeffler Indoor Tournament -- next year.

READ DAVE RUDEN'S STAMFORD ADVOCATE TRIBUTE TO THE '06 STAPLES TEAM: The talented sportswriter has always treated the Wreckers -- and all high school sports -- well. Click here for his insights into this memorable season.

RUSSELL OOST-LIEVENSE: STAPLES' NEW GOALIE?: The junior midfielder/striker went into the nets for the FSA U-18 premier team, when the regular keeper was injured over Thanksgiving weekend. Oost-Lievense let up 2 goals, but according to coach Brian Chandler, "did a great job back there." FSA was 4-1 for the weekend.

ROBBIE KRAMER '05 COMPLETES STRONG SEASON: The Union College goalkeeper finished 5-4-3. He played 1,176 minutes, and made 51 saves while allowing just 8 goals for the Dutchmen. Robbie started 12 games, and played in 14. Union was 9-6-3 overall, 2-3-2 in the Liberty League.

14 BRAVE COLD RAIN TO PLAY IN TURKEY BOWL: For the 2nd year in a row, inclement weather marred -- but did not stop -- the annual Turkey Bowl soccer game. Stalwart players braved the elements to play on Thanksgiving morning. Kudos to Dave Wilson '75, Tom Greenwald '79, Kent Thomas '86, Jem Sollinger '88, Zach Schwarz '03 (sporting the fashionable but freezing no-warmup-bottoms look), Matt Geringer '04, Robbie Kramer '05, Igor Pikayzen '05, seniors Preston Hirten, Dave Sharpe and Craig Wolgast, sophomores Jairo Alvarado and Kenta Shirafuji, and assistant coach Kurt Dasbach. Keep checking this site for details of the next alumni event: the annual holiday indoor tournament, a benefit for the Albie Loeffler Scholarship Fund.

PRESTON HIRTEN SELECTED TO ALL-STATE TEAM: The speedy, shifty senior midfielder/striker is Staples' lone representative on the Connecticut Soccer Coaches Association honorary squad. "I think we had several players worthy of All-State mention," said head coach Dan Woog. "I'm glad the coaches recognized Preston's quickness, ball skills, hard work off the ball, vision, game sense, competitiveness and passion. He epitomizes what a Staples -- and All-State -- soccer player should be." The All-State banquet is set for 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 28, at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington. For tickets and more information, click here.

BOYS SOCCER BANQUET SET FOR DECEMBER 3; MAKE RESERVATIONS NOW: The annual Staples boys soccer banquet is set for Sunday, December 3, at Continental Manor in Norwalk (5:30 p.m.). All varsity, junior varsity and freshman players attend free; parent, sibling and fan tickets are $35 each. Checks made out to "SHS boys soccer" can be sent to: Marcina Cristobal, 3 Bayberry Lane, Westport, CT 06880. Deadline: November 22.

LAST CHANCE TO ORDER GREAT KERRY LONG PHOTOS: The superb sports photographer has posted hundreds of photos from many of this fall's matches -- and she has generously offered to contribute 20 percent of her profits back to the Staples boys soccer program. The deadline is November 30, 2006! Click here to check out the shots, and place an order. For questions, click here to email Kerry directly.

MARK NOONAN '83 PLAYS KEY ROLE IN METS' NEW STADIUM DEAL: The former high school All-American and NCAA Division I national champion with Duke University helped advise the New York Mets' management, as they engineered the largest naming rights deal in sports history (Citigroup is paying the team over $20 million a year, doubling the previous record, for the rights to Citi Field, scheduled to open in 2009). Noonan is president of Focal Sport, an international sports marketing agency.

DAVE SHARPE SELECTED TO SUPER-Y LEAGUE ODP TEAM: The Staples goalkeeper, whose Westchester FC team competes in the Super-Y League national championship tournament, was chosen for the U-17 Mid-Atlantic Regional Super-Y League ODP team. In January he will travel to Cocoa Beach, Florida to participate in the national camp. This is the 2nd time he has been selected for this camp. As a U-15 player he was chosen as a national team alternate.

DREW MCNAIR, ALAN REITER COMPETE AT MLS YOUTH SHOWCASE: With their freshman season over, the duo rejoined Beachside Soccer Club, one of 30 clubs invited to the Adidas-sponsored event run in conjunction with MLS Cup in Frisco, Texas. Beachside tied 3 of the top clubs in the nation: Nomads of California (1-1), Houston Texans (0-0) and Triangle FC of North Carolina (1-1).

GAETANA DILEO GETS MARRIED: "G" -- as Staples' popular trainer is universally known -- was married on Saturday, November 11 in Trumbull. She invited the entire boys' varsity team to the ceremony, but they chose to play in the state tournament quarterfinals instead. Congratulations, G!

BRIANNE MCCAFFERTY NAMED STUDENT OF THE MONTH : Even the varsity team's managers are doing great things. Brianne was named one of Staples' honored students for November. Great job, Brianne!

RYAN MCDONALD '97 CHECKS IN FROM VERMONT: "I just bought 16 acres in Montgomery Center, with a stream and mountain views" he reports. "I'm running my own log home staining and restoration business. My girlfriend and I also raise Newfoundland dogs. We have 8 for breeding, and are almost done building a kennel facility." To learn more about Ryan, click here.

JONATHAN CHOI, DREW MCNAIR VOLUNTEER FOR UNIFIED SOCCER EVENT: The 2 underclassmen worked hard -- including officiating -- to make the day a success for young soccer players with special needs. "They were great!" said Unified Sports organizer Janet Zamary. "We couldn't have done it without them."

STATE 'LL' TOURNAMENT PAIRINGS SET: The Wreckers' 13-1-2 regular season earned them the 7th seed in the state "LL" (extra large schools state tournament). For the full draw, and to follow all the action, click here.

PAL DONATES $5,000 TO TERRACE THE HILL; FINAL GOAL IS NEAR: The Westport Police Athletic League -- which sponsored the 1st Westport youth soccer teams 40 years ago, before the formation of the Westport Soccer Association -- has provided a $5,000 grant to help complete the terrace-the-hill project at Loeffler Field. The project is now just a few thousand dollars short of its goal. Tax-deductible contributions may be made to: "Terrace the Hill!", 53 Partrick Rd., Westport, CT 06880.

ALEX DEEGAN '91 RUNS MARINE CORPS MARATHON: The former Staples High School and Davidson College goalkeeper finished his 1st-ever marathon in under 4 hours -- in the top 10 percent of all runners. His wife Elizabeth -- a veteran marathoner herself, and former University of North Carolina soccer captain -- did not compete; she cheered him on, along with Alex's mother, Ann Jevne, who made the trip from Connecticut. "It was a windy but beautiful day," she reports. "What a wonderful experience."

CAL MINTZ '04 SHINES AGAINST MIDDLEBURY: The Keene State College goalkeeper made 12 saves, as the Owls topped the Panthers 2-0 in a battle between 2 of the Top 7 teams in New England. His heroics included 2 penalty kick saves, earning this praise from Keene State coach Ron Butcher: "Cal was spectacular. They threw everything at him late in the 2nd half, and he came up big every time." To read more from the Keene State website, click here.

FRESHMEN BEAT DANBURY 3-0; FINISH SEASON UNDEFEATED: The 9th graders blazed through the regular season with a 12-0-0 record, finishing with goals by Drew McNair, Andrew Glenn and Jeff Kelly in the final match of the year. Overall, they outscored their opponents 44-6. Congratulations to coach Chris O'Dell and his 22 Wreckers!

GENNADIY GUREVICH FINISHES 1ST AT YALE PHYSICS OLYMPICS: The varsity midfielder was part of a 3-person team that placed 1st in an event called "On the Fast Track." The competition included 50 teams from Connecticut, New York and Rhode Island.

SCOTT FISHER '89 GETS MARRIED: The Duke University (and Harvard Business School MBA) graduate married Karen Carney on October 8 in Boston. Scott is a partner at The FMR Group, a private equity firm, while Karen is vice president of marketing communications for Team Marketing, a sports and entertainment agency. The couple met while vacationing on Nantucket in 2004. After a honeymoon in Italy, they will live in Boston.

2006 TEAM PHOTO POSTED ONLINE: Click on "This Season" at the top of the home page; then scroll down to see this year's official team photo.

OBITUARY: JOHN SYCH '72, P'07: The Staples soccer community mourns the death of John Sych, former player and father of senior forward Matt Sych, who died on Sunday, Oct. 15 of a heart attack. John, who also played at Southern Connecticut State University, was a passionate fan, who took particular delight in this season's action. He was a constant presence throughout Matt's soccer career -- and two nights before his death, his team finished third at Quiz Night. Contributions in John's memory may be made to: American Heart Association, 5 Brookside Drive, PO Box 5022, Wallingford, CT 06492.

QUIZ NIGHT RAISES $9,565 -- COACHES' TEAM REPEATS AS CHAMPION : The 2nd annual Quiz Night drew over 300 participants, and earned nearly $10,000 to help complete the terrace project at Albie Loeffler Field. The reigning champions -- Staples soccer coaches Dan Woog, Kurt Dasbach and Chris O'Dell, plus former coach Aaron Feigenbaum -- fended off a stiff challenge from a surprising rookie freshman table led by goalkeeper Eliot Bass to retain their crown. Fellow freshman Ryan Smith's table won an award for "Most Improvement Needed," while sophomore Adam Liu walked away with the lion's share of raffle prizes. Congratulations to all who participated; special thanks to parents Greg and Aundreena McGibney, Jim and Melanie Nangle, Wynne Bohonnon, MaryAnn Meyer, Marian Oost-Lievense, the many others who solicited prizes and helped out, and the Staples girls team for making the event a rousing success.

COLIN NANGLE '06 FOLLOWING IN MIKE NOONAN '79'S FOOTSTEPS: Nangle -- a 2-year captain at Staples -- is the first freshman to start at right back for Middlebury College since fellow Wrecker Noonan. Nangle is having an excellent year for the Panthers, while Noonan is having another superb season at Brown University, where he serves as head coach. In the Panthers' 3-2 overtime win over previously unbeaten (10-0-0), #4-in-the-nation Williams, Nangle played the entire 106 minutes, and looked very strong.

GREG BACHMAN, DAVE SHARPE, SEAN SODERSTROM NAMED PSAT COMMENDED SCHOLARS: Congratulations to the 3 seniors -- 2 defenders and 1 goalkeeper -- who were among 33 Stapleites who scored at the top on their PSAT tests last fall.

OBITUARY: TOM LIU P'09: The Staples soccer community mourns the death of Tom Liu, 42, father of junior varsity player Adam Liu, following a courageous year-long battle with cancer. He was an investment manager with Kingsland Capital in New York. A Westport resident for 9 years, Tom earned a bachelor's in mechanical engineering from the University of Vermont and an MBA from the University of Michigan. He coached soccer and ice hockey, and was dedicated to all of his children's activities. Survivors include his wife, Mary Jane, and his children Adam, Aaron and Amy. Contributions to the Tom Liu Memorial Fund may be sent c/o Greater Bridgeport Area Foundation, 211 State St., Bridgeport, CT 06604.

BRIAN BURNS '94 CHECKS IN FROM VERMONT: A defender on Staples' most recent state championship team who now makes furniture and plays bluegrass music in northern Vermont, Brian writes: "I just found out that playing 250 minutes of full field 8-v8 (no offsides, no refs) in a 7-hour span after taking 11 years off can make a man feel very sore. I wouldn't recommend it. We almost pulled off a miracle, but managed 3rd place (still a miracle). I also found out that one loses a little bit of touch in 11 years. I'll be at the state finals if Staples is in it. Hope to see you there."

PARTICIPATION RATES LOW FOR TERRACE THE HILL DONATIONS -- FINAL PUSH IS ON!: Only 66 percent of varsity families, 40 percent of junior varsity families, and 31 percent of freshman families have contributed to the Terrace the Hill project. "We've raised $80,000 so far. We need $16,000 more to complete the final phase -- benches and shade trees at the top, and landscaping," committee organizers said. "We've had great contributions from alumni, the Westport Soccer Association, former parents and a number of families of current players. But we're looking for 100 percent participation from families of current players. After all, the parents of seniors -- and particularly underclassmen -- will really benefit from the terracing project. It doesn't matter how much you give -- every little bit helps!" Tax-deductible contributions can be made out to "Terrace the Hill!" and sent to: 53 Partrick Rd., Westport, CT 06880.

SEAN MILLIGAN '05, ROBBIE KRAMER '05 STAR IN COLLEGE GOALKEEPING STARTS: The goalies, who shared duties on the 2004 15-3-2, state semifinalist squad, turned in solid performances recently. Milligan made 3 saves in Dartmouth College's 1-0 victory over Stanford University, then looked solid in a 2-1 overtime loss at Fairfield University. Kramer placed all 100 minutes in Union College's 1-0 victory over Clarkson University. The win raised the Dutchmen's record to 6-1-0.

CAR WASH RAISES $2,240 FOR SOCCER PROGRAM: Despite threatening weather, over 70 Staples soccer players and more than a dozen parents helped raise what is believed to be a Staples boys soccer car wash record. Congratulations to all who helped, all who donated, and especially car wash chairman Mike Sharpe P'03, '07.

Russell Oost-Lievense, Eric Meyer and Alex Gendell demonstrate their superb car-washing technique. (Photo by Amy Lamb)

BEN KING SELECTED AS VOLLEYBALL TRI-CAPTAIN: Sure, it's soccer season, but coach Bruce Betts just announced that Ben -- who is having a great year as one of the soccer team's central defenders -- will lead the defending state championship volleyball squad this spring.

MIKE SAKELLIS CHECKS IN: The consultant with New York-based Bulldog Marketing traveled to Westport to watch his former fellow co-captain, Chris O'Dell, coach the freshman to a 2-0 win over Trumbull. Mike is also getting his commercial broker's license, so he can sell real estate. He hopes more members of the '95 team would post news on StaplesSoccer.com.

BRIAN CHANDLER ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of his 2nd child, Olivia Grace. Brian is a long-time friend of Staples soccer, and one of the great Soccer Trainers of America coaches who run the Wreckers' pre-season camp. For photos and more details about all the Chandlers, click here.

STAPLES SOCCER FEATURED ON CHANNEL 78: Westport Cablevision viewers can watch Jason Intrieri's interview with head coach Dan Woog on Channel 78's "Meet the Coaches" TV show. It airs this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

ALEX MCDOWELL ELECTED JUNIOR VARSITY CAPTAIN: Congratulations to "A-Mac," the new leader of coaches Matt Killian and Scott Huddy's team!

JACK HENNESSY, DREW MCNAIR ELECTED FRESHMAN CAPTAINS: Congratulations to the new leaders of coach Chris O'Dell's team!

'MEET THE WRECKERS' VARSITY TEAM ONLINE: Click the "This Season" tab at the top of the home page; then scroll down to the roster, and click on "Meet the Wreckers" learn everything you wanted to know about this year's varsity players: favorite class in school, heroes, best soccer memory -- all up close and personal. Check back often -- more profiles will be added regularly.

2006 STAPLES SOCCER HOODIES ON SALE NOW: Order this year's design now -- support the Wreckers wherever you go! Sizes: small, medium, large, extra-large. Cost: $45 ($50 with a number on the sleeve). Please make checks to "Staples Boys Soccer" and send to: Amy Lamb, 119 Old Rd., Westport, CT 06880. For more information, click here.

ROSS CUNNINGHAM '02 LOOKING FOR WORK: The recent Boston University graduate (major: history) hopes to relocate to New York, Boston, Chicago or Seattle, for work in either journalism or law. "I'm willing to pay my dues until I get the chance to write full-time," he says of his journalism aspirations; for law, he would like to work as a legal assistant or paralegal. Grad school in journalism or law is a few years down the road; right now, he'slooking for experience. To contact Ross directly, click here.

ALUMNI REPORT: MIDDLEBURY 4, CONNECTICUT COLLEGE 0: Former assistant coach and longtime Staples supporter Art Cockerham reports that Chris Meinke '05 started both halves at right flank midfielder; also seeing action in both halves for the host Camels was Rob Paniccia '04. Colin Nangle '06 did not make the trip, because Middlebury's entire freshman class had to sign their honor code pledges as a group. The crowd in New London included Chris' parents and grandparents, and Rob and Colin's parents.

CLICK 'THIS SEASON' TAB FOR MATCH RESULTS: The 2006 season has begun, with pre-season scrimmages. Click the 'This Season' tab at the top of the home page, then follow the links for varsity, JV and freshman schedules game-by-game wrapus. And, of course, click on "Calendar" (right side of home page) for a daily look at each Wrecker squad.

15 SENIORS VOLUNTEER FOR CT CHALLENGE: Training in a monsoon did not "dampen" the enthusiasm of 15 seniors, who volunteered for the CT Challenge bike ride, organized by Mark Noonan '83, which raised approximately $500,000 for cancer survivors. Immediately after tryouts they headed to Greenfield Hill Congregational Church, where for more than 3 hours they worked hard, cleaning up after the wet but very successful event. Congratulations and thanks go to Greg Bachman, Brendon Cristobal, Keaton Cristobal, Matt Hammer, Preston Hirten, Brett Kaplan, Ben King, Matt Lamb, Nolan Matin, Eric Meyer, Justin Rodriguez, Sean Soderstrom, Taylor Stuart, Matt Sych and Craig Wolgast.

100 HOPEFULS TRY OUT FOR STAPLES SOCCER: The 62 candidates for varsity and junior varsity, and the 36 who came out for the freshman team -- numbers that will rise with the addition of a few latecomers -- are a record for the Wrecker soccer program. With a school population of approximately 1,600, that represents 12 percent of all the boys in Staples. "It's great that so many guys want to be part of this proud and competitive program," said head coach Dan Woog. "They know they'll be tested, and they'll work very hard, but they'll also grow as players and people, and they'll have fun. The unfortunate part is that we have to cut. It's the toughest part of any coach's job. We've added a second junior varsity coach, along with several games, so we'll run two JV teams this year -- but there still won't be room for everyone. A turnout like this is a great testament to the sport, and the groundwork that's been laid by the Westport Soccer Association."

DREW ROBBINS '95 announces the birth of Reid Anderson, his 1st son (7 pounds, 4 ounces). Dad, baby and mom (former Staples classmate Alison Verneuil) are all doing well. Drew works for IBM in Chicago.

KYLE MARTINO '99 INJURED; MAY BE OUT FOR SEASON: The former MLS Rookie of the Year suffered a torn labrum in his left hip in the Los Angeles Galaxy's 1-0 loss to the Colorado Rapids. He had just returned to the lineup following a long absence due to a sprained right ankle. Click here for the full report.

READ GREAT 'TERRACE THE HILL' ARTICLE IN STAMFORD ADVOCATE : Dave Ruden, the Advocate sports reporter who has consistently supported FCIAC soccer, wrote a laudatory piece in the August 18, 2006 edition on the Wreckers' seating project. Click here to enjoy. (NOTE: Engineer Peter Romano was not "hired" for the project; he has very generously donated his professional services.)

9 FORMER WRECKERS PLAYING COLLEGE SOCCER: Follow the fall seasons of all the Staples players in the college ranks -- and the 2 who are coaching college soccer -- by clicking the links below:

SCOTT HUDDY JOINS STAPLES COACHING STAFF: Scott, who holds dual Canadian and British citizenship, joins the boys soccer program as assistant junior varsity coach. He will work with Matt Killian '01 (scroll down for story below). An honors graduate in sociology from the University of Central Lancashire, Scott has worked at various camps in the US, as well as in marketing positions in the UK. He was vice captain of O'Neil's Soccer Club in England. "As soon as I met him, I knew Scott was passionate about the game," said head coach Dan Woog. "He can't wait to get started, and make an impact. He and Matt should make a great JV coaching combination." Scott was referred to Staples by Jon Love '00.

DARIN MCCOLLUM '99 ANNOUNCES ENGAGEMENT: The Skidmore College graduate and Jennie Witkin, his high school sweetheart, will marry next July in Newport, Rhode Island. Darin works in the financial services field, while Jennie is with Northrop Grumman in Norwalk.

AARON FEIGENBAUM TAKES NEW JOB: The popular and talented junior varsity coach has resigned, with regret, to work for NBC Sports' new website. "I'm very, very sorry to see Aaron go," said boys head coach Dan Woog. "He's brought great enthusiasm, tremendous passion and many innovative ideas to our program. He connected and worked well with players of all abilities, as an excellent teacher and motivator. And, of course, he was a member of the coaches' team that easily won the inaugural Quiz Night competition. I know everyone associated with Staples soccer joins me in thanking Aaron for all he's done."

ALEX DEEGAN '91 GETS MARRIED: The former goalkeeper and Staples co-captain, who led Davidson College to the semifinals of the NCAA Division I national championship, married Elizabeth Marslender in Raleigh, North Carolina on August 5. Alex, who followed a bachelor's degree in history with a master's degree in business administration from the University of Richmond (and played professionally with both the Richmond Kickers of the USL, and MSL's DC United), now works for Allied Capital in Washington, DC. Elizabeth, a former captain of the University of North Carolina's national champion women's soccer team, is employed by Pfizer in Arlington, Virginia. The couple honeymooned in Bora Bora, and now live in Arlington. Justin Harrison '91 read at the ceremony, while former Westport Soccer Association teammate Mark Franks -- who now lives in Australia -- served as a groomsman.

SEAN SODERSTROM COLLECTS USED SOCCER EQUIPMENT FOR INNER-CITY KIDS: The rising senior, a varsity candidate this fall, will be collecting soccer shoes, shin guards, jerseys, balls (in good condition) and any other soccer equipment from Monday, August 21 through Friday, August 25, between 1 and 3 p.m. at Wakeman A. This is a great opportunity to clean out your closets -- support an excellent cause.

MATT KILLIAN '01 JOINS STAPLES COACHING STAFF: The former defender, a member of the state semifinalist 2000 team, is the newest addition to the Staples boys soccer program, as head junior varsity coach. An English major and business management minor at Sacred Heart University -- where he played varsity soccer -- Matt has also worked as an instructor at Joe Machnik's No. 1 Soccer Camp. "I am always delighted when a former player wants to give something back to the program," said head coach Dan Woog. "Matt was a quiet yet tenacious player, and his values and philosophy are exactly what we seek. We're always looking to add depth and breadth to the Staples soccer experience, and having Matt as another coach will help bring our jayvees to another level." TRIVIA: In high school, Matt lived in the same house on South Sylvan Road previously owned by Albie Loeffler, the founder of the Staples soccer program. For bios of the entire Staples coaching staff, click the "Coaches" tab at the top of the home page.

OBITUARY: JAMES MCWILLIAMS: The father of Ryley McWilliams '99 and Andrew McWilliams '02 died suddenly on Sunday, July 30. He lived out West, and had spent the day hiking with Andrew, before collapsing suddenly that evening. The Staples soccer community extends its sympathies to the McWilliams family.

USA WINS WATERMELON CUP 7-V-7 TOURNAMENT: The Westport FC-based team, consisting of Over-30 Staples alumni and guests, beat 5 other teams -- including high school, college and older -- to capture the 1st annual 7-v-7 event, held at Compo Beach immediately after the World Cup finals and sponsored graciously by Mitchells of Westport. The winning squad included John Benitez, Mike Brown '83, Steve Halloran, Nic Hjerth, Rich Horosky '84, Edwin Leon, Chris Mitchell '91, Mark Noonan '83, Jon Walker '88 and Jon Whitfield. The Watermelon Cup tradition -- including the awarding of the melon, T-shirts and food -- will continue next summer.

Some of the 60+ participants in the 1st annual Watermelon Cup 7-v-7 Tournament, sponsored by Mitchells of Westport, posed following the match. Participants ranged in age from 14 to over 40.

READ 'WOOG'S WORLD' ON MIKE CAREY '01, BRENDAN NANGLE '02, COLIN NANGLE '06's WORLD CUP TRIP: Click here for a story on the World Cup, from three former Staples captains who were there.

2006 CALENDAR IS NOW ONLINE: The complete 2006 tryout, training and match schedule for varsity, junior varsity and freshman teams is now online. Click the "View Calendar" link on the right side of the home page (or click here) to plan your season.

BRENDON CRISTOBAL, KEATON CRISTOBAL, CHRIS MEINKE '05 COMPETE AT USYSA REGION I TOURNAMENT: South-Central Spartans, the U-16 Connecticut Junior Soccer Association state champions for whom the 2006 tri-captain Cristobals play, had a perfect 3-0-0 record in group play in Virginia Beach, Virginia over the July 4th weekend, and advanced to the semifinal. South-Central beat FC United NH Stars (New Hampshire) 3-1, Century V Storm (Pennsylvania West) 3-0 and FC Delco Dynamo III (Premier League - Eastern Pennsylvania) 2-0, before bowing to FC Greater Boston Bolts (Massachusetts) 2-0. Meinke and Milligan's state champ U-19 team, Beachside, also advanced to the regional semifinals, with a 2-1-0 record. Beachside beat BW Gottschee (Eastern New York) 2-1 and CSA Roma (Delaware) 4-0, and lost to the Williamsburg Wizards (Virginia) 2-1, before losing in the semis by a 2-0 count to PDA Conquistadors (New Jersey).

JOHN NATHAN '80 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH OF TWINS: Frances and June were born June 23. They are now home in Brooklyn, doing well and enjoying life.

LIAM BOHONNON NAMED HOUR ALL-AREA TENNIS MVP: The rising junior was cited with doubles partner Ross Heller. Bohonnon roared to a 16-2 regular season record at #3 singles. He was paired with Heller just prior to post-season play. The doubles team won the state Class L championship, came in 2nd in the state open tournament, and finished 3rd at the New England tourney.

MIKE CAREY '01, BRANDON LAMB'01, TREVOR LAMB '04 AND TOM CAREY P'01 gathered for refreshments in Germany before the US-Ghana World Cup game. Afterward, they drowned their sorrows at the performance of the hapless American team. Photo by uber-fan Brian Carey.

OBITUARY: SHARON DOBBS P'88, '97: Sharon Dobbs, the quintessential Westport "soccer mom," died on Saturday, June 24, in Georgia from complications of cancer. She was 59. During her many years in Westport, she was involved in innumerable soccer activities. She served the Westport Soccer Association in many board capacities, continuing her volunteer efforts long after her sons left the program. As the mother of 2-year co-captain (and, later, freshman coach) Mike Dobbs, and backup goalkeeper and enthusiastic fan Pat, she was an integral part of the Staples boys soccer program. The WSA will honor her memory by planting "The Sharon Dobbs Garden" near the soon-to-be-built scoreboard at Wakeman Field. The Dobbs family will have a small family service in Covington, Georgia on July 1. Donations in Sharon Dobbs' name may be sent to: Atlanta Cancer Care Foundation, 1506 Klondike Rd., Suite 205, Conyers, GA 30094.

TIM CAFFREY '94 JOINS IBM BUSINESS CONSULTING: The co-captain of Staples' last state championship team, and Lehigh University graduate, will begin work in September, following completion of his MBA. He'll work with IBM Business Consulting's CRM Strategy Group, focusing on the financial services sector (though as a consultant he will have clients in other industries too). Tim may relocate from Denver to Chicago, though Boston, New York and Washington are other options.

LIAM BOHONNON JUST MISSES OUT IN NEW ENGLAND TENNIS TOURNAMENT: The rising junior and his partner, Ross Heller, finished 3rd in the New England scholastic event. A controversial scoring system prevented the playing of sets in a round-robin format, and the final match was scratched when a team from Massachusetts left early. The Hall-West Hartford team beat Bohonnon and Heller by 1 game in the total score, and advanced to the finals. In the Connecticut state open tournament earlier, Bohonnon and Heller reached the finals, before losing a thrilling match 4-6, 7-6, 7-5.

STAPLES SOCCER GETS BEHIND US TEAM: Nearly 100 Westport soccer fans -- Staples varsity, JV and freshman players; up-and-coming 7th and 8th graders; parents, and alumni from the Classes of 1971, '72, '79 and '83 -- gathered at Brian Carpenter's house to watch the US tough out a 1-1 draw with Italy in the 2nd game of World Cup 2006. Special thanks to Westport Pizzeria, International Soccer and Rugby Imports and the Moreo family for donations; the Moreo, Bohonnon, Lesser-Burton and Nangle families for organizational help, and the Carpenters for the use of their home.

Staples players and US fans cheer the Americans' tying goal against Italy, at Brian Carpenter's house. Standing (in front from left): Alex Hoberman, Matt Hammer, Frankie Rende, Craig Wolgast, Eric Meyer, Colin Nangle; sitting (in front): Kevin Clark, Adam Liu; sitting (far right) Keaton Cristobal; rear (from left) Kenta Shirafuji, Jon Golembeski, Sanders McNair, Nic Weir.

BRENDON CRISTOBAL RACES TO NEW ENGLAND TRACK CHAMPIONSHIP: The 2006 tri-captain was part of the 4x400 relay team that took the New England crown, with a 3:22.89 race. In addition, his 4x800 relay team finished 4th in New England, in 8:04.30.

CHRIS MEINKE '05 TRANSFERS TO CONNECTICUT COLLEGE: The former co-captain, who played last season at Kenyon College, will be reunited this fall with Rob Paniccia '04. Go Camels!

TODD CHAMPAGNE '94 CHECKS IN FROM CALIFORNIA: The owner of Fearless Pickles, one of the mostly highly touted organic foods sold at the Santa Cruz Community Farmers Market, writes: "I just returned from 5 weeks in Mexico, visiting farm friends at their mountain villages; plowing with oxen, riding burros in the pastures, grinding corn and shaping tortillas. This exploration renews my hope that age-old agricultural traditions are still alive." Todd recently talked to Brian Burns '94; the former state champion team members are planning a Thanksgiving reunion in Connecticut.

U-16s FALL 1-0 IN STATE CUP SEMIFINALS: South Windsor made a 1st-half penalty kick stand up for victory over the Westport Soccer Association team in the state cup semis. It was an even, well-played match, despite high winds. Congratulations to team members Jairo Alvarado, Jake Blauvelt, Corey, Jay Cronin, Ben Fagan, Jason Fitter, Tomer Gat, Alex Hoberman, Alex McDowell, Sanders McNair, Dillon Moreo, Frankie Rende, Kenta Shirafuji, Nic Weir and Mike Williams. The next day the U-16s lost 4-2 to Stamford. Cronin netted both goals. The U-17s' won by forfeit, when Weston failed to field a squad.

WRECKERS WIN STATE VOLLEYBALL CROWN: The 3-0 victory over Newington marks the 5th state title for coach Bruce Betts' boys. Brian Carpenter, Peter Hlawitschka, Ben King andSteve Ogilvy saw regular action, while Gennadiy Gurevich, Evan Kelly, Jackson Lesser, Max Shelman and Mike Smith were also on the state championship squad.

BRENDON CRISTOBAL, KEATON CRISTOBAL WIN SOCCER STATE OPEN CUP: The 2006 tri-captains helped their South-Central club team take West Hartford, 2-0, in the U-17 finals. South-Central now heads to Virginia Beach, for the USYSA Region I tournament.

BILOXI HIGH SCHOOL THANKS STAPLES TEAM: The Biloxi Indians -- fresh off a 16-5 season -- sent a yearbook to the Staples boys soccer team, thanking them for their donation of team warm-ups last fall, after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Mississippi city. Each player signed the yearbook, with light but heartfelt comments such as "Yo, thanks. We finally got something new because of yall," and "Thanks for the warmups. It really meant a lot to our soccer program. Although we might have won state if we had new cleats -- HAHA! Just playin!"

LIAM BOHONNON 9TH OVERALL IN 5K RUN: The sophomore finished the course in 20:27, a 6:35 pace. Sam Weller, a freshman, was 25th, in 23:10. The event, sponsored by the Staples High School Student Assembly, raised $5,000 for artwork for the new building. The next day, Liam returned to the tennis courts, where he is a key doubles player for the Staples team's drive for a state championship.

TIM DAY WINS COLEMAN SCHOLARSHIP; KELLY WALL AWARDED LOEFFLER SCHOLARSHIP: Tim -- a longtime Westport Soccer Association player -- was presented with a $2,500 check, in honor of former Wrecker player Scott Coleman, at the 5th annual Staples High School scholar-athlete banquet. The female recipient of the Coleman Award was Samantha Katz, sister of Matt Katz '01. Kelly -- a basketball, softball and volleyball player, whose father Tom graduated from Staples in 1970, was friendly with many soccer players and knew Albie Loeffler -- was awarded $3,000 in honor of the founder of the Staples soccer program, who also coached basketball, baseball and track. The boys soccer scholar-athlete at the dinner was Colin Nangle; he also played the national anthem on his cello to welcome attendees. Steve Ogilvy, another Wrecker booter, was honored as the boys volleyball scholar-athlete.

2006 SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED: The Wreckers open their fall season with a 7 p.m. match at Fairfield Ludlowe's turf stadium. The 16-game regular season includes 1 other night contest -- September 21 at Trumbull -- along with home games against FCIAC powerhouses Ridgefield, Norwalk, Greenwich and Bridgeport Central. The Wreckers will miss out on a chance of avenging last year's loss to Stamford, as the Black Knights are 1 of 2 schools Staples will not play this year (Bassick is the other). The Wreckers also plan 4 pre-season events, with scrimmages against Masuk-Monroe, Newtown and Guilford, and the annual Wethersfield Jamboree. Check out the full slate by clicking the "This Season" tab at the top of the home page.

ROB WILDER '84 PUBLISHES 1ST BOOK: DADDY NEEDS A DRINK : The Santa Fe Prep teacher and Newsweek contributor's collection of essays about parenting is truly hilarious. From changing diapers in a restaurant men's room to recalling his own semi-misspent youth in Westport, Rob nails it. Click here to read Dan Woog '71's "Woog's World" column on Rob's great inaugural effort.

SHIV TAYLOR '96 GRADUATES WITH MBA AND MEDICAL DEGREES : Armed with his twin University of Connecticut diplomas, Shiv now heads to Harvard University for his surgery residency.

JORDAN SCHUR '01 WORKING FOR PRESIDENT ...but not of the United States. Jordan is in New York, not Washington, in the office of Michael Goldberg, president of the NBA and NHL Coaches Associations, and CEO of National Media Group.

10 WRECKERS PERFORM MOZART'S REQUIEM: The Staples music department celebrated Mozart's 250th birthday with a special performance of his final work, to a standing ovation. The symphonic orchestra included violinists Greg Bachman, Keaton Cristobal, Eric Meyer and Justin Rodriguez; violist Brendon Cristobal; cellists Colin Nangle and Dave Sobel, and trumpeter Tim Day, while John Clark and Taylor Stuart sang in the a cappella choir.

STEVE OGILVY, BRIAN CARPENTER, BEN KING, PETER HLAWITSCHKA HELP WRECKERS EARN FCIAC VOLLEYBALL CROWN: The 4 soccer players were part of coach Bruce Betts' crew that avenged their only loss of the regular season, beating Trumbull 3-2 before a raucous crowd in Fairfield. Steve had 9 kills, while Peter contributed 9 assists. Other booters on the volleyball team are Gennadiy Gurevich, Evan Kelly, Jackson Lesser, Max Shelmanand Mike Smith.

READ AN INSIGHTFUL STORY ON THE BIG KYLE MARTINO '99 TRADE: Click here for Andrea Canales' piece on the deal that sent the 2002 Rookie of the Year from Columbus to the L.A. Galaxy -- including what it means to him, and to MLS.

JEFF LEA NAMED TO FCIAC HALL OF FAME: The 26-year coach -- the winningest soccer coach in Staples history -- will be feted on Tuesday, June 13 at Testo's Restaurant in Bridgeport. A cash bar and hors d'oeuvres reception begins at 5 p.m., with the awards ceremony to follow at 6. Tickets are $10.

CHIP YOUNG '68 INTERVIEWED ON MSNBC ON PATRICK KENNEDY INCIDENT: The Providence Phoenix writer and former Brown University All-America was identified as a "Rep. Kennedy associate." He gave insights into the congressman's background and character, and weighed in with his own opinions on the latest Kennedy family drama.

ANDREW MCWILLIAMS '02 AWARDED GEOLOGY PRIZE: The Juniata College student received the Brunton Award, an inscribed compass presented by the Brunton Company to the graduating senior who "holds the most promise of becoming an effective and professional field geologist."

JUSTIN RAPHAEL '02 HEADS TO HARVARD LAW SCHOOL: After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania (and a summer trip to Europe), Justin will head north to Cambridge. He will be eligible to run for president in 2020.

SENIORS ANNOUNCE COLLEGE PLANS: The 6 Wreckers who will graduate in June have all announced their college selections. Co-captains Colin Nangle and Ross McGibney will continue their soccer careers at Middlebury College and Quinnipiac University, respectively. The remaining 4 will not play intercollegiate soccer, but will no doubt shine for their intramural teams. Brian Carpenter will attend Villanova University; Tim Day is headed to American University, where he will major in their strong "Law and Society" program; Tyler Ross will be across town (Washington, D.C.) at George Washington University, while Steve Ogilvy will be not far away, at the University of Virginia. "We're very, very proud of our graduating seniors," said Staples head coach Dan Woog. "They served us superbly on the soccer field, and now they're moving on to the next phase of their lives. They're going to excellent schools, and we wish them all the luck in the world -- not that they need it."

19 WRECKERS HELP BUILD COMPO BEACH PLAYGROUND: The Staples soccer players volunteered their shoveling, wheelbarrowing and hammering skills on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, to help renovate one of Westport's favorite spots. Congratulations and thanks to the following boys for their work on this important project: Greg Bachman, Jake Blauvelt, Keaton Cristobal, Alex Gendell, Gennadiy Gurevich, Preston Hirten, Nicky Hoberman, Ben King, Matt Lamb, Jackson Lesser, Eric Meyer, Russell Oost-Lievense, Frankie Rende, Justin Rodriguez, Sean Soderstrom, Taylor Stuart, Matt Sych, Nic Weir and Mike Williams.

JUSTIN HARRISON '91 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of twins. Daughter Avery Appleton arrived 1st, just over 7 pounds; son Angus Haskell was born 50 minutes later, weighing slightly less than 7 pounds. Mother Lisa, brother Henry, sister Ellie and grandparents Marianne and Dave (former Staples soccer scorekeeper) are all doing fine.

ERIC STEFFEN '96 COMPLETES AFRICAN HALF-MARATHON: The former co-captain and freshman coach ran the Longton race in scenic Sabie, South Africa in a personal best time of 1:26. "It felt like running on top of the world," Eric -- a Peace Corps volunteer in South Africa -- reports. Amazingly, the course starts at 6,500 feet above sea level, then drops 3,000 feet to 3,500! The race was a fundraiser to help send an exceptional student from rural South Africa to Uplands High School, where he will receive an excellent education. To contribute to the fund before the May 15 deadline, contact Eric directly: ericsteffen@gmail.com.

WRECKERS ANNOUNCE PLANS TO 'TERRACE THE HILL!': Though Albie Loeffler Field offers one of the finest perspectives (and backdrops) for watching high school soccer in the country, for nearly 50 years fans have had to choose between standing at the crest, or sitting on the sharply sloping grass. Now a group of Staples soccer parents and friends have joined forces to design and construct comfortable seating, built right into the hillside, with an unobstructed view of the field and accessible from above.

Terraced seating will extend on both sides from the centerline, fitting exactly to the slope of the hill. Steps from the driveway atop the hill will provide easy access, and the area will be landscaped to keep the natural beauty of the bowl intact. Two different plans are under consideration. A polished concrete structure will cost $50,000, while an upgraded version, utilizing granite, is somewhat more expensive. This year's boys team, with help from the girls varsity, has already raised $8,500. "This is an outstanding project," said boys head coach Dan Woog. "It's exactly what we need to make one of the last remaining grass, soccer-only fields in the state even more attractive." Albie Loeffler -- the founder of the Staples soccer program, and the man for whom the field is named -- agrees. "This is a legacy to all the faithful fans who stood or sat on the hill for so many years. They have been an integral part of Staples soccer," he said from his home in North Carolina. "

Construction is planned for this summer, to be ready for the fall season -- but funds are needed by May 15. Contributors of $5,000 and above will be honored as "All-Stars," with permanent engraving on the installation. Of course, donations of any size are valuable, and deeply appreciated. They are tax-deductible, and may be sent to: "Terrace the Hill!", 53 Partrick Rd., Westport, CT 06880. Please indicate if your company will match your contribution.

Committee members include former boys coaches Albie Loeffler and Jeff Lea (honorary chairmen), Westport Soccer Association president Robby Casey, Staples athletic director Marty Lisevick, Melanie Nangle P'02,'06, WSA board member Paul Rossi, Mike Sharpe P '03, '07, Joseph Vallone girls P'07 and Dan Woog '71. The project engineer is Pete Romano.

STEVEN BROWN' 85 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of Christopher William: 8 pounds, 2 ounces and 20 inches long. It's the 1st child for Steven and his wife, Andrea Wilson, both of whom work at the Common Fund in Wilton. The family lives in Newtown.

DAN CUMMINGS '97 ANNOUNCES ENGAGEMENT: He popped the question on Christmas Day, and Hilary Grimes -- his college sweetheart -- said yes. The wedding is planned for June 2007 in Maine, where she is from. Dan's good friend Mike Dobbs '97 will be best man. Mike is enjoying Denver. He is general manager at Sushi Hai, a company he hopes to remain with for a long time.

CHRIS STRAUSSER '81 CHECKS IN FROM CALIFORNIA: The former co-captain and Brown University star lives in Lafayette, in a home he and his family have spent 2 years remodeling. Chris sold his education financing company last October; now he and 2 other members of the senior management team are consulting, while starting a new firm in the same field. His wife Lisa is very involved in their 3 children's many activities. Haley, 15, is a high school sophomore. She swims (butterfly) year round, participating in meets all over the West. She is about to get her driving permit, and is looking at colleges in the Northeast. Jeffrey, 13, is a 7th grader who also swims butterfly, skis on the Squaw ski team, and plays soccer and lacrosse. Gracie, 10, is a 4th grader. She too is a butterfly swimmer, but is particularly passionate about soccer. She plays on the U-11 traveling A team and is, Chris says, "a defensive-minded midfielder who likes to pass."

CHRIS O'DELL '95 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of Alexis on March 13. Mother, daughter, and freshman soccer coach are all doing well. Congratulations to the newest member of the Staples soccer family!

LARRY MCFADDIN '70 CHECKS IN FROM LAKE PLACID: The former St. Lawrence University star has retired after 23 years as head coach at North Country Community College, but he remains as director of the school's sports and events management program. Larry also continues to run the Lake Placid Soccer Centre. For more information on the soccer program, including camps, click here.

GENNADIY GUREVICH TAKES 2ND PLACE IN NATIONAL ENGINEERING CONTEST: The sophomore was 1 of the youngest members of Staples' 10-person team that earned a silver at the National Engineering Design Challenge in Washington, DC. This year's challenge was to design and build a technical solution that would empower a person with disabilities to enter and advance in the workplace. The Stapleites developed a system to enable a person with limited fine motor skills to access and retrieve files.

RICH DONOGHUE '96 ANNOUNCES ENGAGEMENT: The Clemson University graduate, a production coordinator with Southern Graphics Systems of Winston-Salem, NC, plans a September 23 wedding to Nicole Napoli, a senior account executive with Trone, a High Point, NC advertising firm.

NOAH DINKIN '02 MAKES HIS MUSIC MARK: In his last year of New York University's Stern School of Business, Noah has already implemented successful marketing campaigns for major label recording artists Avril Lavigne, Dream and Adema. His talent at creating and managing popular online music destinations has made him highly sought after by major labels. Right now he is working with United For Opportunity, a new-model independent record label and management company coincidentally run by Peter Casperson (Staples '64 -- though not a soccer player).

FORMER WRECKERS SUPPORT SCOTT COLEMAN FOUNDATION: Several dozen former Staples soccer players, friends and Westport Soccer Association members gathered recently at the home of Bill and Sue Mitchell P'89, '91, '97 to support the WSA scholarship program named for the WSA, Wrecker, private school and Colgate University player who, along with his brother Keith, was killed in the September 11, 2001 attack on the World Trade Center. The Scott Coleman Foundation will award grants to deserving players with WSA ties, and who exhibit Scott's special qualities. For more information or to donate, click here.

Former players and friends gathered recently to honor Scott Coleman. Top row (left to right): Dan Donovan '82, Todd Coleman '84. Third row: Jon Walker '88, Chris Mitchell '91. Second row: Guy Claveloux '83, Mike Brown '83, Andrew Udell '88, Doug Fincher '82. Front row: Dan Woog '71, Jon Scher '88, Jem Sollinger '88, Phil Levieff '88, George Llorens '88.

COLIN NANGLE '06 WINS VAL MORETTI SCHOLAR-ATHLETE AWARD: The two-year captain was one of 4 Connecticut seniors to win the Connecticut Soccer Coaches Asssociation scholarship, presented at the annual All-State banquet. The award honors "players whom [sic] combine athletic prowess with high academic achievement." Nangle, who will attend Middlebury College next fall, was one of 2 Wreckers named to the All-State team; Ross McGibney was the other.

PETER DOOLITTLE ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of Cole Jacob. He's 5 pounds, 11 ounces, and three weeks early -- "C-section, because he was ready," Papa Ox reports. "He spent last night getting the phone numbers of some of the ladies in ICU." Ox envisions Cole playing for FC Westport in 2036.

JUAN ESTEVA '97 ANNOUNCES HIS ENGAGEMENT to Meghan Carbone of Danbury. Juan graduated from the University of Connecticut in 2002, and the Sacred Heart University master's program in 2004. Both he and his fiancee teach at Bridgeport's Beardsley Elementary School. The wedding is planned for July 2007, in Danbury.

GREAT STAPLES VIDEO NOW ONLINE: A South Windsor parent hired a professional videographer to create a highlight video for his son. A clip of that state tournament match -- including a fantastic save by keeper Dave Sharpe, and the game-winning goal by Ross McGibney -- is now available from Bird's Eye Sports; click here.

JEM SOLLINGER '88 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of his and Debbie's 2nd daughter, Madeline Ruth (6 pounds, 7 ounces). Jem -- the director of Camp Laurel in Maine -- joins former teammates Josh Resnik and Ty Jagerson as recent fathers.

JOSH RESNIK '88 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of Max Adler Resnik. He weighed in at 7 pounds 7 ounces, but within 3 weeks tipped the scales at 9 pounds. Josh, Max and mom Zoe ran into Mike Murray '90 and his new son Sean at Max's 1st pediatrician appointment. Josh writes" "We are still really enjoying life in Minnesota, and recently moved into a new house -- actually not so new, since it was built in 1892. Max plans to check out a lot of games of Amos Magee's Minnesota Thunder (see below), and my rec league team, Bergkam's Trap. We ran into former Staples player Mike Murray '90 and his new son Sean at Max's 1st pediatrician appointment. Our Westport Warrior team will have a pretty solid junior squad in this 6-month stretch with kids for me, Ty (Jagerson '88, see below) and Peter Doolittle '88 (due in February)."

TY JAGERSON '88 ANNOUNCES THE BIRTH of Taj Bodie deLaet-Jagerson (8 pounds, 10 ounces). Taj joins sister Ayla, mom Elisa and Ty -- who continues to work as a principal at PARC (Palo Alto Research Center) -- in their funky Northern California family. Photos are online at www.jagerson.com. In related Ty news, Amos Magee -- his teammate, and Peter Doolittle '88's -- on the superb 1991 Wesleyan Unversity soccer team, has just been named head coach of the professional Minnesota Thunder.