MSGVarsity Interview with boys' varsity soccer player Rob Carreira

Here's my newest article, an interview I did with the Somers Tuskers' Goalie Rob Carreira. It was featured on MSGVarsity.com. Click the link here to see it on the site.


JOSH HANDSZER'S STUDENT ATHLETE INTERVIEW WITH ROB CARREIRA

SOMERS -- Everything that could go right has gone right for the Somers Tuskers Boys Varsity Soccer team this season. A new coach, a sparkling offense, blockade defense, and a bright future have ensured the success of the team, not only for the present, but for perhaps years to come. Under first-year rookie coach Joe Palumbo, the Tuskers have fought hard and compiled a 12-3 record, good for the second seed in the upcoming Section One Playoffs. Palumbo, along with his coaching staff which includes Somers High School earth science teacher Mr. Dave Burke and assistant coach James Palumbo, have worked long and hard with the boys during practices, ensuring great success. “As a new coach, he has been tremendously successful in coming in and supporting the team as a whole,” were the regards given to Palumbo from senior goalie Rob Carreira. “Joe Palumbo is one of the biggest names in soccer around the region and I had the honor to play club soccer for him, and I am honored again to play for him now.”

However, not only the coaches have a positive influence on the men on the field. Seniors Carreira, Anders and Kasper Rassmussen, Dan Moore, Dylan Howie and Justin Kuntz have also had their influence on the game. Behind leading goal scorer Anders Rassmussen, the boys have improved since their 12-8 2009 season. I was able to chat with Rob Carreira, the Tuskers’ goalie and Captain of the last two years who has played his entire high school soccer career for the Tuskers and is responsible for the 2010 team’s success with 9 shutouts in 15 games. One of the more enthusiastic and outgoing players on and off the field, Rob has proven to the be the heart and soul of Somers soccer, as well as Somers “School Spirit,” reading the morning announcements every day with a sense of excitement and a swagger that is unmatchable, making the students feel like the day will be a good day. As expected, his interview went exactly the same way.

Josh Handszer: “Standing at 12-3, compared to last season after finishing last season 12-8, what do you feel has been the difference between the 2009 Somers Soccer Tuskers and the 2010 Somers Soccer Tuskers?”

Rob Carreira: “Last year it took us a very long time to progress as a team and find a really powerful team chemistry. It wasn’t until the playoffs that we were able to settle into a groove and make it all the way to the section finals. Yet this year, we feel very confident as a team, even before playoffs, and we have really become comfortable as a team, allowing us to play the best soccer possible. We know that we have a huge chance of going to the section finals again and possibly going on to states. The biggest difference has been a stronger defense throughout the whole season. Though it is true that our offense has been very successful as well, the defense is the key for success of any team whether it is at the high school level or at the professional level.”

JH: “How confident do you feel with your team making a march into the playoffs, especially coming off a fantastic season in which Anders was your leading goal scorer and you had 9 shutouts in 15 games? Your team was obviously a force to be reckoned with. What are your goals for the playoffs and what are your expectations?”

RC: “I am very confident that our team will once again make it to the section finals and have a great chance of advancing to states. Although we were seeded 14th last year, we were able to beat teams in the playoffs that were all seeded and ranked higher than us. Now we are one of the higher seeds entering the playoffs, and we know there is a lot of pressure to succeed, y et I feel confident that the team will be very successful and win the Section 1 title.”

JH: “You sound a little cocky there, Rob. You’re that confident? (laughs)”

RC: “Of course. We play great soccer and have great team chemistry. I think that’s the combination with the ingredients to a championship.”

JH: “Speaking of team chemistry, Is there a strong presense of chemistry among the team? Is there a certain ritual you all do together before a game? Any superstitions? How do you think your team bonds together and who are your leaders?”

RC: “The team chemistry is fantastic. I think that’s due to the fact that we are really tight friends on and off the field. When you play the game you love with our friends it only makes it more rewarding to win and be successful because you know you are sharing the victory with friends. Before every game I pray to the Lord because I am a pretty religious person and I feel that most of our success comes in part from his blessings. The leaders of the team are obviously the best players, including Anders, Dylan, Dan, Justin and myself. We are able to inspire the team and make sure we stay in line, respect the opponents, play the best soccer possible.”

JH: “You mentioned your senior teammates, how/do you think being a senior has impacted your performance this season, as well as the performance of the team, which is of mixed grade levels? If not, what do you think has made this team so confident and loose?”

RC: “Well of course. Knowing that this is my final year playing for the high school, the only team I’ve really known over the past few years, has really inspired me to have an amazing season and play harder than before. I think all of us, Anders, Dan, Kasper, Justin, Dylan and I feel the same way. Being a senior has also allowed me to feel like a true leader of the team and I feel like a lot of the players look up to those who have the most experience. Yet a lot of younger players are also showing a lot of talent such as Spencer Irwin, Zack Reda, and Dan Ishoo. I know that the team next year will be successful as long as players like those continue to lead the team.”

JH: “Do you feel as though you have a grown as a soccer player throughout your four years of high school soccer? How/why? Do you have any influences on your growth as a player?”

RC: “Oh definitely. My growth, I have to give credit to my teammates constantly helping me to become a better athlete and overall a better person. We all have a very positive influence on each other and we allow one another to thrive, not only on the soccer field, but also in everyday life as well. It is these close bonds of friendships that truly help all players to mature and become better.”

JH: “So besides your teammates, what/who do you feel has made a positive difference for this year's team and how/why?”

RC: “One of the biggest positive influences that occurred this year was the new coaching staff that came to Somers. While the old coach was very skilled and very successful and a close friend of mine, I felt that the newer coaches have a style of coaching that helps the team play the best soccer possible. They are much more patient and understanding, which I feel helps the players feel more comfortable and thus more likely to play beautiful soccer.”

JH: “Speaking of your coach, you’ve given him very high regards, explain the influence of your coach on this year’s team.”

RC: “Coach Palumbo is a terrific coach and he believes in all the players on the team no matter what the circumstances. He is not only a coach, but he has taken on a father figure role for many of the players and I know that we can trust him on and off the field whenever we need him.”

JH: “That really speaks volumes Rob. You guys have an unsurmountable amount of respect towards your coach and that just shows the great influence he has had on you. I think that speaks out about you too. You’ve got tons of school spirit, you do the announcements everyday without a dull sense of feeling, and you make it fun. Do you think that people feel that way?”

RC: “(laughs) I just try to be me.”

JH: “Do you plan to continue your soccer career beyond high school?”

RC: “I hope to play for college, whether it be for a division 3 or division 1 school, I’m still not sure. Yet even if I can’t play for college, I know that I will continue to play for my club team until I can’t walk anymore. I really love the sport of soccer. Of course, even after college there is no replacement for a nice pick-up game with friends after school.”

With a player with as much heart, swagger, and excitement as Rob, it’s hard to not pull for a team full of these guys to win a state championship. With such great team chemistry, an influential coach, and a championship in their eyes, the Tuskers can only hope that their hard work and determination that they’ve relied on all season, will lead them to the glory land.

HighSchool Varsity Playoffs Round 1: Somers vs Nyack

The Postseason. Where heroes are made and legends are born. Where only the greatest plays are remembered, and the champions are never forgotten. Sadly, last year, Somers were the losers.

Last year Somers made the playoffs, having a great season led by senior Jo-Jo Marasco. The team stepped up in a big way and won sectionals. Feeling confident, they were ready and armed for the regionals game. However, it didn't end the way they expected it. They lost.

Since then, Marasco's departed for Syracuse University. Now, Somers is led by a new squad with a great nucleus of talent. Somers finished this season with a 10-6 record. Now they're back, hungry for the regional title. Will this year's team step it up? Only time will tell, as we begin the playoffs tomorrow at the Tusker Turf at 1:00 PM. Be there!

May 22, 2010
1:00 PM start
Tusker Turf
Somers vs. Nyack

Somers wins 4-2

Hey everyone, just got back from a gorgeous day at Renegade Stadium, where the Somers Tuskers beat the Carmel Rams 4-2. Today was amazing. We got a tour of the stadium, sat in the booth, walked on the field, and we were able to get a camera shot from center field. What an awesome day. It was a little more hot than we would like (we were sweating like crazy in suits) but we took it as it was.

Chase Levi pitched an amazing ballgame. He went the complete game, giving up 2 runs and got 7 strikeouts. As well, he helped out with the bat, hitting two big triples today. He improves his record to 6-1.

I was able to see pictures and plaques of marquee big leaguers who once played for the Renegades, who are the Tampa Bay Rays single-A team. We saw pictures of Evan Longoria, James Shields, Carl Crawford, Wade Davis and many more! Today was an amazing day at the ballpark.

I'd like to thank Mike, Peter, and Brian for an awesome job with the mic and with handling the camera. Without them, this broadcast never would have happened. I'd also like to thank coaches Joe Wooten and Brian Mueller, who allowed us to ride the bus with the team, where we had a great time and many laughs. And thank you to Rick (I'm sorry I'm forgetting your last name!) for giving us a tour of the stadium, answering questions, and helping us out. What a day.

Can't wait to do it again.

Somers vs Carmel tomorrow at Hudson Valley Renegades Stadium!

I'm so excited! Finally, after waiting all week, tomorrow my commentator buddy, Mike Rossillo, and I will be doing the play by play for tomorrow's Somers vs Carmel baseball game for MSGVarsity. But it's no ordinary game: It's being played at the stadium of the Hudson Valley Renegades!

This is big news. The Renegades are the Rays single-A team, meaning Somers will be playing in a minor league stadium! I'm especially excited to go on the field. But perhaps what I'm most excited about is doing the broadcasting...from the commentator's booth! Woo! So excited to see what it's like to be a professional commentator like a Michael Kay or a Vin Scully. This is my dream job and I'm finally getting the chance to live it! The game is at 4:30 PM tomorrow at Renegades stadium and if you're free, I highly encourage you to come and watch the game or stop by and say hi to us in the booth! I'm so excited! Hopefully I'll see you there!

- Josh

In other news:
Yankees lost to the Rays 10-6 (however, A-Rod hit his 589th career homerun)
Mets lost to the Nationals 5-3
Lakers won 124-112 to beat the Suns (lead series 2-0)
Magic vs Celtics (off)
No Hockey games tonight

Q & A with Somers High School RHP Jarred Bronley

Yesterday after the Somers High School baseball game vs Fox Lane, I had the privilege to interview pitcher and good friend Jarred Bronley. Today, I contacted Jarred and was able to interview him once again to get his thoughts on the season. Here is our interview:

The New York Sports Spot: Ready to get started Jarred?

Jarred Bronley: Haha oh yeah, sure.

TNYSS: First off Jarred, we know your a pitcher. Give us an insight into your repetoire and which pitch you believe to be your most effective pitch.

JB: I have a 4-seam fastball, 2-seam fastball, curve ball, and a circle-change. My fastball is my most effective pitch because it sets up the rest of my pitches.

TNYSS: You probably know where we get this question from: Jarred Bronley, starter or reliever?

JB: Wherever I am needed to win, if they need me to start, I will start and if they need me to come out of the bullpen, I will be ready for that as well. I will do anything to help get the W.

TNYSS: Obviously after this season, Chase Levi, the ace of your pitching staff, along with the rest of the seniors are leaving. How do you feel knowing you will most likely be the ace of that staff next season? Do you think you have what it takes to command the rotation next year and be the go-to guy in a big game?

JB: First off, Chase is a horse. He goes out every start and is effective. I understand that next year, my role will be the ace. Next year, in a big game, I will be doing all I can to help the team to win ballgames.

TNYSS: You know, most scouts say that shorter players have shorter lives in baseball or don't make it at all. However, there are guys like Dustin Pedroia and Tim Lincecum tearing it up in the majors. How do you, not be a big guy, react when you hear things like that?

JB: I have to ignore them because I believe height has nothing to do with how a ballplayer performs. For a pitcher, all that matters is mechanics and control. If you have good mechanics you can possibly throw hard and have less of a chance of getting injured and if you have good control of the strike zone, you can get outs without velocity. For me, my velocity comes from my legs, I have a long stride, causing me to throw harder then most pitchers my size (not including the Freak.

TNYSS: Is there a pitcher, either current or retired that you idolize?

JB: Greg Maddux and Roy Halladay, they both have a variety of pitches and can throw to both sides of the strikezone. I have a article from years back. Maddux was interviewed in it and gave his 4 commandments of pitching: 1) make balls look like strikes 2) make strikes look like balls 3) when you start losing command of the strikezone, throw slower not harder and 4) have fun.

TNYSS: How does 4 straight section titles sound?

JB: Sounds great. As Coach Wooten always told us, if we execute, we can win.

Thanks to Jarred for the interview.

A Day well spent...

You truly couldn't ask for a better day.
The weather was wonderful, the grass was greener, and the smell of summer creeps closer and closer. That being said, today was a great day. First off, my New York Yankees trampled the Minnesota Twins 7-1 and second I was able to do what I love today: broadcasting.
Today was Senior Day at Somers High School for all school sports, a part of Somersfest, an annual day in which all the school teams have an event on the same day and celebrate their seniors. Today, I had the honor of working in the booth with Somers High's very own Mike Rossilo and MSGVarsity's Frank Licassio to call the Somers Tuskers Vs Fox Lane Varisty Baseball game. We had a great time watching the game and doing color commentary as the game progressed. Mike called balls and strikes while I added in analysis, statistics and more. It was a beautiful day for baseball, an even better day for Senior Day. Jake Levine, a senior, smacked two homeruns to put his team ahead twice after a shaky outing by starting pitcher Chase Levi. Reliever Jarred Bronley shut down the opposition after Levi departed, setting the table for Somers to come from behind and win 9-5. It was well played game for both teams.

Then I got to interview my good friend Jarred Bronley. I asked Jarred about his mindset when he enters a game: "Throw strikes and that's it. You don't want to think much, just throw strikes, get outs and move on. You want a quick inning and want to avoid runs." I proceeded to ask him how he felt having to come in trailing 5-4 in the 6th inning and how much pressure he felt having to keep his team within one run: "No pressure. Like I said before, you throw strikes, get the ball over the plate and try to avenge your teammates. I don't feel any pressure when I come into a game because I know my teammates have my back." On Jake Levine: "Wow, he had a great game for us. Two homeruns is crazy." On this upcoming Thursday's matchup vs Carmel at Renegades Stadium: "Stoked. Beyond belief."

Truly a great day, and not just because I commented the game, but because I commented my friends. Stay tuned.