Carey aims for conference title

Carey girls’ soccer coach Lola Intagliata was inspired by the U.S women’s soccer team’s World Cup title run this past summer and hopes their theme of “strong alone, champions together” translates to her squad this season.

“All of my girls this season are strong alone and our team goal is to become champions together,” said Intagliata, who is in her 15th year leading the program.

The Lady Seahawks bring plenty of experience onto to the pitch in 2015 with 14 seniors who are looking to earn the program’s first playoff appearance in eight years. Carey graduated just three starters from last year’s 10-2-1 team that just missed out on winning Nassau Conference IV and earning the league’s postseason spot.

“We have a very senior-loaded team,” Intagliata said. “We have expectations to be conference champions and make the playoffs.”

Leading Carey’s charge for a conference title are senior captains Allison Bustamante, Brett Robinson and Mackenzie Nyitray, a trio that Intagliata refers to as her “dynamic three.” The senior midfielders led captain practices in the off-season and are focused on ending their high school careers on a strong note.

“They are always encouraging their teammates,” said Intagliata of her captains. “They have a chance to really eave their footprint on the program.”

Carey’s defense also has experienced led by seniors Rebecca Vilchez and Liz DaSilva. The returning starters will look to limit shots toward freshman goalie Gabriella DiVito, who earned time in net as an eighth grader last year.

“She is as tough as nails,” said Intagliata of her freshman net-minder who posted 16 saves against Whealtey last season. “Nothing fazes her.”

Versatile senior Amanda Ulzheimer can play on defense or offense and Intagliata said she may start at one of the forward spots.

“I put her anywhere on the field and she produces,” said Intagliata of Ulzheimer. “She can play anywhere.”

Senior outside midfielders Shannon Giddens and Christina Acquafredda add speed to Carey’s offensive attack. Intagliata said Acquafredda has shown great command when stepping onto the turf.

“She is one of my most poised players,” Intagliata said. “She is a team leader on the field.”

Carey’s senior-laden team includes many players who have grown up together playing youth soccer in Franklin Square. Intagliata is hoping the closeness of her team on and off the field will translate to the scoreboard.

“They have great team chemistry,” Intagliata said. “It is one big sisterhood.”

Carey needs to win its conference to earn a playoff spot and will face stiff competition from league newcomers Division and Friends Academy. Carey hosts Division on Sept. 25 and Friends on Oct. 16 in games that could go a long way toward determining whether the Lady Seahawks see postseason play.

“ A couple conferences games will be the deciding factor of whether we make the playoffs,” Intagliata said. “I’m more confident this year than in years past.”