Rams relying on work ethic

Coming off a 4-11 season, West Hempstead will need a few returnees and a good amount of newcomers to become a cohesive unit if it is going to compete with the likes of Lynbrook, Great Neck North, Floral Park, Manhasset, and other foes on the boys’ soccer pitch in Nassau Conference VI.

Head coach Chris Van Kovics may not have the conference’s top performers, but he likes his team’s work ethic. “We have a lot of guys who are either brand new or playing a completely new role,” Van Kovics said. “The guys are working very hard and doing everything they’re asked to do. As a coach, that’s what you want to see.”

One area where the Rams will have little experience is in the net. Juniors Luis Palomo and Alex J. Martinez are both raw and untested. Both saw time in goal on the junior varsity, but will be thrown to the fire at the varsity level. They’re seeing a ton of shots in practice each day, and both are progressing.

Van Kovics must replace nearly everyone from the backline. Senior Nick Branker, who can play both sweeper and stopper, is a smart player who will be counted on to lead a relatively inexperienced defensive unit. 

Hard-nosed Armond St. Juste adds the type of toughness that Van Kovics is looking for from his defense. “Armond is an aggressive player who uses his head,” Van Kovics said. “He’s very good at getting the ball up the field, but he doesn’t push it if it’s not there. He makes good decisions.”

Junior Marco Flores has size, speed, and a good feel for the game. Flores will often mark the opponent’s top forward. Junior Alex E. Martinez is a versatile player who can play both defense and midfielder. 

Senior Rolando Martinez is a playmaking middie who handles the ball well and moves the ball up field. Juniors Cadeem and Kareem Harris are experienced, unselfish players who can play middie or forward. Both are athletic, quick, and have good field sense.