Chemistry a key for Copiague

Copiague’s boys’ soccer team is enjoying an exciting start to the year.

Jim Konen has been coaching soccer for over 30 years, serving as both a head coach and assistant coach. Back as the head coach, he led the Eagles to an upset win, a 2-1 double overtime victory over county finalist Huntington on Sept. 17.

Konen has made it known to his players that a key to their success going forward is the chemistry they build. After losing 13 seniors from the 2023 team that finished 8-8 with a league record of 4-4, it was not something that would happen overnight.

“We got off to a slow start and weren’t jelling in the beginning,” Konen said. “But I can tell the chemistry has gotten better and better every day. They have started to become a family and you know how important that is.”

Copiague (3-4 overall entering this week) returned five starters: Midfielder Anthony Ramirez, defender Odane Purcell, defender Rene Canales, midfielder Christian Cabrera, and forward Kevin Cruz, who Konen said is the fastest player on the team. All five have been with the program for at least three, if not four years so they bring tons of experience to the table.

“Ramirez and Cabrera are so versatile,” Konen said. “They really can play anywhere on the field and have been so valuable to our team.”

Purcell is one of the top defenders, according to Konen. “He does such a good job of locking guys down in the back,” he said.

Even Rene Canales, who is known for his defense, found the back of the net in Copiague’s 3-2 season-opening non-league loss to Central Islip.

Some who did not have much playing time in previous years have stepped up to make an impact. “Brian Cruz has been doing great,” Konen said. “It has been awesome to see him get off to such a nice start.”

Another newcomers is Brayan Vierra. He’s a senior but never had time to play in previous years. “He has made such a huge difference for us,” Konen said. “We’re glad he decided to join the team for his senior season.”

The Eagles have used a pair of goalkeepers and both are capable of getting the job done. Junior Kendel Serranno and sophomore Isaac Garcia have both made the jump from the JV level. “Both guys have seen the field,” said Konen. “I’ve been going with whoever has the hot hand because both guys are just so talented.”

Producing more offensively is one thing that Konen hopes to see in the future. “We have to score more goals,” he said. “The opportunities are there, I just want to see more guys finish those chances.”

The schedule put in front of the Eagles is not an easy one but it allows Konen to see the competitive nature in his players. “We go into every game knowing that we have to play our best,” he said. “There’s never a game where we can be relaxed and that builds character.”