West Babylon aims for another level

Change. It’s what West Babylon girls’ soccer is working to do with its program.

After previously coaching at the JV level, Jennifer Ohman is in her first season as coach of the varsity Eagles. Following a 2023 season in which West Babylon finished 5-7-4 overall and 3-6-3 in league record, Ohman is looking for ways that she can improve the results and take them to an elite level.

“My original goal has been to foster a family dynamic,” Ohman said. “I want the players to love each other and play for each other and I believe that will increase chemistry which increases win totals.”
When implementing a bit of a culture change, Ohman has tried to rely on senior leadership. West Babylon’s captains are defenders Avery Vergano and Kayla Carseni along with midfielder Mia Walkowiak and forward Frances Hogan. “We have four awesome captains,” she said. “They are all well versed leaders who have helped me during this adjustment period get acclimated with what they are used to.”

Newcomers Izzy Sjoholm and Melanie Jastrzebski have taken big strides already this season. “Izzy has stepped into a leadership role on defense,” said Ohman. “It’s been great seeing a sophomore like her take charge.” Jastrzebski is a player who has developed in a positive way. “She used to be very reserved,” Ohman said. “But this year, she has shed her old skin and guided the team while making a big impact on the field.”

Another young player making a difference is center-midfielder Jenna Kozody. The sophomore seems like a seasoned vet already, according to Ohman. “She has stepped right in and led by example,” Ohman said.

West Babylon also has two talented goalkeepers with the ability to keep the Eagles in any game, starting with junior Talia Acevedo, who Ohman said brings a lot of grit. The program also added freshman Charlotte Hoisik. “She’s truly fearless and daring,” said Ohman. “You know she wants to win because she will do anything to make a save.”

The schedule for West Babylon is challenging. The Eagles took an 0-2-1 league mark into this week’s action.

“I keep telling them to be proud to wear West Babylon on the front of your jersey,” she said. “If they leave every game with their heart on the field and feel like they gave it 110 percent, there is no reason that they should not be confident.”

Even though this is Ohman’s first year as varsity coach, she has tons of previous coaching experience at multiple levels.

The Eagles conclude a three-match week by hosting Smithtown West this Saturday at 10 a.m.