Boys soccer: Northwest all-area team
Jose Aguilar WheelingThis two-year starter began the season as a marking back but was moved into the middle as the Wildcats' sweeper when coach Kevin Lennon decided top player Jonathan Sanchez was more valuable in the middle for the MSL champs. "Jose brought speed, toughness and a great work ethic to our team, but it was his terrific ability to organizing us that helped anchor our back line," said Lennon. This intelligent defender read the game at a high level, and although not especially tall, the tri-captain still had a fabulous leap on him, allowing him to compete in the air with his opponents. An all-MSL, all-sectional and all-area first-timer.
Alex Alfaro Buffalo GroveThe electric pace paired with incredible control shown by this two-year starter brought plenty of praise from opposing coaches around the area, including his own coach, Brad Abel. "Alex is a special player - the type of player a coach will see only a couple of times throughout his or her career," Abel said. "What he does with the ball at his feet is highlight-reel type of stuff." Last year, Alfaro played a variety of roles for the MSL East champions, most often as a second striker or as an attacking midfielder. But it's his close control and unstoppable high-speed dribbling when attacking defenders which truly sets him apart for most. A first-time all-area choice, this senior also earned his second all-MSL and all-sectional honors this fall. Finished with 6 goals this season and 12 in his career.
Matt Biernat ConantBiernat is the prototypical rock at the back for the Cougars. A strong tackler, reader of the game and a very competent passer, the two-year starter was tasked with organizing Conant's back line, and he never let down coach Jason Franco in that role. "His composure along the back line has helped drive us through the postseason, where he's arguably been our best player," said Franco. The three-year starter sets himself apart from others with his awareness, pace and willingness to get physical in order to corral the opposition in the Cougars' final third. Also not shy in advanced areas of the field, Biernat's forceful runs provided an avenue in the attack, witnessed by quality service and an occasional goal, including an impressive half-dozen this season for the sectional champs.
Andrew Bird SchaumburgYou would be hard-pressed to find a player with a work rate as high as the Saxons' captain, who was the lone holdover from the 2015 MSL championship team on which he starred for coach Hamid Mehreioskouei. "Andrew is the complete player," Mehreioskouei said. "His willingness to push his teammates and competitive attitude have left a legacy here that everyone can be proud of." There were few who were as fearsome in the tackle and as successful in first- and second-ball challenges. The first-time all-MSL choice and all-sectional veteran played in nearly every minute of every match this season and was involved in 40 percent of the Saxons' goals.
Zach Carbonara BarringtonThis two-year starter pulled the strings in the Broncos' attack, and his penetrating runs, carries and passes caused no end of problems for defenses. The three-year veteran always made himself available as an option for his teammates. "Zach was a workhorse for us, playing the second-highest numbers of minutes on our squad while providing the type of leadership which has been so invaluable to this team and program," said his coach, Scott Steib. "He does so many little things really well, and while not obvious to some, his teammates and coaches all know just how valuable he has been." The two-time all-MSL and all-sectional midfielder was an unselfish two-footed dribbler who could always seen covering the gaps, sometimes deep in his own end. With 6 goals and 3 assists before Tuesday's supersectional, the Broncos co-captain had 8 and 11 for his career.
Christian Castro HerseyA classic engine-room guy for coach Darren Llewelyn, Castro took on a more prominent role this year, impressing both on and off the pitch. "Christian was our captain and field leader, and as he played, so did the team," Llewelyn said. "He was a hard-working young man in all areas of his life who carried himself with a high level of honor. He will be missed because of his leadership, plus skillful play on the field." The classy two-year starter was a brilliant creator whose deft passes, and penetrating runs caused no end of problems for the opposition, while making him a difficult man to mark. He set a program record 13 assists this fall and scored 6 goals. The Illinois-bound Castro earned all-MSL, all-sectional and all-academic honors as well.
Vicente Castro WheelingOn the biggest stage of the fall season, this junior was perhaps his team's brightest star during the Wildcats' victory over Barrington at the 40th MSL Soccer Cup. Castro impressed coaches from around the area who were on hand as this two-footed midfielder dazzled with his trickery, change of direction, composure and ability to make something from nothing for his teammates. "Vicente is so dynamic and skillful, a great organizer distributor, and organizer in our attack," said coach Kevin Lennon. Sure, there was flashy play - step-overs and fan-friendly crafty turns. But all of it was done with purpose: linking passes to the Cats' terrific trio up top, which combined for nearly 50 goals - a good portion of them coming on one of Castro's 13 assists.
Steve Custer HerseyThis forceful, aggressive two-year starter drew high marks for his alertness, tenacious personality and positional sense, all of which helped him earn first-time all-MSL and all-area honors. "Steve was a player with a giant heart, and one who was selfless, humble, unassuming and dedicated to the team," said coach Darren Llewelyn. "He responded to threats in our end with his great soccer IQ, which allowed him to predict or adapt his play, making his nearly impossible to beat. He'll be one of those players we'll find impossible to replace next year." Tackling and interception skills were quite impressive, as was his presence in set-piece opportunities. Will attend either Illinois State or Wisconsin, where he will major in history education.
Matt Dickey HerseyA switch from the midfield to up top this season proved to be a brilliant tactical move by coach Darren Llewelyn, as this two-year starter thrived under a new system which featured a new wide-open, appealing brand of football. "Matt wasn't particularly big in stature, but he, like (Steve) Custer, carries a giant heart. And he never backed down from a challenge or ball, regardless of how big and strong the opponent was. Even though he suffered from shin splits all season long, he never complained - and always, always played for his team first." A player with big energy in his legs, this first time all-MSL, all-sectional striker thrived in and around the box, using great anticipation skills to help him to shake off defenders and turn half-chances into goals for he and his teammates. Dickey finished with 12 goals this season.
Sebastian Fraczek PalatineA two-year starter, Fraczek began his career by splitting time in the midfield and along the back line for the Pirates. But this fall, coach Willie Filian use Fraczek's extraordinary talents as an attacking player. The result was a breakthrough year which featured 7 goals and a team-high 11 assists. "Sebastian is a very dangerous player going forward," Filian said. "He runs at back lines with speed and outstanding technical ability, is a exceptional two-footed player, and was our set-piece specialist, scoring some great goals because of it while swinging several fantastic corners as well." A bundle of energy, the junior covered plenty of ground and was quick enough to scamper around the base of the final third to create, shoot and score while managing to shiled his defense with well-timed tackles when called upon.
John Gadbois BarringtonIt's no coincidence the lifting of the MSL West trophy by the Broncos has been due in part to the rapid rise in play from this senior, who was a key figure in a defensive unit which conceded just 5 goals during league play this fall. "John has been the anchor of our back line all season, and he has grown by massive strides in terms of organizing our lines and defensive groupings, while becoming a terrific communicator and 1v1 defender," said coach Scott Steib. The Broncos' co-captain made his mark with level-headed and composed play, high percentage of interceptions, voracious tackling and a willingness to use his pace to move higher up the pitch to join the attack or whip quality crosses and serves from his position on the outside. As a result, Gadbois, a two-year starter, is a first-time all-MSL and all-area choice.
Javier Garcia PalatineSo, just how important was this Pirates senior to his club? "Of our seven losses this season," said coach Willie Filian, "five occured when Javier was out injured. When he was on the field, we were so much more organized and dangerous. He truly was a difference-maker. He was as complete a player as any we've had during my time here." Garcia's decision to return for his final year after playing with the Fire Academy last season was a boon to the Pirates and their fans, who watched this technically gifted playmaker show off his dexterity, creativity and skill. Garcia finished with 9 goals this season and had 5 assists on his way to his first all-MSL, all-sectional and all-area postseason honors.
Gio Guarnero BarringtonDeployed at the heart of the midfield with teammate Zach Carbonara, Guarnero showed great passing and possession skill. Together, they were quite a dynamic duo for the sectional champs. "Gio has been our best player in several matches this season, and just superb in the postseason as well," said coach Scott Steib. "His footwork and skill has been huge to our play, and he is easily one of the most technically gifted players in the area." The all-MSL junior possesses a wide passing range. His footwork and ball control are sublime, as is his vision. In addition to these forward-thinking skills, Guarnero also excelled at tracking back and covering the gaps, sometimes deep in the Broncos' end. Had 6 assists this season before Tuesday's supersectional.
Luis Gurrola Hoffman EstatesThis standout midfielder made his mark both in the classroom and on the pitch this season for coach Matt Sriver, whose glowing review of his captain showed just how much the senior meant to the program. "It was an honor to be able to coach Luis - not just this year, but all throughout all the years he won on the varsity," said Sriver. "Whatever he decides to do in the future, I know he will be highly successful in doing it." Able to take the ball in tight areas to keep the attack surging forward, or to hold off his markers of the situation called for it, this first time all-MSL, all-sectional veteran was skilled in the art of recycling play with quality decision-making and crafty play but remained a defensive contributor on the other end. Finished his career on a high note by scoring 8 goals over his last four matches.
Esteban Hernandez LeydenThis two-year starter earned his place on the all-area team along with the attention of several local colleges by displaying terrific technique, movement and a high soccer IQ. All of which allowed him to become a versatile, tactical striker for coach Mark Valintis. "Esteban is so deceptive in the attack because he can change direction on a dime, and was easily one of the quickest players to play for me, with and without the ball," Valintis said. "He really came into his own about midway through last season to become a dangerous finisher, in addition to a wonderful leader. He led the way with his work ethic and tremendous level of fitness, which always gave us an advantage in the last quarter-hour of play." Hernandez's 7 goals this season give this all-West Suburban Gold striker 17 in his career, along with 12 assists.
Damian Kosakowski Leyden
This three-starter and team tri-captain was the versatile center-back coach Mark Valintis needed after the graduation of two-time all-area back-line standout Cesar Franco. "Damian is the model for our program in terms of all the hard work he put in during off-season to get stronger, more fit and have increased technical ability," Valintis said. The senior played nearly every minute of every contest throughout his career, and he distinguised himself from normal defenders with his understanding and reading of the game, along with aerial supremacy and ball-winning success. This all-conference, all-sectional and all-area first-timer hopes to attend Marquette University where he will enroll in its advanced Physical Therapy program.
Angel Lopez LeydenA magnificent effort throughout his final year with coach Mark Valintis earned this two-year starter all-state honors from area coaches, who enjoyed watching one of the most technically sound players of the season. Says Leyden coach Mark Valintis: "Angel is what an attacking player should be: quick, strong, tremendous control, and the ability to actually be faster when dribbling the ball." The second of three Leyden captains on the all-area team appeared to have an almost telepathic understanding with his teammates as he created for them with deft through balls and decisive dribbling. Yet the two-time all-conference, all-sectional senior was talented and confident enough to accelerate to get past players to take a shot on frame as well. He finished this season with 6 goals and 9 assists, giving him career totals of 21 and 25.
Konrad Malinowski WheelingThis razor-sharp finisher provided one final piece to the Wildcats' attacking puzzle after transferring from Elmwood Park, where he'd bagged 30 goals the previous year for a supersectional finalist. "Konrad transfered just before our season began, and what a great addition he was to our team, and program," said coach Kevin Lennon. "He was very dangerous with the ball on his feet, and his speed, skill and finishing helped make our attack much more dynamic." A surplus of pace allowed Malinowski to keep up with his teammates on quick counter-attacks, while also making him available as a target for crosses into the box. Showing a penchant for the dramatic, this first-time all-area, all-MSL senior scored both goals in the Wildcats' 2-2 draw with Hersey. He also had one of the three goals Wheeling had on its way to winning the MSL Soccer Cup title, and had 3 goals against Fremd in the regional semifinals. The standout striker finished with 18 goals this fall.
Klaus Pallan BarringtonIn addition to have a reputation as the premier finisher in the area, Pallan's stature and strength helped him in other ways. He could win the ball with ease in the air and on the turf, possess it and deliver short passes to teammates. They were great about getting it back to him, while all led to plenty of scoring chances. Pallan delivered with razor-sharp finishes and an area-best 28 goals, which is second highest single-season total in program history behind only Paul Micelli (31) from 1986. "Klaus is a strong yet elusive player who can beat you in a variety of ways, but perhaps what really seperates him from other strikers is his composure in the front of the net," said Barrington coach Steib. "He has a relaxed way about him, which has carried over as a student and person." The classic 4-4-2 formation seemed to fit this junior well: He had 14 game-winners, and scored in 21 of the Broncos' matches. Pallan joins teammate Nash Pirie with a spot on the IHSSCA all-state team.
Nash Pirie BarringtonBarrington has had many talents on the roster recently, but Pirie is unique in that he's risen to such prominence as a defender over the past two seasons. With blistering pace, an impressive work rate, and the ability to defend like few others, this Broncos star captured one postseason honor after another, joining Wheeling's Jonathan Sanchez to co-captain the all-area team. Among the other achievements for Pirie are a second all-state award, and most recently, player of the year honors in the state of Illinois. "Nash is a very special player who has had a huge impact on our program the last two years," said coach Scott Steib. "It's not very often that a system of play is designed with the left outside back in mind, but that's what we've done with Nash and his incredible talent." With the recruiting process now in full swing, colleges who come calling will find out this outstanding student-athlete owns a GPA over 4.0 and has nearly 30 assists in his career (including 12 this season), plus 6 goals.
Jonathan Sanchez WheelingSanchez is one of the few players to be honored over the years after a season in which he never really had a set position. But in this case, the reason is because Sanchez really didn't have a weakness. "If I asked Jonathan to be our keeper, he would, because to him, it's all about what's good for the team, not himself," said coach Kevin Lennon. This three-year standout and 2016 MSL East player of the year earned all-state honors and was magnificent wherever he played, using his multi-faceted skill set to dominate while competing hard for 80 minutes. A two-time all-area choice, the Loyola-bound star can get forward, score goals, create and was Mr. Reliable on the defensive side of things as well. He finished with 8 goals, 6 assists this season, gives him 13 and 10 during his career.
Kevin Sindewald ConantCoach Jason Franco put his trust in this two-time all-area performer right from the beginning, pencilling him into the starting lineup four years ago. And the Cougars' captain went on to become one of the most important players in the program's history. "Kevin has been the engine that has made us go," said Franco. "He's an 8-minute, box-to-box player who is good on the ball, makes very good decisions. He's a tremendous ball-winner who commands the middle of the field, and he's the biggest reason for our success over the last two seasons." Twice chosen all-MSL and all-sectional, Sindewald was always in the mix at midfield, whether back as a defensive midfielder or when dictating the proceedings when going forward. He had 6 goals the last two seasons while helping on six others for the sectional champions.
David Soto WheelingIntelligent positioning and exceptional timing in the tackle were two of this junior's strengths, allowing him to step in and intercept balls rather than make last-gasp challenges. But coach Kevin Lennon knows what truly set this two-year starter apart from others. "David is an absolute shut-down defender, who we asked all season long to mark our opponent's most dangerous player, and to be honest, none of us can think of a single time his man has scored," said Lennon. Soto adopted a unique defensive style that relies heavily on tactic and technical ability, which allowed him to get forward to join the attack or provide quality service to the Wildcats' front-runners. A first-time all-MSL and all-sectional choice, this junior figures to be a key in the MSL champions' quest for another title next fall.
Adam Szymaszek HerseyIn the eyes of area coaches, Szymaszek set himself apart from all the other goalkeepers in the area - which explains his selection as an all-stater. "Adam is one of the best to grace the fields at Hersey, and to me, he was clearly the best in the state after watching him and others this past season," said coach Darren Llewelyn. "He's a humble, quiet young man, who had never had a complaint or bad thing to say about anyone. He was an awesome individual to be around." With his impressive frame, the senior knew how to stand in between the sticks, commanding his area like no other while showing off his lightning-quick reflexes to take sure goals out of the back of the net. He was at his best in the postseason against both Waukegan and Libertyville, causing both clubs to just shake their heads in disbelief. Szymaszek's rare combination of great range and reach allowed him to easily claim a corner or meet an attacker, using his body to hinder an opponent. His communication skill and distribution were first-rate, as were his stats: 0.79 goals against, to go along with 8.0 shutouts. Will attend Richmond International Academic and Soccer Academy in Leeds, England next fall.
All-area roster
Player School Yr. Pos.
Jose Aguilar Wheeling Sr. D-MF
Alex Alfaro Buffalo Grove Sr. F-MF
Matt Biernat Conant Sr. D
Andrew Bird Schaumburg Sr. MF
Zach Carbonara Barrington Sr. MF
Christian Castro Hersey Sr. MF
Vicente Castro Wheeling Jr. MF
Steve Custer Hersey Sr. D
Matt Dickey Hersey Sr. F
Sebastian Fraczek Palatine Jr. MF
Javier Garcia Palatine Sr. MF
John Gadbois Barrinton Sr. D
Gio Guarnero Barrington Sr. MF
Luis Gurrola Hoffman Estates Sr. MF
Esteban Hernandez Leyden Sr. MF-F
Damian Kosakowski Leyden Sr. D
Angel Lopez Leyden Sr. MF
Konrad Malinowski Wheeling Sr. F
Klaus Pallan Barrington Jr. F
Nash Pirie* Barrington Sr. D
Jonathan Sanchez* Wheeling Sr. D
Kevin Sindewald Conant Sr. MF
David Soto Wheeling Jr. D
Adam Szymaszek Hersey Sr. GK
* - co-captains
Special mentionKyle Borst (St. Viator, Sr., D-MF), Jesse Castro (Christian Liberty Academy, Jr., F), Marcus Christoforou (Elk Grove, Sr., D), James Estrella (Prospect, Sr., D), Javier Garcia (Palatine, Sr., MF), Dennis Gavrila (Wheeling, Sr., F), Luis Gurrola (Hoffman Estates, Sr., MF), Nelson Herrera (Maine West, So., F). Josh Kassar (Fremd, Sr., GK), Sota Ono (Conant, So., F), Jonathan Inez-Rodriguez (Palatine, Sr., MF), Jose Mariscal (Wheeling, Jr., F), Tyler Nieman (Buffalo Grove, Sr., D), Noe Padilla (Hoffman Estates, Sr., MF), Jack Rasumssen (Hersey, Sr., MF-D), Michael Rizzo (Conant, Sr., D), Alex Ruffolo (Barrington, Sr., GK), Dylan Ruzbasan (Palatine, Sr., GK).
Honorable mentionPedro Botello (Rolling Meadows, Sr., MF), Kevin Elioza (Buffalo Grove, So., MF-F), Nicholas Gattuso (St. Viator, Sr., MF), Danny Gritt (Hersey, Sr., F), Shintaro Hidaka (Fremd, Sr., D),Brant Ibarra (Maine West, Sr., MF), Isaiah Jamie (Christian Liberty Academy, Jr., MF), Michael Labarge (Fremd, Sr., MF), James Lefevre (Fremd, Sr., F-MF), Sean Lonigro (St. Viator, Sr., D), Jack Marchiori (St. Viator, Sr., F-MF), Manny Mazariegos (Buffalo Grove, Jr., MF), Nico Mho (Prospect, Sr., F), Cullen O'Doherty (Buffalo Grove, Sr., D), Noah Ozbag (Conant, Sr., F), Danny Pacheo (Palatine, Sr., MF), Michael Rizzo (Conant, Sr., D), Enrico Ruffolo (Barrington, Jr., MF), Kai Sebens (Barrington, Sr., DMF), Kevin Shane (Prospect, Jr., GK), Nico Scimeca (Conant, Sr., MF), George Soipan (Palatine, Sr., F), Joey Sopitkiotis (Hoffman Estates, Jr., D), Josh Tolford (Christian Liberty Academy, Sr., MF), Joey Weber (Elk Grove, Jr., MF), Grant Whitebloom (Prospect, Sr., D), Ben Woods (Christian Liberty Academy, Sr., D).
- selections and capsules by Mike Garofola