Northwest/ Boys soccer all-area team
By Mike Garofola
Daily Herald Correspondent
Billy Belmonte Conant
Gritty, hardworking athletic defender who was usually stationed on the outside until coach Jason Franco moved him into the middle due to injuries. He excelled in his tackling and his uncanny recovery speed made him a real gem in and around the area. All-sectional senior had 5 assists. “Billy has an unbelievable motor, which allowed him to play nearly every minute of every match, and the way he wore the captain’s armband, and conducted himself on and off the field will be sorely missed,” Franco said of the three-year starter.
Matt Bloom Buffalo Grove
A terrific outside back who could exploit the opponent with his sprinter-like pace at a moment’s notice. “Matt anchored the back for us, dominating in the air and with his speed and athleticism. His spirited and skilled play were essential in the success we enjoyed this season,” said coach Rick Carlson of the two-year starter who also plays volleyball. A solid, composed left-sided defender who crosses the ball well, can play the body when needed and reads the game and situation with ease and confidence for the sectional semifinalist.
Fernando Camacho Leyden
It’s tough to imagine a better all-around defender than this gifted two-year starter whose breakthrough season firmly established him as one of the best at his trade. “Fernando has evolved into one of the premier defenders in the area and the state,” said coach Mark Valintis. “I am so confident we can win any game with him back there, he’s an absolute luxury to have as he cleans everything (up), gets involved in our counterattacks and set pieces, and above all, is an exceptional captain by the example he sets during training, and on match day.”
Jon Clark Palatine
Four-year starter joins St. Viator star Adam Fetter as the only other all-area returnee from 2010 and its easy to see why of this ultimate team player. “Jon is our playmaker, team leader and top scorer, and our success is directly related to his play,” said coach Willie Filian. “And at the rare time that he would struggle in the course of his career, we in turn would do so also,” Easily the most dangerous of all Pirates during the past two seasons, the Wheaton College-bound Clark finished with career totals of 22 goals and 28 assists.
Luke Comerouski Christian Liberty
Prolific striker burst onto the scene in his lone season of high school soccer to help the Chargers win their first conference and regional championshipsn. “Luke made everyone around him better, and he helped the confidence of the younger players who saw what it takes to play at this level, while helping build their confidence,” said coach Jed Bennett. “He obviously is a great talent, but an even better young man.” Comerouski scored in 20 straight matches and finished with 49 goals and 12 assists.
Bill Cooney Prospect
On a team brimming with attacking talent, this two-year starter stood above all others after he was selected as an all-state player and co-captain of the 2011 all-area team with teammate Brad Reibel. “His breakout year wasn’t a surprise to any of us,” said coach Kurt Trenkle. “He already was a superb technical player, but he’s become such an explosive player on the ball, and more direct and selfish in our opponent’s third, which all great finishers have to be.” Has 22 goals this season and 27 goals and 19 assists for his career.
Krystian Drozdz Leyden
Breakout season for this two-year starter, who played in the shadow of former all-state scoring star David Wisniewski last year but established himself to be one of the deadliest finishers in the area. “Krystian is an example of what hard work in the offseason can turn into during the regular season, as he set high goals for himself, then met them, because of his work ethic, attitude and self-motivation,” said coach Mark Valintis. Had a stunning 9-goal haul during one week in September and has 17 this year and 24 for his career.
Irving Eloiza Buffalo Grove
This all-sectional transfer from Wheeling is the creative force behind the Bison attack and one of the most eye-catching, and explosive attacking midfielders around who can dictate the rhythm of the game. “Irving played a key role in our scoring opportunities all season long, and was a key figure in the midfield, and with our success in the playoffs, where his athleticism helped him dominate the run of play,” said coach Rick Carlson. Junior had team-high 7 assists and 10 goals and narrowly missed all-state honors.
Joey Faleni Schaumburg
In times of need, coach Hamid Mehreioskouei would lean on the Saxons’ captain and midfielder to get his mates organized, and composed, and to put his mark on the match. “Joey is such a great influence on the players and the game, and quite frankly, without him, we do not win the division title and enjoy the success we’ve had thus far,” he said. Others noticed as he was chosen all-state and named Mid-Suburban West player of the year. Has 13 goals and 9 assists for the sectional finalist to give him 22 and 12 for his career.
Adam Fetter St. Viator
Joined St. Viator after transfer from Wheaton St. Francis following his sophomore season and instantly became one of the best as he earned the first of his two all-area honors, while prompting coach Mike Taylor to say he wished his two-time all-ESCC and all-sectional captain had been around for his entire prep career. “The work rate and leadership in which Adam brings to training, and into the match is typical of what we’ve seen from some of the great players who have been a part of our program over the years,” Taylor said. Had 7 goals and 4 assists.
Markus Fiordaliso Buffalo Grove
Three-year starter and all-sectional pick displayed discipline, skill and leadership which were first-rate among his peers and made him an easy choice to wear BG’s captain’s armband. “Markus is a terrific student-athlete, who has been superb in the classroom,” said coach Rick Carlson, “and on the field, symbolizes what a great leader is all about because he’s calm, composed, and plays with a cool head on his shoulders 100 percent of the time.” A monster in the air and physically intimidating, the midfielder is versatile enough to operate up top.
Josh Galvin Rolling Meadows
Versatile, first time all-sectional pick and senior was able to operate in whatever role coach Peter Mikulak needed his captain to fill and did so with the professional approach rarely seen as this level. “Josh is a special player, and person, who could play any position for us, including GK, where he was our third-string guy if needed,” Mikulak said. “When on defense, he gave us shape, and took away scoring chances from our opponents, and when playing up top, he could take on anyone.” Had 6 goals and 5 assists this year and 14 and 9 career.
Xaiver Gomez Maine West
This playmaking virtuoso made a huge impact after coming over from the Sockers Academy program. “X is a silky smooth player with amazing ball skills and vision, but what separates him from others is his ability to defend, work hard, be humble, and a very coachable, enjoyable person and player to be around, and in my (eight) years (here) we’ve had five D-1 players come through, and I would easily put X on that same level, if not higher,” said coach Mike Divincenzo. Midfielder had 8 goals and 10 assists.
Nelson Herrera Maine West
One of the true top-flight finishers in the area, this sensational sophomore finished his first-full season on the big club with 24 goals and 5 assists to give the all-sectional striker 31 and 10 in just a little over a season-and-a-half. “Nelson has already established himself into one of the biggest scoring threats in the CSL, as well as the area,” said coach Mike Divincenzo of the school record-breaking scorer. “He is a talented young player who can literally take over a game with just his natural ability alone, not to mention all of the weapons he brings.”
Brian Hindle Fremd
Along with teammate Eric Leonard, this three-year starter and DePaul-bound captain gave Fremd one of the hardest-working, high-energy midfield duos around. “Brian is a tremendous leader who has the will-to-win attitude every team needs, and will do whatever is needed to put us in position to succeed,” said coach Steve Keller. “He’s an 80-minute, gifted player, who possesses the technique and understanding of the game to be able to take over for long stretches.” All-sectional pick has 17 assists and 4 goals for sectional finalist.
Yusuke Kanada Fremd
This dynamic first-time all-sectional striker has several levels of speed, on and off the ball, and with his ability to switch gears became one of the most feared front-line players in the MSL. “Yusuke can take on players from anywhere on the field, and is a constant threat to score with his ability to unbalance an opponent with his speed, possession skill and tactical knowledge to create for himself and others,” said coach Steve Keller of the senior, who scored 8 goals going into the sectional semifinals.
John Krok Hersey
In Hersey’s first-11 as a freshman, this first-time all-sectional pick began his career as a defensive midfielder and eventually moved up top to become an accomplished top-flight striker (9 goals, 5 assists), while proving to have a good touch on the ball for a big man, and fierce tackler and 50-50 winner. “John was the foundation of almost every attack ... but we’re going to miss him even more because of his work ethic, and well-rounded personality, which socially, academically and athletically, is second to none,” said coach Darren Llewellyn.
Richard Lenke Prospect
One of two holdovers from 2009 MSL East champions, this two-time all-sectional striker is the perfect partner alongside the all-stater Bill Cooney to give the MSL champs the best 1-2 punch up top. “Richard’s first three steps are faster and quicker than any player that I’ve ever seen, and when he’s even with a defender, it’s all over for that player,” said coach Kurt Trenkle. This veteran is a live wire on the ball, a fierce and gutsy tackler and has a penchant for heroics in big matches. Scored 8 of his 28 career goals this season and had 7 assists.
Eric Leonard Fremd
Talk to any opposing coach and most will say Leonard is one of the best sophomores they’ve seen this fall. If his second-to-none work rate and energy are not convincing enough, then it clearly is the way he conducts himself and his passion and respect for the game. “Eric is not only a standout player, but more importantly, he’s a first-rate young man as well,” said coach Steve Keller. “He’s the glue to our team, and his relentless hustle, skill and tactical genius set him apart from others.” All-sectional pick had 8 goals and 3 assists.
Christian Micahlowski Schaumburg
Another player who came over from club soccer to excel on the prep level, and with teammates, Nick Abel and Peter Piers, formed one of the area’s best three-back defensive units to help lead the Saxons to their first trip to the MSL Cup since 1996. “Christian was the missing piece to our back line, and what he brought with him was his excellent tactical knowledge, along with an uncanny ability to know when to go in on a 1-on-1 tackle, or when to back off, and its something which is so rare to see in a young player,” said coach Hamid Mehreioskouei. Sergio Nunez Wheeling
Dynamic, entertaining striker, who is skillful, energetic and a potent scorer. “Sergio is relentless,” said coach Ed Uhrik. “He uses his speed, quickness, strength and balance like nobody I’ve seen, and he has an uncanny ability to maintain possession, despite getting tripped, shoved and held — he is just a joy to watch.” All-sectional pick scored 27 percent of the Wildcats’ goals (10) this fall to go with 6 assists. A free kick expert with one of the hardest, heaviest shots around, his fitness and desire usually meant an 80-minute performance.
Juan Recendez Leyden
Skillful, effervescent and potent in front of the net, this Eagle took off when his coach brought him off the back line to pair him with Krystian Drozdz and they grew in stature with every match. “Juan is a pure soccer player, with great skill and knowledge of the game,” said coach Mark Valintis. “He plays along the back for the Fire Academy, but he could really play anywhere, because he is without a doubt the most complete player I’ve ever coached, and a real top tier talent.” All-sectional pick has 12 goals and 10 assists.
Brad Reibel Prospect
There’s an old soccer adage that all great keepers will make 2 goal-saving stops a game, and while the Knights captain may make fewer saves than most because of a stingy defense in front of him, there’s no mistaking the shot-stopping expertise of the all-area co-captain. Reibel had 10 shutouts and was selected as the all-state keeper and MSL East player of the year. “Brad is so dominating in the box, while providing tremendous leadership and organization for what was a very young, and inexperienced back line,” said coach Kurt Trenkle.
Patryk Ruta Prospect
Big, powerful four-year starter and two-time all-area midfielder has earned the respect of his coach who appreciates the value of what his captain supplies. “His work rate, desire, and ability to be everywhere, and anywhere we need him, whether we’re going forward, or back in our own third defending is really been amazing to watch,” said coach Kurt Trenkle. Ruta does all of the hidden dirty work which enables others to shine but also has 11 goals and 6 assists this year and 33 and 16 for his career.
Jake Savino Schaumburg
Schaumburg’s top goal-scorer was the club’s go-to guy, according to coach Hamid Mehreioskouei, himself a premier scoring talent with the program. “Jake was always a marked man as our lone target, but his ability to turn, and take defenders on, split a defense wide open with a run or great pass, and to use the sheer natural talent and attacking skills he owns has really been a joy to watch,” Mehreioskouei said. His pace and deadly eye for goal was an electric combination as the all-sectional pick has 16 goals and 12 assists and 25 and 21 career.
Reid Strain Barrington
Big, hard-running striker was sturdy enough to withstand even the roughest marker from the opponent, Strain provided a guaranteed source of goals, particularly during a terrific stretch in which he scored 12 in 9 matches to help the Broncos stay in the MSL West race until the final week of the season. “When Reid is in a groove, there are few around who will command as much attention, and that scoring streak he went on was key to our strong season half run,” said head coach Scott Steib. All-sectional pick had 14 goals this year and 19 career.
Troy Wheeler St. Viator
Rugged defenders’ rampaging runs forward and tenacious play made him a highly effective center-back for the Lions, who despite playing hurt the entire season earned his first all-area honor in his second year as a starter. “Troy was never 100 percent for us after suffering a pulled (quad) but he still performed at a high level for us, and next year, at full strength, he will easily be among the best at his position in the area,” said coach Mike Taylor. A ruthless tackler, who is also strong in the air, and a great reader of the game.
Craig Zahour Barrington
From the moment Zahour stepped onto the pitch for the Broncos, he would make an immediate imprint on the game, whether along the back, or in the middle, where the junior stepped into a position of need this fall. “We’ve asked Craig to play out of position from time-to-time, and when he was our center (back) he helped us so much,” said coach Scott Steib, “yet when playing as a defensive-mid, he is so solid. When he is on his game, he’s as good as anyone, regardless of where he is positioned.” All-sectional pick had 4 goals, 6 assists.
2011 Boys Soccer All-area roster
Player School Pos. Yr.
Billy Belmonte Conant D Sr.
Matt Bloom Buffalo Grove D Sr.
Fernando Camacho Leyden D Sr.
Jon Clark Palatine F-MF Sr.
Luke Comerouski Christian Liberty F-MF Sr.
*Bill Cooney Prospect F Sr.
Krystian Drozdz Leyden F Sr.
Irving Eloiza Buffalo Grove MF Jr.
Joey Faleni Schaumburg MF Sr.
Adam Fetter St. Viator MF-D Sr.
Markus Fiordaliso Buffalo Grove MF Sr.
Josh Galvin Rolling Meadows D Sr.
Xavier Gomez Maine West MF Jr.
Nelson Herrera Maine West MF So.
Brian Hindle Fremd MF Sr.
Yusuke Kanada Fremd F Sr.
John Krok Hersey F Sr.
Richard Lenke Prospect F Sr.
Eric Leonard Fremd MF-D So.
Christian Michalowski Schaumburg D So.
Sergio Nunez Wheeling MF-F Sr.
Juan Recendez Leyden F Sr.
*Brad Reibel Prospect GK Sr.
Patryk Ruta Prospect MF Sr.
Jake Savino Schaumburg F Sr.
Reid Strain Barrington F Sr.
Troy Wheeler St. Viator D Jr.
Craig Zahour Barrington MF Jr.
* — Honorary co-captains
Special mention
Nick Abel (Schaumburg, Sr., D), Irving Balboa (Wheeling, Jr., MF), Arthur Bernaciak (Leyden, Sr., D), Kevin Castro (Hoffman Estates, Sr., MF), Kyle Clancy (Palatine, So., D), Zach Conrad (Conant, Sr., F), Alberto Eloyza (Buffalo Grove, Sr., MF), John Franco (Schaumburg, Sr., MF), Justin Gavros (Elk Grove, Jr., MF), Evan Held (Palatine, Sr., GK), Alex Herrera (Maine West, So., F-MF), Nick Landsberger (Buffalo Grove, Sr., GK), Alex Masciopinto (Buffalo Grove, Sr., F), Grant McAndrew (Barrington, Sr., MF), Jack Reynolds (Palatine, Sr., MF-F), Eddie Rodriguez (Elk Grove, Sr., MF), Dan Ruzich (Conant, Sr., D), Andy Schnepf (Prospect, Sr., MF), Jecsan Torres (Maine West, Jr., GK), Spencer Walton (Maine West, Sr., MF), Colter Williams (Barrington, Sr., D).
Honorable mention
Bryan Adams (Barrington, Sr., MF), Ben Beard (Schaumburg, Sr., GK), Kiefer Bennett (Christian Liberty, Sr., MF), Matthew Burikas (Prospect, Jr., D), Nick Cardenas (Hoffman Estates, Sr., MF), Tom Cerri (Maine West, Sr., MF), Oscar Chavarria (Leyden, Sr., MF), Ethan Claes (Barrington, Jr., MF), David Colbert (Christian Liberty, Jr., F), Ashwin Corneilius (St. Viator, Jr., MF), Nathan Cornell (Conant, Sr., F), Ramon Contreras (Maine West, Sr., D), Michael Decker (St. Viator, Sr., D), Demo Drakoulis (Buffalo Grove, Jr., F), Ozzie Fernandez (Maine West, Jr., D), John Gallagher (Barrington, Sr., D), Marco Granda (Leyden, Sr., GK), Michael Hennek (Christian Liberty, Sr., MF), Chase Monckton (Hersey, Sr., D), Miguel San Roman (Rolling Meadows, Sr., F), Eric Kotlyar (Buffalo Grove, Sr., D), Jeremy Kosacz (Fremd, Jr., MF), Jared Martin (Hersey, Sr., MF), Spencer Moore (St. Viator, So., MF), Max Redpath (Barrington, Sr., GK), Jesse Schultz (Elk Grove, Sr., D), Jeremy Velinski (Palatine, Jr., D).