Big game experience is key to any team trying to reach the elite level.
The Pittsford Mendon boys soccer team saw their share of pressure packed situations last year. There aren’t many bigger stages than the Class A final or New York State semifinal.
Head coach Mark Hurley is hoping that experience carries over into this year. Not only during the regular season, but perhaps for another long postseason run.
The Vikings open the season among the favorites in Class A. Mendon faces off with Rush-Henrietta at 4:30 p.m. in the season opener.
“I think it creates a lot of momentum,” Hurley said about last season’s deep postseason run. “I think it’s a really good thing. I think success breeds success and once you get a taste it will make you want to go farther.”
Hurley is hoping to use the same ingredients that made last year’s team so successful. The Vikings used their speed and depth to wear down opponents.
Mendon may have lost only eight players from last year’s team but they were among the best in Monroe County including Luke Tylutki, Thomas Rodenhouse and Jonah Larson.
“I feel like we have developed a good atmosphere around here,” Hurley said. “We have some good captains and the leadership of this team is strong.”
Mendon won’t struggle to score goals this season.
Senior captain Andrew Smith leads the way coming off a 13-goal season. Josh Gallindez-Webb emerged as one of the offensive leaders of the team finishing with 13 goals.
“We have good players that can play anywhere,” said Slater Jameson, a junior midfielder. “Last year we had a large bench, so we know we have guys who can step up. We are looking to be strong in all areas this year.”
The Vikings may have even more depth on defense.
Senior Andrew Otiso had an outstanding summer playing in the Empire State Games and won a national championship with the Empire United. Juniors Seyefe Brouk, Mike D’Amico and Jameson made key contributions to last year’s team.
Goalkeeper Josh Klein will also try to duplicate his success of last season. The three-year starter allowed only seven goals and recorded a .427 goals against average.
“This year we are going to try and go all the way,” Klein said. “We still have a lot of returning players, and we feel like we can do even better this year.”
