West Islip loses heartbreaker in state Class AA girls soccer semifinal
West Islip's Sophia Barba during the state Class AA girls soccer semifinals on Saturday in Dryden, N.Y. Credit: Jorge Marcano
CORTLAND — West Islip’s 12-player senior core poured the final pieces of their four-year legacy onto the Dryden High School turf on Saturday afternoon, turning the NYPHSAA Class AA girls soccer state semifinal into a testament to the grit and sense of togetherness they’ve built together.
For 70 minutes, the Lions held off Albertus Magnus — the defending Class AA champion and the same Section I powerhouse that ended West Islip’s title pursuit last year. But in the 71st minute, Albertus Magnus' Teigan Cunnane finally slipped one through, capitalizing on a corner attempt to secure a 1-0 win.
“We knew they were an incredible team, and it’s a shame that one of us had to lose,” coach Ed Jablonski said. “They were able to make the most of one opportunity, and unfortunately, we weren’t able to find the back of the net.”
In the first half, there were almost no shot attempts from either team, revealing just how much of a defensive battle it was. Senior goalkeeper Jillian Olfano finished with five saves.
“Everybody on our defense was incredible today,” Jablonski said. “Jill was fantastic, and everyone really did everything they could. It truly was an amazing effort.”
Even as the final whistle cut short their state-final ambitions, seniors Sophia Barba and Ella Heuer said the loss couldn’t overshadow what this group accomplished.
“Although it came to an end, we really gave it our all,” Barba said. “This was the best season we could’ve asked for - to be undefeated, win back-to-back Long Island championships, and make it to the state championships. It’s been the best senior season.”
“Most of us have been playing together for the last four years, and today was our last game together,” Heuer said. “Even though it’s upsetting, I’m just so proud of everyone, and so proud to be a part of this team.”
With half of the team graduating, Heuer hopes that the team’s close-knit bond and resilience become the legacy this senior class leaves behind, and something the younger players can lean on when they’re gone.
“We hope they’re able to keep the family bond of WIGS [West Islip Girls Soccer],” she said. “We’ve built such a great team atmosphere and community - being a part of WIGS is an incredibly special experience.”
The Lions finish the season 18-1-2.
“This has been such an incredible group that I’ve been so fortunate to coach,” Jablonski said. “They all work so hard, and I know they’re going to go on and do such great things.”
