The Quest for a Win Continues for Boys Varsity Soccer

By Jack Tierney

It was another bleak performance for the Darien Boy’s varsity Soccer team, losing to Wilton 3-0 on Wednesday, September 27th. Going into the game the Blue Wave were confident, as senior forward Cameron Raia said; “I think as a team we're ready to make a run towards the playoffs and it starts today.” Cam was not wrong. Darien came out on fire dominating possession and dictating tempo. They also had many opportunities squandered; on multiple occasions it seemed like they were destined to take the lead but fate had other plans. Juniors Connor Olson and Siddhant Parwal both  had golden chances but couldn’t convert. Olson hitting the woodwork and Siddhant just missing a chance on net. Nonetheless it all seemed positive for Darien going into the half.

Junior Johan Trippitelli makes a play on the ball earlier this season (Courtesy DAF). 

“The first goal was a disaster and we didn’t look the same after.” Senior goalie David Volz accurately sums up the second half. Once Wilton got their scrappy goal there was no turning back and suddenly 1-0 went to 3-0 quick. Darien has to be disappointed because they have yet to capture their first win on the season. One positive from this game would be that the youth and future looks bright; but you have to question John Bradley’s boys mentality after falling apart yet again. If this team can find the back of the net consistently they could be dangerous, but it needs to happen soon.

Cheer them on during Tuesday’s game at Ridgefield's Tiger Hollow stadium @ 6 pm.

Boys Soccer Drops a Game to Greenwich

By Jack Tierney

The Blue Wave Boys Varsity soccer team suffered a defeat on Friday, September 8th to the Greenwich Cardinals. Wave conceded 3 times and dug themselves too big a hole to escape. Greenwich’s hitman Woojin Kwak scored the 1st goal and the Cardinals never looked back. Although they struggled Darien’s Johan Trippitelli had one moment of magic as he channelled his inner-Messi while taking a defender on and flicking the ball effortlessly over the defender's foot which led to a long shot that had the keeper tripping over his own feet to save.

 In what was a forgettable showing there were a few positives to take from this game. Senior Goalkeeper David Volz, despite letting in 3 goals, showed a heroic effort making countless saves throughout the game. Although young Darien’s juniors and sophomores looked promising and should be pillars of future success. Lack of experience seemed to be John Bradley’s side’s main weakness as they’re trying to make up for losing goal scoring machine Pablo Martinez to Johns Hopkins.

Greenwich are a top ranked team in the state and the Blue Wave gave them a great effort. Senior keeper David Volz said, “Yeah we struggled but they are a very talented team and I think we learned a lot about the toughness of our team.” Hopefully Darien can recover past years form in the games to come.

Come watch Darien @ Bridgeport Central on wednesday Sep 13th 6 P.M.

Senior Blake Sommi looks to lead Darien to new success this season (Courtesy DAF). 

Wave Football Takes Down Ridgefield; Extends Win Streak to 26

By Will Pegler

Senior Brian Minicus celebrates his second "pick-six" of the night (Courtesy Darien Times). 

After a long off-season of hype surrounding them, the Blue Wave football team proved that they were still the number one team in the state with a 38-12 trouncing of Ridgefield at Tiger Hollow this past Friday, September 8th. In his first start at quarterback, senior Jack Joyce threw for two TD's, connecting with senior wide receiver Max Grant on both. The wave defense gave nothing to Ridgefield, led by senior Brian Minicus who had three interceptions and took two of them back for six. Even more impressive, Minicus hadn't practiced all week due to bruised patella, but still played the game of his career. Senior corner back Alex Dehmel commented on Brian's performance; "He was everywhere. It felt like on each play Brian was making a difference in some way shape or form". Senior kicker Austin Hagander played a big role, knocking through several extra points, while the wave's defensive line was led by seniors Mike Neary and Drew Evanchick, as well as junior John Lochtefeld. Ridgefield's quarterback was constantly being harassed by the powerful D-line.

Come out to Darien High School this Friday, September 15th to watch the Blue Wave take on Brien McMahon in their first home game under the lights.