MAHOPAC—The Mahopac High School boys soccer team plans on improving on a 2009 season that saw it go 10-4-2. The Indians were seeded eighth in the sectionals, where they suffered a 1-0 loss to Suffern in the first round.

Arthur Strzepka SKIP PEARLMAN After finishing second in League IB last season, coach Chris Emery believes that the fact that Mahopac has a good core of its team returning could mean continued success this season.

"We have a pretty strong nucleus coming back," Emery said.

That nucleus includes goalie Adam Basuljevic, who will start in net for a third season and received All League honors last season.

The one key player that the Indians lost from last season is sweeper David Sparozic, who received All Section honors and was a team captain.

However, Emery pointed out that Mahopac returns forward Arthur Strzepka, who was the league's leading scorer last season and an All Section Honorable Mention selection.

Renato Chiura SKIP PEARLMAN The team's other returning starters are senior midfielder and captain Renato Chira, senior defender Rob Farrell, senior defender/midfielder Jesse Chan and senior midfielder James Schiera.

Other returning players include senior defender/midfielder Matt Ciruzzi and Miguel Paz, a defender.

Key newcomers include freshman midfielder Arun Basuljevic, the younger brother of Adam, and sophomore forward Joseph Iraola.

Emery believes that his team could be competitive in League IB, which promises to be very tough.

"Most of the teams talent wise, are pretty even," Emery said, adding that the Indians should be competitive if they play up to their capabilities.

Mahopac is a team that is balanced, with ability to play well on defense and offense. Most of the experience that the Indians have returning will be on offense.

Rob Farrell SKIP PEARLMAN Although last season went well, the Indians are hoping to improve on that record and win the league.

"We are hoping to improve on last year," Emery said.

The Indians kickoff their season Sept. 11 in a tournament at Yorktown High School against Somers. The game time has yet to be determined.
Adam Besuljevic SKIP PEARLMAN