Sussex Academy soccer looks tough in scrimmage
The Sussex Academy girls’ soccer team took to the turf of Seahawks Field for its final tune-up scrimmage with MOT Charter March 15. The Seahawks will open the season Thursday, March 23, at Cape.
The Seahawks started out strong and continued throughout the scrimmage, saddling the Mustangs without a score. Sussex Academy scored four goals in the contest.
“It was a good showing from the girls today,” said Seahawks coach RJ Dina. “Charter is a well-coached team with a ton of potential. Coach Len [Hilario] is top notch. I thought we struggled early to find ourselves in the match. A couple of great buildups to goal, but couldn’t find that final-third touch to hit the back of the net. That’s the benefit of a preseason match; you’re able to move some key pieces and really sort out the problems. I’m pleased with how we adjusted and ultimately were able to finish our chances.”
Seahawks junior Tayler Flaherty scored three goals, while senior Doralynn Ventura hit the twine once.
“I think this season will be interesting,” Dina said. “We lost a lot of experienced, veteran players, but this group has come to work this season. We have some young players who have been part of the program for a number of years now that are ready to take major contributing roles this season. I’m excited to see how we fare in the Henlopen Conference.”
Dan has worked for the Cape Gazette for more than 30 years as a photographer and reporter, covering high school sports and happenings around eastern Sussex County. He won a photography award from the National Newspaper Association, and numerous awards from the Maryland, Delaware, D.C. Press Association. A Delaware native, Dan graduated from Cape in 1972 and returned as a teacher and coach in the 1980s. He retired from the classroom in 2016. He was inducted into Cape High’s Legends Stadium in 2016. In his spare time, Dan enjoys spending time with his wife, two sons, grandchildren and dogs.
