Young Butler girls soccer team full of potential

Butler was once known as a powerhouse when it came to its girls soccer team. Since the turn of the millennium, the Bulldogs have been in the NJSIAA final three times: in 2002, 2004 and 2005. During those runs, Butler defeated Glen Ridge twice and Midland Park once.

Butler put out a solid performance while going 10-11 last season, head coach Joe Duchensky said being the underdog might not be a bad thing.

“We are trying to get the girls to play good soccer and believe in themselves,” Duchensky said. “We have a tough schedule and are usually outmatched, but still pull together to win every year. This town has kids with a lot of heart that take pride in their community.”

Butler’s Katie Iannuzzi went down with a knee injury, forcing her to miss the entire 2015 season. Ianuzzi totaled seven goals and four assists in only seven games last fall. Cielle Avena, who took off last season to recover from an injury and focus on basketball, will also miss the fall season to due another injury.

Lexi Malone, who led the team in goals and assists last fall, also graduated in June.

Sophomore Brianna Rosania will be the center midfielder. Young forwards Victoria Bergamini and Vanessa Majer “may be outsized and out-experienced,” according to Duchensky, “but they have the heart, determination and enthusiasm that might lead to something special.”

“(The injuries) will change the dynamics of the team,” Duchensky said. “We will be looking for the next girl to step up and fill in the starting lineup. ... This team wants to play good soccer and is willing to put the work in. I’m eager to see this team grow and watch their play develop. When it all comes together and the game slows down for them, we will be a tough team to beat.”

Athletes to Watch

Frankie Perna, Morris Hills: Perna, a three-sport athlete, returns for her senior season after scoring seven goals last fall.

Ryelle Sansone, Roxbury: Sansone will bring her passing abilities back to Roxbury this season after 19 assists and five goals last year.

Ida DiClemente, Kinnelon: DiClemente didn't play last season, but tallied 10 goals and 16 assists her sophomore year.

Corrine and Kristen Bowe, Morris Knolls: In 2014, Corrine led the Golden Eagles in goals while Kristen led the team in assists.