The Lady Falcons have begun their season and have already played their first game. After a tough scrimage against Hancock, they pushed through to complete a game against them the very next day.

By Cameron S.

            The Family Falcons boys and girls basketball teams prepare for a new season. On November 13, 2011 the boys hit off the season with tryouts. “It was challenging and motivating, I’m very optimistic about this season,” said team hopeful Ezra B. The captain of this Falcon team is senior Tarek M. “The boys have a lot of heart, and I can tell that it’s going to be a good season,” he said. The co-captain is John I. and this is his first year playing basketball at FFS. The team is led by head coach Larry P. and assistant coach Shane M.

            The girls’ basketball team had try-outs on November 9 and 11. The girls hope to make this season a successful one and really unite. “I’m excited to see the team come together,” said Ellie H. Coming off a not so smooth season last year, there’s a lot of anticipation for what this season holds for them. Jaci K. mentions this when saying, “I’m interested to see how this season will go.” With Dee P. at head coach and Debbie K. at assistant coach we’re bound to have an exciting and fun filled season.

            With both of these powerhouse teams playing this winter, the excitement and competitiveness that’s in the air is overwhelming. Falcon fans everywhere are all waiting nervously for the 2011-2012 season.

By Joe T.

Fans crowded into the packed Colonie High School Stadium in Albany, New York to watch The Family Foundation Falcons compete against The Ft. Ann Cardinals for the Class D Regional Championship on Saturday November 12. One of the most remarkable high school soccer games ended the Family School’s Cinderella story and state run, as they lost to Ft. Ann 1-0, advancing the Cardinals in the state tournament.

Both teams presented impressive overall records leading up to the game. Ft. Ann with a 12-2-2 record slightly outmatched the Falcons who were 12-3-1. FFS, the underdogs of the game, had never made it to the Regional Championship. Ft. Ann was returning for the second year in a row and had more experience in pressure filled games.

Led by the superb coaching skills of Rich M., the Cardinals played speedy and smart soccer. George L. and Jeff J. kept control of the ball for most of the first half, giving the Cardinals an advantage in the upper half of the field. Even with this frequent possession, Ft. Ann could not break away to score. The skilled FFS defense of Rodrick O., Scott M., and Cameron S. stopped majority of the opposing shots. “They were a very talented offense, and very quick,” said Scott. “We also had a very hard fighting back line though, which worked in our favor.”

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Scoring threats for the Falcons were close to absent, as offensive players Tim R., Lucas V., and Ezra B. could not deliver. Ezra had one chance in the first half, as Tim booted the ball down field. Ezra broke past the Ft. Ann’s defensive line, and ripped a missile that went to high and right over the Cardinals goalie, Robert C.’s head.

With both teams playing superb defensive ball the first half closed with a 0-0 score. At the start of the second half both teams came out hungry for a victory. “With a move-on or go-home attitude we both came out on fire,” said Falcon Stefan D. “I know we really wanted a chance to show we were the dominant squad.”

The grass on the soccer field became more and more damaged as the players attacked each other for goal chances. The ball could not be kept under control until Ft. Ann stepped up to show FFS why they were worth Regional Champions.

The soccer ball skittered across the line tampering in the out of bounds area. Cardinal Forward, Mike G. took control as he stole the ball, driving towards the Falcon’s goal. The majority of FFS players were in the upper half of the field so it was Mike against the three Falcon defenders and rookie goalie Max W. Gusek broke past Sharp as he drove towards Roderick’s side of the field. Roderick,  a defender who goes all out to prevent the ball from passing, stuck his foot out making contact with the ball. The awkward bounce off Roderick’s shin allowed Mike to regain possession and continue his drive. The one-on-one matchup with Mike and Scott resulted in Scott on the ground. Mike followed the collision by punting the ball past Max in the upper 90 of the net.

Falcon’s cheering section erupted with complaints, claiming Ft. Ann’s goal was illegal. The accusation of a handball was denied by the referees, and the game started up again. The 1-0 advantage would be the only goal the Cardinals needed to maintain.

Falcon’s offense started to die down as the players lost desire. “All I know is we lost momentum, and did not get the ball back,” said Stefan. With one minute left Sharp scooped up the ball from the out of bounds area for a throw in. After a strong toss in, Broadwell chipped up the bouncing ball only to have his shot blocked by Robert C. Jon W. quickly booted the ball back down field. The game was out of reach for FFS. As the final seconds of the Class D Regional Championship ticked away, Rich M. thrusted his fist in the air with one finger pointing towards the sky acknowledging St. Ann’s number one status.

By Joe T.

In the 2011 New York Sectional Championship, Carlton W. and his Falcons defeated Coleman Catholic 1-0 in a long nail biter game. Falcon right midfielder, Steve R., was the hero of the night after he blasted the final kick that secured his team’s win in a penalty kick shootout. It was a beautiful way to win; concluding a game that passed regulation time, two overtimes, and two rounds of penalty kicks. For the first time since 2009 FFS will be traveling back to Middletown this time for a regional championship.

As cliché as it sounds, any avid soccer fan would find this game to be one of the most magical competitions in the history of high school soccer. The action started immediately. Back and forth offensive mishaps kept the ball safe from scoring threats for the majority of the first half. “It was defiantly a defensive game for both teams,” said Falcon captain Roderick O. “It appeared every ball in the air was going to be a contest. They were just as hungry as us,” he said.  The first half consisted of a total of three shots on goal for both teams and very few offensive breakthroughs.

In the second half the offensive game slowly picked up. More opportunities with possession of the ball occurred, but actual scores were still absent. Falcon forward, Keith F., was shunned as one of the only few scoring threats on the night, as he had a free break away that he nailed at Coleman Goalie Josh C.’s chest. Josh’s athletic prowess enabled him to react quickly to the hard hit ball, as he easily prevented the score.

The clock ticked down to zero. Regulation time was over; both teams had no assists and no goals. Fifteen minutes of overtime was the decision in hopes to find a winner. Coleman came out in overtime owning the upper half of the field. The speedy offense drove towards Falcon territory numerous times, but the ball always bounced of the intimidating bodies of Falcon defense men Roderick, Cameron S., and Scott M.

The game was moving slow until with three minutes in sudden overtime Falcon captain Tim R. suddenly increased the excitement of the game with his superb offensive skills. After stealing the ball and racing down the field, Tim found himself jammed in the corner of the opposing team’s sideline; quickly he chucked up a kick that landed perfectly for Falcon back-up forward, Christian B.  Christian stuck his foot out, let the ball sail off his shin and fly into the back pocket of Coleman’s goal. Cheers erupted from fans. Thinking the game was over, players stormed Christian. The celebration was cut short as the referees screeched their whistle. “No goal! Off sides Family School.” Groans of agony and disappointment were heard throughout the Falcon’s fans as the clock’s time ran out, still no score.

In a regular season game, this would be declared a tie. After two overtimes and no score, but this was no regular season game; this was a sectional championship meaning only one way to decide the winner; penalty kicks. Carlton lined up his five best players to take the shots and Coleman coach, Dave G., chose the same respectively. Coleman had first licks as forward Tae Han K., lined up for the first shot. The missile kick raced past the stunned Max W. leaving Coleman the first on the board. It was now FFS’ turn. Roderick lined up and repeated the exact same act drilling the ball by Josh.

Keith and Coleman’s Marco D. missed their next kicks continuing the 1-1 tie. The next three kickers for Coleman secured their kicks and the so did FFS. It was up to Tim to keep the game alive. “If I missed that shot it was over. It would not win us the game, but it would cause another over time,” said Tim. “I knew I had to make this shot to keep us alive.” He lined up, started his run to the ball, stuck back all his weight, and delivered a perfectly aimed ball that sailed into the net.

Three types of overtime had not determined a winner. This was becoming the game that would not end. Another round of penalty kicks had to take place. In sudden death penalty kicks the first team to take a lead by one goal would be declared the winner. Coleman’s backup, Nicholas C. aimed high and missed the shot. The Falcons could win as long as they made their kick. Steve R. felt the pressure, the excitement, the eagerness to be crowned champ.

“I was terrified, I won’t lie. This was big,” Steve said. He buried a beautiful kick right over Josh’s head. It was over. A year ago if you were to travel to Middletown High School, you would see The Family Foundation’s Boys soccer team. They would be walking off the field with their heads hung low after suffering a devastating 3-0 loss. Now this year, in the exact same spot, the exact same day, FFS is in a dog pile, on top of each other, chanting at the top of their lungs, “We’re number one, we’re number one!”

By Joe T.

Falcon fans erupted with cheers as captain Tim R. scored on a penalty kick, giving the Falcons a 3-2 lead over Sullivan West Bulldogs.

After an, intense game filled with scoring opportunities, a crucial injury, and mediocre offense and defense, the Falcons pulled through to beat the Bulldogs on their home field. Tim and Lucas V. once again displayed their superb offensive abilities, scoring three goals for the Falcons. Tim R. had two, and Lucas V. had one.

Tim R. scored his third goal of the year ten minutes into the game, speeding by the Bulldog defense. Minutes later, Lucas V. added his second goal, tapping the ball into the back pocket of the net after being assisted by a beautiful corner kick from Christian B.

All seemed to be going smoothly for the Falcons until the final seconds of the first half were coming to a close and Falcon defensive captain RJ O. landed awkwardly on his right foot. Not wanting to create an opportunity for a more intense injury, Coach Carlton W. made the decision to put RJ O. on the bench.

Sullivan West took advantage of the gap in the Falcon’s defense as Bulldog Richard L. broke through the Falcons’ back line and easily sent a missile past first year keeper Cameron S. The Falcon’s defense continued to struggle as Scott M. illegally shoved Adam M. With 17 minutes left, Adam M. tied the game at two by winning the penalty kick.

“We were playing sloppy soccer. Our defense was not containing the ball, and they drove right through us,” said goaltender Cameron S.

The Falcons’ offense also seemed to be faltering, until a Bulldog handball in the goalies box forced Tim R. to the penalty line with eight minutes left. Under pressure, Tim nailed his extra kick. Knowing the defense had to sustain the slim lead; Carlton W. made a risky decision and sent RJ O. back into the game. “RJ’s presence leads the defense; that can’t be replaced. He gave us a boost of confidence when he got back out there,” said fellow teammate Mitch M.

“By the time the game was half way over I was content at heart, but I knew our playing wasn’t up to par. I’m glad we pulled through in the end,” said offensive captain, Tim R.

Falcon’s Kevin S. and Roger M. gave their all, stopping a majority of the Bulldogs’ remaining shots. As the final seconds ticked away, the boys realized they had pulled out the game by the skin of their teeth. “The victory was bittersweet. I still have high expectations for us this season,” Mitch said. Friday October 17, will be the next date with destiny as Falcons hope to continue their winning streak against Eldred at home.

By Kristin R.

The Family Falcons girls’ soccer team played their best game in four years tying Eldred 4-4 in double overtime on Thursday, October 13 at Eldred.

The Falcons started out on top of their game with Celice F. scoring the first goal on a corner kick. Forward Brianna N. followed Celice a few minutes later, scoring again for the Falcons. “After we scored twice within the first few minutes, I knew we were going to have a good game. I was excited to get in and play my hardest,” said defense player Kyra L.

On the defensive end Falcon goalie Klaudia S. made save after save. “I can’t even explain how nervous I was,” she said. “Every time they shot the ball at me I felt like it got harder to catch.” In spite of her great effort Klaudia was not able to hold off the relentless Eldred attack and the Falcons trailed at the half, 3-2.

Center forward Maurissa H. started the second half with a direct kick into the goal to tie the game at 3-3. Eldred kept the pressure on bringing the score to 4-3, but Falcon Ahna L. evened the score with minutes left in regulation time.

Locked in a 4-4 tie the game went into overtime. Both teams missed chances to score as the first period of overtime came to a close.

It was starting to get dark and both teams were getting tired, but play remained ferocious as each side drove for the win. Eldred got the last chance of the match with 30 seconds to go, but Klaudia slid in front of the ball, capturing it as the referee blew the final whistle.

The Falcons ran towards one another, ecstatic about their play and wildly excited about the final score.

“We never stopped trying. We didn’t give up and we played as a team. It was great to be out there for this game, and I’m really grateful that I’m on the soccer team; I have a great bond with all the members of the team,” said Falcon’s center forward Brianna.

Eldred’s Alexis Pierce led all scorers with three goals, and Breanna B. added the fourth. Klaudia S. had 28 saves for the Falcons.

By Ron R.

The Falcon’s are currently preparing for their biggest game of the season. Wednesday, November 2 the boy’s will be playing their sectional game against Coleman at Middletown High School. The upcoming game introduces a new experience as the team takes foot onto a turf field for the first time.

The conditions presented to the Falcon’s in sectionals will be a challenge. “It’s a fast field; we’re going to need to play according to the conditions. We should be playing the same, if not better, than the way we’ve been playing so far this season that has led us to where we are right now,” said assistant coach, Larry P. Copious amounts of practice, re-working strategies, and a positive attitude are all necessary.

The team hit a few road blocks; practice was delayed due to snow and extra practice time could only be found in the early morning hours. The team practiced at 5 a.m. on the newly frosted soccer field.

“We are going to continue giving practice our all, and using our losses against Liberty and Eldred as motivation. After those games, we started to change up some positions and changed out attitude. Our plan is to give this game everything we’ve got to show them who we really are,” said defensive captain, Roderick O.

By Ron R.

During a tied game against Tuxedo High School on Friday, October 7, The FFS Falcons played a heartfelt double overtime game. Tuxedo is ranked as a class C school which created some skepticism amongst the team. “I feel like they went out there thinking they were going to win because they’re undefeated, but the effort that we put in helped us to stay strong,” said offensive captain Tim R.

“Most of the team was pretty nervous going into what we thought was going to be the most difficult game of the season. Once we went out there, the whole team supported each other and we put a lot of heart in the game. Our stamina and heart really kept us up-to-par with them (Tuxedo),” said defensive captain, Roderick O.

When the game began team captains Tim R. and Roderick O. cheered on their teammates to boost motivation and confidence. After a few shots on goal by Tim R., the first half ended with the thought that The Falcons could pull through with a win.

This game happened to be former goalkeeper Cameron S.’ first time out of goal, playing right fullback. “I was thankful for the opportunity to play defense and I was up for the challenge. I knew we had more heart going into it and that kept me confident. When I finished the game, I felt proud of myself because I feel as though I contributed to our defense,” said Cameron S.

Going into the second half, the boys were confident and were prepared to continue their hard work and perseverance. As the end of the second half drew nearer, it looked like the game was going to be brought into overtime. The energy between the players as they came off the field after the second half was electrifying.

The Falcons went into the first portion of overtime with their heads held high, and continued to hustle through the second period of overtime until the game ended with a 0-0 tie.

 
by Joe T.

They’re back, they’re brutal, and they’re ready to show New York who is the best soccer team in section 9. Coming off a humiliating 7-0 shutout in Downsville, The Family Falcons turned the tables and buried the Tri- Valley Bears with a similar score 8-0, except this time it was the Falcons in the winner’s circle.

Chris B. and Tim R. led the massacre with two goals apiece. Colin M., Lucas V- P., Alan G., and Steve R. all had points as well.

Hosting the Bears in the infamous “Falcons Nest,” the boys came out ready to silence the critics after their disappointing opening game. The beginning of the home opener showed many similarities to the poor playing behavior the boys portrayed in their massive lost from the day before; lack of communication, poor offensive blunders, and lack of team chemistry. Colin M. turned the game around, scoring the first goal of the season, off a rocket corner kick from Tim R. with five minutes left in the first half. “I was just taking a shot Tim delivered perfectly. I’m just happy we got our first goal out of the way. It felt amazing I had the privilege,” said Colin.

Coach Carlton Williams and his Falcons took the late lead and never turned back. Immediately following Colin’s goal, Falcon forward Lucas picked off the ball from the Bear’s speedy offense, and took possession down the field, followed by a strong kick that soared over the opposing goalie.

More offensive heroics were seen, with two minutes remaining, as Chris B. scored off a header from Tim R. again, and Alan G. sealed another goal after a breakaway from mid field with seconds left in the half. Family fans erupted with chants as halftime rolled around with their beloved hosts leading by 4 points.

Now knowing what strength and talent the Falcons possessed, the game blew away the second half with a win written all over for The Family School. Chris B. scored once again, and Tim R. nailed an absolute superb kick, completely out of the reach of Bear’s stunned defense landing in the back pocket of the net. Minutes later Steve R. added his own goal increasing the lead. “We were playing hard, and we kept driving up taking our shots,” said Steve. Tim R. tacked on one last goal to make the final score 8-0 for FFS.

With the help of the back defenders, mainly a zealous returning left stopper Kevin S., leader and other captain center defender Rodrick O., and minor experienced keeper Cameron S. the scoring threats were very rare for the Bears.

The squad will be preparing to perform once again as they welcome Sullivan West and Eldred this week to their campus. “I’m ready to show the other schools were here to stay and play hard,” said Tim R.

Students Partake in the School’s Annual 4 – 4 Volleyball Tournament

It is a tradition at FFS that every year there is a schoolwide volleyball tournament.

Organized by English teacher and Talbot House family leader Jan Cheripko, the annual volleyball tournament is one of the most looked forward to and talked about events during the spring.

About half of the student population participated in this year’s tournament. A selected group of students was chosen to be captains of the teams. From that point, in an organized fashion, the captains selected their teams. Each team had four players (three starters and one substitute). Math and Science intern Kevin G. was assigned the task of coming up with a bracket that fit the conditions of the tournament. Kevin ended up creating a double-elimination bracket.

The first teams took to the court on a misty Saturday morning. At the end of the day, they all knew there was only going to be one team victorious. With an off-campus trip on the line, each team played its heart out. The early favorites were Kevin S.’s team, which had a great server in Joe T. and great front and back play by Kevin S. and R.J O.

There were many highlights of the tournament, including George D.’s team shutting out Jaci Koch’s team 11-0 in the only shutout of the day. As the Saturday went on, teams started to get eliminated, one by one. The final teams were headed by Steve E., Fran H., Kevin S., and Owen D. In two very exciting games Fran’s team defeated Owen’s team and Team Kevin S. defeated Team Steve E.

In the final game, Fran’s team dominated. Fran displayed great athleticism running back and forth, setting up his teammates, and also taking many of the spikes himself. He clearly showed himself as the leader of his team and the most dominant player of the tournament. “I was really glad to have Fran on my team, he is a great player and made everyone else on our team better,” said teammate Daniel M.

After the tournament, Team Fran H. went to the local ice cream store, The Cowlick, and ate ice cream while enjoying their hard earned place as volleyball champions of FFS.