MONROE, CT — A familiar face is leading the way for Masuk High boys soccer this fall. Former Masuk player and assistant coach Jarrod Schulz, who also is recognizable because of his role in the town’s youth ranks, takes over with high hopes and expectations for a talented group.
Schulz, a Monroe resident, has lived in town since he was six. He graduated from Masuk in 2019 and played at Monroe AYSO and Monroe Soccer Club before lacing up for the Panthers.
“After graduating, I decided to give coaching a try and now I coach in all three of those programs I was once a part of. I have been an assistant at Masuk for four seasons prior to this and this will be my first year as the varsity head coach,” Schulz said. “I am extremely excited about this opportunity to do what I love in the place I love the most.”
“I think it is important to both recognize that these boys are talented athletes, but also high school students, so I want to run my program in a way that allows them a place for serious growth and learning, but also a place for fun and community building,” he added.
Captains are forward Cash Dewey, center midfielder Matteo Iacono and central defender Cristiano Rivera.
Other key players include defender Nick Rodrigues, forward Matthew Cerrato and goalkeeper Braden Kuhns.
“Our goal is to win the South-West Conference and compete for a state title. We think this is a very strong and experienced team that has everything it needs to compete at the very top of the game,” Schulz said.
Contributions are expected to be provided not only by starters, but reserves as well.
“The strength of our team is our depth,” Schulz said. “We currently have 19 seniors on the roster, which leaves us with a ton of experience to turn to both within the starting lineup and on the bench.”
The season begins Tuesday, Sept. 2, when Ansonia visits for a 7 p.m. nonconference clash. The Panthers visit Bethel for their first SWC matchup two days later at 4 p.m.
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