By Alex Frazier
Another exciting season of Suburban One League soccer is upon us. As an introduction to the season, here is a list of some of the best players around the league to keep an eye on. Though one player doesn’t make a team, these players can make a big difference.The Elite Eight
Olu Amudipe, Wissahickon senior central defender
A senior captain and three-year starter, Olu Amudipe was a major component in Wissahickon’s undefeated league run last year.
“He has great balance and awareness on the field and is extremely difficult to beat one on one,” said coach Stuart Malcolm.
Bryan Attanasio, Council Rock North senior defender
Bryan Attanasio is a four-year starter and stands at 5 feet, 6 inches, which makes being a four-year starter an even more impressive feat, considering he was roughly 5-2 as a freshman.
“Bryan is the nucleus of this year's team and is tough as nails,” said coach Wendell Beres. “He is a special player on the back line and a great leader. Every player in the program looks up to him. While he is primarily a defender, Bryan is extremely versatile. We hope to use him in multiple positions this year to help keep opponents off-balance.
“It is very hard to gain recognition as a defender in high school soccer, so the attention Bryan is receiving this year is proof of how special a player he really is. I'd much rather have him on my team than have to play against him!”
Kevin Bailey, Pennridge senior forward
A two-year captain and first team all Continental Conference selection, Kevin Bailey scored 16 goals as a 10th grader and seven goals last year.
According to coach Peter Valimont, he is a mature leader on and off the field. On top of that he has great technical ability, is creative, and constantly has to deal with double teams.
“I have high hopes for Kevin for what we hope to be a very successful season,” said Valimont.
Ryan Bailey, Pennridge senior keeper
As a junior, Ryan Bailey broke his hand during the second game of his junior year and missed over half the season, but nevertheless turned in a terrific district playoff performance when his hand was healed. As a result of that, he was selected to the second team all-Continental Conference.
A captain this year, Bailey is a defensive leader who isn't satisfied unless the scoreboard says "zero".
“We’re hoping to have success with his brother running the offense,” said coach Peter Valimont.
Christian Benner, Souderton senior forward
Benner was Souderton’s top scorer last year (10 goals), leading the Indians to the Continental Conference title. This year, coach Tim Quintois will rely on Benner’s leadership to help guide a young squad in defense of its title.
“He’s a really good player,” said Quintois. “He has great skills and is a tough competitor.”
Manvekah Daramay, Upper Moreland, senior center midfield
Menvekah Daramy is a very important cog in the machinery of Upper Moreland soccer. He scored 15 goals last year and also served up 11 assists. He seems to make everyone around him better and more comfortable.
“This is his fourth straight year as a starter and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of his high school career,” said Upper Moreland coach Jack Knauss. “He is also much involved with the community as well as his own senior class.”
Kyle McDonald, Pennsbury seniorKyle McDonald was a second team all-National Conference selection last year. No additional information was available.
Sean Sheridan, Neshaminy junior midfielder/defender
After a summer playing with the New York Red Bulls, Sean Sheridan returns to the Neshaminy lineup a much more polished player.
Rich Reice feels confident playing him anywhere on the field.
“He’s the kind of player that never seems rushed or flustered,” said Reice. “He’s composed like a coach on the field. If he’s not one of the best players in the league, I’d be surprised.”
Best of the Rest
Tim Uvegas, Upper Moreland senior keeper, first team American
Dan Caya, Pennridge senior midfielder, second team Continental
Stefan Dasbach, Wissahickon, junior, second team American
Joe Farrell, Wissahickon junior, second team American
Ryan Cowan, Cheltenham senior, second team American
Kostro Fasliu, Plymouth Whitemarsh senior, second team American
Cameron Scott, Plymouth Whitemarsh junior, second team American
Tommy Hayes, Upper Moreland junior, second team American
Michael Camacho, Harry S Truman junior, third team National
Quinn Kremp, Council Rock South senior, third team National
Mike Spadaro, Council Rock South junior, third team National
Mike Lougherty, Pennsbury senior, third team National
Sawyer Waters, Pennsbury junior, third team National
Ian McMillan, Abington junior, third team National
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