Lavaune Gong showing her moves with help from Dan O'Sullivan keeping the ball away from Emma Gong The Garden City Power was coming off a five game winning streak and ready to play the last game of the season against the Syosset Lightning in Syosset. The Power's mood was tense, but with determination to try to hold their first place standing. The game began with aggressiveness from both teams, although the Lightning played a more physical game. It was a very tight game throughout the first half with our defensive line of Sarah Biscardi, Maddy Condulis, Bridget Dean, Katie DeGearo, Nicolette Giammona and Danielle Ventre working hard to win every ball and to keep it on the offensive side. The offensive line of Ariana Kerantzas, Gabby Marcoux, Claire Murphy and Jamie Silk all contributed big plays and had several scoring opportunities, but the Syosset goalie was tough! The mid - field play of Angela Coen (2nd half), Emma Gong, Katie O'Sullivan (1st half) and Allison Schmidt was strong and precise being kept busy throughout the game. The goalie for the first half was Angela Coen who decidedly defended the goal until a late half breakaway from the Lightning led to the first goal of the game. The Power went off the field at halftime down 1 - 0.

Katie O'Sullivan passing to teammate and keeping it away from the parents and siblings The Power's ambitious and determined second half play was hampered by the fouls imposed by the Syosset Lightning taking down Ariana Kerantzes and Angela Coen, although we could not capitalize. Katie O'Sullivan was the goalie in the second half, who with one magnificent save after another, kept the Lightning scoreless in that half. The Power players continued to play tough until the final whistle blew, but came up short at the end, giving them only their second loss of the season. Alex Manning, although injured, supported her teammates from the sidelines. Missing from the line - up this week was Samantha Aurrichio, Fiona MacLeod and Morgayne Rix, but they were there in spirit. The fine coaching of Lavaune Gong and Joanne Silk has proven to be instrumental in the Power's success this entire year. Thanks for the wonderful coaching!

Angela Coen defending the opponent's corner kick with assistance from Nicolette Giammona, Allison Schmidt, Katie DeGearo and goalie Katie O'Sullivan Even though the Power lost, they had one more opponent to face and that was their parents and siblings at the end of the year picnic held at Nassau Haven. The somber mood caused by their loss earlier in the day was no sooner changed to laughter and happiness when they saw their parents and siblings on the other side of the field. It was such a fun time had by all and the skills demonstrated, particularly by the parents, were quite impressive. The parents/siblings fought hard against the Power girls, and overcame any aches and pains, to come away with a 4 - 3 victory. Congratulations Parents/siblings! The evening continued with a great picnic with more fun, relaxation and camaraderie. It was a wonderful way to end such a spectacular year! Great job players, coaches and parents, who all had a part in such a successful and spirited year! Go Power!

Danielle Ventre clearing the ball and Maddy Condulis has her game face on and is ready to play

Emma Gong keeping her position against the opponent Maddy Condulis winning the ball and moving down the field Allison Schmidt playing tough against her opponent with teammates Bridget Dean, Angela Coen, Emma Gong and Maddy Condulis all ready for the action (L-R) Assistant Coach Joanne Silk with Head Coach Lavaune Gong directing and encouraging the players