Coaches, Booster Club Honor Scotch Plains-Fanwood Athletes

Scotch Plains Fanwood High School's fall athletes celebrated their season Thursday during the annual Fall Awards Night.

The event, which was sponsored by the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Blue Raider Athletic Booster Club and held in the school gym, honored the athletes for their individual and team achievements.

"This has been absolutely a great fall season for our athletic programs," said Rob Harmer, assistant principal for athletics.

Harmer lauded the athletes, their parents, coaches and staff for their efforts throughout the fall, during which overall the teams had a combined winning percentage of 70 percent.

Teams recognized included boys and girls cross country and soccer teams, as well as the football, gymnastics, tennis, cheerleading and volleyball teams at the freshmen, junior varsity and varsity levels.

The event featured photo slide shows and remarks from head coaches from each respective team, as well as awards, varsity letters and senior pins for students.

"As I look around the room, I see Scotch Plains-Fanwood's finest," said Ava McNamara, president of the booster club for 2009-2010. "I commend you for a job well done."

Each coach also recognized the effort and sacrifices made by the athletes for the greater good of the team.

Kevin Ewing, head coach of the girls varsity soccer team, said he was proud of the unit for becoming the Union County Conference Watchung Division Champions.

"I'm very proud of these girls," Ewing said. "They worked hard all season and never gave up."

Steve Ciccotelli, head coach of the varsity football team, also honored his players for their effort in the face of adversity and a tough season that pitted them against some of the top teams in the state.

"These kids displayed unbelievable character," he said. "This team will always have a place in my heart."

The leadership of the players will trickle down to the underclassmen and help the program for years to come, he added.

Harmer reminded the students that the lessons they learn on the court, track and in the field will carry over to their personal and professional lives.

"These traits build character and persistence that you will take with you throughout your life," he said.

Cassandra Zito, a senior member of the girls varsity soccer team, said it was an honor for her and her team to be recognized, noting that the group was a strong one made up of players that always supported each other.

"It's really nice," she said. "It was a good season."

Varsity football player Steven Alleman expressed similar gratitude Thursday night, all while already looking ahead to next season.

"This is great," he said. "I love this team. They're amazing teammates, but we've got to get stronger. We've got to get ready for next year."