BMUFSD: Modified Sports Begin At Briarcliff

Press release from the Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District:

2024-09-13

Middle School is a time for learning new skills. Participating in Modified Sports allows students to dip their feet in a sport and experience what it is like to be on a team.

Briarcliff Middle School Modified Sports recently began its fall season.

Modified Girls Soccer has had a great start so far.

“The athletes have been very positive to coaching feedback,” said Head Coach Dan Perito. “I look forward to watching how they develop as soccer players from now until the end of October, and to seeing what they pick up on and what they improve upon.”

Modified Girls Volleyball also had a good start to the season.

“It’s always a plus when the season starts on the right foot,” said Head Coach A.J. Thau. “The athletes seem to get a grasp on what we’re trying to do. There are 26 athletes, which is a good thing – anytime 26 people want to do a sport it’s exciting. Only six can play at a time, but it’s great to have so much interest.”

Playing a new sport is a good opportunity to learn a new set of skills and to develop character.

“The athletes are working hard, learning the basics and having fun,” said Modified Boys Soccer Coach Gordon Josey.

Students participating in Modified Football have the opportunity to learn from their experienced coaches.

“There is a big learning curve for the seventh graders,” said Head Coach Mike Toolan, who has coached multiple sports at various levels for many years. “I am preparing some of the ninth graders on the team for Varsity since we don’t have a JV team, but there is much for the seventh graders to learn, too. We start with the basics and build up from there. We learn terminology and advance to plays, but we are also trying to instill in them hard work, determination and respect – everything that I was always taught as a player by my coaches.”

Mr. Toolan coaches with Assistant Coach John Consorti, who has over 40 years of experience. Together, they try to make sure the athletes have some down time.

“We goof around and have a lot of fun,” he said.

Modified Sports is also a great opportunity to expand your social circle.

“The students are here to get in shape, have fun and beat their own personal record, but Cross Country is also a great socializing experience,” says Head Coach Brenan Coxen. “The athletes make friends here at the school and also at the meets. It is a very nice community.”

“We would like to wish our very best to all of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and families,” said Athletic Director Chris Drosopoulos. “All of you make this time of year very special and exciting. Forever BLUE and ORANGE!”

Modified Sports is available for seventh and eighth grade students and some freshmen. It includes Modified Field Hockey as well.

This press release was produced by the Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.