High School Soccer:
The Conference Is Still Wide Open

Tuesday, October 5, 1999

By Jay Clay
SJSports Student Correspondent

Things are looking up for the Overbrook Boys Soccer team this year. After a tough season last year the Rams could only improve upon their 3-13-2 record. After nine games, the Rams are already 3-4-2, with three of their losses to the #1, #2 and #3 teams in South Jersey (Shawnee, Cherokee and Cherry Hill East). The only loss that really hurt was their 3-2 loss in overtime at home to Cherry Hill West (also a contender for the conference).

With eight returning varsity players, the Rams have a shot at their conference. They are 1-1-2 in their conference and their 2-1 defeat over Edgewood really increased their chances of a conference title. Ed Williams is looking sharp in the net for Overbrook and Kevin Baptiste is their leading goal scorer with four. Alan Muff and Phil Covelli have two and Jim Dougherty has one. Even with Gary Debrielle sidelined with an injury, the Rams are still playing like a team that wants to win the conference. Jason Clay, Joe Depre, Tim Shields, Matt Novella and Mike Simons are the other returning varsity players. New editions to the team include Alan Muff, Ryan Saunders, Steve Traekner, Ed Williams, Mike Maddison and Dan Dougherty.

The team isn't big, with only 12 - 14 players available for each game, but the Rams can't deny the fact that with a few more big games against Paul VI, Camden Catholic and Bishop Eustace, they can easily win their conference. Coach Steve Bombaro, in his third year, realizes the improvement of the team and is also optimistic about the chances of a conference title. All in all, it looks like the Rams have put themselves in place for a good season that will have a good outcome if they continue to play hard as a team.