News Summary

Chris Ruggi has been named the new head coach for the Southold High School boys varsity soccer team. Following Andrew Sadowski’s retirement after 31 years, Ruggi aims to uphold the team’s legacy of excellence by fostering hard work and positivity. With upcoming practices and a promising season on the horizon, the community is filled with excitement as the Settlers prepare for their first game against Port Jefferson on September 4.

Chris Ruggi Takes Over as Head Coach of Southold High School Boys Varsity Soccer Team

Exciting news has rolled into Southold as Chris Ruggi steps up to the plate as the new head coach for the Southold High School boys varsity soccer team. The local community has been buzzing since his appointment, especially given his impressive history with the school. Having previously coached both the junior high and junior varsity teams, many believe that Ruggi’s transition to the varsity level will be seamless!

A Legacy of Excellence

Ruggi’s promotion comes in the wake of Andrew Sadowski’s retirement, who guided the team for an incredible 31 years. Sadowski built a robust program, accumulating a remarkable record of 322 wins, and leaving behind a legacy full of triumphs that includes four Class D state championships and a total of 11 county titles. Ruggi will be stepping into some big shoes, being just the eighth head coach in the rich, 60-year history of the Southold Settlers soccer program.

Fostering Hard Work and Positivity

As Ruggi embarks on this new chapter, he expressed a mix of excitement and responsibility. He is determined to uphold the important traditions that have made the Settlers so successful in the past. On his agenda are goals focused on instilling a sense of hard work and positivity in his players. He believes that true success in sports must be earned, setting a standard that aligns with Southold’s storied history.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming season is just around the corner, with the first official practice scheduled for Monday, August 25. Before that kicks off, Ruggi will be leading voluntary training sessions three times a week to get everyone prepped and pumped! Fans can get ready for his varsity coaching debut on September 4, when the team goes head-to-head against Port Jefferson.

Building on Last Season’s Success

Last season, Southold’s squad ended with a record of 7 wins, 7 losses, and 2 ties. Unfortunately, they faced defeat in the Class C finals against their rival, Greenport. However, with Ruggi’s leadership, there is a palpable sense of optimism that the team can bounce back and make a strong showing this year!

A Strong Support System

Ruggi won’t be alone in this endeavor; he will be supported by Lucas Grigonis, who continues as assistant coach, and newcomer Dan Hagerman, a former Southold player taking on the role of strength and conditioning coach. The combination of experience and fresh energy can create a dynamic that could lead to some exciting soccer this season.

A Rich Soccer Background

Ruggi carries with him a vast background in soccer, having played at Our Lady of Lourdes High School and in the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association Olympic Development Program. His collegiate tenure at Holy Cross not only further honed his skills but also saw him contribute to winning the coveted Patriot League. Ruggi is more than just a soccer coach; he serves as an English as a New Language (ENL) teacher at Southold, tirelessly advocating for newcomer and immigrant students.

Goodbye to a Coaching Icon

As Ruggi steps into his new role, the community bids farewell to Sadowski, a teaching and coaching icon whose impact will resonate for years to come. His retirement marks the end of a 36-year teaching career, spent mostly at Southold, where he not only led the soccer team but also coached tennis, and briefly dabbled in bowling and track. Now, Sadowski will be relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina, to enjoy family time, including with his new grandchild.

The Southold soccer family is buzzing with excitement and hope. Under the guidance of Chris Ruggi, the Settlers are ready to kick off a promising season and add new chapters to their storied legacy!

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