THREE?YOUNG Barbadian footballers from the Pro-Shottas Soccer Club have been lauded by their coach for performance on and off the field at the John Brown University in Arkansas.
According to John Miglarese, David Castagne, Andre Sandiford-Williams and Zari Prescod have been a “blessing” to the university.
Miglarese said Castagne worked very hard in the off-season to fully recover from a knee surgery.
“His dedication paid off immensely as he turned in his best season of his career,” the coach said.
“David was the main link between the attacking and defensive blocks in our 4-4-2. His ability to change the point of attack when tackled and vocally direct the team was a major catalyst in our reaching the SAC (Sooner Athletic Conference) championship this year.”
Miglarese said Castagne played such a key role in the university’s success over the past four seasons that it was an easy decision for him to appoint him as assistant coach.
He said that Sandiford-Williams also made a successful comeback from a small fracture in his ankle.
“He was an all-conference performer in 2011 at centre midfield but his injury forced me to give him minutes at outside back. He quickly regained his fitness and was so effective at outside back, we had to leave him there all season.”
Miglarese said Sandiford-Williams has really matured during his time with the university.
“Andre has truly grown into a good man in his time here. I have been very proud of his growth and am eager to see him finish out his career as one of the team’s top players next season.”
Of freshman Prescod, the coach said he made an immediate impact.
“We had been tracking his development over the years and were very glad to finally sign him. His pace and one versus one ability quickly made him a threat and enhanced our attacking presence in games,” Miglarese said.
“He is a fierce competitor and a passionate player. This led to him being one of our top point earners this year.” (EZS)