Long Island’s Fighting Tomcats Sign Young Soccer Star
A bright new chapter has opened in Long Island’s sports scene with the introduction of the Fighting Tomcats, a semi-professional soccer team. Recently, they signed 16-year-old Dylan Lopez, who is on the brink of his senior year at Connetquot High School. This makes him the youngest player on the team.
Dylan, a midfielder from Ronkonkoma, expressed his excitement after officially signing with the Fighting Tomcats, which play in the National Premier Soccer League. “They’re obviously much older than me,” he noted, emphasizing the unique experience he will gain by playing alongside seasoned athletes. His ambition is to take his talents to Spain one day, making this opportunity invaluable.
The team is backed by Jim Kilmeade, a local soccer legend and brother to a well-known media personality. Kilmeade is working towards making this team a home for local talent while also providing avenues for younger players through a planned free youth academy on Long Island. “We believe that we can identify and launch players into European careers,” Kilmeade shared, highlighting the team’s goal to cultivate local skills.
Dylan’s agreement with the Tomcats is intriguing, as it allows him to play for both the Fighting Tomcats and his travel team, Atlantic United, as well as for Connetquot High School in the fall. This flexibility is rare and offers Dylan a chance to hone his skills without sacrificing his current commitments.
Reflecting on his new role, Dylan remarked, “When you live on Long Island, you don’t really get opportunities like these. It’s usually those people in Europe that get these chances.” His signing presents a refreshing shift for young athletes in the area, showcasing the growth potential for soccer in the U.S.
Dylan’s family is thrilled about this new chapter in his journey. Alongside his mother and twin brother Brandon, he has always believed in pushing each other on the field. “Every time we’re on the field, it’s always a competition between us,” Dylan shared, noting how this rivalry motivates him to be better. This support from home has been pivotal in his development.
The excitement doesn’t just end with Dylan; his family and friends are equally eager to witness his growth in this new setting. As he juggles between practice and work at a local restaurant, news of his signing is bringing much anticipation among his peers. “They’re all going to be shocked,” he mentioned, clearly looking forward to an eventful senior year filled with hope and success.
In addition to sports, the Long Island community is set for several events this weekend, including two 5K runs aimed at raising funds for important causes. The "Hope Is Here" run focuses on improving parental mental health awareness. Residents can participate in this event at First Responders Memorial Park and Ball Field in Islandia. Meanwhile, the Sayville Fire Department is hosting its annual 5K, further showcasing community spirit.
This weekend’s activities, along with the emergence of the Fighting Tomcats and the promising young talent of Dylan Lopez, paint a picture of positive energy and growth in Long Island sports. As community members rally together, it is moments like these that showcase the power of local support and the drive for excellence. The Fighting Tomcats look poised to not only change the landscape of soccer on Long Island but also to inspire future generations of athletes.
