Phantoms Shine Bright in Avon: Hauppauge Boys Take 2nd Place at Memorial Day Tournament

Avon, CT – Memorial Day Weekend 2025

This Memorial Day weekend will be one the Hauppauge Phantoms won’t soon forget. Traveling to Avon, Connecticut, the boys came together—along with a few strong additions from the Wolfpack—to deliver a standout performance at the Art Hennig Avon Soccer Tournament, finishing 2nd place out of 7 teams, notching three shutouts in five matches, and allowing only five goals total.

From shared hotel halls to team dinners and sideline celebrations, the weekend was packed with memories, laughter, and the kind of camaraderie that defines youth sports at its best.

Weekend Recap: A Battle from Start to Finish

• Day 1 Game 1: Phantoms vs. Avon Soccer Club — 0-0 Tie

• Day 1 Game 2: Phantoms vs. CWSA — 1-1 Tie

• Day 2 Game 1: Phantoms vs. Terryville — 4-1 Loss

• Day 2 Game 2: Phantoms vs. Capital SC — 2-0 Win

• Day 2 Game 3: Phantoms vs. WAM United SC — 6-0 Win

• 
  

After a steady start with two tightly contested ties, the Phantoms regrouped following a tough match against Terryville and came back roaring with two dominant wins, showing both resilience and heart.

Defensive Wall & Goalkeeper Greatness

The Phantoms’ defense proved to be the backbone of their success. Joey Veneroni, Matty Barrera, Matthew Monahan, Tristan Fenelius, Cole DeLuca, Greg Wakulich, and Michael Bento locked down the back line, frustrating opposing strikers and creating scoring chances with confident clearances and crisp passes.

Between the posts, Michael “Galley” Gallarello stood tall, registering three clean sheets and showing tremendous poise and leadership under pressure.

Offensive Firepower

The goals came from all over the pitch. Chase Podlas, Greg Wakulich, Ryan Buscarino, Michael Bento, and Luke Mazzaglia all found the back of the net, keeping opponents guessing with a mix of long shots, through balls, and set-piece magic.

Midfield generals Connor DeLuca, Devin Massa, and JD Carty kept the tempo high and the passing crisp, linking the defense and attack in true Phantom fashion.

A Team Effort, On and Off the Field

Special recognition goes to Johnny Irwin, who, despite being sidelined with an injury, was a constant presence on the sideline—cheering, supporting, and even helping coaches with strategy. His leadership and team-first attitude inspired players and coaches alike.

Sportsmanship Honors

The Phantoms didn’t just impress with their skills—they led with character. Ryan Buscarino earned an incredible three Sportsmanship Awards, while Matthew Barrera added another, a testament to the team's discipline, attitude, and respect for the game.

With a runner-up finish, three shutouts, and plenty of goals and grins, the Hauppauge Phantoms capped off Memorial Day 2025 with pride. More than just medals and match results, this weekend was about the memories made, friendships deepened, and the love of the game!