For West Haven seniors Caden Stanley and Matthew Pasacreta, their final seasons have given them opportunities to reflect on memorable moments with their teams and on what they have learned as captains. Their answers also highlight what they are proud of off the field, their plans after high school, and the people who have influenced them.
For Caden, one of his favorite memories came last Thanksgiving when West Haven defeated North Haven. “After not having the best season, ending on a good note kept my morale high and gave me hope for the next season.” Matthew also pointed to multiple memorable moments throughout his soccer career. He remembers beating Amity during a downpour in his freshman year, when he was with teammates who are now seniors, and celebrating on the bus ride home. He also remembers last year’s win over Glastonbury in states and going out to celebrate afterward.
Both seniors have gained a different perspective through their experiences as captains. Caden said the role has made him realize that his teammates are watching his actions. “Something I’ve learned from being a captain is realizing that I am a role model for my teammates. Before, I thought I just had to automatically do the right thing for myself, but I realized there are many kids who see what I do and try to follow my example.” Matthew has learned about the responsibility that comes with being a captain. “Being a captain has taught me that I am now a person that underclassmen look to see what the standard is and with that there are things you can no longer do. You have to set a good example for the people that are going to take over after you.”
Away from their respective fields, both athletes take pride in who they have become as students and individuals. Caden said he is proud of keeping his grades as high as possible and has always put academics first. “I have always lived by the label ‘Student-athlete’, with student coming first at all times. Anyone can be great on the field but what you do off the field is what differentiates you from the rest.” Matthew said he is proud of the overall person he has become, as well as the grades he earns in school and the reputation he has made for himself.
After high school, Caden hopes to continue playing football in college, with hopes of playing at an Ivy League school, and plans to major in finance. Matthew plans to attend college and major in health science or physical therapy.
Both seniors also credited people who have helped shape them along the way. Caden pointed to former West Haven football player Brian Oliver, saying, “Brian showed me how to be a student and taught me great lessons on the field. He always keeps it real with me and points me in the right direction.” Matthew credited his dad for teaching him the sports he wanted to play and how to treat others. “I think my dad has helped me the most to become the person I am today from teaching me every sport I have wanted to play to how to treat every person you come across with kindness.”
As Caden and Matthew prepare for what comes after high school, they can look back on the memories, responsibilities, academic work, future plans, and people they identified as important parts of their experiences. Their reflections provide a look at their time as West Haven student-athletes and captains as they move toward their next steps.