2022-23 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedics Comeback Players of the Year

JULIA BALL, North Haven HS (basketball)
A member of the Nighthawks’ basketball squad, Julia suffered a season-ending ACL injury just seven games into her junior year. A true leader on and off the court, Julia worked tirelessly through the mental and physical aspect of the injury and rehabilitation to return to the court this past winter. She served as the team’s captain and was a key part of the team’s outstanding 18-7 final record that helped the team reach the Class L state quarterfinal round. Julia led the team in scoring (19 ppg) and was named All-SCC First Team and GametimeCT.com’s All-State Third Team. Julia will attend Roger Williams College in the fall.

AVERY ATKINSON, Branford HS (basketball/outdoor track & field)
Avery played football during this freshman year at Branford and following the season was diagnosed with “Bilateral L4 Spondulolysis,” which is a fracture of the L4 vertebrae, on both sides. After months of healing and physical therapy, he was cleared to limited activities (but no more football) but was allowed to play basketball and run track. He served as captain of the Hornets’ basketball squad this winter and is captaining the outdoor track & field team where he competes in the 300-meter hurdles and javelin. Avery will attend Coastal Carolina in the fall and major in sports management.

2021-22 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedics Comeback Players of the Year’

MAXINE SAMPERI, North Haven HS (competitive cheerleading)

A four-year member of the Nighthawks’ successful cheer team, Maxine suffered a torn labrum in her right hip (twice) and a broken left arm, but through her diligent rehabilitation and positive attitude was able to return to lead the squad to a SCC championship and a Class L state title as a flyer in 2019.

This past winter, she served as a captain and was a key part of the team’s second-place finish at the Class L state championship meet.

An honor roll student, she was the recipient of the team’s Sportsmanship award. Maxine will attend Endicott College in the fall with plans to major in criminal justice.

JASON RABA, Cheshire HS (football/lacrosse)

A two-sport standout for the Rams, Jason suffered a season-ending posterior hip dislocation in October 2021 while making a tackle from his defensive end position. He was diagnosed with gluteus medius tearing and bone bruising secondary to the dislocation. After a period of non-weight bearing, Jason began therapy to regain his range of motion. Although he was not able to return to the playing field for the during football season, he stepped up as a leader off the turf to support his teammates.

After more than two months of rehab, he returned to lacrosse workouts in preparation for the spring season. Jason earned All-SCC Second Team honors for his outstanding play at the attack position this spring and has led the Rams to a SCC championship and Class M semifinal berth.

Jason will play lacrosse at St. John’s University next year and intends to major in business.

2020-21 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedics Comeback Players of the Year

SKYLAR BURZYNSKI, Amity Regional HS (basketball/lacrosse)

A two-sport standout for the Lady Spartans, Skylar tore her ACL two weeks before her junior basketball season. Despite being injured, she came to practice every single day to support her teammates, all while being diligent with her rehabilitation.

She was named captain for her senior year and led the Lady Spartans to the SCC Division I playoffs. One of the team’s leading scorers and rebounders, Skylar was selected to the All-SCC West Division team. This spring, she was an integral part of Amity’s lacrosse team which reached the SCC Division II championship game.

Skylar will attend Norwich University in the fall with plans to major in exercise science/physical therapy.

LUCAS O’REARDON, Lyman Hall HS (football/basketball)

A two-sport standout for the Trojans, Lucas suffered a severe neck injury called Clay Shoveler’s fracture that required emergency surgery during the fall of 2019. His injury short-circuited a promising junior football season that saw him still earn All-SCC Division III accolades after catching 46 passes for 631 yards and five touchdowns, and making 87 tackles and three interceptions.

Following his injury, he missed the basketball season and then the 2020 football season was not played. Lucas’ determination and work ethic carried him through his rehabilitation and he came back to lead the Trojans’ basketball squad to the SCC Division II title and was named to the All-SCC East Division team.

Lucas will attend the University of New England in the fall and intends to major in physical therapy.

2019-20 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedics Comeback Players of the Year

EDWIN JAMES FIGUEROA (football/track & field)

During his junior football season, Edwin suffered his injury (fractured tibia and torn ligaments in ankle) which led him to surgery. Edwin was diligent in his rehabilitation and showed leadership by continuing to encourage his teammates through the offseason. He returned to the field last fall and helped lead the Green Dragons to a 6-4 record, their best in nearly 15 years.

Edwin will attend Western Connecticut State University in the fall with plans to play football for the Colonials and is interested in its nursing program.

MIA LAWRENCE, Mercy HS (gymnastics)

One of the top gymnasts in the history of the Southern Connecticut Conference, Mia won the All-Around title at the SCC championship meet in early February 2019. A week later, she sustained a broken ankle, ending her junior season. Through her hard work and dedication, she returned to the mat and once again, won the SCC All-Around title at the 2020 championship meet and was named the league’s Gymnast of the Year and earned New Haven Register All-Area MVP honors.

Mia will attend Quinnipiac University in the fall with plans to major in occupational therapy.

KYLE MARUCA, North Haven HS (football/track & field)

A two-way football standout for the Indians, Kyle injured his shoulder in the first game of the season in 2018. He played with the injury the rest of the season before requiring surgery to repair a torn labrum. Prior to surgery in April, Kyle was still able to participate in indoor and outdoor track, throwing the shot put and actually won the SCC indoor title in 2019. Following his rehabilitation, he was cleared to return to football practice without contact and had to miss the first three weeks of football season. Upon his return to the field as a tight end/defensive lineman, he was a big reason why the Indians went 5-1 with him in the lineup.

Kyle will attend Merrimack University in the fall and will participate in track & field for the Warriors.

2018-19 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists Comeback Players of the Year

THOMAS LaTORRE, Daniel Hand HS (soccer)

Tommy tore his ACL in the spring of his junior year, while playing at a college showcase soccer tournament. He received surgery in April 2018 and undertook extensive rehabilitation – most of the time in the morning before school started – to return to the team, one that was coming off two straight Class L state titles and one he would serve as one of the team’s captains.

During his physical therapy, Tommy worked diligently and was cleared to play mid-season (in October) and was a catalyst as the Tigers earned their third straight Class L state title, culminating with a 2-1 victory over Maloney on November 18.

Daniel Hand head soccer coach Greg Cumpstone said, “While injured, Tommy served as a source of support and leadership to his teammates. His return to the field gave the team the fire that was infectious; he was up for any battle, and his actions on the field became crucial to the team’s late-season state championship run.”

Tommy will attend Elon University in the fall with plans to major in sports management.

ERIN KEARY – Shelton (soccer)

A four-year starter at defensive center, Erin sustained an ACL injury during the 2017 state girls soccer tournament. Erin showed her dedication through the rehab process, following the regiment set for her with diligence and persistence, starting with spring workouts, into the summer and fall preseason.

Her return to the field in 2018 was admirable, but also impressive. She played in all 20 games, leading the team in minutes played and also scored six goals and added four assists from her defensive position. For her efforts, she earned All-SCC and Second Team All-State honors.

Shelton head girls soccer coach Marvin Miller said, “Persistence has always been Erin’s strongest character attributes along with her extremely high personal expectations she puts on herself as a student and as an athlete. With that, she has earned the respect of her opponents and teammates and holds a place of honor with them.”

Erin will attend the University of Connecticut in the fall with plans to major in Allied Heath Sciences.

2017-18 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists Comeback Players of the Year

OLIVIA COYLE – East Haven (basketball)

Olivia sustained a meniscus tear in her left knee during the last part of the 2016-17 season, one that saw her earn All-SCC honors for her efforts. Through her diligent rehabilitation, Olivia returned to the team for the 2017-18 season, yet was dealt another setback when she injured the same knee the first week of practice. She had surgery again, and went through another bout of rehab to return to the court.

Olivia’s second comeback to the court was indeed admirable; but her positive attitude, persistence and leadership she exhibited were integral reasons the Yellowjackets ascended to their first appearance in the SCC title game, and earned the program’s first-ever state championship (Class M).

East Haven head girls basketball coach Anthony Russell said, “When Olivia was hurt, she knew there was light at the end of the tunnel. She was remained enthusiastic, which helped her and her teammates. The end result was spectacular for her and her teammates, and she deserves credit for her drive and determination.”

Olivia will attend Pace University in the fall with plans to major in finance.

MARK MONTANO, North Haven (football)

Mark tore his labrum in his right shoulder midway through his junior year, and continued to play despite his injury. He received surgery in the February 2017, and undertook the rehabilitation to return to the field in the fall. And return he did. Mark led the Indians in all offensive and defensive categories, propelling the team to the Class L state playoffs. He earned consensus All-State honors, and was the SCC Tier 1 Co-Player of the Year.

North Haven head football coach Anthony Sagnella said, “Mark was our guy. He was our captain, our leader and the hardest working player in our program. He is honorable, selfless and courageous. He exemplifies what every student athlete should hope to be.”

Mark will attend the University of Connecticut in the fall with plans to major in biology and then attend dentistry school.

2016-17 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists Comeback Players of the Year

NICK ANDERSON, Daniel Hand (football)

Since the 8th grade, Nick has undergone four surgeries — on his left shoulder twice, and once each on his groin and right hip. Each time, he worked hard in his rehabilitation to get back on the playing field for the Tigers football squad.

In his senior season in the fall of 2016, Nick played all ten of his football games healthy, and was a key contributor to the Tigers’ offense and defensive units.

Recently-retired Daniel Hand head football coach Steve Filippone said, “Nick has a heart of a tiger. Not only did he come back stronger, he became mentally tough and even more committed to being the best football player he could be. Nick became an inspiration for the other boys on the team who had suffered injuries or difficult circumstances.”

Nick will attend the University of Connecticut with plans to major in finance in the fall.

COLLEEN RICE – Jonathan Law (soccer)

Colleen sustained a torn left ACL in the summer of 2015 which resulted in her missing the entire fall season. Through her diligent rehabilitation, and her hard work and positive support of her teammates, Colleen was elected captain for the 2016 season. Colleen’s comeback to the playing field was indeed impressive; she was the team’s defensive leader and a key part of the Eagles’ ascension to the state tournament and the program’s second-best season in school history. For her efforts, she was also awarded the team’s Sportsmanship Award as voted by her teammates and coaches.

Jonathan Law head girls soccer coach JD Rhode said, “Colleen has been one of the most versatile and hard-working players in our soccer program. She is a role model for our younger student-athletes and she exhibited perseverance and grit throughout her injury and rehabilitation.”

Colleen, who will attend the University of Tampa and pursue a degree in physical therapy, actually earned an internship at Star Physical Therapy (part of the COS group) as part of her Capstone project for her senior year.

2015-16 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists Comeback Players of the Year

REBECCA ANDERSON, Daniel Hand (gymnastics)

Rebecca tore her ACL in the fall of 2013 which forced her to miss the 2013-14 gymnastics season. Her recovery was long and strenuous, but she persevered and returned to the team and was named captain. She earned All-SCC and All-Area honors during her junior season as the team won the SCC and state championships. This past season, Rebecca captained the team again and earned All-State accolades as the Tigers repeated as SCC and Class M state champions.

Daniel Hand gymnastics coach Kelly Smith said, “Rebecca is an unselfish person. She could have easily felt sorry for herself, but motivated herself and her teammates and returned to the mat. Her time rehabbing sparked an interest in physical therapy as a career. She is one of the most mature, hard-working and motivated individuals I have had the pleasure of working with.”

Rebecca will attend Springfield College and study in its physical therapy program.

KOBE WIGGINS – Notre Dame-West Haven HS (football)

Kobe sustained a torn ACL, LCL and meniscus during the first game of the 2014 football season. Through his hard work and positive support of his teammates, Kobe was elected captain for the 2015 season. Kobe’s comeback to the playing field was indeed impressive; he led the Green Knights to the SCC Division I East title and a spot in the Class L semifinals. For his efforts at running back/linebacker, he was named All-SCC, All-Area and was named a Coaches Association Class L All-State honoree.

Notre Dame football coach Tom Marcucci said, “Kobe showed a spirit that was contagious, despite being injured. His hard work, successful play and his overall impact on his teammates is remarkable, and will never be underestimated.”

Kobe, a resident of Meriden, will attend Southern Connecticut State University and study pre-law.

2014-15 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists Comeback Players of the Year

Jack Cunningham – Cheshire HS (lacrosse and football)

Jack sustained a torn ACL during the 2014 lacrosse season and was slated to miss the entire football season in the fall for which he was named captain. Through his hard work and determination, Jack was able to return and play well ahead of schedule, and was an impact performer – even scoring two touchdowns in his first game back.

Cheshire football coach Don Drust said, “Jack is a natural leader and a driven individual. He has a great outlook on life and understands if you work hard, good things will happen.”

A standout student, Jack will attend Trinity College and will study economics and play football for the Bantams.

Kelly Nizolek, Daniel Hand – field hockey/lacrosse

Kelly suffered a severe knee injury during the spring of 2013 which forced her to miss the 2013 field hockey and most of the 2014 lacrosse seasons. Her recovery was long and strenuous, but she persevered and returned to the varsity field hockey squad in 2014, in which she helped the Tigers capture the SCC title and the Class M state championship – Daniel Hand’s first-ever state title.

Daniel Hand field hockey coach Sue Leckey said, “Kelly was determined to be bigger than the frustration by keeping her focus and determination to be an impact player for her team. She is a solid example of “nothing can take the place of persistence.”

Kelly will attend The Hotchkiss School in the fall for a post-graduate year of study and athletic competition.

Gabrielle Lamberti, East Haven – basketball

Gabby suffered a severe knee injury in late 2013 which caused her miss the 2013-14 basketball season. She worked tirelessly to return to the squad, and even attended summer and fall pre-season games even though she couldn’t compete. Her dedication to her rehabilitation allowed her to return to practice on the first day of the 2014-15 season. Her efforts helped her become a key member of the team, which qualified for both the SCC and state tournaments.

East Haven girls basketball coach Anthony Russell said, “Gabby’s diligence and perseverance in both the classroom and on the court is an inspiration to her teammates and classmates.

A high honors student, Gabby has big plans for her senior year and beyond with several top colleges (to major in nursing) in her sights.

2013-14 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists Comeback Players of the Year

Stefani Taschner, Daniel Hand – gymnastics

Stefani recently completed a fabulous senior season for the Tigers’ SCC and Class M state champion gymnastics team. Selected the 2014 SCC Gymnast of the Year, Stefani also earned All-SCC, All-State, All-New England and Elite All-American honors, all after undergoing ankle surgery last spring. Her surgery was required after she suffered a series of severe ankle sprains.

Stefani’s work ethic following her surgery was remarkable; her positive attitude and competitiveness allowed her to not miss a beat, returning to a high level of performance as indicated by the slew of accolades she received following the season.

Daniel Hand gymnastics head coach Kelly Smith said, “Stefani’s ability to overcome her surgery was imperative to her individual success and the success of the team. Her leadership, her performances, and her camaraderie with her teammates created a positive atmosphere in our gym. She inspired her coaches and teammates with her positive attitude, hard work and focus.”

Stefani will attend Towson University and is interested in studying criminal justice.

Eric Laugeni, Amity Regional – football

In the summer of 2008, Eric Laugeni was involved in a freak accident involving a fork lift that severed his left leg and his right leg was broken and dislocated. After numerous hours of surgery, doctors saved his leg, but cast a dubious outlook for him in terms of running.

More surgeries and rehabilitation occurred, and Eric began to walk by himself and eventually returned to athletics, but only through a sheer determination and unending work ethic. He played varsity football for the Spartans, and he served as the team’s co-captain this past fall.

Amity head football coach Bert Mozealous said, “Eric has worked so hard to overcome so much. That’s why I believe he was voted captain because his teammates were so impressed with his work ethic and his sacrifice.”

A standout student in the classroom and a member of the National Honor Society, Eric plans to attend the Lehigh University in the fall.

Isabelle Fishbein-Ouimette, Lyman Hall – soccer

Isabelle is a member of the Lady Trojans soccer squad. Last summer, Isabelle’s doctors found an ovarian tumor, weighing two pounds, and successfully removed it. Isabelle had a remarkably short recovery, but found her return to the team and to her previous fitness level to be a challenge. Nevertheless, she persisted and her inspiration and leadership was a positive impact to her teammates and squad, earning several team awards for her inspired play.

Lyman Hall girls soccer head coach Charles Liu said, “Isabelle is a very special lady, an athlete determined not to let her school and team down. I don’t know of a more deserving player who has had a very positive impact on the team, especially from an injury that she should have missed and not played.”

Isabelle plans to attend the University of Ottawa and is interested in studying environmental science.

Noah Criscuolo, Guilford – wrestling

In the summer following his sophomore year, Noah suffered multiple injuries, including a compound fracture of his femur and collapsed lung, in an automobile accident. During his recovery, he suffered from failed bone growth and endured multiple operations which caused him to be unable to wrestle his junior year.

Despite these obstacles, Noah persevered and returned to the team and was named a captain. He had an outstanding 2012-13 season, finishing with a 29-5 record and placed sixth at the Class M state tournament. He also earned Second Team All-SCC honors and was an Academic All-State selection. He finished his scholastic career with 97 victories.

Guilford wrestling head coach Craig Vedrani said, “Despite being unable to wrestle and while going through intense rehab sessions and encountering setbacks along the way, Noah maintained his passion and enthusiasm for his team and his own recovery. He remained focused on his mission to get healthy and returned to the mat.”

Noah plans to attend the University of Rhode Island and study nursing.

2011-12 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists Comeback Players of the Year

Lily Laster, Hamden – soccer

A midfielder, Lily Laster suffered a devastating knee injury in the fall of 2010, tearing her ACL, MCL and PCL. After successful surgery, she remained active with the team offering support and advice to her teammates.

Her perseverance and enthusiasm during her nine months of intense rehabilitation allowed her to return to the Green Dragons’ squad and she was named a captain for the 2011 season. She played in all 16 games to lead the team to a winning season (8-7-1). Lily was a recipient of the Coaches Award by the Connecticut Girls Soccer Coaches Association.

Hamden head girls soccer coach Gary Collins said, “Lily is a true testament of what it takes to overcome adversity by having courage, motivation and determination. She is clearly a role model and that was evidenced by her teammates naming her a captain for her senior season.”

Lily will attend Eastern Connecticut State University in the fall.

Nick Pisanelli, Sheehan – golf

In the middle of his sophomore year, Nick was diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma, which is an rare aggressive cancer that was attacking his abdominal area. Nick was unable to play competitive golf for two years and that spend in recovery, including studying at home. Through this difficult time, he remained connected with his teammates and coaches and focused on his recovery and his commitment to rejoin the Titans’ golf team.

He has since recovered, returned to school, and was elected golf captain for the 2012 season. In addition, Nick is a member of the Italian Club and has served as a student athletic trainer during the football season.

Sheehan golf coach Kevin Ainsworth said, “Nick deserves this scholarship not only because of what he had to endure and go through just to survive, but also due to the fact that he never lost sight of the team and wanting to make an eventual return. That passion may have actually been part of the healing and recovery process. It may have kept him focused on his ultimate goal.”

Nick will attend Central Connecticut State University this fall.

2010-11 SCC/Connecticut Orthopaedics Comeback Players of the Year

Kate Winkle, Sacred Heart Academy – softball

A standout softball player, Katie Winkle was diagnosed with Acute Myleyongeous Leukemia in the June of 2006 and has battled the disease ever since. She had chemotherapy and AVN (Avascular Necrosis) in her shoulder and needed surgery to restore circulation.

Her perseverance and enthusiasm allowed her to return to the Pacers’ softball squad and has been a standout pitcher who has earned SCC All-Quinnipiac Division honors in each of the last two years.

Sacred Heart Academy softball coach Ray Ramelli said, “I have never coached anyone with such as positive approach to life. Katie is an exceptional example for all of us to follow.

A high honor student with a 4.11 grade point average, Katie will attend Quinnipiac University in the fall.

Jack Singleton, Guilford – football

Jack was a member of the Indians’ football squad and endured double hip surgery following his junior season. Told he would be unable to compete during his senior year, Jack battled back and played every single game as a starting inside linebacker and was responsible for making the team’s defensive calls for each play. His leadership, effort and desire were evident and he pushed through the pain to play and practice every week.

Guilford head football coach Tom Unger nominated Jack for the honor and said, “Jack practiced every day because he knew it wouldn’t set a good example for his teammates if he missed practice time and then played in games on Friday nights. He never used his hips as an excuse. In a world where average is celebrated and participation is the goal. Jack was able to break away from the mold and strived to be exceptional no matter what he was told.”

Also a standout student, Jack takes advanced placement classes and will attend Holy Cross this fall.