Veronica Kordmany
Editor '18
To make history is every athlete’s dream. To walk on the field as an underdog and off with pride is what makes the grueling hours of practice worth it. Ask alumnus David Hadjibay, a member of the Class of ’15, who experienced this first-hand - and would not give the feeling up for the world.
Hadjibay was first exposed to soccer by his older cousins, and since then he has refused to let it out of his sight. His efforts proved worthy, as he was one of four captains to ever lead North to the Nassau County Semifinals. The proudest, high-school moments he can recall are on the field, teaching underclassmen how to leave behind a successful legacy. “This was the best team I ever played with. From the head coach to the last man on the bench, everyone contributed in their own way.” But it wasn't always fun and games. Underneath the pristine illusion of prosperity lay thick layers of foundation that needed to be constructed.
“No success is as important as the team's success. If a team understands this, its opportunities are endless. When we lost that semi-final game my senior year, we were heartbroken. But hard work made us the first seed in Nassau County. Hard work got us to that point. Hard work made team work a lot easier. It is a privilege for me to be able to say these things.”
As life tends to do, people yearn for the way things once were. No longer playing as he continues to study in college, Hadjibay reveals that, if he could possibly go back in time, he wouldn't change a thing. Well, except maybe one.
“I would make the team have a weekly dinner at Coach Griffin's house. His wife is an amazing cook and his kids are truly special. But in all seriousness, I would not change a thing. There is no such thing as a perfect season. The ups and downs are what make each season unique and special. But the way in which a team and/or individuals overcome these challenges is what makes them great. This isn't just true to sports. It's applicable to life as well. And after playing sports for so many years, I have learned how to overcome many of the challenges in my life.”
At one time or another, the crossroads at which one stands make one question everything. Is it really worth it in the long run? Or is it all for nothing? As Hadjibay proved, you don't know until you gather your courage to step up to the plate and give it your all.
Editor '18
To make history is every athlete’s dream. To walk on the field as an underdog and off with pride is what makes the grueling hours of practice worth it. Ask alumnus David Hadjibay, a member of the Class of ’15, who experienced this first-hand - and would not give the feeling up for the world.
Hadjibay was first exposed to soccer by his older cousins, and since then he has refused to let it out of his sight. His efforts proved worthy, as he was one of four captains to ever lead North to the Nassau County Semifinals. The proudest, high-school moments he can recall are on the field, teaching underclassmen how to leave behind a successful legacy. “This was the best team I ever played with. From the head coach to the last man on the bench, everyone contributed in their own way.” But it wasn't always fun and games. Underneath the pristine illusion of prosperity lay thick layers of foundation that needed to be constructed.
“No success is as important as the team's success. If a team understands this, its opportunities are endless. When we lost that semi-final game my senior year, we were heartbroken. But hard work made us the first seed in Nassau County. Hard work got us to that point. Hard work made team work a lot easier. It is a privilege for me to be able to say these things.”
As life tends to do, people yearn for the way things once were. No longer playing as he continues to study in college, Hadjibay reveals that, if he could possibly go back in time, he wouldn't change a thing. Well, except maybe one.
“I would make the team have a weekly dinner at Coach Griffin's house. His wife is an amazing cook and his kids are truly special. But in all seriousness, I would not change a thing. There is no such thing as a perfect season. The ups and downs are what make each season unique and special. But the way in which a team and/or individuals overcome these challenges is what makes them great. This isn't just true to sports. It's applicable to life as well. And after playing sports for so many years, I have learned how to overcome many of the challenges in my life.”
At one time or another, the crossroads at which one stands make one question everything. Is it really worth it in the long run? Or is it all for nothing? As Hadjibay proved, you don't know until you gather your courage to step up to the plate and give it your all.