Perfect Fall 2021 Season for the New York Magic

The New York Magic capped a perfect fall season last month with an undefeated 9-0 record in NYMWSL play and an opening round victory in the ENYSA State Cup tournament.  The Magic dominated league play outscoring their opponents by a margin of 72-1.  The team featured an exciting mix of returnees from the 2021 UPSL Northeast Conference Championship team as well as several talented newcomers.  

Attack
The forward line was once again led by captain Dani Perri who netted 16 goals in league play. Perri provided great passing as well as tireless energy off the ball including combination and set up play, runs and pressing.  The attacking midfield in Coach Nino’s innovative and dynamic offense was spearheaded by the quick feet and nifty dribbling of Kensia Destinvil who totaled a team leading 21 goals in fall league play.  Newcomer Emma Loving produced dominant performances on the wing with her sensational dribbling runs that resulted in 9 league goals, an abundance of assists, and attracted the attention of European scouts. Newcomer Keri Birkenhead added 10 goals playing in both center forward and midfield roles and impressed with her powerful shot and hold up play.  Shanice Robe added additional firepower to the attack, tallying 3 league goals.

Midfield
Midfielder Dina Mulic added another 6 goals during the fall campaign and provided excellent two way play on both the wing and in the center of midfield.  Newcomer Maya Golowasch added versatility to the offense with two goals during the season while playing both forward and midfield, while longtime Magic contributor and midfielder Eileen McMahon added experience, leadership and a goal during the fall campaign.  Amber-Rose Petrillo once again anchored the defensive midfield with her astute ball winning ability and toughness. Eva Zamagias added depth and hustle in the defensive midfield.  Amber Mitchell provided speed, energy and good distribution on the wing while Noelle Higginson showed superb touch and vision while directing the offense from the center of the field. 

Defense
The Magic backline allowed only a single goal all season anchored by co-captain Ray-Ann Montano who also contributed a stellar header goal from a corner kick in the last game of the season.  Returnees Ashlee Thompson, Shannon Landry, and Mariko Whitenack helped to expertly shut down opposition attacks and get forward into the attack when the opportunities presented themselves. Newcomers Malya Hirshkowitz, Niamh McKevitt and Tia Briggs-Thompson all impressed with their intelligent reading of the game, positioning, and effective distribution.  Starting goalkeeper Corinne Costello and backup Julia Kelly were there to turn away anything that made it past the Magic defense and both provided impressive distribution of the ball.  

Staff, Affiliates, Friends and Family
General manager Lyndelle Phillips and Head Coach Nino DePasquali once again expertly  organized, prepared and inspired the team and staff to another successful season.  Many thanks to assistant coaches Calvin Salmon, Lisa Shaw, Jessica Reifer, scouts Aston Hinds, Mario Maldonado, and all of the families and friends who supported the Magic at various games and practices this fall.  

Sponsors
The Magic would like to thank key sponsors Arkema and Pebax for their unparalleled support for women’s soccer in New York City.

Current and Upcoming Schedule
The Magic is currently on winter break and after the winter thaw will return for the second half of the NYMWSL season as well as the next rounds of the ENYSA State Cup Tournament.  Please check the website for updates on upcoming indoor practices and tournaments as well as some exciting interviews and player bios coming soon