By MICHAEL SCHUMER
Originally Published January 2013
This past fall marked an especially triumphant season for the boys’ varsity badminton and soccer teams as well as an outstanding performance by the girls varsity swimming team’s Trudi Ann Patrick.
![image004[1]](https://i0.wp.com/www.jerecho.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/image00416.jpg?resize=300%2C236 "The Jericho Varsity Boys' Badminton Team poses with their longtime coach, Mr. Berkowsky")
The varsity badminton team won the Nassau County championship after completing a perfect season of 14-0. Led by Captains Matt George and Pritak Patel, Coach Burkowsky’s team won its fourth consecutive county championship. The squad’s fourth title in a row is due to the superb coaching by Burkowsky and the plethora of returning talented members according to the upperclassmen members. With a record of 55-1 over the course of four years, the team has remained the team to beat in Nassau County.
“We all had our eyes set on winning the title this year and being undefeated is something we always strive for. I loved everyone’s commitment and diligence,” said three year member Chris Gerazounis.
The boys’ varsity soccer team, led by captains Zach Cohen, Derek Medolla, Harrison Rieber, David Orr, Ari Lewis, and Coaches Braga and Whelan enjoyed a back to back Class A State Championship. This time, the boys beat Port Chester which capped off another exciting season for the state champs. The victorious season and championship could only be anticipated by the Jericho community because of the team’s exceptional performances last season.
“It was very exciting to see the team do so well again. I wasn’t surprised of the outcome because of the amount of skilled players and the great turnout from the fans. I can’t wait for what the team will do next year,” said junior student, Eric Rothman.
Trudi Ann Patrick led the girls’ varsity swimming team this season by grabbing first place in the 100 yard butterfly at the New York State Championship. After a first place finish in the 100 yard fly and the 50 yard freestyle at the Nassau County championships, Jericho’s Patrick moved on to the State Championship, finishing off an impressive season for herself as well as for Jericho’s swimming program.
The county champion badminton team, state champion soccer team, and state champion Trudi Ann Patrick were all recognized by the community at the High School Fall Athletic Recognition Night. After a productive fall season, athletes and community members alike anticipate a great start of the Winter Athletic Season for Jericho sports.