John McCarthy is the
pride of the Falcons

By Melissa Yerkov
Times Sports Editor

Although he usually stands alone on the pitch, John McCarthy has never felt more like a team player.
The North Catholic goaltender looks forward to the start of soccer season, having helped the Falcons achieve a 4-2 record in the preseason.
"All throughout preseason, it’s been a team effort," said McCarthy. "We’re playing really well. I think this is just a preview of the upcoming year. It’s going to be a great season."
Despite North Catholic’s preseason ending with a 1-0 loss to Strath Haven on Monday, the Falcons are feeling confident about the upcoming season.
"The team works together very well," said head coach Jerry Brindisi. "I want to see them play great soccer this year. They work hard and they have the skill."
The high hopes will continue on Friday, as the Falcons face off against Bonner in the season opener.
"Hopefully we can get another North Catholic championship title this year," said McCarthy. "The team gets along and works together really well. We mess around and have fun together, but we’re also working really hard and helping one another."
In the 78 years since its inception, the North Catholic soccer program has earned a solid reputation for two things — teamwork and tradition.
And while McCarthy is still considered one of the "new guys" on the team, the sophomore already has a genuine respect for both.
"North has a great soccer program," said McCarthy, 15. "It’s an incredible experience to be here, and I’m working hard to help the team any way I can."
His passion for soccer has been more than a decade in the making. And as that devotion grows stronger, so does his game.
"Andrew is still young, but he is very enthusiastic," said Brindisi. "He loves being at North and he loves soccer. And that certainly comes across when he’s on the field."
McCarthy will have some good teachers to help refine his play this season. Brindisi has led North Catholic for 18 years, a tenure that has included three titles for the Falcons.
"Brindisi is great," said McCarthy. "He helps the team a lot. He gives us what we need, and he never lets us quit."
McCarthy also is receiving plenty of guidance from team captains Tom Kalpokas, Tom Petroski and Steve Lobley.
"They’ve been good leaders so far," said McCarthy. "They always have a positive attitude and they’ve really helped me."
The Mayfair resident has been playing soccer since he was old enough to kick a ball. In addition to the Falcons, McCarthy plays for the Philadelphia Soccer Club Coppa team and the Olympic Development Program state team. ODP is a national development program that allows talented players to develop their skills and compete in various international soccer tournaments.
McCarthy learned about the ODP squad last year and has already traveled to Virginia, Delaware and Maryland, representing Pennsylvania in various competitions.
"This is my second year with the ODP team," he said. "We travel a lot, which is fun, and it gives me more experience and helps me with my attitude toward the team.
"I love the sport," he added. "I’ll play as often as I can. It’s all very exciting to me. I don’t know what I would do without soccer." ••
Sports editor Melissa Yerkov can be reached at 215-354-3035 or myerkov@phillynews.com