The University of Tampa’s men’s soccer team concluded its season finishing 3-10-2 but has a promising core group of players to improve next year’s game. Starting midfielder Dominic Cutrofello, is a junior on the team and one of these promising players according to Coach Adrian Bush; he says that Cutrofello has the ability to be a leader.
“Dominic is definitely a potential captain for the team next year due to the strong leadership presence he has,” Coach Bush said. “And how that carries over to the mentality of the team.”
Bush acknowledged the team’s difficult season but says, “With players like Dominic [who was the team’s second leading scorer] the opportunities for more successes are there.”
Cutrofello is from Land O Lakes, Fla. and has been playing soccer since he could walk.
He says that if he is going to be the leading scorer next year he needs to get more touches on the ball and play higher up the field.
“It may help since the team’s current leading scorer will have graduated,” he said, referencing senior Ryan Griffin.
As a transfer student from Florida Atlantic University, Cutrofello says the coaching staff has really helped him improve his game.
“Coach always has a positive attitude, he wants to win, and most importantly he knows the game,” Cutrofello said.
The conclusion of the season marks a full year with Cutrofello playing for the Spartans. His teammates direct a lot of praise toward him.
“Dominic is good at finding space to play in, and assists with good service from the back line,” says Brian Fekete, a starting left back for the team. Another junior on the team, Anthony Carrabotta says. “Dominic has a good first touch and a really strong work ethic in games and practices.” Carrabotta is from White Plains, N.Y. and spent the summer with Fekete and Cutrofello in New England playing soccer in different camps, working on their technique and fitness levels.
Some of the players’ favorite memories of the season include the first win at home against Lynn, a game Cutrofello scored in, as well as an impressive come-back against Flagler where they scored four goals in the second half of the game.
“Dominic’s presence on the field is known and he has the respect of his teammates and us as his coaches,” Coach Bush said. “If he focuses on his speed of play I think he will be an even bigger threat on the field,” Coach Bush added, being sure to include that Cutrofello works hard and expects a lot from himself. “A great teammate and a great player,” was how Coach Bush summed up Cutrofello.
Cutrofello is humble when he’s discussing his future in soccer.
“Anything,” he said. “I don’t care where or who takes me, just as long as I am playing.”
Rebecca Casey can be reached at rcasey@spartans.ut.edu