MANHASSET, N.Y. — When the opportunity for the Manhasset Varsity Boys’ Soccer Team to play in a tournament in Italy this past August, everyone was more than game to participate. Thanks to a longtime friendship between Coach Mark Giardino and his former high-school teammate, Mike Lopipero—who currently resides in Porto San Giorgio on Italy’s Adriatic coast—the Manhasset team and their families got to take the trip of a lifetime.

Through an exchange program run by Lopipero’s wife, Sara, the idea was hatched several years ago to bring Giordino’s Manhasset soccer team to Italy for tournament play with local teams. “In 2017, we went as a program and had an amazing experience,” shares the coach. “They hosted our program again this past summer and did an amazing job.”

Game one on August 5th against Borgorosseli Calcio resulted in a win for the Manhasset boys, with goals from Gabriel Alcaraz, Aidan Bebber, Gianluca Bebber, Matt Varela, Manny Giouroukakis and Nic Ras. The next day, Manhasset lost 3-2 in a tight game against Elite Sangiorgese, with goals scored by Alcaraz and Chris Infranco. But the third time was the charm with a 5-3 win over Mandolesi Calcio, thanks to goals from Giouroukakis, Aidan Bebber and a hat trick by Alcaraz.

The trip wasn’t all about soccer, however, as the group was able to take an excursion together to Torre Di Palme, a lovely little treasure considered to be among the most beautiful small villages in the country. In addition to the tournament play, good times were had, great food was eaten and lasting friendships and memories were made—all of which brings new meaning to the phrase “soccer goals!”

Varsity Boys Who Attended

Gabe Alcaraz

Aidan Bebber

Gianluca Bebber

Stefano Bebber

Pearce Bernstone 

Dylan Bordieri 

Anthony Embriano

Peter Flood

Manny Giouroukakis

Chris Infranco

Gianluca Milazzo

Joe Milazzo

Jack Petersen

Nic Ras

Matt Varela

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