Dylan Lopez, a promising 16-year-old midfielder from Ronkonkoma, has made headlines by signing with Long Island’s newest soccer team, the Fighting Tomcats, a squad in the National Premier Soccer League. As the youngest player on the team, Lopez expresses both excitement and humility, acknowledging that he will be playing alongside athletes who are much older and have substantial experience. His move to join the Tomcats is seen as a unique opportunity to sharpen his skills and prepare for a higher level of competition. With aspirations of playing professional soccer in Spain, Lopez is on the verge of an exciting stage in his athletic career.
The Fighting Tomcats, formally known as the American Soccer Club, are committed to fostering local talent. According to owner Jim Kilmeade, a soccer icon in Massapequa and brother of Fox News host Brian Kilmeade, the team’s mission is to identify and launch players into European soccer careers. To further this goal, the Tomcats are also establishing a free youth academy on Long Island, aiming to nurture the next generation of soccer players in the community. This initiative speaks volumes about the club’s dedication to local development and the promotion of soccer within the region.
Lopez’s contract with the Tomcats is particularly noteworthy as it allows him the flexibility to continue playing for his competitive Atlantic United travel team as well as for Connetquot High School in the upcoming fall season. He emphasizes the rarity of such opportunities for aspiring soccer players on Long Island, highlighting that players in Europe often receive more chances to advance their careers. This unique arrangement not only facilitates his growth as a player but also underscores the importance of balancing various commitments while pursuing a dream.
Family support plays a crucial role in Lopez’s journey, and he expresses deep gratitude for his mom and twin brother, Brandon, who have been instrumental in his development as a player. Brandon, who is just a minute younger than Dylan, has been his lifelong teammate, providing both competition and encouragement on the field. Their sibling rivalry has fostered a mutual drive for improvement, and Brandon’s excitement for Dylan’s new opportunity adds an emotional layer to this achievement. This familial bond is significant for Lopez as he prepares to embark on this new chapter in his soccer journey.
In addition to his soccer commitments, Lopez juggles his job as a food runner at Stella Trattoria in Blue Point. Upon receiving the news of his signing, he felt compelled to call out of work, reflecting the magnitude of the moment. His friends and family are eagerly anticipating what lies ahead, and Lopez anticipates a rewarding senior year filled with both academic and athletic achievements. This newfound recognition is expected to add a vibrant chapter to his final year of high school, allowing him to embrace the spotlight while pursuing his passion.
As the weekend arrives, the community is also engaged in charitable events, including two 5K runs benefiting important causes. The “Hope Is Here” run, aimed at raising awareness for parental mental health, takes place at First Responders Memorial Park in Islandia. Concurrently, the Sayville Fire Department is hosting its annual 5K, emphasizing community engagement and support for local issues. While Lopez prepares for his soccer debut with the Fighting Tomcats and proudly shares his journey, the community around him also rallies together, showcasing the spirit of collaboration and support in Long Island.
