Rebirth of a soccer program
The women’s soccer program at Putnam Science Academy lay dormant until 2025. That is when the school decided it would bring back the women’s program to the school’s sports catalog. Coach Matt Johnson has the Mustangs off to a stellar start. He attributes the early success of the program to a summer connection through WhatsApp where the team and Johnson “shared our experiences and journey with one another as way to connect and get to know each other from both a player and person stand point. So upon arrival there was already an immediate connection and sense of chemistry.”
Manolea Silva and Gabriela Mendes have served as the ammonium nitrate and fuel oil, a concoction creating an offensive explosion. Silva and Mendes have combined for 15 goals through the team’s first seven games. Other contributions have come from Luana Mendes and Vega Larru who are starting off the season on the right foot.
One of the areas that Johnson has stressed through the early goings is the process rather than results. The team participated in various noncompetitive team building challenges to grasp the concept of equal acceptance and not having to worry about their performance, he said: “I encourage the players to be brave, confident in their abilities individually and as a team, to take chances and play without fear of mistakes, as this is their experience and should enjoy the journey and moments together as a team.”
Johnson praised coach Chris Steele, the men’s prep coach and director of Soccer Operations at Putnam Science Academy, for putting together such an incredibly talented group of young players. Players who have equal success in the team’s strong start and those that put their desires for individual accomplishments in the rear view while helping to build their teammates up for the betterment for the team overall. Johnson said he sees the “unlimited potential” and the capability of the team to compete against elite competition.
“We will continue to develop as a team, build our chemistry and focus on supporting each other through good sportsmanship, hard work and a desire to compete”, he said. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the rebirth of the Putnam Science Academy women’s soccer program is alive and aglow with colors of potential and success. Assembled on the pitch these collections of Mustangs are equipped for greatness.
Ben Heacox
Sports Information Director
Putnam Science Academy
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PSA men's soccer: A season of promise
As the new season approaches, the Putnam Science Academy (PSA) men’s soccer team is generating considerable excitement and anticipation.
Coach Christopher Steele, known for his strategic acumen and commitment to player development, has provided valuable insights into what makes this team special and what fans can expect in the coming months.
Notably, PSA is currently ranked #24 in the United States prep school rankings, a testament to their hard work and potential.
Steele said: “We have a group of players who are not only skilled but also eager to learn and improve,” he noted. “The opportunity to mold this talent and create a cohesive unit is what I find most thrilling. I am confident that as the season progresses, we will see significant development both individually and collectively.” This focus on continuous improvement and team cohesion sets a promising tone for the season.
Identifying the team’s greatest strength, Steele highlighted the team’s overall balance and depth: “Our strength lies in the collective effort and quality across all positions. We have talented players in every area of the field, and there are very few gaps in our lineup. This balance allows us to be competitive in all phases of the game and provides flexibility in our tactical approach.” With such comprehensive strength, PSA is well-prepared to handle the challenges of the season.
He added: “I want this team to be known for being tough and resilient. We will be relentless in our work ethic, disciplined in our approach, and highly organized in our play. We will never give up, and we will always compete with integrity and sportsmanship.”
What truly distinguishes this year’s team, he said, is the players’ character and unwavering commitment. “What makes this team special is the character of the players. They are willing to work hard, sacrifice for the team, and maintain a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity. Their dedication to each other and to the program is truly remarkable.” This combination of talent, character, and commitment creates a unique and promising dynamic within the team.
Ben Heacox
Sports Information Director
Putnam Science Academy
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PSA football fallsto Anna Maria
The Putnam Science Academy football team took on Anna Maria College Sept. 14 in its season opener but lost, 28-26.
Down 28-14 at the half the Mustangs showed heart and toughness to come back in the second half, but ultimately fell short.
Wide receiver Ronald Florian-Moreta was outstanding with nine catches for 250 yards. He hauled in two touchdowns as well as a two-point conversions. Kalil Barno threw for two touchdowns while helming the offense.
As for the defense, linebacker Talon Staggs went off with eight total tackles, three tackles for loss. Fellow linebacker JJ Moore also had himself a day, with seven total tackles, three sacks and a fumble recovery.
Though it was not the desired result the Mustangs wanted, coach Moot Zimmerman said they showed heart, grit and resiliency. The team never folded, they fought hard and showed the true heart of a Mustang. PSA’s next game is Sept. 20, facing Navy.
Ben Heacox
Sports Information Director
Putnam Science Academy
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Sr. Lorraine Deziel,
DHS
WINDHAM — Sr. Lorraine Deziel, DHS, 88, a member of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit, entered into her eternal rest Sept. 5, 2025, at St. Joseph Living Center in Windham where she had been in residence since 2024.
Marie Lorraine was born Oct. 10, 1936, in Waterbury, the middle daughter of Donat and Azeline (Grenier) Deziel. She entered religious life in 1956 and made her religious profession on April 9, 1958. She was then known as Sr. Antoine de l’Enfant Jesus.
After receiving a bachelor’s in education with a minor in theology from Diocesan Sister’s College, South Woodstock, Sr. Lorraine taught in elementary schools in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont and Quebec. An accomplished musician, she also gave piano lessons, directed school and DHS choirs and composed several musical pieces. Retiring from education in 1997, she served the congregation as an administrative assistant and receptionist. In 2019 Sr. Lorraine moved to The Card Home in Willimantic before joining the community at St. Joseph Living Center in 2024.
She leaves the Daughters of the Holy Spirit spiritual family – her Sisters in community, the Consecrated Seculars, the Associates; and a niece, Diane Colucia. She was predeceased by her sisters Doris LaMothe and Claire Cote. Visitation is at 10 a.m. Sept. 23 at Corpus Christi Parish/ St Joseph Church, 99 Jackson St., Willimantic, with a prayer service at 10:15 a.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. followed by burial in St. Mary Cemetery in Putnam at 2:30 p.m. Donations: DHS Retirement Fund, P.O. Box 497, Putnam, CT 06260. The Gilman-Valade Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam.
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