Siblings make CM soccer history

The Rotunda siblings made Center Moriches soccer history with a combined All-Conference, All-County, All-State, Exceptional Senior, and League MVP accolades.

“Great family! All of them are strong students, dynamic athletes and highly involved in the school community,” said the Center Moriches director of Health, PE, Athletics and Campus Safety and Management Jeremy Thode of the Rotundas. “All of them are extremely competitive and so supportive of each other. We are lucky to have to have them as part of the school and athletic program.”

The siblings represent two varsity soccer programs with twin seniors, Zack and Gia, and their younger brother Alex, who is a standout sophomore.

“Center Moriches High School is celebrating a rare and remarkable athletic milestone this season,” said their mother Jenn Rotunda. “Center Moriches has long been known for its soccer tradition, and this season that tradition took on a family name.”

Soccer, for the family, Jenn said, is more than a sport: “it’s a shared language, a family culture, and a standard of excellence that spans backyard practices, training sessions and team pasta parties to championship- level competition.”
Zack is a center back known for smart reads and reliability on the field anchoring the back line. He has received all-conference and exceptional senior recognition. The season also ended with an invitation to the 2025 Exceptional Senior All Star Game, where he not only competed among the region’s elite but helped lead his squad to victory. 

Gia is a five-year varsity athlete and a two-year captain.

“Her technical skill, competitive fire, and ability to control the tempo of a match make her a focal point every time she steps onto the field,” her coach Melissa Clifford, CM girls varsity soccer coach. “Her impact has not gone unnoticed, as coaches praise her versatility and heart, while spectators marvel at her relentless engine on the pitch.”

Gia was recognized at the highest levels as she earned All-County and All-State honors, solidifying her standing among the elite players in New York. She will continue playing soccer at the collegiate level with Saint Michael’s College, competing in the NCAA Division II women’s soccer league.

“Zack and Gia have worn their weight of leadership with quiet confidence and fierce determination,” she added, proud of her older children.

As for Alex, he is just beginning his career receiving All-Conference, All-County, League MVP and All State distinction in only his second varsity season. He plays midfield and attack.

“Alex brings precision, poise, and a soccer IQ beyond his years—attributes sharpened through countless hours of training, dedication and playing the game he loves most,” Jenn said.

Both Zack and Gia also received the 2025 Youth Volunteer Award honoring their character, leadership, and heart for helping others. They were awarded by supervisor Dan Panico in November of last year.

Despite not yet committing to a college, Zack said, as he looks ahead, his focus is on continuing to challenge himself both academically and athletically.

“I plan on pursuing a degree in physical education and health, combining my passion for learning with my love of sports,” he said. “Soccer has played a huge role in shaping who I am, and I intend to continue competing at the collegiate level, while growing as a student, an athlete and a leader.”

Gia will be playing Division II soccer at Saint Michael’s College in Vermont, where she will be pursuing a degree in elementary education.

“Soccer has always been more than just a sport to me; it has shaped the person I’ve become,” she said. “I’m excited to continue growing my skills, embracing new challenges, and contributing to the team’s success.”

As for Alex, he said he wants to continue to work hard, develop his skills, trust the process, and make the most of every opportunity.

“I’m excited for the next couple months as I will be playing at the ECNL Leader Cup in Indianapolis with my East Meadow soccer team, as well as, competing in the UPSL regionals with my Uruguayan Renegades team,” he said. “As for CMBVS… the goal is to bring home a state title with the combined effort of a very talented squad!”