
With the 2025 Toll Gate boys’ soccer season finally coming to a halt, this gives us an opportunity to reflect on their season and talk to some of their players. The team is division III and made a run through the playoffs making it to the DIII championship. The star that shined the brightest throughout the playoffs was Greg Laliberte who started with us his freshman and sophomore year and transferred to the private Catholic school Mt. Saint Charles. In his final season with the Titans, most definitely being his best season yet, Greg scored a miraculous 4 goals out of 3 games in the playoffs, and 15 goals throughout the entire season almost having a goal per game. He was also awarded the tournament MVP for the playoffs and was ranked #5 in the entire state of Rhode Island.
Question: How long have you been playing soccer, and what originally got you interested?
Answer: I’ve been playing soccer since I was about five years old. I originally started playing baseball then quickly realized that wasn’t for me and being an athlete I wanted to find out which sport I wanted to play and honestly I just fell in love with soccer mainly because of the fast-paced and competitive style.
Question: What does representing our school on the pitch mean to you?
Answer: It means a lot to me especially after transferring back from Mount Saint Charles. Wearing the Titans jersey is an honor, you’re not just playing for yourself. You’re also playing for your teammates, the school, and representing Gianna Cirelli.
Question: How do you prepare mentally and physically before a big game?
Answer: Physically I make sure I’m well rested by trying to get to bed around at least 10 O’clock every night. I also make sure I eat healthy and stay hydrated. Mentally I visualize the game in my head ensuring I play with confidence and I am composed, making every right move I can. Honestly, staying calm is easy, I’ve been doing this my whole life.
Question: What has contributed the most to your success this season?
Answer: Consistency and hard work. All of our players are very coachable, our practices were fast paced and overall great learning experiences, and our goalie Gavin really stepped it up this year as well. Practices are intense and everyone pushes each other to get better.
Question: What role have your coaches played in helping you grow as a player?
Answer: The coaches have been huge in my development. They push us to be disciplined, hold us accountable, and always believe in us, even when things aren’t going perfectly.
Question: How do you balance academics with being a student-athlete?
Answer: Time management is key. I try to stay on top of my schoolwork so I don’t fall behind, and I use free time wisely. Being a student-athlete has taught me responsibility.