Westmoreland County athletes of the week: Hempfield’s Jiana Patterson, Latrobe’s Roman Agostoni

By: Bill Beckner Jr.
Saturday, August 31, 2024 | 2:52 PM

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Jiana Patterson

School: Hempfield

Class: Junior

Sport: Soccer

Claim to fame: Patterson, a transfer from Greensburg Central Catholic, has made an immediate impact with the Spartans. The talented forward scored two goals as Hempfield defeated North Hills, 2-1, to break an 18-game losing streak. Patterson also scored a goal in the season-opening loss to Connellsville. Hempfield finished 1-17 last season and scored three goals while allowing 151. Patterson also has two assists this season. Her career goal total is 35, and she said she would like to reach 50 before she graduates next year.

How has your transition been going from GCC to Hempfield?

Challenging but also exciting. Moving from a smaller school like GCC to a much bigger one like Hempfield has definitely been an adjustment. There are more people, which means more competition, but I feel like it’s pushing me to become a better player.

Did you know Hempfield was on an 18-game losing streak?

I had no idea, but I can tell you that playing under coach Jim Jones is a game changer for us. Our team is determined to turn things around this season. Anytime I step on the field, I’m focused on doing my best to put us in a position to win.

What has the biggest difference for you been going from Class A to Class 6A soccer?

Definitely the level of competition. In Class 6A, the players are faster, stronger and the game is much more physical, which makes the goals not as easy. I’ve had to really up my game, both mentally and physically, to keep up.

Have any colleges shown interest in you?

I’ve had interest from a variety of schools, at all levels (Division I, II and III). I am also thinking about how track might play into my college decision. What I love the most about the recruitment process is going to visit these programs, either directly or for camps and learning more about the style of play, educational opportunities and culture. But, it’s still early, and I’m just focusing on improving my game for now.

What position are you playing compared to where you played at GCC?

During my time at GCC, I was playing more of a wing position and would sometimes get put at striker. At Hempfield, I play up top most of the time and depending on the game situation I will move to midfield or defense.

Fill in the blank: I can’t play a soccer game unless I ______.

Have my mom seated or standing on the side we are attacking and having my dad in a bright color, Clemson shirt, anywhere in the stands. Knowing I have the most important people in my life at my matches supports and motivates me to give 110%.

What is your fondest memory of playing with the “Exact 11” team in the spring in London?

Definitely scoring and assisting in one of our international matches. Playing in London was an amazing experience all-in-all, but those goals and celebrating with my teammates is something I’ll never forget. Oh, and having Chinese food on Easter, that was definitely new to me.

How much did track and field help you with soccer conditioning?

Track and field played a huge role in improving my endurance and speed, which have been crucial on the soccer field, especially for sprinting and maintaining energy throughout the game. But I have to give a lot of credit to my former track coach, Mr. Mike Brewer (at GCC). He really helped me channel the conditioning and discipline from track into my soccer performance. The pressure of winning or losing in track as an individual also taught me how to handle high-stakes moments in soccer, making me a stronger and more focused player.

What is one of your favorite hobbies?

Photography, shopping and organizing.

What celebrity would you most like to meet?

Sophia Smith. Not only is she an incredible soccer player, but she is confident on and off the field and that is something I really admire. It’s funny — my name was actually going to be Sophia, so I feel an extra connection to her as well.

Who is your biggest fan?

I can’t choose just one person because my parents (James and Jill), are both my biggest fans, hands down. No matter how busy their schedules are, they’re always there to support me and take me wherever I need to go. Their encouragement pushes me to be the best I can be, and there’s nothing better than knowing I make them proud. I guess I should mention my brother too; he’s kind of annoying, but I love crushing him in any competition. I know in time he will be an even better athlete than I am.

Do you have any pets?

I have a bunny named Jack, who’s named after my late grandfather, Jack Moyher. We got him from our family friends, the Tannerys, down in Clemson, which made it even more special. Jack’s a little reminder of my grandfather and the strong connection we still have with Clemson.

What is your favorite subject in school?

Sports medicine at my tech school is my favorite subject right now. I love learning about why certain injuries happen to athletes like me and how to treat them properly. But I also really enjoy chemistry. I was a bit of a chemistry wiz last year, and it’s still a subject that fascinates me.

Generally speaking, what makes you happy and what makes you sad?

Playing soccer and spending time with my friends and family makes me happy. I love when I can just have fun and be myself without stressing too much. On the other hand, underperforming in the sport I love most makes me sad, but I try to learn from those moments and keep going.

Roman Agostoni

School: Latrobe

Class: Senior

Sport: Soccer

Claim to fame: Agostoni had a big week in helping Latrobe improve to 2-1 with wins against West Mifflin (3-1) and Uniontown (9-3). He scored five goals, three against Uniontown, and added three assists. He and his sophomore brother, Warren, scored five goals against the Red Raiders.

“He’s a leader and captain of the squad,” Latrobe coach Jake Rice said. “I’m counting on him.”

How big were the wins this week?

They were huge. We found our groove this week. We have three of four new starters, and we need them to adjust to playing up on the varsity level.

What’s it like to play with your brother?

It’s a lot of fun. We have good chemistry. I started playing in eighth grade, and my brother and I started playing together last year.

How was your season in 2023?

I scored 17 goals to lead the team, and my brother led the team in assists with 12.

What are your goals and the team goals?

Last year we finished 13-3 and qualified for the WPIAL for the first time in years. We had good chemistry, but we lost to WPIAL champion South Fayette. The goal is to make the playoffs and go as far as possible.

Who got you involved in soccer?

May dad (Erik) played in high school at Ringgold and at Saint Vincent. Supposedly, he was pretty good.

Do you hope to play in college?

I have an offer from Robert Morris and interest from Memphis. I used to play ice hockey, but now I’m focused on playing at the highest level.

What’s the last movie you watched?

“Peanut Butter Falcon.” It’s about a boy with Down Syndrome who wants to be a professional. I love the movie.

What music do you listen to prior to a game?

I listen to rap, hip hop and country. My favorite musician is Travis Scott.

What do you eat as a pregame meal?

Pasta, chicken and noodles.

What’s your favorite meal your mom makes?

Stuffed shells. My mom used to make it for my birthday.

Where do you and your teammates head to for a snack after a game or practice?

We head to Sheetz. My brother and I get hot dogs.

What is your favorite vacation spot?

We’ve traveled to Europe and Iceland. That was a lot of fun.

Do you have a dream vacation spot?

I’d love to visit Northern Italy.

Do you have a dream car?

Audi R-8.

Who is your favorite athlete?

I love watching Lionel Messi.

If you could have lunch with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

Former President George Washington. I love history and would love to listen to him.

Bill Beckner Jr. is a TribLive reporter covering local sports in Westmoreland County. He can be reached at bbeckner@triblive.com.

Tags: Hempfield