Soccer Goalkeeper Danny Moscoso Shines as Football Kicker for South Elgin

Senior kicker Danny Moscoso is known for handling pressure at South Elgin, normally as the goalkeeper for the Storm’s boys soccer team. Over two soccer seasons, Moscoso encountered many critical situations. However, during the summer, he chose to explore a different kind of football by trying out as a kicker for the football team.

When asked about managing pressure in football, Moscoso responded, “In this sport, no, but in soccer, yes.” He referenced significant moments in soccer matches. “Last year, I faced a lot of pressure. I’m familiar with it,” he added.

On Friday, Moscoso faced an intense scenario to conclude a high-stakes game against West Aurora. With the Upstate Eight West title at stake, Moscoso successfully kicked a 32-yard field goal with four seconds remaining, securing a thrilling 29-27 victory for South Elgin.

This marked the first time Moscoso made a field goal in a game. Other players contributed as well: Oliver Johnston and Carter McDonald tossed touchdown passes, Lamari Smith ran for 158 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries, Diesel Fecarotta blocked a punt and scored in the end zone, and Semaj Collier caught nine passes for 100 yards and a touchdown.

On the opposing team, West Aurora’s Tyler Fecht threw touchdown passes to Richard Bell Jr. and Brendon Salach and caught an 11-yard touchdown pass from Bell. Michael Williams rushed for 81 yards and a touchdown.

Toward the end, South Elgin had three choices: attempt a touchdown, have regular kicker Jeffrey Espana try the field goal after executing an onside kick, or give Moscoso a chance. Head coach Pat Pistorio praised Moscoso’s long-distance kicks during practice, saying, “He’s a competitor. He had the right look in his eyes and assured me he could do it.” The coach trusted him to perform under pressure.

South Elgin had squandered a two-touchdown lead but found an opportunity to tie with 1:18 left in the fourth quarter. McDonald connected with Collier for a 23-yard touchdown, but the attempt for a two-point conversion failed. After recovering an onside kick, they regained momentum.

The team faced a fourth-and-7 situation on the Blackhawks’ 16-yard line. McDonald shifted rapidly from quarterback to holder. “The snap was high, but I got it down for the team,” McDonald explained. He allowed Moscoso to concentrate without interruption.

When Moscoso joined football camp in July, he ensured he was ready. He noted, “You have to be prepared at all times. If given the chance, I had to perform my best. Nervousness is natural, but I let it come to me.” Reflecting on the opportunity, he appreciated the support from his teammates.

South Elgin is now one victory away from securing the conference title. The unpredictable match on Friday placed them in a promising position. “It was a fantastic game,” Coach Pistorio expressed. “We’re enthusiastic about watching our program develop. This is why we play.”

Paul Johnson is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.