Late-stage injuries plagued Newburgh Free Academy when the lights were brightest last season, as indicated by the Goldbacks’ scoreless collapse in the Section IX Class AAA title game. The 2025 season offers the returning starters a fresh start, a chance of redemption. Especially goalkeeper Isaac Ortega, whose clean sheet couldn’t corral the Goldback victory over the one-seed Monroe-Woodbury.

The Goldbacks finished with more wins on the season than shots on goal in the title game.With just eight shots on target through two overtime periods, the Goldbacks’ shootout effort ultimately fell short at Middletown’s Faller Field. Ortega kept the Crusaders at bay, including key saves in overtime to keep the scoreboard clear. The offense just couldn’t push through. One final whistle marked the end of NFA’s illustrious season, but also a point of reflection.

Undefeated for seven straight games to start last season’s campaign, the Goldbacks appeared set for a top section finish. Seven losses and three wins followed the scalding start; nestled in third place in the Class, NFA were one goal from the Class AAA championship. Last season, the Goldbacks boasted a 6-3 conference record (10-7-1 overall) after a blazing hot start to their campaign. In seven straight games without a defeat, NFA outscored opponents 24-4, with four shutouts.

Of NFA’s regular reason starting 11, four graduated in spring. All-section captain Nick Thomaz brought his talents to SUNY Ulster. Larry Robinson’s experience will be missed. Frank Madato and Jordy Moran, both injured in the title game, leave a hole in the midfield and a legacy for the younger teammates to step into. NFA has a tall order for its Class AAA rivals in Kingston, Middletown, Monroe-Woodbury, and Pine Bush. For a less experienced crew, maybe.

Returning title game starters include Justin Saravia, Gio Ochoa and Kevin Meza, along with the junior duo of Piero Altamirano and Roger Cando.

The squad has circled one date in particular. September 25. The penultimate game of NFA’s month will bring a rematch of that championship game, this time on Monroe-Woodbury’s territory. Ortega will be, once more, need to be the wall for this NFA squad against the defending champions. With more to gain than just redemption, NFA will be clawing back for more.