The Ardsley boys soccer team has plenty of talent to push them toward a title this season, but their drive to win is fueled by the memory of a former teammate.

Harris Halperin would have been a senior this season. He made his debut on the varsity squad as a sophomore.

Last year, Halperin was diagnosed with lymphoma, taking him out of the lineup, but not out of the game.

"Almost every game I got a text from Harris asking what formation we were coming out in and giving me tips about what we were going to do," says coach Eric Petrone. "And without warning he would show up at a game or two in between therapy."

Halperin succumbed to the cancer in March. His loss was felt throughout the school.

The boys basketball team honored him while competing in the state playoffs. On the soccer team, the Panthers start every game a man down, fielding just 10 players with the 11th being reserved for Halperin at center back.

"We know he's with us, he starts every single game with us, he's a captain, he's still a leader on the team," says senior Eugenio Palau.

A scholarship will be given out in Halperin's name to an Ardsley senior who best exemplifies a positive attitude, a good work ethic and someone who thinks of others first.