Leadership looks different on every team, but for Giulianna Marie Ruggiero and Darryl Small, serving as captains has given them a chance to learn more about what it means to lead their teammates. Giulianna is a junior on the West Haven volleyball team, while Darryl is a senior on the football team. Both shared some of their favorite memories, lessons from their seasons, and plans for life after high school.
Giulianna recalled the moment that stood out most to her this season. “My favorite memory from this season is seeing everyone get emotional after winning. It made me realize how much hard work we put in and how much the win meant to all of us,” she said.
She also reflected on what being a captain has taught her. “Being a captain has taught me how to become a better leader, communicate effectively, and support my teammates. I’ve learned the importance of setting a good example and understanding that everyone operates differently on the court. It has also taught me how to adjust my communication and find the right things to say to help my teammates feel more confident,” Giulianna said.
Darryl's favorite memory dates back to his sophomore season, when West Haven faced Fairfield Prep in the playoffs. “My favorite memory comes from my sophomore year when I made a huge tackle on kickoff against Fairfield Prep in the playoffs. It felt good to contribute as a sophomore, especially against a team that beat us earlier in the season. Winning the game and going to the championship felt even better because I made a play I would remember for the rest of my life,” he said.
Darryl also shared how his perspective on leadership has changed since becoming a captain. “Something I learned being a captain this year is that even if it doesn’t seem like it, others are always analyzing your actions. It’s easy to do the wrong thing, take a play off, or take a day off from practice until you realize there are players who look up to you. Even when it doesn’t seem like it, you are always a role model and a reflection of your team, and your actions may be interpreted differently depending on others’ perceptions,” he said.
Outside of their respective sports, both students have found other ways to make an impact. Giulianna takes pride in maintaining good grades while balancing school, volleyball, and her other responsibilities. Darryl is proud of his involvement with the Unified team and Peer Advocates, which give him opportunities to help others and treat people with respect.
Looking beyond high school, Giulianna plans to continue her education in college and is beginning to map out where she would like to attend. Darryl plans to pursue nursing school, with an interest in the medical field and helping others.
When reflecting on the people who have helped shape them, Giulianna pointed to her father. “My father has helped me become the person I am today. He has attended every game and has always been my number one fan, biggest supporter, and critic. He is always there when I need him, and I appreciate everything he does for me,” she said.
Darryl named Joey Copela, a former senior captain, as someone who influenced him both on and off the field. “He was a senior captain like I am now, and he influenced me a lot on and off the field. Joey influenced me to lift a lot of weights and play hard to the whistle,” Darryl said.
The lessons Giulianna and Darryl have learned as captains extend beyond the volleyball court and football field. Whether it is communicating with others, setting an example, or recognizing the impact their actions can have, both will carry those experiences with them as they move on from West Haven High School and into the next chapter of their lives.