WAKEFIELD — The Wakefield Soccer Association recently held a Volunteer Appreciation Night to acknowledge the organization’s many volunteers.
The WSA volunteer of the year was awarded to Josh Caplin. This award is presented to a volunteer within WSA who has gone above and beyond in service to the membership and wider community. Caplin has been a coach for WSA for over 15 years, and has held his current board position of Travel Director for just over three years.
“Josh has continued to perform his role as WSA travel director despite all three of his daughters aging out of the traditional travel soccer program,” said Paul Paglierani who presented the award. “Travel directors have a vital role that encompasses navigating a wide range of issues. It requires a patient person who is readily available, day or night. They must make quick decisions and need to understand all rules and regulations at multiple age groups. WSA is extremely fortunate to have a Travel Director with a high level of intelligence, ability to mediate tense situations, devotion to the community and an absence of ego.”
The Stephen de Garavilla Award was presented to Adam Nagle. It is meant to recognize an individual who demonstrates exceptional commitment to holistic player development. The award was presented by Lee Millward, with an introduction by Mackenzie Arment, WSA Technical Director who said, “It’s with genuine joy and admiration that I congratulate Adam on being honored with the Stephen De Garavilla Award. Having had the privilege to work alongside both Adam and Stephen during my time in Wakefield, I can say this recognition couldn’t be more fitting—or more meaningful.
“What makes this award so special is that it celebrates not just outcomes, but the how and why behind the work. Like Stephen, you’ve shown that there’s no single path to success—just an unwavering commitment to doing right by your players. From the earliest ages, your focus has always been on the full picture of development: nurturing skills, building character, and ensuring kids find joy in this game we all love.
“Your willingness to step up and support goalkeeper training is a perfect example of that selfless, holistic approach—seeing needs and meeting them without hesitation, because you care about every player, every role, every team. Thank you for carrying the spirit of this award forward. Wakefield is lucky to have you.”
One of two Sean Buckley Awards was presented to Roger Marceau. This award is recognizes an individual who demonstrates exceptional commitment to core values of sportsmanship including team building, equality, inclusion, perseverance, and respect.
“Roger is a steady and generous presence in Wakefield’s youth sports community,” said Tim Fitzgerald. “Over the years, Roger has coached teams at every level within the Wakefield Soccer Association, always with a quiet focus on bringing kids together and helping them grow. He’s also been a regular on the sidelines of Wakefield Basketball, lending his time and energy wherever it’s needed. Whether stepping up to support the WSA board or jumping in to fill a coaching gap, Roger leads by example — encouraging teamwork, showing patience and creating space for every player to feel part of something bigger.”
Sharon Carlino was also presented with a Sean Buckley award.
“Sharon’s thoughtful approach to coaching has shaped the experience of countless players in Wakefield Soccer,” said Fitzgerald. “For over a decade, she has coached across both the boys and girls programs, bringing steady leadership and a deep understanding of what makes a team truly work. Sharon has served on the WSA Board of Directors and continues to be a driving force behind efforts that bring players together — most notably through organizing the annual All 8th Grade Scrimmage, where every player is given a meaningful moment to celebrate their soccer journey.
“Whether on the field or behind the scenes, she’s known for encouraging players to push themselves while always keeping the team’s connection and spirit at the center.”