The return of the lion. But don’t call it a comeback, yet.
“I’ve been out since May 4, 2024,” said Giovanni D’Angelo ’27 . “It has been over a year” since he stepped foot on a soccer field to play a match.
After a great freshman year on varsity for Gio, expectations soared for his sophomore season. People anticipated growth and more maturity, but still expected that classic “W Gio” mentality. Some even said Gio had the heart of a lion, defined by optimism, domination, and discipline. Unfortunately for all, a major ACL tear, followed by other knee injuries, sidelined Gio’s sophomore season and made a comeback seem nearly impossible.
Gio noted, “I had some minor setbacks during the [freshman] season, but I didn’t have any knee injuries back then, those were all post-freshman seasons.” His game-winning goal against GA lives in Inter-Ac soccer infamy, like an urban legend. While Gio looked back on that highlight, Michael Goff ’26 looked ahead.
Michael did not go to SCH for Gio’s freshman year. He said, “I’ve never even seen Gio play, but I am ecstatic. I’ve heard rumors about his talents, and I could not be more excited to see him out on the pitch.” Michael’s words prove one thing: The Hillers can’t wait for Gio’s return.
Gio admitted, “My career has had some ups and downs, but from now on I’m looking to have some more ups.” Then, Gio told us the big news: “I’m back. I’ve been cleared for non-contact for the next four weeks. After that, I should be back for scrimmaging and then matches.” With a wide smile on his face, Gio stated, “By the beginning of October, I could be looking at playing a couple of matches with The Hillers.”
Not only are his teammates and fans excited for his return, but Gio feels “more fired up than I’ve ever been in my sixteen years of life.” Gio added that “we’re all hungry up. We’re here for revenge. We’re the underdogs, but we’re coming out on top.”
Finally, Gio thanked “everyone who’s been helping me throughout my journey, and you know, the journey doesn’t stop here, it’s just begun.”
For his teammates, Gio’s presence—whether on the sideline offering encouragement or soon on the field again—is a reminder of perseverance.
The lion is ready to roar again.