High school soccer: Denny Ciornei steps down as Highland boys coach

GRANGER TWP. — Denny Ciornei made a commitment to changing the culture of the Highland boys soccer team. A former goalkeeper for the Cleveland Force and Cleveland Crunch indoor teams, Ciornei had his life change earlier this year on a professional level but made a promise to coach the Hornets one more season and see his son's senior year through. That season ended Saturday, and Ciornei resigned to become the keeper coach for the Cleveland Force, which will begin play in the United Soccer League as an outdoor team in 2023. "Ultimately, I've always loved this community and wanted to give back some of my knowledge," Ciornei said. "Whether that worked or not, that's to be seen, but I've always tried to change the culture of that program. It looks like it's going in the right direction. "Because it's where I live and where I envision to be home, it's always going to be part of me. Highland has a very special place in my heart. It's a great community with great people. They've made me always want to do more. It's home." Ciornei, 53, went 23-40-7 over three seasons. He went 8-9-1 this season and the team's record improved every year. What's more, Highland grew as a unit under Ciornei, who has preached culture from the moment he took over. "I always want to be linked to that program, no matter where life takes me locally or internationally," Ciornei said. "I want to be part of this growth because I started this family tradition and brotherhood. The friendship and bonds that were created is something for us as a community is an extension of what I am. "It's something I wanted to bring into this organization. I want it to be a part of me going forward." Highland will post the position internally for 10 days before opening it externally and beginning the interview process. The Hornets graduate 10 seniors from the 2021 program, including leading scorers Niko Verginis (8 goals, 1 assist), Avery Gerney (5, 5) and Gavin Niese (6, 0). That will put the onus on players like sophomore Alex Curtis (5, 1) and Jack Hedden (2, 1) to pick up the slack. "It will be important to build onto the success of this season moving forward into the offseason," athletic director Nick Ranallo said. Contact Brad Bournival at Bournival929@gmail.com.