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Baldwin Bruins ................................ 3 Calhoun Colts.................................. 4 Carey Seahawks .............................. 4 Clarke Rams.................................... 5 East Meadow Jets ........................... 5 East Rockaway Rocks...................... 6 Elmont Spartans ............................. 6 Freeport Red Devils ......................... 7 Glen Cove Big Red ........................... 9 Hempstead Tigers............................ 9 Hewlett Bulldogs ........................... 10 Kennedy Cougars ......................... 10 Lawrence Golden Tornadoes .......... 11 Locust Valley Falcons..................... 11 Long Beach Marines...................... 12 Lynbrook Owls ............................... 13 MacArthur Generals ...................... 15 Malverne Mules ............................. 15 Mepham Pirates ............................ 16 North Shore Vikings....................... 16 Oceanside Sailors ......................... 18 Oyster Bay Baymen ....................... 18 Seaford Vikings ............................. 19 Sewanhaka Indians ....................... 19 South Side Cyclones ..................... 21 Uniondale Knights ......................... 24 VS Central Eagles .......................... 24 VS North Spartans ........................ 25 VS South Falcons .......................... 27 Wantagh Warriors .......................... 31 West Hempstead Rams ................. 31
Section Editor TONY BELLISSIMO Section Coordinators COURTNEY MYERS LORI BERGER KAREN BLOOM Page Designer & Photo Processing JEFFREY A. NEGRIN Publisher STUART RICHNER Vice President of Operations MICHAEL BOLOGNA Vice President of Sales RHONDA GLICKMAN Executive Editor SCOTT BRINTON
Ryan Baci Calhoun High School Photo courtesy of Jennifer Baci
ON THE COVER
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Emily Zeisler - Carey High School - Photo courtesy of Dawn Zeisler
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2 — October 8, 2020
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The counTy’s eliTe senior aThleTes
BALDWIN BRUINS
TREY PARKINS
JOSH ANDERSON
BRIANA ESPERT
TESS FERGUSON
The dynamic 6-foot-3, 215-pound Parkins rushed for more than 600 yards in each of the past two years while helping the Bruins to the Conference I playoffs. “He’s big, strong and fast and really athletic,” coach Steve Carroll said. He’s a two-way starter who earned All-Conference honors in 2019. Ranks in the top 20 percent of the senior class.
Anderson got a taste of varsity soccer as a freshman, seerving as an outside defender. He helped the Bruins to the Class AA playoffs. After bouncing around the field and filling spots where coach Chris Soupios needed him most the past two years, the plan is for the versatile Anderson to start at center-back and anchor the defense as a senior.
A strong all-around player who never comes off the court, Espert is a four-year varsity outside hitter who last season averaged 10 kills per match and picked up Honorable Mention All-County recognition. “Her energy is contagious and she’s our most competitive and athletic player,” coach April Mosca said. Espert’s jump serve is tough to handle.
A three-year starter and captain, Ferguson helped the Lady Bruins make a run to the Nassau Class A championship game with a strong late-season surge. An inside forward or wing, coach Mike Hoover said she’ll serve as the team’s biggest offensive weapon. She earned All-Conference honors in 2019 and has won a variety of community service awards.
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Calhoun Colts
RYAN BACI
JAMES GAVNOUDIAS
AVA BAYAT Soccer
Cross-Country
Last year was a difficult one for the Colts on the scoreboard, but Baci displayed the type of leadership and steady play coach Brian Moeller is expecting to carry over into his senior campaign. A captain and two-way starter (defensive end/wide receiver), Baci is an aggressive ballhawk on defense and was named team MVP as a junior.
Gavnoudias made it backto-back All-Conference campaigns when as a junior captain in 2019 he led the Colts in goals with 5 and added a couple of assists. As a sophomore and freshman, he ranked second on the team in goals. He’ll be a four-year starter for coach Sal Montoya, and has spent time at forward and midfield.
An offensive midfielder by trade, Bayat made a smooth transition to sweeper to solidify the Lady Colts’ defense in 2019. She earned All-Class honors and will be a four-year varsity performer. “She’s super skilled and tough,” assistant coach Melissa Rohr said. Bayat also plays basketball, runs track and excels in the classroom as an honor student.
Dwyer runs in the lead pack on the course and in the classroom (101.2 GPA.) As a junior captain, she finished second in the Conference 2 championships, completing the 5K at Bethpage State Park in 21 minutes, 40 seconds, and followed by placing 14th in the county in 21:10. She’s also an All-County distance runner in track.
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FAITH DWYER
CAREY SEAHAWKS
ANTHONY DeNICOLA
JOSEPH MAROTTA
EMILY ZEISLER
BREANNA PULLO
DeNicola was one of a few Nassau football players to earn All-County honors as a junior. A four-year starter on both sides of the ball, as a captain he led the Seahawks in rushing for a second straight year (625 yards, 8 touchdowns) and stood out at linebacker with 72 tackles, including 19 for loss, and 3 forced fumbles. He’s also a four-year lacrosse starter.
A rock-solid defender who’s aggressive going forward and sparks the attack, Marotta is a three-year starting fullback. He helped the Seahawks to a 7-win regular season and a spot in the Class A quarterfinals in 2019, earning All-Conference honors in the process. He carries a 93 GPA. “He creates a lot of problems for opponents,” coach Matt Princi said.
A starter and key contributor to the Lady Seahawks’ undefeated conference championship team in 2019, Zeisler earned All-League honors. She had over 100 kills and 15 service aces. A consistent middle hitter/blocker who makes things happen at the net and from the service line, coach Nicole Sabbatino said: “Her effort and positive attitude are contagious.”
It’s been steady progression for Pullo throughout her time in the Lady Seahawks’ program and she’s expected to be a captain for her final season. She’s a third-year starting forward/midfielder who last fall scored 7 goals and earned AllConference honors. She plays travel soccer and is looking to play collegiately. “She uses her height to her advantage,” coach Lola Intagliata said..
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4 — October 8, 2020
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CLARKE RAMS
JOHN KERN
DOMINIC LAGNESE
ALESANDRA MELENDEZ
BIANCA PISCITELLI
A throwback player with passion for the sport, Kern thrived in a dual role for the Rams as a starting inside linebacker and fullback. He had 60 tackles, including 36 solo, and added 360 yards rushing and a touchdown. “He’s a tough, hard-nosed runner and defender with a desire to play at the next level,” coach Tim O’Malley said.
A four-year starter who’s contributed all over the field for the Rams and helped them to the Class A playoffs, Lagnese was Honorable Mention AllCounty in 2019 after being an All-Conference selection as a sophomore. He’ll close his career in a captain’s role. “He’s a selfless player who goes hard and leads by example,” coach Matt Germaine said.
With 8 goals and 6 assists, Melendez enjoyed a breakout 2019 and played an integral role in the Lady Rams’ 12-2 finish. An All-Conference striker seeking to compete at the next level, she’s a four-year starter and honor student. “She has a knack for finding the ball in traffic and is a strong finisher,” coach Becky Wachsberger said.
The main facilitator for the Lady Rams’ offense, Piscitelli is a four-year setter who last season led the team in assists and service aces. A club player and a positive influence on the court, she earned All-Conference honors as a junior despite battling injury. “She has a ridiculously powerful serve that stuns the competition,” coach Kristina Cavallo said.
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EAST MEADOW JETS
CHRIS BARRY
ERIC VELASQUEZ
ALEXANDER ‘AK’ KELLY
SCARLETT ESPINOSA
A two-way varsity starter (running back/linebacker), Barry led the 2018 Jets in touchdowns as a sophomore with 7 and was Honorable Mention All-County. As a junior captain, he was limited to four games due to injury but still managed 325 yards rushing and five touchdowns. “He’s a special athlete and an excellent student,” coach Doug Bange said.
Velasquez had a big season for the Jets in 2019, scoring 8 of their 18 goals on the way to earning All-Conference honors. Coach Bryan Horrmann said his presence was missed two years ago when he battled a hip injury. Velasquez has aspirations of playing at the next level and brings versatility, speed and excellent ball skills.
A returning starter and twotime recipient of the volleyball team’s Scholar Athlete Award (4.0 GPA), Kelly will be playing softball at Salve Regina University in R.I. The Lady Jets’ primary setter on the court and a captain, she helped lead them to a conference title in 2019. “She passes well and has a powerful serve,” coach Pat Burnside said.
Espinosa followed up an All-Conference sophomore campaign in 2018 with an All-County season as a junior, leading the defense for the Lady Jets. Gritty in the back row, she’s also capable of pushing the ball upfield on attack. She carries a 92 average in the classroom and is committed to play soccer at Mt. Olive in N.C.
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EAST ROCKAWAY ROCKS
JULIAN PALMER
DEREK RIVERA
ADRIANNA POLIZZI
ELISSA VELASQUEZ
Part of the Rocks’ program for six years, Palmer returns as the starting quarterback of an offense that relies heavily on misdirection and smart decisions. He’s also a returning starter at cornerback. In 2019, he had 105 yards rushing and a pair of touchdowns and completed 11 of 16 passes. “He’s stepped up as a leader,” coach Russ Pajer said.
A return to the soccer pitch can’t come soon enough for Rivera, who missed all of his junior year to a torn ACL. In 2018, he served as the starting sweeper and anchored the defense. He ignites the Rocks’ transition game. He’s also a member of the basketball team. “He’s a combination of toughness and finesse,” coach Robert Anderson said.
A returning starter coming off an Honorable Mention All-County season, Polizzi will be counted on heavily to run the offense and produce momentum swings from the service line. Last fall, the setter had 83 aces, with an 88-percent accuracy rate, and dished out 130 assists. She won the Rocks’ athletic department’s Award of Excellence in 2019 and carries a 99.4 GPA.
A year-round runner and twotime state qualifier in crosscountry, Velasquez earned the Scholar Athlete Award for both the fall and winter seasons of her junior campaign. She has already captained the indoor and outdoor track and field teams twice and is heavily involved in the music program. “She’s a pleasure to coach and a great role model,” coach Kenny Anderson said.
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Volleyball
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ELMONT SPARTANS
Football
KWEKU ASHON
Cross-Country
SANTONA JOSEPH
NATALYA RODNEY
A force on both sides of the trenches as a nose guard/ tackle on defense and the center on offense, Richardson earned All-County honors as a junior and will look to lead the Spartans deeper into the Conference II playoffs. He’s a three-year starter who coach Jay Hegi said can play at the next level. He’s also a top defender on the lacrosse field.
Entering his fourth seasons on the cross-country and track teams, Ashon, a captain, was primed for a big spring at the 800-meter distance before the season was canceled. As a sophomore, he was All-Conference in the 800 outdoors and placed 7th in Class 2A. “He’s a strong leader and totally committed to his teammates and school,” coach Michael Graham said.
Though she never played goalkeeper prior to her sophomore year in 2018, Joseph dove head-first into her new role and continues to emerge. Last year as the full-time starter, she made 75 saves to help the Lady Spartans to six victories. She carries a 3.4 GPA. “She’s high-spirited and does whatever it takes to make a save,” coach Renee Chin said.
A fourth-year runner on the trails, Rodney uses the crosscountry season to boost her conditioning level for indoor and outdoor track. Last winter, she was an All-State sprinter as part of the Lady Spartans’ Nassau Class B champion 4x200 relay. She’s also a captain. “She’s a strong leader who’s focused on her academic and athletic progress,” coach Michael Graham said.
6 — October 8, 2020
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FREEPORT RED DEVILs
ASAUNI ALLEN
CHRISTIAN QUINN
TATIANNA AUSTIN
MIA SORRENTINO
Entering his third varsity season and first as a featured rusher, Allen averaged a remarkable 15.6 yards on 34 carries in 2019, helping the Red Devils to a second straight Long Island Class I championship. He had 531 yards and 9 touchdowns and is also a starting defensive back. “He’s physical and knows our system,” coach Russ Cellan said.
After transferring from Massachusetts, where he played varsity football as a sophomore, Quinn bolstered the Red Devils’ secondary and contributed to their undefeated 2019 season. He captured the state long jump title in track and field. Now he’ll start on both sides of the ball. “He’s a tremendous athlete who can make things happen,” coach Russ Cellan said.
A third-year attacker who has blazing speed and leadership qualities, Austin enjoyed a breakout 2019 for the Lady Red Devils with 5 goals and 6 assists. The co-captain earned All-Class honors in the process. She plays soccer at the club level and is also a talented bowler. “She’s a scholar athlete and extremely focused,” coach Chris Doherty said.
With a strong serve, quick reflexes at the net and great communication skills, Sorrentino is an ideal doubles partner on the court. She’s a four-year varsity player and primed to move to No. 1 doubles and into a captain’s role after winning 10 matches last fall. “She’s an exceptional student and also part of the band,” coach Jen Lawlor said.
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GLEN COVE BIG RED
PHIL AGUILAR
MICHAEL BATTLE
ADDISON HUVANE
BRIANNA MALVINO
A three-sport starter, Aguilar was voted a captain for the upcoming football season by his teammates last fall. He’s a third-year varsity performer and a key two-way leader, serving as a versatile offensive lineman and linebacker. He had 40 tackles in 2019. Also a wrestler and lacrosse player. “We can use him anywhere and he’ll produce,” coach Steve Tripp said.
A four-year starter who controls the tempo in the middle of the field, Battle is seeking to take his talents to the next level. He earned All-Conference honors in 2019 while helping the Big Red to a 6-1-3 record in Conference A-1. He also plays basketball, baseball and track and has a GPA north of 90. “He’s so poised,” coach Brian Smith said.
A four-year starter who’s led the Big Red defense at fullback, sweeper or stopper, Huvane is the “heart and soul of the program who wants to see her teammates achieve,” coach Peter Falen said. She’s captain material, a three-sport athlete, also competing in cheerleading and softball, a member of the student senate and high honor roll.
A three-sport standout with a GPA of 3.7, Malvino never played volleyball prior to her sophomore year and has made considerable strides in her first two seasons as a setter. In 2019, she averaged 12 assists and two service aces per match. Also a member of the basketball and softball teams, she’ll be counted on to provide leadership for coach Matt Carbone.
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Hempstead Tigers
Donovan Levenir
Kevin Garcia
nemiah Dos santos
nia LLeweLLyn
At 6-foot-1 and with good hands and speed, Levenir is the Tigers’ biggest offensive threat and no stranger to the end zone. He works out of the backfield and at receiver on offense, and at linebacker or in the secondary on defense. He’s a three-year starter who’ll look to lead the team to the Conference I playoffs. He also plays basketball.
A three-sport athlete and third-year starter on the gridiron, Garcia does a lot of the dirty work in the trenches as an offensive lineman and defensive end. He led the Tigers in sacks in 2019 and is expected to be a captain. He also wrestles and plays lacrosse. “He’s focused on competing at the next level,” coach Sylas Pratt said.
A tremendous leader on the court and a top student (GPA of 90), Dos Santos is a threeyear varsity starter who plays an important role in the front row as a middle blocker. She was a co-captain last season and also participates in band and theatre. “She has the height and skills to work the net,” coach Anita Reynolds said.
A third-year starter who leads by example, Llewellyn brings versatility and a dangerous serve to the Lady Tigers’ lineup. She provides a spark from an outside hitter position but can contribute anywhere on the court, according to coach Anita Reynolds. She carries a GPA of 90. “She’s our best returning server and is a spark plug,” Reynolds said.
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October 8, 2020 — 9
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Hewlett Bulldogs
NATHANIEL REDILLO
ARMANDO VARDARO
RACHEL ARBITMAN
ALESSANDRA BORSELLINO
A returning starter on the offensive front who’ll compete to be a two-way starter when the Bulldogs get back on the field, the 215-pound Redillo has applied for admission to the U.S. Naval Academy. Also a key contributor to the lacrosse program, he’s a dedicated athlete who sets the tone in the weight room and never misses a workout.
A three-year starter who also plays club soccer and seeks to compete at the college level, Vardaro has developed into an aggressive midfielder. A natural lefty with an offensive mindset and great feel for the game, he makes good decisions and distributes well. “He’s so steady and doesn’t try to do too much,” coach Nick Lacetera said.
Arbitman made history in 2019 when she added a New York State tennis doubles title, teaming up with then eighth-grader Nyla Gershfeld, to go along with her 2018 NYS singles crown. Arbitman, who is headed to Harvard where she’ll compete for the tennis team, has captured three Nassau County singles titles and went undefeated last season.
A three-sport athlete (basketball, lacrosse), Borsellino is headed to play soccer at the next level at Molloy College. She’s been the leader of Hewlett’s defense for the past two years and will push to forward when the opportunity presents itself. The 2019 All-Conference selection is a “hard-working, blue-collar type with great touch,” coach Gil Kreiss said.
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Kennedy Cougars
RYAN DRAUDE
CONNOR THIER
STAMATIA PAPAZIS
ISABELLA PACE
A returning two-way starter (safety/wide receiver) with passion for the game, Draude was the Cougars’ defensive MVP in 2019. He also plays lacrosse and saw his junior year canceled. On the gridiron, he’s a ballhawk on defense and has exceptional hands. “He’s smart with his assignments and is a fantastic teammate,” coach John McGuire said.
He’ll be a third-year starter at forward on the left side and comes off an All-Conference junior season that saw him lead the Cougars in assists with four while helping them to the playoffs. Thier is a dangerous attacker capable of beating defenders one-onone. “He’s a great teammate and a positive role model,” coach Ari Bisk said.
Papazis is a third-year starter who’s expected to hold down the top singles position for the Lady Cougars after winning 12 of 14 matches in the No. 2 spot last fall. She is a two-time All-Division honoree and participated in the Nassau County doubles tournament in 2019. “Her work ethic is topnotch,” coach Brian DeGaetano said.
As a junior, Pace had a remarkable goal-scoring streak on the way to earning AllCounty honors. The talented forward/midfielder found the back of the net in 10 consecutive games and finished 2019 with a team-leading 15 goals and 3 assists. “She’s a passionate player with great field vision and is extremely fit,” coach Roland Clark said.
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10 — October 8, 2020
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Lawrence Golden Tornadoes
AQUAN WALKER
ALAN MARTINEZ
AMY SHARIN
The most explosive player on the field for the Golden Tornadoes, Walker made the transition from receiver to quarterback last season and helped the team finish 3-5 after a rough September. He had 7 touchdowns in a win over Glen Gove. Coach Jason Supple is looking for the thirdyear starter lead the offense in a big way.
In Martinez’s three seasons, the Golden Tornadoes have complied a record of 33 wins, 6 losses and 5 draws. Last fall, the dynamic midfielder/ forward and captain earned Conference Player of the Year honors and a second straight All-County award. He had 13 goals and 13 assists, upping his career totals to 28 goals and 27 helpers.
SHELSEA ARRIBASPLATAVERA
A solid outside midfielder who registered 2 goals and 6 assists while helping the Lady Golden Tornadoes to their best season in a decade, Sharin will also be counted on to provide leadership as a captain. She also thrives in the classroom with a 4.0 GPA. “She’s the most selfless and reliable player,” coach Katelyn Walsh said.
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A big part of the rebuilding process for the Lady Golden Tornadoes, Arribasplata-Vera has been part of the program for six years and a returning varsity starting defensive specialist. She’s a member of the Art Honor Society and a likely captain for the next volleyball season. “She’s a dedicated and intense athlete,” coach Sasha Roopchand said.
LOCUST VALLEY FALCONS
SEAN MURPHY
LUKE PANIAGUA
MADELINE DRISCOLL
JENNA HALPIN
Nassau Conference IV’s leader in sacks a year ago with 8, and the Falcons’ leader in tackles for a loss, Murphy sets the tone on defense from an end spot and has the ability to wreak havoc against the pass and run. He’s 6-foot-6, 255 pounds and also plays tight end. The All-County choice will be a captain, coach Casey Neilly said.
Paniagua was a big reason why the Falcons played in the Conference IV championship game in 2019 and are ranked at the top of the heap this upcoming season. He had over 100 tackles from the linebacker spot and was the lead blocker for the ground attack. He earned All-County honors and is also a member of the basketball team.
Following a strong regular season in the No. 2 singles spot last fall, compiling a record of 10-4, Driscoll earned All-County honors with a tremendous showing in the Nassau doubles tournament. She’ll likely be a captain and assume the top position in the lineup. “She thrives at the baseline and at the net,” coach Mike Guidone said.
A fifth-year starter and returning captain, Halpin led all of Nassau in points last season with 22 and all of Long Island in assists with 17. The center-midfielder has earned All-State, All-County and All-Conference awards and also plays basketball, lacrosse and track. Her GPA is 107. “She’s an amazing leader and role model,” coach Sandra Jozefowski said.
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October 8, 2020 — 11
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Long Beach Marines
IZZY MALDONADO
DYLAN GOLDSTEIN
EMILY AITCHISON
LIVIA CASALAINA
A three-year starter and returning captain, Maldonado plays an integral role for the Marines at safety and slot receiver. He was their coDefensive Player of the Year in 2019 and led the unit in tackles with 65. Coach Scott Martin said: “Izzy brings good instincts and has a nose for the ball on defense.” Maldonado also boasts a 94 GPA.
Goldstein served as a key cog in Long Beach’s run to the Nassau Class B championship last fall as an outside hitter. He’ll be counted on to spearhead its repeat title hopes. He earned All-State accolades, Honorable Mention All-County, and a spot on the All-Tournament Team for his playoff performance. On the season, he had 191 kills and 152 digs.
Aitchison proved difficult to stop a year ago, scoring 17 goals to lead the Lady Marines’ offense while adding 5 assists. A high honor roll student looking to play soccer at the college level, she’ll be a four-year starter who contributes at center-midfield and forward. After earning AllConference honors in 2018, she was selected All-Class last season.
A member of the varsity since 7th grade, Casalaina thrives in the 500-yard freestyle and the 200 Individual Medley. Throughout her career, she’s earned All-County, All-Conference and All-Division honors in those events and others. She was a state qualifier as a sophomore when the Lady Marines’ 400 freestyle relay proved among the best in Nassau.
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Lynbrook Owls
ETHAN HOYTE
THOMAS deMENEZES
AMBIYA HUSSAIN
CHRISTINA FRANCO
Hoyte proved a handful in the Owls’ four victories in 2019, totaling 9 touchdowns and 834 yards rushing. On the year, he rumbled for 1,085 yards on the ground and found his way into the end zone 11 times. He had 316 yards and four touchdowns against Glen Cove, and also cracked the 200-yard barrier against Hewlett.
When the soccer season gets underway, deMenezes will become a rare fourth-year starter for the Owls. He’ll be the lone returning starter on defense, coach Josh Berlin said, and serve as the anchor and voice of the unit at centerback. He played the past three years at fullback. deMenezes earned Honorable Mention All-County honors in 2019.
A six-year member of the Lady Owls’ program, Hussain will cap her career in one of the top singles positions after holding down the No. 3 spot a year ago. “She’s a driven and motivated player,” coach Shari Bowes said. Hussain (11 wins) earned All-Conference honors in 2019 while helping the team capture a conference championship.
The skilled and versatile Franco helped the Lady Owls rank among Nassau’s top four Class A teams in each of the past two seasons. Primarily an outside hitter, she had 154 kills and 203 digs last year to rank 13th and 17th, respectively, in the county. She earned All-County honors as a junior after an All-Conference sophomore campaign.
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Photo courtesy of Cheryl Dilucchio
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1 Scotty Dilucchio, Carey High School Photo courtesy of Alexandra Kelly
2 Alexandra Kelly, East Meadow High School Photo courtesy of Linda Ninesling
3 Jessica Ninesling, Glen Cove High School
Photo courtesy of Sandra Stringer
5 Erica Stringer, Carey High School Photo courtesy of Christina Rubenstein
6 Lucas Rubenstein, Clarke High School Photo courtesy of Maria Marotta
7 Joseph Marotta, Carey High School
Photo courtesy Chip Accordino
4 Alyssa Accordino, MacArthur High School
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MacARTHUR GENERALS
ANDREW CALDERON
VINCENZO MONTEFUSCO
ALYSSA ACCORDINO
CALLIE KOEPPEN
One of the top offensive linemen in Nassau, the 6-foot-3, 235-pound Calderon plans to follow two brothers into the college football ranks. He also wrestles and plays lacrosse. Last year on the gridiron, on the way to earning All-County honors, he helped the Generals to 10 straight wins. He’s a three-year starter on both sides of the ball.
A returning starter with a knack for putting the ball in the back of the net, Montefusco is coming off an All-County campaign with the Generals that saw him rank among Nassau’s leading goal scorers with 11. He also competes at the club level. “He plays a physical game and is very strong in the air,” coach Andy Atkins said.
Called up to varsity early in her freshman campaign, Accordino never relinquished her starting role with the Lady Generals and last season helped them to the Nassau Class A crown. An honor student off the field, she’s played outside back, defensive middie and center-back on it. As a junior, she served as a captain and earned All-Class honors.
A four-year varsity performer, Koeppen has been a UCA finalist the past three years, cracking the top 10 each time with a 9th-place showing in 2018, 3rd place in 2019, and a 5th-place effort earlier this year. She’s a two-time county champion and a state finalist. An honor student, she also was a Keane Award nominee and All-County in 2020.
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MALVERNE MULES
MICHAEL WARREN JR.
RONALDO ATIENCIA
AYEISHA LAWRENCE
DANA VILARDI
A dynamic athlete, Warren Jr. helped lead the Mules to the Nassau Class B boys’ basketball title last season following a solid All-Conference football campaign. He’s a wideout/ safety who had 34 receptions for 648 yards and 6 touchdowns to go along with four interceptions. “He has all the tools and is very explosive,” coach Kito Lockwood said.
An All-Conference selection in 2019 with 6 goals and 12 assists, Atiencia excels on the soccer pitch and in the classroom. He’s a three-year starter at center-midfield and carries a GPA of 4.0. He won Malverne’s AP Scholar Distinction Award and is a member of the marching band. “He has excellent ball skills and is a class act,” coach Robert Anderson said.
A three-sport athlete and honor student called up to varsity soccer as a sophomore, Lawrence provides an offensive spark while mainly contributing on defense. She’s a double-digit goal scorer and a leader. “She’s always hustling and if we didn’t need her speed and athleticism in other parts of the field, she’d have more goals,” coach Joe Lores said.
The Lady Mules captured their first conference title in 27 years, and Vilardi was smack in the middle of all the success. In just her second varsity season, she was Honorable Mention All-County and had 182 digs and a 96-percent service rate. She’s also the softball team’s starting pitcher and a high honor roll student with a 97.65 GPA.
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October 8, 2020 — 15
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Mepham Pirates
BILLY KENDER
TYLER O’NEILL
BRIANA SAYOC
SAMANTHA GREEN
Committed to play baseball at Bucknell, Kender, also a member of the basketball team, is the returning starting quarterback and serves as a dual threat. Last year he helped the Pirates back to the semifinals by throwing for 805 yards and 9 touchdowns, and rushing for 350 yards and four scores. He’s a captain and carries a 93 GPA.
One of Nassau’s most talented baseball pitchers who lost his junior year on the diamond due to the Covid-19 shutdown, O’Neill is also a four-year starter on the volleyball court for the Pirates. He’s an outside and middle hitter, and features a jump-serve that’s difficult to handle, coach Brenda Dolan said. He had 28 services aces and 74 kills.
Bound for the University of Tennessee on a soccer scholarship, Sayoc is an All-County center-midfielder as well as an honor student and member of the Spanish National Honor Society. A five-year varsity starter and two-year captain, she had 5 goals and 10 assists last season and helped the Lady Pirates reach the Nassau Class A final.
Green, who’s led Nassau in service aces (168 total) in back-to-back seasons behind a powerful jump-serve, is a “next-level talent,” coach Mike Williams said. In addition to leading the county in aces last season, the All-County setter and co-captain led the Lady Pirates in assists and kills. She sparked Mepham to an undefeated conference title as a junior.
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NORTH SHORE VIKINGS
JAKE LEDDEN
THOMAS BURFEIND
ISABELLA TEDESCO
SOPHIE ROSENCRANS
Ledden is a dual threat for the Vikings and helped them reach the Conference III semifinals. On the ground, he had 450 yards and 5 touchdowns. He also added 19 catches for 365 yards and two scores, and three interceptions. “He’s the type of athlete who makes things happen when the team needs him the most,” coach Dan Agovino said.
A year-round distance runner, Burfeind was undefeated during the regular season in cross-country last fall and finished 10th in the Nassau Class B championship race with a 5K time of 17 minutes, 21.91 seconds. He earned All-County honors and was a captain and the Vikings’ MVP. “He’s the hardest worker and highly competitive,” coach Jason Millard said.
An integral part of the Lady Vikings’ run to the Long Island Class A title in 2017 as a starting freshman midfielder, Tedesco earned All-Conference honors as a sophomore and All-Class last fall. She’ll be a senior captain and is a tenacious two-way standout looking to play at the next level. “She does everything with 100 percent effort,” coach Lauren Gotta said.
She’s a year-round runner who was part of an All-State 4x800 relay last winter. A three-time state qualifier in cross-country, Rosencrans finished fourth in the Nassau 3 championships last fall while helping the Lady Vikings capture the county crown for the 14th straight season. She’s a high honor roll student who leads by example, coach Neal Levy said.
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OCEANSIDE SAILORS
THOMAS FLAVIN
BEN SANCHEZ
BELLA LAZZARO
MICAELLA ROMAGNO
A versatile offensive weapon for the Sailors, Flavin will be a third-year starter as a running back/slot receiver when the pigskin flies again. In two varsity campaigns so far, he’s totaled 995 yards rushing, 644 yards receiving and 17 touchdowns. He’s a football and lacrosse captain who’s headed to St. John’s University where he’ll compete in the latter.
A returning captain and All-Conference defender, Sanchez is the ignition switch to the Sailors’ transition game and no stranger to getting on the scoresheet. He became a starter midway through his freshman year and wants to continue playing at the next level. He carries a GPA of 99. “He’s a complete player,” coach Patrick Turk said.
A returning starter who contributes in the defensive zone and outside midfield, Lazzaro helped the Lady Sailors go undefeated against Conference AA-II rivals a year ago and picked up All-Class honors. She scored 6 goals and assisted on 8 others. “She has exceptional speed and is equally strong using her right or left foot,” coach Mariana Winchester said.
A fourth-year varsity performer and projected captain, Romagno thrived as a centermidfielder in 2019 and earned All-Conference honors. She maintained a supporting role for the offense, chipping in 2 goals and 6 assists, while doing her part on the defensive side. She’s also a club player. “She’s just a strong all-around and unselfish player,” coach Mariana Winchester said.
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OYSTER BAY BAYMEN
ZACCHARY HORNOSKY
NICK TARDUGNO
GRETA FLANAGAN
GABY TREBLE
A three-sport standout, Hornosky enjoyed an AllConference campaign on the gridiron as a junior and desires to play at the next level. He had 21 receptions for 297 yards and 5 touchdowns, as well as two rushing TDs. He also started at free safety. Also plays basketball and track. “He’s a passionate athlete who leads by example,” coach Dan Ruskowski said.
Ranked at the top of Nassau Class C heading into his senior campaign on the trails, Tardugno is a two-time AllCounty runner who blew out the competition at last fall’s state qualifier with a time of 16 minutes, 43.96 seconds. A high honor roll student, he placed fifth in the county championships. “He works extremely hard,” coach Kevin Cotter said.
A year-round runner with plans to compete at the college level, Flanagan followed an All-State 2018 cross-country season by capturing the state qualifier Class C race as a junior (19 minutes, 46.07 seconds) and placing second in the county championships. She’s a captain and a three-time All-County recipient. She was part of the school record-breaking 4x800 relay last winter.
Perhaps nobody is looking ahead to their senior season more than Treble, who missed 2019 with a torn ACL. She’ll be a fourth-year varsity starter and led the team in scoring as a sophomore All-Conference award winner. She also excels in track and field and carries a 95.2 GPA. “Her speed and strength are extreme assets,” coach Nicole Schwartz said.
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SEAFORD VIKINGS
CRAIG ACKERMAN
VINCENZO BUFFALINO
ANNA BUTLER
OLIVIA PEARSE
A captain and two-way starter (linebacker/fullback) who helped lead the Vikings to the Nassau Conference IV title last fall, Ackerman is instrumental on both sides of the ball. He led the defense with 97 tackles and 5 sacks on the way to earning All-County honors. “He’s a great kid and an excellent player and captain,” coach Rob Perpall said.
A midfielder with slick footwork and the ability to contribute at both ends of the field, Buffalino will be a thirdyear varsity player. He followed an Honorable Mention All-County 2018 performance with an All-County season last fall, scoring once and assisting on four goals. “He’s so technical and great with the ball at his feet,” coach Ralph Pascarella said.
One of Nassau’s top softball pitchers, Butler also keeps opponents from scoring on the volleyball court as a defensive specialist. She’s a third-year varsity performer who was an All-Conference selection last fall, averaging 10 digs per match for the Long Island champions. She’s also the Lady Vikings’ best returning server and carries a GPA in the mid 90s.
Bound for Hofstra University where she’ll be a part of the soccer program, Pearse has built quite a resume while helping the Lady Vikings climb the ladder of success. She’s already played five varsity seasons and is a two-time All-County recipient. In 2019, the center-midfielder earned All-State honors (21 goals, 20 assists) for the conference champs.
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SEWANHAKA INDIANS
FRANTZ COMPERE
ANDREW MANCHERIL
ANTOINETTE DIPIERNO
STEPHANIE MILINIC
A three-year starter at defensive end and wide receiver, the 6-foot-1, 210-pound Compere is equally effective as a pass rusher and run-stuffer on the defensive side. He had 43 tackles, 4 sacks and a forced fumble in 2019. He’s also a top student with a 3.5 GPA. “He’s a leader on and off the field,” coach George Kasimatis said.
Last season was special for Mancheril and the Indians. A versatile hitter, he amassed over 300 kills, 40 blocks and 35 service aces to help lead the team to an undefeated conference title. He’s a standout on the court (Honorable Mention All-County) and off (National Honor Society.) “He’s such a wonderful part of the Sewanhaka community,” coach Eileen Mussler said.
Whether she’s on the attack or in the midfield, DiPierno (93.4 GPA) is utilized in the center of the action where her playmaking ability stands out. In 2019, she paced the Lady Indians in assists and ranked second in goals. She’ll be a captain and also plays lacrosse. “She’s a really great athlete and student,” coach Deirdre Kelly said.
Coming off her first full season at the varsity level, Milinic will be stepping into a bigger role and perhaps taking on the added responsibility of captain of a youthful Lady Indians’ team. She’s a forward with a nonstop motor and also an honor student. “She’s improved a lot and hustles all over the field,” coach Eric Premisler said.
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An Alliance for Combined Action Use of opioid painkillers, while sometimes necessary, does raise the risk of addiction, especially in children. Legitimate opioid use before high school graduation is independently associated with a 33 percent increase in the risk of future opioid misuse after high school.
Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinets To Prevent Addiction
Also, people who participated in at least one interscholastic sport during high school had higher odds than non-athletes of being approached during their lifetime to divert their opioid medications. This troubling data makes it clear that the opioid epidemic is a serious threat for high school athletes, and it is crucial that athletes, parents, coaches and school administrators are educated on the dangers of prescription opioids and actions that can be taken to prevent opioid misuse and heroin use. Contact Us:
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SOUTH SIDE CYCLONES
JOHNJUDE CONSIDINE
VASION SINJARI
LAUREN ZOLA
FAITH LaMACCHIA
Primed to take over as the Cyclones’ starting signal-caller, Considine got a taste of varsity football a year ago when he led a season-opening victory over Lawrence by throwing a pair of touchdown passes. A lacrosse standout who missed his spring season, is bound for Hobart College. He ranks near the top of the Class of 2021 with a 99.4 GPA.
A three-year starting forward who’s helped the Cyclones to back-to-back highly successful seasons against Nassau Class A rivals, Sinjari is a threat to score any time the ball is at his feet. He has tremendous vision, coach Fred Paul said, and is looking to play at the collegiate level. Sinjari is also a member of the National Honor Society.
A standout on the court and in the classroom, Zola has played No. 1 singles for the majority of her career and is a three-time All-County award winner. As a sophomore, she paired with then-senior Julia Gentile to capture the Nassau doubles championship. She went 13-1 in 2019 and features a tremendous backhand and serve.
LaMacchia has enjoyed great success from both team and individual standpoints in her first three seasons. She’ll be a fourth-year starting setter with a pair of Nassau County titles and one Long Island crown under her belt. Last year, she led the Lady Cyclones in assists and ranked second in digs on the way to becoming an All-County selection.
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UNIONDALE KNIGHTS
ISAIAH LEE
BRANDON FIGUEROA
JENNIFER MARTINEZ
AILEEN PENALVA
A two-way starter and thirdyear varsity player, Lee led the Knights in tackles last season as an outside linebacker and bolstered the ground attack as a backfield contributor. He’ll be counted on to be a leader as one of the team’s captains. He’s also an All-County wrestler. “He’s one of the hardest working kids off the field,” coach Phil Coppola said.
A combination of skill and poise allows Figueroa to control the tempo in the middle of the field for the Knights, who’ll look to be a factor in Nassau Class AA. Last fall, he was an Honorable Mention All-County center-middie. He also competes for an outside club. “He’s brilliant on the ball and never gets rattled,” coach Cohen Nelson said.
With a sixth straight AllConference season in her future, Martinez is a threeyear captain who’s helped the Lady Knights capture a pair of conference titles in her first five varsity seasons. An honor roll student, she’s the school record holder in both the 100-yard breaststroke and the 500-yard freestyle. “She’s an awesome kid and athlete,” coach Colleen Parris said.
A four-year starter with plans to play at the next level, Penalva has put together outstanding back-to-back seasons for the Lady Knights. She earned All-County honors in 2018 and followed up with an All-Class campaign. The defensive midfielder and captain has a knack for cleaning up mistakes and carries a 3.8 GPA. “She’s super aggressive and quick,” coach Kevin Daly said.
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V.S. CENTRAL EAGLES
DAWIN FANOR
ANDREW GALLEGO
BRITNEY RUSSELL
NATALIE MENDOZA
A third-year starter who helped lead the Eagles to a spot in the Nassau Conference II semifinals, Fanor is a 6-foot2 shutdown cornerback who always draws the toughest assignment. “He’s a super athletic and physical player,” coach Mike Rubino said. Also a running back/wideout, Fanor plays basketball and boasts a GPA above 3.0.
The Eagles boasted quite a formidable offense in 2019, led by a bevy of underclassmen including Gallego. He found the back of the net 13 times, ranking among the scoring leaders in Nassau, and added 3 assists. He netted three hat tricks — against Valley Stream South, Long Beach and Elmont on the way to earning All-County honors.
An All-County selection as a junior, Russell enjoyed a four-game stretch that saw her register 11 goals, including four against Clarke and a hat trick against Malverne/East Rockaway. She finished with 19 goals and added 7 assists while helping the Lady Eagles go undefeated in conference games. “She has lethal speed and skill,” coach Mike Caputo said.
With a rocket of a shot, the standout center-midfielder and captain scored four of her 12 goals in 2019 off long free kicks. Mendoza, who missed playing lacrosse this spring, also added 14 assists on the way to earning All-County honors. She carries a 99 GPA. “She’s tough as nails and highly skilled,” coach Mike Caputo said.
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V.S. NORTH SPARTANS
NOAH ETAME
RICARDO ARENAS
KAYLA SCHIMMENTI
JILLIAN COSME
A two-way starter and captain, Etame will look to lead the Spartans to the playoffs as a running back/ linebacker. He’s a captain who showed tremendous leadership abilities as a junior and won the Unsung Hero Award. He’s a dual threat out of the backfield, and led the defense in tackles. Off the field, he carries a 90 GPA.
Wherever he plays at the college level, Arenas, an honor student, will bring a solid skill set as well as a high soccer IQ. A three-year starting defender for the Spartans and a club player, he hardly comes off the field. He’ll be counted on to serve in a leadership role as well. “He’s the glue to our defense and a vocal leader,” coach Dave Aguado said.
A four-year varsity starter and returning captain, Schimmenti has solidified the Lady Spartans’ defense at center-back after playing forward as a freshman in 2017 and scoring 9 goals. She’s a three-time All-Class honoree as well as an honor student. “Kayla has the ability to play anywhere on the field and excel,” coach Geoff O’Connell said.
Defense is the name of the game for Cosme, a four-year varsity player who started on the Lady Spartans’ 2018 conference title-winning team and led them to another strong season a year ago. She earned All-Conference honors and was a co-captain, ranking second in digs and service aces. She’s also an honor student and excels on the softball field.
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V.S. SOUTH FALCONS
YASIR SHABAZZ-ALLAH
JOEL PERSAUD
HAILEY ROBERTS
SOPHIA LONGID
As a junior, Shabazz-Allah piled up 712 yards rushing and found the end zone seven times, including a 268-yard, 4-touchdown performance against Oyster Bay, on the way to earning an Honorable Mention All-County award. A triple threat who’ll look to lead the Falcons to the playoffs, he also is a starting defensive back (one interception in 2019) and kickoff returner.
As a junior captain in 2019, Persaud hardly came off the court while averaging approximately 8 kills per match and totaling 40 service aces on the season. He helped the Falcons capture a conference title the previous year. He’s a consistent outside hitter with a high volleyball IQ and great jumping ability, coach Rich Hess said.
An exceptional student and athlete, Roberts was an integral part of the Lady Falcons’ magical ride to the NYS Class A soccer championship in 2018 as a standout defender. Unfortunately, the All-Class defender missed almost all of her junior campaign with a torn ACL. “She’s on another planet as an athlete,” coach Demetri Adrahtas said.
Projected to be a captain, Longid is a returning starting setter who makes the Lady Falcons’ offense go. Last fall, she dished out 140 assists. She’s a high honor roll student and a three-year varsity softball player. “She’s that athlete who puts team’s needs above her own and is always there to lend a helping hand,” coach Stephanie Calzetta said.
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WANTAGH WARRIORS
JOE FONTANA
AUSTIN HENGLEIN
EMILY VAN O’LINDA
MATIANA VALDEZ
A returning two-way starter on the line who’s athletic and versatile enough to contribute at tight end, Fontana will be a captain when football season kicks off. He’ll also be the starting first baseman for the baseball team. He’s 6-foot-3, 260 pounds, matches his size with strength, and is an outstanding teammate, coach Keith Sachs said.
Henglein, who plays for the prestigious SUSA Academy and serves as one of its captains, missed most of his junior season for the Warriors with a knee injury. The AllConference selection will be a four-year starter and is an attacking center-midfielder. He’s president of the school’s National Honor Society. “He’s the complete package,” coach Tom Ligouri said.
A four-year starter, Van O’Linda has contributed all over the court for the Lady Warriors and was a key piece to their 2018 state championship team as a right-side hitter. Last fall, she had 178 kills and 181 digs and garnered Honorable Mention All-County. She’s also a standout on the softball field and a member of the National Honor Society.
Etched on the varsity roster since eighth grade, Valdez thrives for the Lady Warriors as a steady and tenacious defender. A club player, she earned All-Conference honors at outside back and plans to play at LIU-Post. She runs track and boasts a 3.8 GPA. “She’s technically sound with great touch on the ball,” coach James Polo said.
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WEST HEMPSTEAD RAMS
PETER THEODORATOS
DAVID CADET
ABAGAIL ISESON
SOPHIA BAIAMONTE
A returning starting quarterback who battled some injuries as a junior and missed three games, he was productive every time he stepped on the field. Bulked up during the offseason and brings a strong arm and good mobility. Also a lacrosse midfielder/ attack who saw his spring season nixed, he’s taken on a leadership role, coach Dom Carre said.
As a junior, Cadet starred on the offensive end for the Rams and proved a consistent threat. He scored 13 goals, ranking among the leaders in the county, with his biggest tally coming in overtime to beat Hewlett in the first round of the Nassau Class A playoffs. The dynamic forward was an Honorable Mention All-County selection.
With a consistent all-around game and a more aggressive approach at the net, Iseson garnered a second straight All-Conference season in 2019 with a record of 8-3. She’ll be a third-year No. 1 singles player and thrives in the classroom as well as an honor student. “She’s a leader on and off the court,” coach Mike Hovanec said.
Entering her third varsity campaign, Baiamonte will be counted on to set the tone defensively as well as get the Lady Rams’ transition game in gear. A captain, she scored a goal last year on the way to earning All-Conference recognition. “She constantly wins one-on-one battles and is very hard to get by,” coach Carlos Mery said.
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