High School Football Preview (Central Version) 09-14-2023

D’ANGELO GORDON

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BALDWIN

Bruins aim to build off run to semifinals

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Baldwin got back on the Nassau County football map a year ago, falling by a point to defending champion Massapequa in the Conference I semifinals following a non-playoff 2021 fall campaign in Conference II.

The Bruins went 8-3 overall and defeated neighboring Freeport, 20-12, in the first round of the playoffs.

Duplicating last year’s success won’t be easy, but first-year head coach Ernie Blount said a return to the postseason is a goal. Some unexpected departures and a schedule with eight bus trips on tap due to construction of a new turf field adds to Baldwin’s challenges.

“We have to make those four road games feel like our home games,” Blount said. “We can’t worry about not being able to play at our school. It’ll be great when the field is ready.

“The concept is to work hard every day and see what happens,” he added. “We’ve had good participation in the offseason program.”

Seeded No. 4 in Conference I, the Bruins will rely heavily on the talent of junior quarterback Vaughdrea Johnson and a handful of other returning starters to make things happen. Blount said Johnson, who rushed for 107 yards and a touchdown in the playoff victory, is working diligently on developing as a passer to go with his elusiveness. He has also been practicing at safety and could contribute on defense. “He has good leadership qualities and is working on his footwork and location of throws,” Blount said. “We’re certainly not giving up on his running, we just want him to branch out.”

Senior center Jake Davison anchors the offensive line and will

also serve as the quarterback of the defense at middle linebacker. He has chemistry with Johnson, Blount noted, and is an extension of the coaching staff on the field. “He’s a hard-working and intelligent student-athlete,” Blount said. “He knows every position on the offensive line and is captain material.”

Also returning to the trenches is senior guard Moise Ambrose, who brings size, a high football IQ and physicality. Sophomore Derek Coolbaugh has some varsity experience and is likely to start at the other guard spot. Leading the depth chart at tackle are junior Matthew Feeney and sophomore Andrew Parchment.

the other guard spot. Leading the Matthew Feeney and sophomore

Senior Kole Crayton is a returning two-way starter who’s explosive on defense as an outside linebacker, Blount said, and vying to be the lead running back following a conversion from tight end. Another backfield option will be junior Jelani Williams, who is unproven at the varsity level but possessions plenty of tools. He’s also working for a starting role in the secondary.

Serving as Johnson’s primary target is senior Caleb Wilson, a returning starter and playmaker. “He has good hands, runs routes well and is shifty,” Blount said. If Wilson can earn a spot on defense, it’ll be in the secondary.

Junior Christon Raysor is the backup quarterback and a track star along with junior Prospel Prawl. Both are receiver and special team candidates. “We have to figure out a way to use their assets,” Blount said.

The strength of the defense appears to be at linebacker with Davidson, Crayton and seniors Javier Escobar and Wilter Fils-Aime Jr. Leading the way up front will be Ambrose, Coolbaugh, Feeney and junior Micah Ellerbe Jr.

“I’m learning more every day

about the kids,” said Blount,

about the kids,” said Blount, who has more than two decades of coaching experience at the collegiate level as he takes over his first high school head coaching position.

Baldwin’s roster size is projected to be in the 25 to 30 range, which is well below average for a Conference I program.

The Bruins face a tough test out of the gate when they face a Hempstead team coming off its own playoff heartbreak — a loss to Syosset.

the gate when they narrow home

Schedule

September

JAKE DAVIDSON

ROOSEVELT ESPERT

WILTER FILS-AIME

Photos by Ron Manfredi

At

Playoffs well within reach for Colts

By BRIAN KACHARABA

Calhoun has come a long way since going winless in 2019 and recording just one victory the following year by winning four times last fall while clinching their first playoff berth since 2018. With the return of some key players and others from injury, the team has the potential to finally finish above .500.

Second-year head coach Nick Rawls, who was previously a 14-year assistant at Conference II-foe Sewanhaka, guided Calhoun to three wins in the last five games to punch its postseason ticket. He helped ruin the Indians’ homecoming with a 26-7 win on Oct. 8 behind two touchdown runs by quarterback John Goodman, two pick-sixes and four sacks by returning defensive lineman Dylan Gretch.

“I think these kids have a lot of confidence,” Rawls said. “I’m pretty excited about where we’re at. We obviously have work to do, but I think we’re in a really good spot right now with what we have in terms of our coaches and our players.”

Goodman proved to be a dual threat in 2022 with seven rushing touchdowns and three scoring passes as a junior. He is entering his third year as a varsity starter and has been an All-County honorable mention in each of the last two seasons.

“He’s got a great arm,” Rawls said. “The sky’s the limit for him. I think he’s going to have a huge year.”

The athletic Goodman may also be moved around on offense, giving promising backup quarterback Anthony Landolphi reps behind center. Landolphi may also be part of the Colts’ rotation as a rover.

Brandon Sherman and Josh Edouard are back after injuryplagued junior seasons and will serve as other weapons for Goodman on offense.

“We’re incredibly excited for both of them,” Rawls said. “Both of them are fantastic football players. Unfortunately, their junior campaigns got cut short, but right now we have Josh playing the slot and we have Sherman playing running back. Both of those guys are highly competitive.”

Dom Di Rico, the Most Valuable Player of the JV team last year, could also get his share of carries.

There will be plenty of family lineage at the receiver position. Junior twins Braden and Nick Garvey are two members of that group, while Danny Goodman is hoping to form a unique passing combination with his brother. Shaun Walters and Luke Okorn should also get some looks at that position.

The six-foot-five Grech slid to left tackle last year and will be joined by fellow senior Tanner Kranmas (6’4”) to form a formidable left side of the offensive line. Junior twins Paul and Tom Sansano will tag-team the right side with junior Ryan Hamlon taking over for Kranmas at center.

Grech and Kranmas will bookend the defensive line with junior Carter Tenenbaum manning one of the interior spots. Rawls said Tenenbaum was a JV callup late last year and made “an immediate impact.”

Di Rico, Danny Goodman, Edouard and Nick Garvey make up the linebacking corps. Sherman is expected to be the free safety in the defensive backfield with Shaun Walters and Braden Garvey projected as the starting cornerbacks.

games against Garden City –

straight county champion-

After opening with Roslyn-Friends Academy, the Colts face a tough early stretch with back-to-back games against Garden City –the team that eliminated Calhoun en route to its seventh straight county championship – and Mepham before their rematch with Sewanhaka on Sept. 23.

“I’m very excited,” Rawls said. “Obviously, tons of respect to Garden City and we are really looking forward to that week. And the Mepham game, I know a lot of the guys are really stoked for that one. We’re looking forward to facing everybody.”

Schedule

Joey Goodman

TANNER KRANMAS

JOSH EDOUARD

BRANDON SHERMAN

Photos by Paul Grassini

Seahawks return to old stomping grounds

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Carey made a cameo appear-

ance in Conference III last fall and despite its share of inexperience and key injuries, reached the semifinal stage before losing to eventual county champion Plainedge.

The Seahawks, 6-4 overall in their first Conference III try in more than two decades, are back to familiar territory and will attempt to slay mighty Garden City as the No. 2 seed in Conference II. The Trojans have won seven consecutive county titles.

“We started five sophomores last year and they played well and we had a good team, but ultimately we were too banged to finish the season the way we wanted,” head coach Mike Stanley said. “The kids did a great job over the summer in the weight room and 7 on 7s. I like what we’re returning and we just have to sort out a couple of pieces.”

A challenging schedule includes a trip to Garden City to close September and Homecoming in Week 6 against last year’s county runner-up Mepham. The Seahawks will enjoy a bye the week before facing the Trojans.

As the quarterback situation sorts itself out with senior Christian Boswell and junior Chris Obertis vying for the lead role, the Seahawks have arguably the most talented backfield tandem in Nassau to lean on. Seniors Will Tolliver and Ben Rose are dynamic in their own way and could split carries, Stanley said. Tolliver has a handful of 200-yard, multi-touchdown games during his career.

“They’ll be as good as they are healthy,” Stanley said of the All-County Tolliver and key twoway starter Rose. “They’re different from each other but both have the

ability to break big plays and get into the end zone. If defenses focus on those two, we have other guys in the slot and on the perimeter who can create mismatches in our favor.”

Senior TJ Wakely was a clutch performer last season with a handful of huge touchdowns and leads a receiver corps that includes another speedster, junior Mike Verderosa. Wakely may also take an occasional snap at quarterback from the Wildcat formation.

The offensive front has experience and depth, led by junior Ali Jouida at left tackle. “He’s an absolute force as a two-way lineman,” Stanley said. “He’s big and strong with great footwork.” Seniors Jack Tierney and Howie Silverstein are expected to start on the right side. Junior Sean McNamee, primarily a defender in 2022, tops the depth chart at right guard. John Solomon and Richie Metzger are two options at center.

Obertis was the JV starting quarterback a year ago; Boswell was the varsity backup. “They’re close in talent level and we’re going to be fine either way,” Stanley said.

While the defense had a few more question marks than the offense entering camp in late August, Stanley is excited about the potential of the stop-unit and what the Seahawks bring to the table.

“Our linebacker group is special and we have some really good pieces up front and in the secondary,” he said. “It’s a good situation for us. We’ll mostly play a 3-5 and I think we’re going to make it tough on teams to score.”

Rose, Sal DiMarco, Mateo Tufano, Billy Koutsoumbaris, freshman Justin DiPietro and Joe Spano comprise the linebackers. Tufano and Koutsoumbaris, who handles the punting, work on the outside.

DiPietro, also one of the district’s top wrestlers last winter, joins Rose and DiMarco in the middle.

district’s top winter, joins Rose and DiMarco

Jouida is a disruptive defensive end and senior Jerome Ferguson will start on the opposite side with junior Matt Smith at the nose. In the secondary, it’ll be Wakely and Tolliver setting the tone at safety and Verderosa and junior Christian Todaro at cornerback.

Jouida is a disruptive Jerome Ferguson will start junior Matt Smith at the

Schedule

BEN ROSE

TJ WAKELY

SAL DIMARCO

Photos by Brian Ballweg

Rams have work cut out with rise to Conference III

By BRIAN KACHARABA

It seemed like business as usual for the Clarke Rams in 2022 when they began the season 3-0 while scoring 96 points during that span. But things suddenly went sideways as they dropped all six of their remaining games, including a 51-14 setback to top-seeded North Shore in the first round of the playoffs.

Clarke, a county semifinalist in two of the previous three seasons, had a lead in eight of those nine games – including that playoff contest – but would end up losing some of them in heartbreaking fashion. This year, the Rams hope to prove that last season was a mere fluke as they encounter some more challenges as the newest member of Conference III.

Half of the teams on Clarke’s schedule made the postseason last year, including county finalist Wantagh, which it faces in the second game of the season Sept. 14.

“Conference III is going to be a challenge,” head coach Kevin O’Hagan said. “The only school that we’ve seen recently is Mineola who moved up with us. We have a tough game against Wantagh in Week 2 [and] Week 1 we play Valley Stream North, who is seeded right next to us in the standings. Every game is going to be an important game.”

Most of the players responsible for the Rams’ powerful spread wing-T offense graduated last spring, but O’Hagan is hoping a promising group of underclassmen can help the program rediscover their winning ways and help quarterback Giancarlo Rengifo, who returns for his final season after throwing for 600 yards and eight touchdowns while rushing for three more scores as a junior.

“It’s definitely going to be a big weight on his shoulders,” O’Hagan said. “He’s going to have to step up his game as far as being not just a throwing threat, but as a running threat too, which he is.”

The other offensive skill positions got a makeover thanks to graduation. Sophomores Michael Iadevaia and Alex Frank both got a small taste of varsity football last year at running back and Nick Scully and Dylan Collins are projected to start at receiver with fellow junior Christian Destine inserted in three-wide sets. Senior tight end Dom Canonico is also a target.

O’Hagan is bullish on Scully, who possesses a combination of strength and speed.

“He just won our bench competition,” O’Hagan announced. “He did 25 reps of 155, which beat even our lineman. He’s a strong, big kid who should be a real offensive threat for us.”

Four-year varsity senior Anthony Velez anchors an offensive line that should also feature senior Aidan Piotrowski, junior Justin Gonzalez, sophomore Justin Montez and senior Driart Mucaj. That group will also man the team’s new 4-3 defensive line, with Velez again being the focal point.

“His experience is definitely the biggest attribute on a team that maybe doesn’t have as much experience,” O’Hagan said of Velez. “But he’s also very athletic. He’s a big, big kid. He’s got speed and athleticism and quick feet.”

Canonico, who had an interception in last year’s opener and backup quarterback Joey Kern should start at linebacker, with the other spots yet to be determined at press time. O’Hagan is expected to employ a two-high safety look in the defensive backfield, with Rengifo being a “centerfield”

Destine will also be

hybrid. Collins and Destine will also be parts of that corps.

Despite the roster turnover,

Despite the roster turnover, O’Hagan is still confident the 11thseeded Rams can claim one of the last playoff spots.

“Absolutely,” he said. “That’s

“Absolutely,” he said. “That’s our goal from the day of the seeding meeting. What can be a seed that gives us one of those bottom spots?”

Giancarlo Rengifo

JOEY KERN

ANTHONY VELEZ

DOMINIC CANONICO

Photos by Paul Grassini

HOMECOMING 2023

School Date Opponent

Baldwin Oct. 20 Port Washington

Calhoun Sept. 23 Sewanhaka

Carey Oct. 14 Mepham

Clarke Oct. 21 Kennedy

East Meadow Oct. 7 Hempstead

East Rockaway Oct. 6 Oyster Bay

Elmont Sept. 23 Manhasset

Freeport Oct. 14 Syosset

Hempstead

Oct. 21 Plainview

Hewlett Sept. 23 Lynbrook

Kennedy

Sept. 30 Division

Lawrence Sept. 30 Locust Valley

Long Beach Oct. 13 New Hyde Park

Lynbrook Oct. 21 Division

School Date Opponent

MacArthur Oct. 21 Mepham

Malverne

Sept. 23 West Hempstead

Mepham Oct. 7 New Hyde Park

Oceanside Sept. 30 Massapequa

Seaford

Oct. 14 V.S. South

Sewanhaka Oct. 21 Herricks

South Side Sept. 23 Mineola

Uniondale Sept. 30 Westbury

V.S. Central Oct. 21 Hicksville

V.S. North Oct. 14 Division

V.S. South Oct. 21 East Rockaway

Wantagh Oct. 14 Floral Park

West Hempstead Sept. 30 Oyster Bay

Photo by Neil Miller

South Side’s “Cyclone” mascot will be busy at Homecoming Sept. 23.

EAST MEADOW

Experienced Jets hope to land in playoffs

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Coming off a rare non-playoff campaign, East Meadow is looking to parlay a strong offseason into a top eight finish in Nassau Conference I.

The Jets, 4-4 in 2022, are seeded No. 10 in the 14-team league and will need to not only avoid any slipups against lowerranked opponents but also pull off at least one upset along the way.

“We had a nice win against Port Washington to end last year and the JV went 7-1,” head coach Vin Mascia said. “We have more experience and depth and had a fantastic summer. These kids really bought in. Their attendance, effort and camaraderie have been tremendous.”

Seeded in the bottom half of the conference, it’s likely to take five wins for the Jets to qualify for the playoffs. “We saw last year unless you can pick off a team seeded above you, it’s hard to get in,” Mascia said. “I don’t think our guys are looking too far ahead. They’re focused on Week 1.”

East Meadow’s most accomplished player is two-way senior lineman Joseph Arbitello. A fouryear starter on the offensive line and three-year starter at defensive end, he’s coming off an Honorable Mention All-County football season and reached the state tournament as a wrestler. “He’s our pulling guard on the weak side and a lot of our designed runs will go his direction,” Mascia said. “He’s a returning captain and has the attention of the team and will lead us on both sides of the ball.”

Six strong candidates are vying for the other four starting positions along the offensive front. Seniors Antonio Montford and Anthony Bilz, as well as junior Manny Martinez, all bring varsity experience.

Juniors Josh Vargas and Vincent Ronzo, and sophomore Yiannis Kakavas were all starters on the successful JV squad and working to make an impact at the next level.

“At the end of the road, we’ll find the best five,” Mascia said. “But I won’t be surprised if they all play quite a bit.”

Senior Nick Longardino is another captain and key two-way contributor. He’s an excellent blocking tight end and middle linebacker, Mascia said. “He’s a big strong kid who likes contact and we’re counting on his ability and leadership,” the coach noted.

At quarterback, sophomore Trevor Smith takes the reigns after starting for the JV. “He’s a real athletic kid and his throwing improved every day as the summer went on,” Mascia said. “He shows confidence and is a leader.”

The options in the running game appear endless. Senior fullback Matt Rodriguez is a captain and third-year starter who’ll likely see the most touches. Senior Kevin Canto leads a large contingency of wingbacks that includes juniors Anthony Montealegre and Jason Costabile and sophomore speedster Tyreek Cornett. “The wing is usually our leading receiver spot and we have tremendous depth there this season,” Mascia said. “They’re all super athletes who run track.”

At wideout, the Jets will count on senior Eli Lopez and juniors Eric Garcia, Isaiah Perkins and 6-foot-5 Isaiah Richards.

Setting the defensive tone will be the guys up front, Mascia said. Arbitello and Montford form the ends with senior Dan Minero at nose tackle.

Rodriguez and Longardino lead a linebacker crew that includes junior Ryan Michel and

Canto, who led the unit in tackles last season, anchors the secondary

the starting cornerback tandem.

sophomore James Galiano. Canto, who led the unit in tackles last season, anchors the secondary at free safety. Garcia and Cornett could form the starting cornerback tandem.

A foot injury cost

kicker Robert Derwin most of his junior season, but he’s being counted on to be a weapon when it comes to field position and booting field goals and extra points.

“I like our commitment and I like our depth,” Mascia said.

I like our depth,” Mascia said.

Matt Rodriguez

NICK LONGARDINO JOSEPH ARBITELLO

KEVIN CANTO

Photos by Paul Grassini

High Performing in Ten Areas of Care

EAST ROCKAWAY

Rocks look to rebound from non-playoff year

By BRIAN KACHARABA

To say that 2022 was unlucky for the East Rockaway football team may be an understatement.

A combination of injuries and second-half struggles proved costly for the Rocks as they missed the playoffs in a full eight-game season for the first time since 2017. The injury bug began to surface around Week 3 – which coincided with their 2-1 start – and lasted until the final game of the regular season, which happened to be a win-or-go-home contest against defending county champion and unbeaten North Shore.

East Rockaway scored first, but eventually fell 48-21 to the Vikings to finish with a 3-5 record and outside the playoff bubble. It was a continued frustration for the Rocks, which endured a threegame losing streak to start October despite getting the first points in each of those contests.

To make matters even worse, the team lost 19 seniors to graduation, including 1,000-yard rusher John Giannotti. But despite all that, head coach Russ Pajer remains optimistic about his team’s chances this fall thanks to some talented players that are returning and call ups from a strong JV team that ended last year with seven straight wins, including victories over North Shore and Seaford.

“I don’t think you ever want to say that we rebuild,” Pajer said. “We’re always competitive. We still have talent. Every year we replace guys [and] John Giannotti is a tough guy to replace.”

Antonio Buzzetta, Lucas Cortazar and junior Anthony Grimaldi will be tasked to help replace Giannotti. Cortazar rushed for about 600 yards with five touchdowns as a junior, while Grimaldi went over the 200-yard mark – including 127

against Cold Spring Harbor on Oct. 14 – with a pair of scores despite playing with a broken wrist.

“Antonio is quick, he’s smaller, he’s shifty [and] has really good hands, so he’s going to do a lot of things for us,” Pajer said. “Lucas is a little bit bigger, not as shifty, but he’s a nice solid back. He can see the hole and he runs hard. And Anthony Grimaldi is bigger and stronger.”

Pajer is hoping that that trio – along with fullback Conor O’Hagan – will support new quarterback Frank Passanini, a senior who brings plenty of leadership to the position.

“That’s what you need from your quarterback,” Pajer said. “He has an arm, he can throw, and he just wants to lead the team and make sure that he doesn’t make mistakes and put us in a situation where he can stay in control.”

The Rocks are set at tight end with Edwin Abreu-Lopez and Joe Ventura bookending the offensive line. Nick Ventura is a polished guard and senior Will Lewald will man that position on the other side of his brother, center James Lewald.

Juniors Louis Perri, Dillan Reyes and Nick Fioretti and Jorge Wayar are also in the mix for the offensive line.

Abreu-Lopez and Nick Ventura are the defensive ends with O’Hagan in the middle, and Grimaldi and Joe Ventura will be the middle linebackers, with Passanini playing the short side. Buzzetta and senior Christian Pannullo will be the cornerbacks supported by free safety Cortazar.

East Rockaway, the No. 5 seed in Conference IV, will face three playoff teams from last year in the first four games of the season, including the opener against county semifinalist Malverne and a rematch with North Shore Sept. 30.

“It’s always important to get off to a good, strong start,” Pajer said. “Malverne is one of the best teams in our conference. If we play a clean football game, we play the way we’re supposed to play, we’re happy with that.”

Schedule

September

Anthony Grimaldi

FRANK PASSANISI

LUCAS CORTAZAR

NICK VENTURA

Photos by Sue Grieco

New coach excited about Spartans’ roster

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Former JV coach Tom Innes takes over the reigns of Elmont’s varsity, which enjoyed a great deal of success in two decades under Jay Hegi including a county championship in 2008.

Hegi guided the Spartans to the playoffs in 19 consecutive seasons, culminating last fall when they dropped a first-round Conference II playoff matchup at home to South Side to finish 5-4.

Innes inherits a solid nucleus and will look to get the fourthranked squad back to the semifinals at Hofstra. “One of our goals is we want to be playing football in November,” he said. “We brought back a lot and have some good talent coming up from JV. If the line plays well, the sky is the limit.”

Setting the defensive tone for the Spartans and contributing in all aspects of the offense as the starting tight end is senior Osagie Ekhator. “He’s a playmaker and a game-changer,” Innes said of the 6-foot-5, 210-pounder. “He really knows how to play the edge and be disruptive. He’s adjusting well to the new scheme and we’ll ask him to block and catch on offense.”

Senior tailback Isaiah Davis brings breakaway speed and will serve as the feature back. “Very few people can catch him in the open field,” Innes said. “He’s going to see a heavy workload as far as carries go and he’s also a solid linebacker.”

Another impactful two-way starter Innes is relying on to produce is senior Vinny Laffey, who brings a high motor and speed. He’ll line up in the backfield, at receiver, safety and long snapper. “He’s our Swiss Army knife and one of our leaders,” the coach said. “He’s going to do a lot of dif-

ferent things on offense and we’ll depend on him to make open-field tackles on defense.”

Anchoring the offensive front is senior right tackle Sam Simon, the lone returning starter of the group and a 4.0 student. “We’re going to rely on his experience and leadership to help make sure everyone else knows their assignments,” said Innes, who expects junior Shiloh Belot and sophomore Kirkley Grant, both up from JV, to serve as the starting guards.

Junior Nassier Edwards is a 6-5 target who’ll create mismatches downfield for new quarterback Aiden Barnes. A sophomore, Barnes started for the JV last season and threw for 15 touchdowns. “Aiden’s a smart kid with a high football IQ,” Innes said. “He uses his legs but is more of a thrower than a runner. We’re excited to have him now and for the future.”

Senior Nicholi Noble is a tackling machine on defense as a linebacker/safety type and someone Innes said they’ll look to get the ball to on offense.

Junior Marquise Robinson is a returning starting linebacker and someone expected to contribute in a variety of ways on offense. “He’s our quarterback on defense and our backup quarterback who can play tailback and receiver,” Innes said. “He’s like an extension of the coaching staff on the field.”

The defensive front could pose problems for the competition. Junior Julius Sylvain-Jenkins is an “athletic wrecking ball,” Innes said and brings a physical presence after a strong JV campaign.

Junior Ebu Nwabudu is a 6-4 end, and senior tackle Chuku Ndefo is big, fast and athletic.

Junior Keyoun Kahn can play in the trenches or at linebacker.

Key pieces in the secondary include juniors Dom Collins,

Justin Molloy and Arlyn Brown. Any one of that trio could play a role on special teams with Davis and Laffey.

trio could play a role on special teams with

In the kicking

department, junior Amira Elrington-Edwards is on board to

department, junior Amira Elrington-Edwards is on board to add extra points.

“The sched-

ule will be a serious challenge,” said Innes, who makes his head coaching debut against neighboring Carey, the No. 2 seed.

Schedule

September

Osagie Ekhator

VINNY LAFFEY ISAIAH DAVIS

NASSIR EDWARDS

Photos by Brian Ballweg

1.

2023 NASSAU COUNTY FOOTBALL RANKINGS

CONFERENCE I

CONFERENCE II

CONFERENCE III

CONFERENCE IV

11.

Farmingdale Dalers

2. Massapequa Chiefs

3. Freeport Red Devils

4. Baldwin Bruins

5. Syosset Braves

6. Hempstead Tigers

7. Oceanside Sailors

1. Garden City Trojans

2. Carey Seahawks

3. Mepham Pirates 4. Elmont Spartans

5. Manhasset Indians

1. Plainedge Red Devils

2. South Side Cyclones

3. Wantagh Warriors

4. Bethpage Golden Eagles

5. Floral Park Knights 6. Lynbrook Owls

1. North Shore Vikings

2. Malverne Mules

3. Seaford Vikings

4. Locust Valley Falcons

5. East Rockaway Rocks

6. Cold Spring Harbor Seahawks

7. Island Trees Bulldogs

8. West Hempstead Rams

9. V.S. South Falcons

10. Lawrence Golden Tornadoes

Oyster Bay Baymen

12. Carle Place Frogs

Photo by Karen Millindorf

Second-seeded Malverne and No. 3 Seaford are the leading contenders behind two-time defending champion North Shore in Nassau Conference IV.

FREEPORT

Red Devils ranked among top contenders

By ANDREW COEN

After two straight seasons of first-round playoff exits, Freeport is seeking a return to the big stage at Hofstra and maybe more.

The Red Devils, who last played at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium during an undefeated 2019 season, are looking for a deep postseason run this fall with a number of returning starters who got playoff experience last year with a 20-8 defeat to rival Baldwin in the quarterfinals. Freeport also dropped a quarterfinal round matchup to Farmingdale, 21-20, in 2021 a season removed from missing the playoffs with a limited roster.

“You have to catch a few breaks and have to be lucky enough in this conference to stay healthy, but we’re going to be in the mix,” said longtime Freeport head coach Russ Cellan. “I think we have enough people on the roster to compete and will just have to see how it plays out.”

Cellan returns the bulk of his starters on offense led by senior quarterback D’Angelo Gordon, who will enter his fourth season as the team’s signal- caller. The versatile Gordon shined in Freeport’s 5452 overtime win against Oceanside in the regular-season finale last year with 226 yards rushing and four touchdowns to go along with 136 yards passing.

Junior Jayden Gordon, the younger brother of D’Angelo, also returns as one of the top receiving targets. He recorded 4 receptions for 111 yards in the Red Devils’ 2221 victory against Syosset last year.

“We’re a run-first team but you also have to be functional with the passing game if you want to do well,” Cellan said.

Senior Landon Daley and sophomore Glen Person are

expected to play key roles in the Freeport rushing attack. Daley was starting linebacker in the second half of last season while Person started as running back on junior varsity. Junior Anthony Velasquez, who was a middle linebacker, may also see some carries on offense this fall.

The running game will be aided by Freeport’s entire offensive line returning led by Juan Ramos, Christian Greene, Jonathan Meza, Jason Pennix and Danny Cruz.

“Everything is orchestrated with those guys,” said Cellan of the returning starting offensive line.” There’s five guys that have to play like one so the fact that they’re all back means we’re not starting from ground zero and we’re going to hit the ground running.”

The starting offensive line will also play a key role on the defensive side of the ball along with Roshad Channer. D’Angelo Gordon will play an integral role on the defense as well at either linebacker or strong safety. Jayden Gordon anchors the secondary at free safety.

On special teams, Freeport will get a boost with the arrival of kicker Noah Afanador, who has a soccer background. Last year the Red Devils were forced to go for all two-point conversions without a placekicker on the roster.

In addition to having the option now for extra points and field goals, Cellan said the addition of Afanador will also be crucial on kickoffs, where last season opposing offenses often began with strong field position.

Freeport will tackle a challenging schedule as the three seed in Conference I. Cellan said his team got solid preparation with spring and summer practice sessions, which will be extra important given that public schools

teams across now have one less week of preseason practices.

don’t have as much

“You just don’t have as much time before the first game as you used to since the state took a week away from everybody so now

there is even that much more pressure to get some stuff done in the offseason,” he said. “We have a good group going back and we’re pretty solid upfront and hopefully we can stay healthy.”

there is even that much more pressure to get some stuff done in the offseason,” he said. “We have a good group going back and we’re pretty solid upfront and hopefully we can stay healthy.”

Christian Greene

JUAN RAMOS

JONATHAN MEZA

DANNY CRUZ

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HEMPSTEAD

Tigers out to prove 2022 was no fluke

By MARC BERMAN

To better Hempstead’s 6-2 regular-season mark from head coach Matthew Ali’s rookie year would be a large feat.

But that’s the second-year coach’s mission. His Tigers are stills stung by its 2022 postseason exit – a 21-20 heartbreaker against Syosset in the first round.

Though it lost its star quarterback in Jakkai Smith and 7 of 11 offensive starters, Hempstead has an intriguing quarterback competition. It is being waged between seniors Brandon Davis and. Ziyair Jones. The loser of the competition will be the prime receiver. It’s a win-win situation that should make the Blue and White formidable again.

“We play in Nassau Conference I,’’ Ali said. “It’s tough to duplicate that with or without heavy losses. We lost a very good senior class, but I would say that this incoming group is hungry. They don’t like the way the season ended short last year. We’re coming in with an attitude we want to have a similar season but make it to Hofstra.’’

Whether Hempstead can get that far depends on its inexperienced offensive line that brings back just two starters: right guard Pedro Bonilla and Adrian Beltre, who will move from guard to left tackle. Beltre will need to fill the gap left by All-Long Island left tackle Shamar Pink. (Pink and the former quarterback Smith are roommates, playing for American International College).

The rest of the O-Line is a work in progress as younger players battle for positions.

“We have a really good group on offense,’’ Ali said. “As long as we can do a good job up front, we have talented backs. We have skill players.

It will come down to our offensive line coming together as a unit.’’

A solid passing game will be enriched by standout running back, senior Dwayne Meadors, an AllCounty Honorable Mention in 2022.

He’s considered a Top 10 player – maybe Top 5 - in Nassau this year and Division I colleges such as Stony Brook, Merrimack and Long Island University are chasing him.

“He’s a big, strong, fast kid,’’ Ali said. “He hits the hole with a ton of speed. Not a lot of high school players like tackling him.’’

The other receiver threat will be super athletic Jonathan Davis, a sophomore who lit it up for junior varsity last season. He’ll form a tandem with the loser of the quarterback battle.

To date, it’s been a keen battle to run the offense between Davis and Jones. “Both are good athletes who throw the ball well,’’ Ali said. “We feel confident no matter who the starter is the other will be the receiver. They’re both going to be major contributors no matter who the quarter back is. Whoever it is will do a great job.’’

On defense, Hempstead boasts senior linebacker Christopher Lake, who led the team in tackles in an all-over-the-field performance.

“He does everything,’’ Ali said. “He covers, he stops the run, rushes passer. He’s very well-rounded.’’

The other key linebacker is also a senior, Leonardo Flores. Hempstead is not a deep team and many of their offensive stalwarts play defense. In particular, Jones turned into a standout safety last season.

As golden a memory as 2022’s 6-win season became, the first-round playoff game gnawed at the player’s psyches in the offseason.

Syosset scored a go-ahead touchdown with 1:55 left to go up 21-20 but Hempstead came back to seemingly win it with a last-minute touchdown. But it was called back by a holding penalty and the Tigers didn’t recover.

touchdown with 1:55 Hempstead came back to seemingly win it with a last-minute touchdown. But it was called back by a holding penalty and the Tigers

Ali, a former Suffolk County football star, made a big impression in his rookie season after coming over from the college ranks. He had coached at Monroe College in New Rochelle, Hartwick and Castleton University.

“They’re a close-knit group — extremely hard working,’’ Ali said. “They’re hungry for the season.’’

said. “They’re hungry for the

Schedule

Dwayne Meadors

JONATHAN DAVIS

CHRIS LAKE

BRANDON DAVIS Photos by Eric Dunetz

Bulldogs won’t have easy road to playoffs

By DAVID PATALANO

Last season Hewlett football was hit with the injury bug early. A handful of important players went down in the preseason and first two games. It took them a few weeks to recover, but when healthy the Bulldogs impressed, winning their final two games.

This squad is now building off its late-season wins and carrying momentum into 2023. The coaching staff is excited about how hard the team has been working over the summer.

“We had a really good summer conditioning session,” said head coach John Palladino. “We would start at 7 a.m. and wanted to find out who really wanted to be there. Attendance was pretty good and the kids are excited. We have a bunch of returning players, and on the offensive line especially, so we’re looking forward to watching those guys play.”

The starting quarterback is junior Matt DeCicco, who has an accurate arm and is an all-around athlete, winning the Nassau County 110-meter hurdles championship in May. Running the offense out of the pistol, the Bulldogs will likely look to run the ball most of the time, making DeCicco a threat to score not only through the air but with his legs as well.

“Matt’s a tremendous athlete. We’re looking forward to watching him play, develop and have a nice two-year career for us,” Palladino said.

The returning offensive linemen are junior CJ Mairano, who also plays linebacker, along with seniors Danny Sheinin and Gabe Montoya. Sheinen is a three-year starting center and team captain. This group has worked hard over the summer, further working on

their chemistry in their second year playing together.

“I think the strength of the team is going to be the offensive line,” Palladino said. “It’s a really good coachable group and they love being lineman. They put a lot of good work into the weight room this summer, so we’re gonna look to run the ball behind those guys.”

Danny Karadi, a junior, will be Hewlett’s starting flanker. He’ll be used in motion a lot and due to his versatility will be both carrying the ball out of the backfield and catching passes out of routes. Taleek Edmonds, playing h-back, will have a similar role to Karadi in the offense. He’ll be given the ball and asked to run behind the strong offensive line.

Luke Rochler, a three-year starter and captain like Sheinen, will be the starting running back and outside linebacker. In 2022 due to an ankle injury, he was only able to play defense but is now back to full strength and will be playing both ways. Rochler is the vocal leader for this team and essentially runs the team. Daniel Lankri will be joining Rochler as the opposite outside linebacker and will also be touching the ball on offense.

“[Rochler and Lankri] are just football players who love the game,” said Palladino. “They’re both going to be big contributors for us. They were both a little banged up last year, and both of them are excited to be at full strength and see how they can contribute for a full eight games.”

Key players joining Rochler and Lankri on the defensive side of the ball will be nose guard Gianni Griffith and inside linebacker Spencer Smith.

“This year I just want to practice hard and compete in games,” Palladino said. “We want to be

the best team we can be. Right now we’re taking the season one week at a time. We don’t want to worry about tomorrow or our overall record. Just be the best we can be today.”

want to worry today.” Hewlett is

seeded No. 8 in Conference III and opens with a tall task at second-seeded South Side.

Schedule

Luke Rochler

DANNY SHEININ

C.J. MAIORANO

SPENCER SMITH

Photos by Eric Dunetz

Plenty of movement for improved Cougars

By BRIAN KACHARABA

Kennedy was voted the most improved team among Conference II coaches last season after the Cougars snapped a 14-game losing streak in the opener and split their first four games before finishing 2-6. But the team will move back to Conference III this year, where some familiar challenges await.

The Cougars lost all eight games during their last foray in the division two years ago and will face five of those teams again this fall: Roosevelt, Division, Valley Stream North, Hewlett and Mineola. Only the latter had a winning record in 2022 and Kennedy head coach John McGuire is hoping the small taste of victory his team enjoyed last year will carry over.

“If everything lined up and everything fell into place, I think that would be obviously ideal and that would be great,” he said about reaching .500 for the first time since 2016. “I did pick a 13 seed out of 14 for a reason just because of all of the question marks that we have. But I’m a cautiously optimistic type of guy.”

McGuire installed his flexbone offense last year and will continue to run it this season, but some of the main characters will have different roles starting with senior Ray Torchia, who is the team’s new quarterback. Torchia bounced back from an injury-plagued sophomore campaign to score 10 touchdowns last season as the tailback, including the overtime winner in the opener against Roslyn.

“Since the end of last offseason, I planted that seed in his head that it would be something

he would be interested in,” McGuire said. “Just being a good athlete, being a good decision maker and then being able to make the occasional throw when needed is definitely something that Ray is fully capable of and we like his explosiveness and playmaking ability”

Senior Devin Pryor should get more carries after being the team’s fullback last year. Pryor displayed his talent with a 117yard, 2-touchdown performance against Roslyn, but was injured midway through the season.

“The fullback is the heart and soul of that offense and Devin had an excellent first half of the year last year,” McGuire said.

Junior Charlie Gampero, senior transfer Geordi Ciprian and junior Jaden Celestin should get some carries as well in their Cougar varsity debuts.

The receiving corps is completely new with senior Nick Yao and juniors Donald Ayodele and Daniel Diaz now manning the position. Yao was a backup last year, Ayodele is a tall target and Diaz displayed plenty of speed and toughness at the JV level.

The offensive line could be a concern with senior Brandon Goldstein being the only returning starter. The two-time All-Conference player is moving to center this year, with Ian Estimable and Christian Cruz – the only 10th grader coming up the team, slotted at tackle. Senior Josh Polinsky is joining the line after appearing at fullback and linebacker last season.

“Brandon’s a big-time leader,” McGuire said. “We’re moving him to center just to anchor the offensive line. When you’re thinking offensively or defensively, you’re thinking up the middle and we’re putting

our best guys [there].”

Goldstein will also man the defensive line. Estimable also shined at linebacker last year, collecting three tackles, a sack and a fumble recovery in a win at Herricks on Oct. 1.

guys [there].” Goldstein will also mable also shined at linebacker last year, collecting three tackles, a win at Herricks on Oct. 1.

Senior Chrisitan

Senior Chrisitan Poveromo is an outside linebacker-down safety hybrid in addition to his backup quarterback role. He adds to an already deep defensive backfield with the return of senior starting cornerbacks Brennan Cleary and Nick Tavalaro being joined by senior J.J. Pizzirusso and junior JV callup Will Cona.

zirusso and junior JV callup

Ray Torchia

DEVIN PRYOR

BRANDON GOLDSTEIN

IAN ESTIMAALE

Photos by Ron Manfredi

LAWRENCE

Golden Tornadoes have work cut out for them

By MARC BERMAN

Melik Mavruk’s first year as Lawrence head coach received an early blow when he lost his expected starting quarterback.

Suddenly, Zaire Garraway, transferred to a school in Georgia to play alongside his half-brother and the program lost a potential fourth-year starter.

Coming off a 1-7 campaign with the only win over Oyster Bay, that wasn’t the best of start for a program that has struggled in recent years.

In addition, 18 players turned out for the first practice – lowest in recent times. Mavruk played for the Golden Tornadoes in headier times when the football feeding youth program, the Inwood Buccaneers, was still in existence.

If Lawrence is to be the surprise of Conference IV, a lot right has to happen. Its seeding took place before news of its quarterback loss, giving Lawrence a tougher schedule than it might have deserved.

“With the departure of quarterback, it’s going to be an uphill battle,’’ said Mavruk, who had been an offensive and defensive line coach. “There’s a lot of inexperienced guys who have to prove themselves. We’re going to be tested early. We have good athletes. We have to turn them in to football players.’’

The new starting signal-caller is Jamar Fuller, who will go back to his natural position of quarterback after spending 2022 as a utility guy. He used to be the JV quarterback so his adjustment could be quick.

“He’s a great runner,’’ Mavruk said. “He can run the ball like hell. He throws a pretty ball. He’s working on things with the new receiver corps. We graduated a lot of receivers last year.’’

Senior Nicko Phillips, a first-time starter, will be at receiver along with junior Eyad Karram. Their red-zone pass-catching threat will be 6-6 junior Tamir Thomas.

“We’re probably going to be a run-heavy team,’’ Mavruk said. “Our quarterback is a pretty good athlete. We have big guys up front coming back from last year. Hopefully we can push guys around more than we have in years past.’’

Indeed, the offensive line looks to be Lawrence’s strength.

The starting tackle is Josh Shivers who stands at 6-4, 280 pounds. Shivers enters his third year as a starter and is likely bound for juniorcollege football - possibly more.

“He’ll be a JUCO kid when it’s all said and done,’’ Mavruk said. “He definitely can play at the next level.’’

Shivers will be joined up front by two other standouts, guard Nick Gause, also a third-year stater, and tackle/guard Maddex Bethune, another heavyweight blocker at 6-foot, 300 pounds.

“We have some weight up front,’’ Mavruk said.

The O-Line should open holes for the quarterback and running back, Bryan Guevara, who also will play linebacker.

There’s big plans for sophomore Shawn Hampton to be in the backfield rotation after starring for JV in 2022.

In all, Lawrence lost eight seniors: nine if you count the quarterback transfer. Without many replenishments, several of its offensive players will be asked to play defense, too.

Guevara and Fuller will be on the field plenty as the key to the defense, at linebacker. Guevara is considered “the head of the defense’’. “He gets the signals and plays to the rest of the guys,’’ Mavruk said. Bobby Hicks will play nose tackle – a 6-2, 290-pounder coming off an ACL tear. The receiver Thomas will be slotted at

the Golden Tornadoes’ secondary will depend on how

Carmelo Hayward. Senior Jaylen Stewart will start at cornerback

defensive end. The health of the Golden Tornadoes’ secondary will depend on how much they get out of senior safety Carmelo Hayward. Senior Jaylen Stewart will start at cornerback after playing just 20 snaps last year. Hence, the defensive backfield could be vulnerable.

Another utility man, Julian Thompson may help out there but he’s also a good linebacker, receiver and running back. “He’ll be all over the field,’’ Mavruk said.

Lawrence opens at home

going to find out what we’re made up of pretty quick.’’

Lawrence opens at home agasinst Valley Stream South. “They had their way with us last year,’’ Mavruk said. “We’re going to find out what we’re made up of pretty quick.’’

Bryan Guevara

NICK GAUSE

JAMAR FULLER

JOSH SHIVERS

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

NOTE: Home teams on right. Local teams listed in BOLD/CAPS

LONG BEACH

Marines optimistic for another playoff run

By DAVID WEINGRAD

After their best season in several years that saw the Marines reach the Conference II semifinals, head coach Scott Martin thinks his team has the weapons to continue surprising people in a loaded Conference II.

Though Long Beach lost some key players from a season ago, Martin said some experienced undergraduates were ready to step in on day one of preseason and his team is ready to roll.

“We are very optimistic,” said Martin. “We think we can make an improvement similar to last year and maybe beyond.”

Key to that success is Luke Hartman, a wide receiver and safety who Martin labeled “one of the best players I’ve ever coached.” As a junior last hear Hartman tied two school records with six interceptions and 38 receptions.

Fellow senior C.J. Merchant, the Marines’ defensive MVP last season, will be an anchor at linebacker and play some running back. He led the team in tackles a year ago with 63 – 10 for a loss –and will have an increased role in the offense this season.

Shaquile Johnson, who had 225 receiving yards and four touchdowns last season, will be a major factor again at receiver and cornerback. Martin has the luxury of pairing him with senior Blake Salice-Mitchell, who, like Shaquille, stands at over six feet tall.

Nico Kanganis is a returning two-way starter who shined as an offensive tackle last season but will make the shift to tight end, and also serve as the team’s kicker.

Returning starter John Sofield, whose quickness, strength and intellect led to Martin anointing him as the “Captain of the defensive line,” will be another centerpiece

of the Marines’ defense.

Junior Wyatt Katzen is one of the emerging undergraduates stepping in to replace last year’s senior class, and will play some running back and linebacker. Paired with Merchant, Martin said he may have one of the best linebacker units in the conference.

Senior Tim Monzon, who sat out last year with an injury but helped manage from the sidelines, has already been a difference maker with his on-field presence, and will start at safety and see time at wide receiver. “He’s got great hands,” said Martin. “He’s a newcomer that could propel our team from an eight-seed to maybe a five.”

Returning junior Rafael Almonte, who as a sophomore was a big reason for last year’s success, will showcase his size and strength on the offensive line. “He’s beating up a lot of the guys,” Martin joked. “We have to get him out of the way or we can’t practice.”

Senior Tucker Bogacki will be a force shoring up the offensive and defensive line, and finally, sophomore newcomer Zack Silva will be the team’s new quarterback, impressing the coaching staff this preseason with his pure throwing ability and understanding of the offense.

Martin spoke confidently that he believes his team is better than the No. 8 seed it received this preseason, and that his players are eager to prove last season’s success was not a flash in the pan.

He acknowledged that integrating his proven core of returners with their group of dynamic newcomers that includes a first-year signal caller may present a learning curve early on.

They’ll have a major test early on in Weeks 2 and 3, when they play top-seeded defending

champion Garden City and second-seeded Carey back-to-back. While they’ll be heavy underdogs, it presents an opportunity to show his Marines can hang with the top teams and be a serious threat once again in the conference.

Carey back-to-back. While they’ll be heavy underdogs, it presents show his Marines can hang with the top teams and be a serious

“We think we will be one of the top defenses in the league. We play smart and aggressive,” said Martin. “Our kids are ready to test themselves again.”

Luke Hartman

C.J. MERCHANT

SHAQUILLE JOHNSON

NICO KANGANIS Photos by Justine Stefanelli

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Located at the foot of the Long Beach Bridge

Owls aim to pick up where they left off

By GARRETT D. URIBE

Anyone curious to see how Lynbrook reconstitutes itself in head coach Dave Yaker’s second season is not alone.

Indeed, with the end of camp and the start of Week 1 fast approaching, the Owls – who’ve graduated all but four of last year’s starters, including third-team AllState quarterback Michael Fagen, whose 1,319 yards rushing last year ranked third in school history for a single season – are themselves still looking forward to finding out.

With only a handful of days remaining in what has been described as an intensive offseason, Lynbrook’s depth chart is still wholly a work in progress, said Yaker – who in his inaugural season at the helm helped orchestrate the Owls’ (5-4 overall, 5-3 Conference 3) return to the Nassau Conference III playoffs following a two-year drought.

“Our theme this year is: Compete,” said Yaker, whose team last season fell to county runner-up Wantagh in the Conference III semifinals. “That’s the culture we’re trying to instill, and we won’t name any starters until our first game scrimmage. We’ve got a lot of new kids and we’re keeping it an open competition.”

When Lynbrook wrapped its regular season on a three-game win streak, Yaker at the time called it a culmination of “trusting the process.” As the Owls head back into Conference III action –boosted from 11th last year to this season’s No. 6 seed – the process, no doubt, will get a stress test.

“The process is a whole-year process,” Yaker said. “We took two weeks off after last season, and then ever since Thanksgiving we’ve been training. That’s the process. And like last year, we’re hoping

that guys step up and the process carries over.”

Yaker added: “Some guys are having great summers, so we do have some idea what things will look like.”

Versatile veteran Ramon Calderon figures to be a focal point, said Yaker. A top contributor at wideout last season, the Owls speedster also had 30 tackles with two sacks as Lynbrook’s starting strong safety. Fellow senior returner Craig Leszczak (67 tackles, 1 sack, 1 interception), Lynbrook’s starting Mike linebacker last year, also seems set to reprise his role, and could take on two-way duties deployed at halfback.

“Ramon’s a guy we’ll be counting on,” Yaker said. “He’s a jackknife we can play all over the field. Craig Leszczak has had a phenomenal offseason. He’ll have an expanded role on offense.”

Another key piece of Lynbrook’s secondary returns in junior corner Mike Hendrickson (21 tackles), while senior Amah Agwu is back after a season starting at split end.

Outsize importance might accrue to the role of returning interior linchpin John Difiore, as the Owls senior two-way tackle anchors an offensive line set to protect a firstyear quarterback, with able-armed senior Max Weiss – Fagen’s backup last season – and elusive junior Bennett Votano, a proven multiposition threat who started on JV last year, vying for the starting gig.

“This year, whoever our starter is, we want to be multidimensional at quarterback,” Yaker said. “Both of them (Weiss and Votano) have looked good this summer. Max has a very strong arm. Bennet’s another jackknife who can really run, and he’s gotten himself ready be a varsity quarterback.”

Unsurprisingly, slippery sophomore Jake Brenneis, who dazzled as a JV tailback, has gotten the

and projects as Lynbrook’s back-

varsity call-up and projects as a prime figure in Lynbrook’s backfield. “Jake’s got an uncanny way of making guys miss,” Yaker said.

miss,” Yaker said. “His vision is great. We’re hoping

“His vision is great. We’re hoping that all translates.”

“It’s a challenging schedule as the sixth seed,” added Yaker, whose team opens at fourth-seeded league rival Bethpage Sept. 9, and caps its regular season Oct. 28 hosting topseeded two-time defending county champion Plainedge. “There are no cupcakes on our schedule,” he added. “But that’s what the process has been about, getting ready to take on those challenges.”

no cupcakes on our schedule,” he added. “But that’s what the process has been about, getting ready to take on those challenges.”

Schedule

Ramon Calderon

JOHN DIFIORE

CRAIG LESZCZAK

MIKE HENDRICKSON

Photos by Sue Grieco

Generals brace for rough opening stretch

By ANDREW COEN

After kicking off last season with almost an entirely new starting lineup, MacArthur will once again feature many new faces on the line of scrimmage this fall.

MacArthur, which reached the playoffs with a 3-5 regular season record last year after graduating 33 seniors from the 2021 team, brings back only 15 returnees to the roster in 2023.

With a young team that features just nine seniors, longtime head coach Bobby Fehrenbach said there could be growing pains early in the season similar to last year, but hopes to peak at the right time heading into the playoffs.

“Last year I had 22 kids coming back, but they just didn’t play a lot the season before so I knew as the season went on we would be OK as they got experience,” Ferhernbach said. “It’s not the same story this year but it’s similar so we will just have to see what happens.”

Fehrebanch does return some starters at key positions including senior Ralph Boccio, (tight end/ linebacker)and Frank Hespe (wide receiver/defensive back). Junior Jack Orlando also gained valuable experience last season playing both tight end and offensive line. Junior Tom Bennett also returns after receiving time at tight end and fullback as a sophomore. Fellow junior Dylan Trippi started at cornerback last season and is expected to play a more integral role as an offensive playmaker.

MacArthur graduated its entire starting backfield, but has plenty of capable running backs on the roster. Fehrebach said juniors Keidyn Chang and Jesse Seder could take a number of the carries after receiving some limited varsity

action at running back last season at the end of some games.

The starting quarterback spot is up for grabs, entertaining preseason practices between senior Alex Varga and Chase Palma. Varga was a backup on varsity last season while Palma started on JV. Ferhbach said he expects to place a heavy focus on the running game, which has been a staple of MacArthur’s offense for many years.

“That is what’s worked for us for a long time so I don’t I don’t see myself straying from that too much,” he said. “We could open up a little bit more, but we have to see how the receivers work out as well so we still might stay in our three back offense predominantly, but it also depends on the flow of the game.”

On special teams, MacArthur lost starting kicker Jack Maurer and will look to find a replacement in preseason practices. Boccio handled punting duties last season and will play a key role in flipping field position in the Generals’ favor this season.

While last season’s win-loss record ended up below .500, Fehrenbach was pleased at how the team progressed throughout the season. MacArthur lost three of four to close the regular season, but two of the defeats were by a touchdown or less and the Generals were competitive for a half in the other loss to unbeaten Garden City.

“We were playing better football down the stretch and just ran into some strong teams on the schedule,” Fehrenbach said. MacArthur enters the season seeded seventh in Conference II vying for one of the league’s eight postseason spots. The Generals have reached the playoffs for 22 straight seasons.

“Year in and year out we

are always here,” said MacArthur player who has

1 @ Manhasset 2:00 p.m.

September

FRANK HESPE

JESSE SEDER

Photos by Karen Millindorf

Talented Mules point towards deep run

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Malverne enters the 2023 campaign with its highest ranking since former standout Kito Lockwood took over as head coach 14 years ago.

The Mules, who last captured a county title when Lockwood was a senior in the fall of 1991, are seeded No. 2 behind two-time defending Nassau Conference IV champion North Shore. The Vikings ended Malverne’s 2022 campaign on a last-second field goal in the semifinals at Hofstra.

“It’s hard to wait eight months to get back at it, but we had an A-plus offseason,” Lockwood said. “Winning a playoff game last year against Mineola and experiencing the Hofstra atmosphere goes a long way. Our kids are really motivated and if we get going on all cylinders, it’s going to be fun.”

The bulk of the offense returns from last year’s 6-4 squad and is sure to receive a boost from senior wideout/cornerback Josiah Brown, who formerly starred at Holy Trinity and is Penn State bound.

Senior Chad Wesley directs the unit after making the majority of starts at quarterback last fall. “He’s a dual threat who’s doing a great job managing the offense,” Lockwood said. “We need him to get the ball to the playmakers.”

One of the biggest weapons is senior Roy Branden McLaughlin, who missed a large chunk of last season with a broken collarbone after scoring 12 touchdowns in 2021. He scored both touchdowns in the semifinal loss to North Shore after returning from injury. “He has power and speed and can score from anywhere,” Lockwood said.

Brown, with 4.3 speed in the 40, adds electricity to a receiver corps also led by seniors Will Hartley and Michael McDougal. Brown

will also look to spark the Mules on special teams, although Lockwood isn’t expecting too many deep kickoffs. Senior halfback Jedidiah Aidelogi, one of the team’s captains, rejoins the backfield after converting to offensive line to fill a need. “Jedidiah is one of the most unselfish athletes I’ve ever coached,” Lockwood said. “He’s also one of our best defenders.”

The front five has potential to be special, Lockwood said. Anchoring the group are seniors Kevin Estime and Tristan Brunson, and junior center Aaron Munoz. Estime, a 6-foot-2, 220-pound All-County selection, is a third-year starter at left tackle and a disruptive force on the defensive side. “We don’t make it to Hofstra without him,” Lockwood said. Brunson was Honorable Mention All-County who brings versatility and a high football IQ. Munoz, meanwhile, “didn’t have a bad snap all year,” the coach noted. Senior Oliver Dursile is expected to start at guard next to Estime. Sophomore K’von Hightower and junior Sasha Turner will both contribute at tackle next to Brunson.

Estime benches 300 pounds and the 6-foot, 250-pound Brunson squats 485. They’ll both play on the defensive front along with Aidelogi and Dursile. “Tristan really hit the weight room and teams will have to pick their poison between him and Kevin,” Lockwood said. “Both of them can’t be doubled.”

At linebacker, senior Hugh Wilkerson III is a tackle machine and covers plenty of real estate. If not for an injury last season, he would have led Malverne in tackles for a third consecutive year. He’s also in the mix to play offensive tackle. “He has speed, strength, vision and aggressiveness,” Lockwood said. McDougal and senior Nicholas Brown are

experienced starting linebackers and no strangers to making big plays.

starting linea hybrid on D.

Hartley will serve as a hybrid on D. Seniors Zavion Daniels and Amarii Sylvester will start in the secondary along with Josiah Brown. Senior Javier Fuentes handles both the kicking and punting responsibilities.

“Regardless of our seed, teams always get fired up to play against us,” Lockwood said.

fired up to play against us,”

Roy Branden McLaughlin

JOSIAH BROWN KEVIN ESTIME

TRISTAN BRUNSON

Photos by Sue Grieco

Pirates fresh off run to county title game

By DAVID WEINGRAD

A9-2 season for the Pirates last year saw them reach their second Conference II championship game in six years before being stopped again by a dominant Garden City squad.

And while the Pirates lost some key starters to graduation, head coach Matthew Moody spoke enthusiastically about the abundance of talent that will step in to fill their shoes to keep them among the league’s best squads.

“I think many people will think that because of who we lost, we will not be as good as we were,” he said. “But we’re looking to prove everyone wrong.”

It starts with All-Country senior receiver and defensive back Steven Mulqueen, whose unique talents and understanding of the game will allow Moody to play him all over the field.

Senior wide receiver and lineman Jake Lechleitner will also make a huge impact on both sides of the ball. As a lineman, he has the “quickest two steps I’ve ever had the opportunity to coach,” said Moody.

And senior Brendan Toomey, an offensive and defensive lineman rounding out the trio of star seniors, is “pound for pound the strongest kid in the program,” his coach said.

Kevin White will be a new face on offense behind center, but as a senior, Moody said he is a “true quarterback,” who understands core passing concepts, is patient in the pocket, and can use his legs to get yards. “I think he’s going to surprise some people and raise some eyebrows,” he said.

Receiver and defensive back Daniel Molloy stepped up late last season and will step into

a starting role on day one. The senior will often be called upon to be locked up against opponents’ single side receivers.

Brothers Carlo and Nick Gampero, at running back and wide receiver respectively, will also play key roles this year. Carlo, at 5-foot-9 and 210 pounds, “is a bigger back but he’s got some shiftiness to him,” said Moody. “If you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time, he’ll go through you.”

Going into last year, the offensive line was one of the biggest question marks. But among those who stepped up to make it a strength was seniors Kieran Roth and Dylan Honerkamp, both who will remain stalwarts upfront this season, and will also compete for spots on the defensive line.

As the lead running back, senior Nicholas Sedita will be a perfect complement to Gampero, with his ability to stretch the field and make runners miss with his speed and agility.

Senior Devin Greene will be a third-year starter at safety and has been a major factor in the team’s recent defensive success as a strong downhill tackler.

Depth, said Moody, will be the biggest strength of his team, allowing him to keep players fresh and rotate based on matchups. He expects physical defensive play to be the team’s trademark once again, while also featuring a balanced offence.

On the calendar, a Week 2 matchup against Calhoun is always important for local bragging rights, but it’s weeks 6, 7 and 8 to wrap the season, that Moody said he has his eyes on when the Pirates face Carey – a team ranked one spot ahead of them in the preseason – MacArthur, and then wrap the regular season with a dramatic rematch

at home against Garden City.

Garden City.

“We’re hoping we can go into that game 7-0 vs. 7-0,” said Moody. The goal, he said, is to “beat Garden City and give

“We’re hoping we can go into that game

7-0 vs. 7-0,” said Moody. The goal, he said, is to “beat Garden City and give ourselves a shot at the Long Island championship. There are very good teams in Conference II, but I do believe we are at the top of that list.”

are at the top

STEVEN MULQUEEN

Schedule

September

2 @ Herricks 2:00 p.m.

9 Elmont 2:00 p.m.

October

Brendan Toomey

JAKE LECHLEITNER

KEVIN WHITE Photos by Ron Manfredi

OCEANSIDE

Sailors primed to rise from No. 7 seed

By GARRETT D. URIBE

Seven points last season separated Oceanside from its customary perch in Nassau Conference 1 football’s top tier.

Assuming the Sailors’ offensive reins from four-year quarterback Charlie McKee – who finished high school as Nassau’s all-time leader in passing – freshman Shane Harmon completed a rapid apprenticeship to emerge midseason as a full-fledged starting signal caller, leading Oceanside (4-5 overall to three straight wins before a two-point loss in overtime, followed by a fivepoint defeat in the Conference 1 quarterfinals, marked an end to its three-season streak of county final appearances.

“We had a couple bad bounces last year, but we expected a bit of a reset anyway,” said 15th-year head coach Rob Blount, whose team – a Nassau champion in 2017 and county finalist in five of the past eight seasons – fell 54-52 in its regular-season finale at Freeport before eventual Nassau I runner-up Massapequa avenged its midseason loss to the Sailors, beating visiting Oceanside 21-16 to start the playoffs.

“It’s tough to be on top for a long time,” said Blount, whose club is the No. 7 seed. “We had a nice seven-year run. We just had to reload last year and get guys up to speed, continue developing. We saw that from Shane (Harmon), who did a great job starting to take over.”

After mainly serving early as a kind of conductor in Oceanside’s run-first offense, Harmon had his first real passing success in a 35-0 home rout of Hicksville six weeks into the season, completing 8 of 11 attempts for 128 yards and two touchdowns. The now five-foot-

eight, 150-pound sophomore went 66 of 97 (68 percent) on the season for 737 yards with two scoring tosses and three interceptions, while also scoring twice by ground.

“Shane’s taking similar steps to guys who’ve gone before him, same blueprint,” Blount said.

“We’re excited about his development and the guys around him.”

Oceanside returns five starters, including senior receiver/defensive back Brian Kraemer and 6-1 sophomore Dylan Bender, who along with fellow outside backer Luke Villela (sophomore) “can cause some havoc on the edges,” Blount said, while seniors Jake Kenney and Michael Madden are Oceanside’s inside linebackers.

Team interception leader Chris LaLima returns to lead Oceanside’s secondary and is set to start hauling in his own team’s passes starting a first year at wideout. “Chris is fast and lengthy, very athletic,” Blount said of the 6-1 senior safety who had two picks last season. “We’re excited to see what he can do for us offensively.”

Senior Brett Moshkovich (6-2, 290 pounds) returns at offensive left guard, while 6-1 junior Justin Diez, a converted quarterback who remains a Sailors backup, steps into a key role – taking over for graduated tight end Logan Lyson, a three-time All-County selection who led the team last year in receiving yards (277) and touchdown catches with two.

Though all eyes will surely be on Harmon as he starts his second season under center, Blount said he’s also eager to see what Isaiah Spivey can do for the offense getting first-team touches from game one at tailback. The 5-8, 165-pound junior had 15 carries for 133 yards (8.6 per carry) and a touchdown last year in limited action.

“We’ve been waiting two years now for (Spivey) to get this

opportunity,” Blount said. “He’s a powerful runner. He’s been in development and now it’s his turn.”

runner. He’s been in development and now it’s his turn.”

“We have high expectations

all around, as always,” summarized Blount, whose team opens the season at third-seeded pionship, and know the steps to compete and to develop and let the chips fall where they may,” Blount said.

“We have high expectations all around, as always,” summarized Blount, whose team opens the season at third-seeded Freeport, hosts reigning Long Island champion and top seed Farmingdale Oct. 13, and wraps its regular season at home against No. 11 Valley Stream Central. “We want to get to the championship, and know the steps to get there. We’ll continue to compete and to develop and let the chips fall where they may,” Blount said.

Schedule

October

JAKE KENNEY

Photos by Eric Dunetz

JUSTIN DIEZ

Brian Kraemer

CHRIS LALIMA

Fall Session 2023-2024

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More experienced Vikings set for voyage

By ANDREW COEN

Seaford thrived in the regular season in 2022 despite instilling nearly an entirely new starting lineup, and with many starters back will look to take that next step in the postseason.

After losing 10 starters, the Vikings earned the No. 2 playoff seed in Conference IV with a 7-1 record before falling in the county semifinals to West Hempstead, 36-20, With much more experience back this fall, third-year head coach Mike Corcoran sees potential for a deep playoff run that includes the program’s first county title since 2019.

“I think we got a really good team, but there are some other good teams in the conference as well so we know it’s gonna be tough,” Corcoran said. “I think we have enough talent to do some really good things this year.”

Senior running back Aiden Calvacca returns to anchor the backfield after a breakout junior campaign in which he earned All-County honors with more than 1,100 yards. Calvacca rushed for 108 yards and a touchdown in Seaford’s 21-14 quarterfinal win against Cold Spring Harbor and also recorded 10 tackles on defense as linebacker.

Another key returner on offense is senior tight end Devon O’Donnell, who also earned AllCounty honors. Junior Kyle Britton will be another receiving option in the passing game after earning plenty of varsity experience as a sophomore.

The starting quarterback spot will be assumed by senior Tim Navin, who was the backup signal caller last year. The athletic Navin is also a standout lacrosse player who has committed to play on the college level at Wingate University.

Corcoran said he hopes to have a balanced offensive that can mix in some passing depending on the progression of Navin and his receivers.

“We definitely want to establish the run for sure, but we feel we have some really good skill guys as well that we can get the ball too in the passing game,” Corcoran said. “We will adapt to the talent that we have and see where it takes us.”

The offensive line protecting Navin will be anchored by seniors Jake Quinn and Anthony Jane with junior Robert McNamara also expected to start after earning some varsity snaps as a sophomore. Quinn and Janes also lead the defense as defensive ends who can create pressure at the line of scrimmage.

The secondary brings back experience led by senior cornerback Louis Cannata, who started last season. Sophomore linebackers Brian and Dan Barone also could be big contributors on the defensive side of the ball.

“We have a decent amount of starters back on both sides of the ball which is much different than last season so I expect the defense to be better this year,” Corcoran said.

On special teams, Corcoran has two capable kickers in Jake Anzelone and Aiden Das. Navin is slated to handle the punting duties.

Seaford enters the season as the third seed behind two-time defending Conference IV champion North Shore and Malverne. The Vikings have fallen in the semifinal round of the playoffs in each of the past three seasons and are looking to write a different script this November to position the program to compete on the championship stage at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium.

Corcoran said his more than a dozen seniors have paved the way for a potential deep postseason run with a deep commitment to work hard in the offseason.

ran said his more than a dozen seniors have paved the postseason run with a deep commitment to work hard in

“It’s a good, good group of kids and they worked very hard in the offseason so I’m hoping it pays off,” he said. “The senior group is very, very much committed and they’ve hit the weight room noticeably so we’re hoping that pays dividends this year for us, especially up front of the line.”

Devon O’Donnell

ANTHONY JANES AIDAN CALVACCA

JAKE QUINN Photos by Karen Millindorf

Deep roster and size assets for Indians

By DAVID PATALANO

There is plenty to be excited about for Sewanhaka football this season. The coaches are fired up about this year’s turnout as the players are showing up in droves to the weight room and the practice field. While the roster may be young, it is also very experienced as many underclassmen saw the field in 2022.

“At the high school level experience is huge,” head coach George Kasimatis said. “As the players get better, you see them get more mature as well. In the offseason the guys did a really good job getting in the weight room early to lift and condition. They’re all buying in.”

The offense will be led by firstyear starting quarterback Anthony Caliendo. Caliendo is an accurate passer who can gain yards with his legs as well. He was described by his coach as very intelligent and a true student of the game. He studies the playbook night and day and is a great leader on and off the field.

Leading the charge out of the backfield will be sophomore Hezekiah Faison, who saw playing time last year as Kasimatis’ first varsity ninth grader. He’s got blazing speed and gotten bigger and stronger over the off-season. While Faison will be Sewanhaka’s primary ball carrier he will also play a key role as a free safety on defense.

Faison is just one of Sewanhaka’s many two-way players. Braylon Metellus, another speedster, plays slotback and cornerback. He covers a lot of ground on defense and runs precise routes on O. Joe Gallardo plays receiver on offense and has made the move from safety to outside linebacker after working hard in the weight

room all summer. Kai Harris is very versatile for Kasimatis’ squad playing outside linebacker on defense and being able to move from wide receiver to running back on the offensive side of the ball.

Rounding out the defense, while also seeing offensive snaps, is senior receiver/defensive end Lavell Cannon, middle linebacker Cristian Alonzo, linebacker/running back Adrian “AJ” Ayau who also goes by Tarzan because of his long hair, converted safety to linebacker Jadon Lawson, slot receiver/cornerback Joshua Hicks, and slot receiver/cornerback Jaiden Johnson.

“The thing I love about this group is that they’re all great kids,” Kasimatis said. “They’re such hard workers and are all willing to play wherever they’re needed. They’re just great to be around.”

An advantage that Sewanhaka will have over its conference opponents is the size of their offensive and defensive lines. Kasimatis has a handful of linemen that are well over 250 pounds and a couple who weigh over 300. Not only does this group like hitting people, but they can move too. Opposing defensive lines will need to be wary of some big, pulling Sewanhaka guards.

Manuel Cruz Benevides played guard last year as a sophomore but will be making the shift to center in 2023 as well as getting some snaps on defense. Dominick Wright, who played guard last season, will be making the move to tackle. Kevin Dopwell will be playing guard as well as defensive tackle. Fritz Pajotte will be starting at tackle and defensive end. Rounding out the line are Abdullah Aflak and Jeffrey Connors.

“As a coaching staff, we’re very excited about this team. The sky’s the limit because when

ted as this team

you’re as committed as this team is, they can only achieve great things,” Kasimatis said.

“We’re in a loaded conference, but what matters is getting better week to week. It sounds cliche, but that’s what’s important with such a young group like the one we have this year.”

have

Anthony Caliendo

DOMINICK WRIGHT HEZEKIAH FAISON

BRAYLON METTELUS

Photos by Brian Ballweg

Championship dreams for talented Cyclones

By ANDREW COEN

As Phil Onesto readies for his 13th as South Side’s head coach, he sees the best chance since taking over his alma mater to lead the program back to championship glory.

The former standout wide receiver brings back the bulk of last year’s starters off a 4-4 team that reached the Conference II semifinal stage. The Cyclones will compete in Conference III this year due to changes in district enrollment.

“I’ve never been in a position where I’m where a county championship is the expectation, but I would be lying if I said that I didn’t think that that was a strong possibility for this group,” said Onesto, who was part of the last previous Cyclone team to capture a county crown in 2001. “Anything could happen, but if we just do our job there’s no reason why we can’t win a county championship.”

Onesto’s long quest for a county crown stretches back to the 2011 season when he took over a program that had gone 1-7 the previous year. He has turned South Side into a consistent playoff team in recent years, which has helped fuel increased interest as evident by there being more than 100 players combined competing on varsity and junior varsity for the 2023 campaign.

South Side’s large roster is led by seniors Jack Lozito and Michael Melkonian, who both earned All-County honors last year at running back and wide receiver, respectively. Lozito was Nassau County’s leading rusher before getting injured in the fifth game of last season while Melkonian, who was a finalist for the county’s receiver of the year award, got hurt in the regular season finale against Elmont.

Starting quarterback Owen West stepped up in the absence of Lozito and Melkonian to lead South Side to a 27-21 first round playoff win at Elmont with 61 yards rushing and two touchdowns. West is on track to break the South Side record for career passing yards in the first game of the 2023 season while Melkonian is nearing the program record for all-time receptions.

In addition to Melkonian, seniors Patrick Mullin and James Sullivan are also reliable receivers for West to target in the passing game. Varsity newcomers Jack Boyens and Brendan Vetter have also shown promise after solid seasons on JV.

The Cyclones boast depth at running back behind Lozito with juniors Patrick Sullivan and Ben Amaya expected to also see time in the backfield this fall.

The offense will be powered by an experienced line featuring a trio of three three-year starters in Bobby Galindo, Billy Gryboski and James Beatty. Michael Muscarella, who started a few games last season, and Kieran Kenny are expected to take up the other two starting spots in the trenches.

“As good as our skill guys are, I think that thing that’s going to really separate us this year is our offensive line,” Onesto said. ‘We’re going to have one of the biggest offensive lines in the conference.”

Onesto added that another special element of the offensive line is how the unit shines academically with every player averaging around a 4.0 grade point average. Galindo has committed to play college football at Colgate University.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Cyclones are led by senior linebacker Michael Aiello, who led the team in tackles last year.

Junior defensive back Cullen Lynch moved up

Melkonian was injured and

Junior defensive back Cullen Lynch moved up to start on varsity from JV at the end of last season when Melkonian was injured and should be another integral part of the secondary this fall.

brings key experience to special

brings key experience to special teams entering his third season as starting kicker. In addition to being reliable on field goals and extra points, Onesto said he showed improvement in the length of his kickoffs over the course of his junior season.

Schedule

Senior Nick Papadopulos

Owen West

MICHAEL AIELLO

MICHAEL MELKONIAN

JACK LOZITO

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

VOTED BEST BURGER VOTED BEST BURGER

Knights work to snap playoff drought

By ANDREW COEN

After a turnaround 2022 season with a larger roster, Uniondale football has its eyes on reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2019.

The Knights ascended to a 4-4 mark last fall after going 1-7 in 2021 with a limited roster when the program battled headwinds caused by the Covid-19 pandemic forcing lengthy remote instruction in the district. Uniondale enters the 2023 campaign as the nine seed in Conference I and is poised to be in the mix for one of the league’s eight postseason spots.

“I think we are going to be competitive and our goal is to make the playoffs,” head coach Philip Coppola said. “We have a bunch of guys returning from last year.”

Among the key returnees is senior guard Louis Lizama, who anchored the offensive line as a junior and led the team in tackles as a starting middle linebacker. Coppola said the 6-3, 2250 pound Lizama could be up for the Piner Award, which honors the most outstanding linebacker in Nassau County.

“He goes sideline to sideline and has a motor like you would not believe,” said Coppola of Lizama, who is being recruited by colleges for both football and wrestling. “He is going to be the biggest impact player on our team.”

Lizama will lead an offensive line that also features Jaden Lewis-White, Dennis Argueta, Jose Melendez and Allen Webber. Carlos Perez and Bryce Inniss may also be part of a deep offensive line rotation in addition to playing a big role on the defensive line.

“My line is without a doubt my hardest working group on the

team,” said Coppola of his 14 linemen on the roster. “They put in a ton of time in the weight room and l really, really worked hard in the offseason.”

For the second year in a row the starting quarterback spot entering preseason was up for grabs between senior Jonel Lattore and junior Oladipupo Karimu. Both may rotate in throughout games with Karimu an explosive runner while Lattore brings strengths with his passing game.

Seniors Tristan Greenwood and Jaden Acosta among the Knights’ key returning receiving targets this season for whoever is under center. Senior Lincoln Bracken is also expected to see some time in the trenches this fall.

Coppola has options in the running game between senior Darius Adeyemi and junior Jahiem Foote, who shined on junior variety last year. The team may utilize some sets with two running backs this season in addition to running one-back pistol formation plays that feature a run-pass option.

A big focus in the offseason this past year has been the importance of ball control after costly fumbles led to close losses against Port Washington and Valley Stream Central last season.

“We easily could have been six and two last year,” Coppola said.

On special teams, Uniondale graduated starting kicker and punter Jason Galdamez. Coppola said he is hoping to find a solid kicking replacement from the soccer team for this fall.

Uniondale will play its home games this season at Cantiague Park in Hicksville due to construction of a new synthetic turf field at Uniondale High School that began in early August. The project is part of a $158 million bond act approved by district voters in 2018.

The schedule features some

challenging games in Conference I starting with defending Long Island champion Farmingdale in the opening game, but Coppolo is feeling positive about his team’s preparation after the commitment shown in the offseason.

Island champion Farmingdale in the opening game, but Coppolo is

“We worked hard this summer five days a week,” he said. “The Monday after school ended we were in the weight room and we had a very good summer.”

summer.”

Tristin Greenwood

LUIS LIZAMA

JADEN ACOSTA

SHAWAN BRADSHAW

Photos by Eric Dunetz

V.S. CENTRAL

Eagles face challenge of underdog label

By TONY BELLISSIMO

Valley Stream Central stuck around in the Nassau Conference I playoff picture throughout alum Tom Schiavo’s first season as head coach but a 21-14 defeat to Plainview in the finale cost the Eagles a spot in the top eight.

“It was a solid year and we gave ourselves a fighting chance to get in,” Schiavo said. “It would’ve been nice to get into the playoffs my first year here and even better for those seniors. Conference I is such a massive challenge every week and that’s never going to change.”

Central, 3-5 in 2022, is seeded No. 11 in the 14-team conference and opens with an important matchup against Westbury. “We’ll be underdogs in most games, but we’ll embrace it,” Schiavo said. “We’re rightfully seeded. The kids had a very productive offseason in the weight room and with 7 on 7s. They’ve got a great attitude, put the work in and are prepared.”

The Eagles had five different quarterbacks take snaps a year ago and Schiavo is hoping that number decreases by four. Senior Kyle McCord, who suffered a serious leg injury in last year’s scrimmage, will be taking his first career varsity snaps against Westbury. “He’s fast, strong and hungry to get at it,” Schiavo said of McCord, a converted center from the JV team a few years back. “He has control of the huddle, a strong arm, and can definitely run if we need him to.”

Senior center Charlie Rivera, who started every game last fall, anchors the offensive line. “We’re looking for him to pick up where he left off and also play more defense than he did a year ago,” Schiavo said. Seniors Michael Severe and Ezechiel Moise could also assume a full-time role as a large group of candidates battle for the other two

spots.

At tailback, Schiavo is looking for someone to “bust out” and earn the majority of carries but he’s also open to a ground attack by committee. Junior Jayden Fox showed some flashes last season with a 100-yard performance and is part of a mix that includes seniors Sukijai Phillips, Ife Ahmed and Khaiden Ward. “I have no problem splitting carries and keeping everyone fresh because some of these guys will also contribute on defense,” Schiavo explained.

The primary job of the fullback in Central’s offense is to provide additional blocking. Leading the way there are seniors Tayshaun Franklin and Olivier Souvenance, and junior Chris Vicuna.

mix during the summer,” Schiavo said. The long list features seniors

quarterback Max Cohen, juniors

It’s crowded at receiver. “A lot of guys put themselves in the mix during the summer,” Schiavo said. The long list features seniors Jordan Jean-Joseph, Kenderick Danso, Telha Kahn and backup quarterback Max Cohen, juniors Omarre Gantt and Dion Hamilton, and sophomore Nelson Frias. Some of this same group will be asked to make things happen on special teams.

Defensively, the Eagles played well in 2022 holding three opponents to single digits and two others to 21 and 19.

Moise, a three-spot athlete with a 6-foot, 300-pound frame, will look to snuff out the competition’s running game and set the tone in the trenches. “He’s athletic and strong with good leadership qualities,” said Schiavo, who is also counting on seniors Johan Hernandez, Matthew Howard, transfer Jaylin Dawson and juniors Luis Baez, Izaah Codner, Michael Pinnock and Dennis Suazo to make a push for playing time on the D-line.

At linebacker, junior Tyler Haye, who is likely to handle kicking responsibilities, will contribute along

Schedule

Kyle McCord

EZECHIEL MOISE

CHARLIE RIVERA

OLIVER SOUVENANCE

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

V.S. NORTH

Spartans optimistic after tough end to 2022

By BRIAN KACHARABA

Losing almost all of their starters from 2021 and manning a roster of about 25 players proved to be too much for Valley Stream North to overcome last year as it slipped to a 2-6, including one win in the last six contests.

The Spartans have only three returning starters again on this year’s roster, but head coach Mike Paolillo believes the program is more stable now and can even flip their 2022 mark despite being a No. 12 seed in Conference III.

“We’re hoping 5-3, 6-2,” Paolillo said. “These guys picked up things really well over the summer. We’re at least a week or two ahead of where we were last year.”

But Paolillo still recognizes some areas of concern.

“The offensive line is a question mark,” he said. “We’ve got skill players and we’ve got to get them into space and keep the defensive players away from them. And then we have to be able to stop people. That has been our problem in the past, especially when we play the better team, or the teams that are bigger than us that come straight at us.”

Nick Naumov is back for his senior season at quarterback after throwing for almost 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns last year, while rushing for four more.

“I expect him to throw for over 1,000 yards and I’m hoping he can rush for over 500-600 yards,” Paolillo said. “He’s going to be our guy.”

The backfield is younger with juniors Imran Paul and Aaron Sibblies likely getting most of the

carries. Paul should have a bigger workload after amassing around 100 yards last year, including his lone touchdown at Lynbrook on Oct. 15.

“He’s going to be our guy,” Paolillo said of Paul. He’s going to have 20-30 carries a game. We’re expecting big things from him.”

Senior Zaiden Jackson may also get some carries and senior Chanul Silva and junior Antonio Casoria are on the fullback depth chart.

Sibblies will also see time at receiver with senior Terry Medor and juniors Keith Grosso and Christian St. Amand. Medor was a dual threat at running back and receiver and also returned a punt 40 yards for a score against Hewlett on Oct. 8.

Grosso is a big target at around 6-foot-4 and St. Amand, a basketball player, has a strong vertical jump that can give him an advantage in any 1-on-1 battle.

“Grosso is a lanky kid who can go up and get the ball. He runs crisp routes and he can catch anything you throw at him,” Paolillo said. “Christian St. Amand has average speed, but he can get that jump ball.”

The offensive line does have some stability from last year. Junior Nate Smith is shifting from guard to center and Nick Batista returns at left tackle next to guard and fellow senior Jaden Frederique. Junior Michael Pagano is also vying for playing time on the line.

Batista and Smith are also the defensive ends with Frederique and possibly senior Luciano DiSalvio on the interior as a part of Paolillo’s 4-2-5 scheme. Paul is the only linebacker that is set, with Casoria, Jackson, junior Joe Ruperto, Silva and senior

Matteo Aristizabal competing for the other spots.

In the defensive backfield,

St. Amand and Sibblies will be at

St. Amand and Sibblies will be at the corners with Medor at safety.

“They’re raw, other than

speed and they work hard and they’re getting better as we go

“They’re raw, other than Terry, but they have a lot of speed and they work hard and they’re getting better as we go on,” Paolillo said of the trio.

The Spartans faced five of

the eight teams on their schedule last year, including Lynbrook, Bethpage, and Glen Cove in weeks 2-4. They host Clarke in the opener.

Nick Naumov

IMRAN PAUL

TERRY MEDOR

NICK BATISTA

Photos by Brian Ballweg

V.S. SOUTH

Most important piece back to lead Falcons

By MARC BERMAN

Football is a team game, but there is one major reason Valley Stream South head coach Joe Guastafeste is eager about 2023.

“This is why I’m looking forward to this year,’’ Guastafeste said. “We have a returning quarterback for the first time in a long time.’’

His name is Michael Hernandez, a senior getting Division I/II looks. Division I Long Island University is a possibility as is Division II Franklin Pierce (New Hampshire).

You can see why the coach sees an upward arc as Hernandez exudes nothing but confidence.

“I think this will be the best year this program has seen in a while,’’ Hernandez said. “We haven’t made the playoffs in 10-plus years. We have a lot of returnees coming back. I’ve been with these guys since the 7th grade. I think our chemistry could take us a long way this year.’’

The Falcons look ready to top last season’s 3-5, non-playoff mark. Hernandez showed terrific accuracy, completing 80 percent of his passes - 62 of 84 for 772 yards and 9 touchdowns. He also rushed for 221 yards, utilizing his 6-foot-3, 185-pound frame.

“He’s a big kid,’’ Guastafeste said. “He has great vision of the field and makes really smart decisions because of his experience. His football IQ is through the roof.’’

Indeed, Hernandez threw just two interceptions all season. “He’s smart with the football,’’ Guastafeste added. “He respects the football. He’s also a great leader. The kids look up to him – a natural leader.’’

The bond Hernandez has created with teammates could go far, especially in tight games.

“I feel like the guys know me

off the field and they’re not afraid his trusty senior receiver Michael Sukhu, a returning starter known

off the field and they’re not afraid to approach me with questions,’ Hernandez said. “My relationship I have with them will help us win more games. It’s an advantage a lot of teams don’t have.’’

Hernandez will often target his trusty senior receiver Michael Sukhu, a returning starter known as a good route runner with sure hands.

The 2022 record was a marked improvement over 2021 when VSS stumbled to 1-7. It was the worst season in Guastafeste’s eight-year head-coaching stint. He’s been with the program since 2006, starting as offensive coordinator.

320 yards total. Junior Davis Brooks is the other running back. At 5-10, 175 pounds, he adds size and blocking.

The defense is led by senior linebacker, Lonnie Creech, and junior defensive back Jayshaun Woodard, who is 5-8. But the coach says Woodard “can jump athlete.’’

through the ceiling, maybe our best

Meanwhile, Creech’s larger contribution could be as a kicker/ punter. He averaged a whopping 42.1 yards per punt last season and is getting D-III interest.

With Hernandez steering the ship, the red-clad Falcons received a preseason seed of 9 in the 12team Conference IV – its highest seed in six years. The top eight teams make the playoffs.

ship, the red-clad Falcons received a preseason seed of 9 in the 12IV

“We improved in every statistical phase of the game last year,’’ Guastafeste said. “We’re trying to build on that this year.’’

“I get a questionnaire every year on what is my goal,’’ Guastafeste said. “My goals never change.

“I get a questionnaire every year on what is my goal,’’ Guastafeste said. “My goals never change. Our goal is to the make the playoffs. Once you get in, anything can happen.’’

The team lost four starters on offense, including star running back Diayaan Mir, playing for Alfred State. Mir also was also a standout linebacker and one of five starters lost on defense.

The real question mark is an offensive line that will be minus its anchor in graduated three-year starting center Johnathan Diaz.

There’s only one returning starting offensive lineman - senior guard Brandon Ocasio. The team runs a shotgun Wing T and a pulling guard is needed. That is where Ocasio excels. There is also high hopes, too, for junior guard Aaron Daniels.

They will need to create space for senior running back Aiden Chance, a backup last year. He exploded for one 125-yard, 2-touchdown outing and ran for

Michael Hernandez

MICHAEL SUKHU

BRANDON OCASIO

LONNIE CREECH Photos by Donovan Berthoud

Warriors hope to parlay offseason work ethic

By TONY BELLISSIMO

The only blemishes on Wantagh’s 2022 schedule came at the hands of Nassau Conference III champion Plainedge, which defeated the Warriors in a county title game it led only 3-0 with seconds remaining in the first half.

“We won a lot of close games and played really well in the championship,” Wantagh head coach Keith Sachs said. “We always get better as the year unfolds. Our conference added a topnotch team in South Side, so it’ll be interesting. Athletically, we match up with everybody.”

The Warriors, off a 9-2 campaign and their 24th trip to the semifinals in 26 years, are tasked with replacing their entire starting offensive line and quarterback but had a tremendous offseason. “This is one of the best committed groups we’ve had in my 30 years here,” said Sachs, who is assisted by Jim Morrow, John Jansen and Chris Wasson. “We had up to 60 kids most days at workouts. Their attitude is great and they’re not going to be out-worked,” he added.

As new quarterback Joseph Merro and the offensive line build steam, the running game and defense have what it takes to lead the way, Sachs said.

Senior All-County fullback/ cornerback Jake Martini rushed for 1,000 yards last fall and double digits in touchdowns, and his cousin, varsity newcomer Dylan Martini, is the lead tailback after serving as the JV’s top skill player.

“Jake is the complete package,” Sachs said. “He does everything and is a leader. He runs hard, takes pride in blocking and is a ball-hawk on defense with

seven interceptions over the past two seasons.”

Dylan joins Jake in the secondary and will be the feature back as long as he stays healthy, Sachs said. “Dylan is a fast and shifty kid who’s super athletic,” the coach explained. “He’s been banged up in the past but hopefully that all stays in the past.”

Senior AJ Bardi, a baseball star headed to the University of Maine, will get some handoffs as well and also be a top target of Merro in the passing game. Bardi is also a tone-setter on defense at inside linebacker. “He’s a relentless hard worker who goes full speed even in practice and never takes a play off,” Sachs said. “He only started with us last year. At linebacker, he’s taken his game to another level.”

Senior TJ Carlo is a 6-foot-5 receiver/linebacker coming off a strong defensive season that included a few touchdown receptions. Another key in the air attack is senior tight end Tom Conway, a three-year starter who’s 6-4. “He’s an excellent blocker with really good hands,” Sachs said.

Merro, a senior, was the backup signal-caller a year ago and the JV starter in the fall of 2021. “He’s smart, athletic and strong in the weight room,” Sachs said. “He has a very good arm and natural instincts. The tools are there and we know he’s going to improve every week.”

Junior Ryan Conigliaro, the JV starter in 2022, assumes the backup role and is challenging for playing time in the secondary.

At least three of the offensive line spots appear set. Senior Paul Fontana is a returning defensive line starter and may hardly come off the field, adding offensive tackle to his resume. Juniors Andrew Perez (tackle) and Chris

Romano (center) are Nick Benedetto and Christian Russo, as McMillan, are also part

Romano (center) are coming off big JV campaigns. Seniors Nick Benedetto and Christian Russo, as well as junior Shareef McMillan, are also part of the group.

Russo is a returning starter on the D-line. Linebacker is stacked with juniors Cole Spinelli and Oliver Iacobazzi joining Bardi, Carlo and Conway. Carlo is also the punter. The kicking game is tremendous, Sachs said, with left-footed senior Nico Zervas serving as a serious weapon.

tremendous, Sachs said, with

September

A.J. Bardi

TOM CONWAY

T.J. CARLO

JOE MERRO

Photos by Ron Manfredi

WEST HEMPSTEAD

Rams revamp after tremendous 2022

By TONY BELLISSIMO

West Hempstead graduated the majority of last year’s roster and is seeded No. 8 in Conference IV after reaching the county championship game.

Both of the Rams’ losses in 2022 came at the hands of North Shore. With eight wins and a pair of close defeats to the Vikings, head coach Dom Carre said it was one of the top three teams he’s had in 13 seasons at the helm.

“We had a really good group that was really fun to coach and it was the fourth time we reached at least the semifinals at Hofstra,” Carre said. “Most of the county final was a onepossession game. We lost almost everyone who played a lot, but we do have a bunch of kids who contributed and I still think we’re a playoff team.”

Senior Declan Cole takes over the offensive keys after serving as the backup quarterback a year ago and experiencing some playing time in most games, Carre said. Cole is also an integral part of the defense as a starting linebacker. “He worked hard all summer and did everything asked of him,” Carre said. “I’m proud of everything he’s done to get ready for the season. As a sophomore he was the JV starting quarterback. He throws and runs well and he’s showing confidence.”

Senior Gavin Lee is expected to be the featured back after contributing on both sides of the field last fall. “He’s a quality player and a gamer,” Carre said. “We know he’s going to go hard all the time. He’s a strider as a runner and last year on defense he was stuck behind three All-

County linebackers. He played on defense a lot and now he’ll hardly come off the field.”

Senior Niko Adikimenakis is a wing on offense and safety on defense. “He does a little bit of everything and always goes 100 miles per hour,” Carre said. “He’s another gamer who makes things happen. Last year he played great and we’ll county on him to block, catch and make tackles.”

Two of the Rams’ returning starters are offensive linemen. Junior Jayden Bonilla and sophomore Joe Suarez “had very solid years and did their jobs with limited mistakes,” Carre said. Bonilla is a strong 300-pound right tackle and Suarez, who started every game as a freshman after a strong camp last summer, is right next to him at right guard. Senior left guard John Mero has a couple of varsity starts under his belt. Senior Dan Rodriguez is leading the way for the left tackle job, and junior William Cruz, up from JV, tops the depth chart at center.

Junior Walker Stern is the lead tight end. Either or both of senior Dan Guillen and junior Brian Tator will handle fullback responsibilities. Guillen missed most of last season with an injury.

On the defensive side, the line will look similar to that of the offense except Suarez plays linebacker with Cole and Lee. Senior Jean Laniker will also rotate up front. Adikimenakis and Tator head a secondary adding junior cornerbacks Chris Dildy and Larry Ford from the JV. Dildy is one of the fastest athletes on the roster, Carre said.

Cole is also the punter. Junior Riley Leddick, last year’s JV kicker, will handle kickoffs and extra points.

“We have 23 kids on the roster and when you’re a Conference IV team, an injury or two really hurts,” Carre said.

really hurts,” Carre said.

The Rams open cust Valley and also play the top two seeds — champion

The Rams open against fourth-seeded Locust Valley and also play the top two seeds — two-time defending champion North Shore in Week 6 and No. 2 Malverne in Week 3. “We have a pivotal game right off the bat,” Carre said.

Schedule

Declan Cole

GAVIN LEE

NICO ADIKIMENAKIS

JAYDEN BONILLA

Photos by Sue Grieco

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