The following was written by Jaylene Coreas from Babylon High School, who is a member of our Section XI Student Media team.

The Babylon Varsity Field Hockey team defeated the West Babylon Eagles 1–0, marking the Lady Panthers’ first win of the season — and a sign of more to come.

The dynamic duo of senior Sabina Giambalvo and sophomore Grace Leary delivered the victory in the third quarter. Giambalvo, a consistent playmaker, also scored the winning goal against West Babylon last season in a 4–3 overtime triumph. “To the future of this program, be optimistic, be aggressive, but most importantly, work till the end,” she said.

Leary added, “Before the season’s over, we hope to add another win to our record.”

This victory was significant as it came during Babylon’s annual “Stick It to Cancer” game — a cherished event where players honor those fighting cancer. Dressed in pink, the Lady Panthers played with purpose and heart, channeling their efforts toward a cause larger than the game itself.

Senior goalie Madison Semeraro reflected on the emotional significance: “This has been my second family for the last four years. This game was so special to me. These girls are amazing, and I can’t wait to see what else we achieve.”

With the possibility of a postseason berth hinging on a win against Greenport, the Lady Panthers are determined to make history — the program hasn’t reached the playoffs in several years.

Captains Kiera Ceballos and Julie Goldstein, both four-year varsity players, led with pride and perspective. “We knew from the start this was going to be one of our biggest games,” said Ceballos. “Winning with a shutout shows how well we work together. Rushing the field after the buzzer — those are moments like no other.”

Goldstein reflected on the team’s growth and her leadership journey: “When I was a freshman and sophomore, we didn’t win a single game. Now, as a junior and senior, I’m proud to lead such a coachable group. There’s no stopping us now.”

Senior Katherine Orifici summed it up best: “We proved to ourselves we can do it.”

Through determination, unity, and heart, the Babylon Lady Panthers are rewriting their story — and this victory may be just the beginning.