Category Archives: Section XI News

Wildcat Statue Unveiled as Lasting Tribute to School Pride and Tradition

A new symbol of school pride now stands proudly at Walt Whitman High School’s Wildcat Stadium.

The recently installed Wildcat statue serves as a powerful tribute to the generations of students, athletes, educators and community members who have helped shape the school’s legacy. Positioned prominently at the stadium entrance, the statue reflects the spirit, determination and excellence that have defined the Wildcat community for decades.

As the plaque beneath the statue reads, it is “a tribute to the countless individuals who have pushed boundaries, broken records, and faced challenges laid before them. Its presence serves as a reminder that the fierce heart of a Wildcat lives on in every graduate.”

The project was made possible through the generosity and support of dedicated donors who recognized the importance of creating a lasting symbol for current and future Wildcats. Their contributions helped bring the vision to life and ensured that the tradition and pride associated with the Wildcat name will continue to inspire generations to come.

School officials expressed their gratitude to everyone who supported the effort, noting that the statue represents far more than a mascot. It stands as a reminder of the achievements, resilience and enduring connections shared by all who have walked the halls as Wildcats.

Whether students are competing on the field, performing on stage, excelling in the classroom or pursuing their dreams beyond graduation, the monument serves as a daily reminder of the values and traditions that unite the Wildcat family.

As the saying goes, “Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat.”

Suffolk XI Unified All-Star Game is Great Success

What a great day at the Section XI Unified All-Star Game!
Student-athletes from across Suffolk County came together to celebrate inclusion, sportsmanship, friendship and the joy of competition.
The event showcased the true spirit of Unified Sports, bringing athletes, partners, coaches and supporters together for an unforgettable experience.
A special thank you to the Suffolk County PAL and Patchogue-Medford High School for their support and partnership in making this outstanding event possible.
Days like these remind us that sports have the power to unite communities, build lasting friendships and create opportunities for everyone to shine.

More Than a Game: Hauppauge and Shoreham-Wading River Showcase Sportsmanship and Mental Wellness

Before the first pitch was thrown in the JV baseball matchup between Hauppauge and Shoreham-Wading River, the players found a different way to compete: a friendly pregame game of hacky sack.

For a few moments, there were no rivalries, no game-day pressure, and no distractions. Just student-athletes sharing laughs, keeping a beanbag in the air, and enjoying each other’s company.

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, the moment served as a powerful reminder of what young athletes need most: opportunities to step back, connect with others, and simply enjoy the experience.

High school sports are about far more than wins and losses. They are about building relationships, creating lasting memories, fostering mutual respect, and supporting one another both on and off the field. While scores may eventually be forgotten, moments like these leave a lasting impact.

Kudos to both teams for demonstrating the true meaning of sportsmanship and showing that taking care of one another is just as important as competing.

Lindenhurst Community Unites for 2026 Memorial Day Mile Honoring Fallen Heroes

The Lindenhurst community came together on Tuesday, May 19, as Virtual Enterprise students organized the 2026 Memorial Day Mile, a meaningful event honoring America’s fallen heroes and the brave service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.

Athletes, coaches, students, families, and community members gathered in a spirit of patriotism and remembrance to recognize the true meaning of Memorial Day. The event served as both a tribute and a unifying community experience, bringing people together to honor those who gave their lives in service to the United States.

The Memorial Day Mile was planned and coordinated by Lindenhurst’s Virtual Enterprise students, who demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and community pride throughout the process. Their efforts helped create an event that reflected the values and spirit of the Lindenhurst community.

Participants proudly took part in the mile while reflecting on the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of the nation’s military heroes. Coaches and athletes stood alongside residents and students in support of the tribute, creating a powerful moment of unity and gratitude.

Beyond honoring America’s heroes, the event also highlighted the importance of civic engagement and community involvement among Lindenhurst students. Through the Memorial Day Mile, students gained valuable real-world experience while helping organize an event with a meaningful purpose.

The 2026 Memorial Day Mile left a lasting impression on all who attended and showcased Lindenhurst’s continued commitment to honoring service, supporting one another, and remembering those who sacrificed everything for the country.