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Category Archives: Section XI News
Athletics for All Shines at Inspiring Section XI Track Event in Riverhead
Amazing afternoon for the Section XI Athletics for All athletes on the track at Section XI Athletics and Riverhead High School.
From smiles at the starting line to cheers at the finish, today was a celebration of inclusion, sportsmanship, determination, and community. Every athlete competed with heart and reminded us what makes sports so special … opportunity, teamwork, and joy for all.
Bravo to the athletes, coaches, families, volunteers, and supporters who made this incredible day possible.
Port Jefferson’s Owen Whiffen Reaches 800 Career Saves, Commits to SUNY Oneonta
A remarkable high school lacrosse career continues to reach new heights for Port Jefferson senior Owen Whiffen.
Whiffen recently recorded his 800th career save for the Port Jefferson Boys Varsity Lacrosse team, cementing his place as one of the program’s most accomplished goalkeepers. Known for his toughness, leadership, and consistency in net, Whiffen has been a cornerstone of the Royals’ success throughout his career.
Coaches, teammates, and supporters have watched Whiffen develop into one of the area’s premier lacrosse players, delivering clutch performances and serving as a steady presence between the pipes.
The celebration comes alongside another exciting accomplishment for the standout student-athlete. Whiffen will continue both his academic and lacrosse career at SUNY Oneonta, where he plans to compete at the collegiate level while pursuing his education.
The Port Jefferson community praises Whiffen for not only his athletic achievements, but also for the leadership and determination he has displayed throughout his time in the program.
With 800 saves already to his name and collegiate lacrosse ahead, Whiffen’s journey is far from over, and the Port Jefferson community will be cheering him on every step of the way.
NYSPHSAA Executive Committee Conducts May Meeting in Saratoga Springs
The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Executive Committee met on Wednesday, May 6, at Embassy Suites in Saratoga Springs for its regularly scheduled spring meeting.
The Executive Committee received an update on the Schools Without Boundaries Ad Hoc Committee’s ongoing work. Following the discussion, a motion from Section I was introduced to continue discussions and reconvene the committee to explore additional options. The motion did not receive a second to continue toward a vote. President Tim Mullins directed that the Schools Without Boundaries Committee transition from an ad hoc committee to a standing committee of the Association.
During the meeting, the Executive Committee also reviewed and approved multiple action items impacting the administration of interscholastic athletics across New York State. Joshua Dann was approved as the next NYSPHSAA officer, with his term as Second Vice President set to begin September 1, 2026.
Several sports proposals were also approved, including a two-year pilot program in field hockey that allows 9 vs 9 play at the junior varsity and/or modified level, using a regulation field and adjusted rules. Additionally, the Executive Committee approved classification cut-off numbers for competitive cheerleading and, unanimously, selected Cortland (Section III) as the host site for the 2027-2029 NYSPHSAA Girls Soccer Championships. The Committee defeated the proposal to adopt a standardized pregame timeline and protocol for softball contests in a 10-12 vote.
“In each meeting, NYSPHSAA’s focus remains on supporting its member schools while continuing to evolve with the needs of education-based athletics,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “The actions taken by the Executive Committee reflect a thoughtful, collaborative approach to enhancing opportunities and experiences for student-athletes across New York State.”
The Executive Committee also discussed several items that will be brought forward for potential action at the July meeting. These include a proposed revision to the girls’ volleyball classification formula that would place the top 70 teams in Class AAA, the bottom 90 teams in Class D, and evenly distribute the remaining teams among the middle classifications. In addition, we reviewed proposals for bowling, including increasing the maximum number of games allowed per day during postseason competition and modifying the state championship format from a six-game total pinfall format to a two-phase competition structure.
Reports from standing committees were provided, including Championship Advisory, Student-Athlete Advisory, Student-Athlete Development, Sportsmanship, Safety, and Modified, which highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the student-athlete experience, promote sportsmanship, and ensure safety across all programs.
The meeting concluded at 11:23 AM, with the next Central Committee meeting set for July 28-29 at the Hyatt Regency in Buffalo.
Samantha Heyman Reaches 10,000 Passing Yards, 150 Passing Touchdowns
You’re not misreading that headline. Those are real numbers.
Samantha Heyman from Hills East is on a legendary run with a prolific offense and has reached 10,000 career passing yards and 150 touchdowns with plenty of football this season to play.
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Section XI Hosts Coach Bob Davis Autism Tournament, Uniting Players for a Meaningful Cause
The Section XI Tennis Coaches Association recently hosted the Coach Bob Davis Autism Tournament, bringing together student-athletes from across Long Island for a meaningful day of competition and community support.
The event, which honors the legacy of Coach Bob Davis, continues to highlight the power of athletics as a platform for awareness, inclusion, and compassion. Players competed with energy and sportsmanship while also embracing the tournament’s larger mission of supporting autism awareness.
Special recognition goes to Coach Sussin of Ward Melville High School and Coach Selaggio of Bayport-Blue Point High School, whose leadership and organization helped make the day a success. Their efforts ensured a well-run event that provided a memorable experience for all participants.
From competitive matches to moments of unity, the tournament once again demonstrated how high school athletics can bring people together for a greater cause, leaving a lasting impact both on and off the court.
Ward Melville’s Lou Petrucci Reaches 300 Career Wins
Congrats to Lou Petrucci on reaching an incredible milestone of 300 career victories! A testament to years of dedication, leadership, and impact on so many student-athletes.
Sayville Baseball Hosts Salute the Troops Day
Sayville’s baseball field became a place of pride, gratitude, and community connection as the program hosted its annual Salute the Troops Day, honoring veterans and active military members.
The event brought together players, families, and local supporters for a meaningful tribute to those who have served and continue to serve the country. Throughout the day, moments of recognition highlighted the sacrifices and commitment of military personnel, creating a powerful and respectful atmosphere.
Organized through a collaborative effort between the Sayville baseball program and its booster club, the event showcased the strength of the Sayville community. From pregame acknowledgments to the visible support in the stands, the turnout reflected a deep appreciation for the armed forces.
Beyond the game itself, Salute the Troops Day served as a reminder of the importance of community engagement and honoring those who dedicate their lives to service. The Sayville baseball program once again demonstrated its commitment to using athletics as a platform to bring people together and celebrate a greater purpose.
Lindenhurst Girls Lacrosse Hosts Morgan’s Message Event to Promote Student-Athlete Mental Health
The Lindenhurst Varsity Girls Lacrosse team turned a spring matchup into a powerful platform for awareness and community connection, hosting a Morgan’s Message event during its game against Central Islip.
Led by Head Coach Erica Romeo and Assistant Coach Angela Oliveto-Crawley, the initiative brought together players, families, and youth athletes to shine a light on mental health and suicide prevention in sports. Student Ambassadors Gianna Diaz, Isabella Wolff, Natalia Luberska, Camryn Ferriso, Lily Giannatassio, and Kaylee Colao played a key role in organizing and executing the event.
Morgan’s Message is a national movement dedicated to eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health in athletics. Its core message encourages athletes to support one another by reminding them to “check on your teammates” and to “take a shot at mental health.” This season, dozens of schools across Long Island have embraced the initiative, hosting similar events to reinforce the importance of mental wellness among student-athletes.
At Lindenhurst, the event featured participation from the Lindenhurst Community Lacrosse Youth Team, further strengthening the connection between varsity players and the next generation. Young athletes participated in a butterfly coloring activity that symbolized the program’s logo and message of hope and transformation.
In addition, proceeds from event T-shirt sales were donated to support Morgan’s Message, helping to expand its reach and impact.
Under sunny skies and in front of a supportive crowd, the game served as more than just competition. It became a meaningful opportunity for education, advocacy, and unity.
Lindenhurst extended its gratitude to Central Islip, the coaching staff, student ambassadors, youth participants, and all attendees who helped make the event a success.
Orlin & Cohen Sports Medicine Tips: Flag Finger Injuries
