Hauppauge’s soccer community came together in a powerful show of appreciation and pride as alumni spanning more than four decades returned for the 21st Annual Hauppauge Soccer Alumni Game, celebrating the remarkable career of longtime head coach John “Ruff” Ruffini.

Coach Ruffini led the Hauppauge soccer program for 33 years, compiling an extraordinary 362 wins and shaping generations of student-athletes along the way. The annual alumni game served as both a reunion and a tribute, bringing together former players, coaches, family members, and friends from near and far to honor a leader whose impact extended well beyond the field.

Current Hauppauge head coach Jamie Edson captured the significance of the moment, sharing a heartfelt message about Ruffini’s enduring influence.

“Because of Coach Ruffini, soccer has been more than a sport; it’s been a classroom, a place where young people learn who they are and who they can become,” Edson said. “Today, we celebrate not only a career but a legacy. A legacy of dedication. A legacy of compassion. And above all, a legacy of lives changed.”

For many alumni, the event was a reminder that Coach Ruffini’s success was measured not only in wins, but in the character, confidence, and sense of community he instilled in his players. Stories were shared, friendships rekindled, and a shared gratitude filled the sidelines as generations of Hauppauge soccer players stood together once again.

The 21st Annual Alumni Game reinforced what so many already know: Coach John “Ruff” Ruffini’s legacy is firmly woven into the fabric of Hauppauge athletics.

Congratulations to Coach Ruffini on this well-earned honor, and thank you for more than three decades of leadership, mentorship, and lasting impact!

Mattituck’s longtime educator and AD Mike Huey was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by State Soccer Coordinator Matt Allen and Section XI representative Rob Franco during championship weekend.

Huey, who has been a steady presence in Mattituck athletics for more than four decades, was honored for his exceptional commitment to student-athletes and for elevating boys’ soccer across Suffolk County and New York State.

Colleagues praised his leadership, consistency, and deep understanding of the game, noting that his work has positively shaped generations of families in the North Fork.

The award marks a significant milestone in Huey’s career, acknowledging both his impact at Mattituck High School and his long-standing service within Section XI, where he has helped guide and support interscholastic soccer for many years.

Additional background on Huey’s career and comments from those involved in the ceremony can be found in the full Suffolk Times report.

Northport Varsity Boys Soccer Coach Don Strasser reached an incredible milestone this week, notching his 250th career victory as the Tigers defeated Huntington in a hard-fought match.

The win is a testament to Strasser’s steady leadership and the dedication of Northport’s student-athletes, who continue to uphold a tradition of excellence on and off the field.

Under his guidance, Northport has consistently fielded competitive teams built on discipline, teamwork, and a sense of pride in representing the community.

Congratulations to Coach Strasser and the entire Northport Boys Soccer program on this remarkable achievement!

Do you have an athlete, coach, or program milestone to share? Email SectionXIMilestones@gmail.com.

Ryan Levy has had an incredible career for Hills West soccer.

He owns the Hills West records for career goals, career points, most goals in a game, and most goals in a season.

Outstanding work, Ryan!

Congratulations to Riverhead Charter School on recording its first win in program history.

The Explorers beat Port Jefferson, 4-3, in overtime on Thursday, September 19.

The Sayville Boys Soccer team gathered items and funds to acquire essentials for crafting “Blessing Bags” intended for homeless and displaced teenagers.

The team also accumulated non-perishable items, all earmarked for donations to Hope for Youth and the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless.

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