This week, we proudly celebrate our Section XI student-athletes as they cross the stage and step into their next chapter!

Your dedication on the field and in the classroom has been nothing short of inspiring.

Congratulations, graduates — the best is yet to come! And thanks for making Section XI proud on and off the field.

Ray Kogler began his life’s journey as the fourth son, born to William and Lucille Kogler; he grew up with brothers William, Thomas, and Robert. The family lived on Circuit Road, in Bellport, with Ray attending St Joseph’s the Worker Elementary, where he had his first taste of organized sports, playing CYO basketball. Ray went on to attend Seton Hall High School in Patchogue, where he played football and basketball early on before ultimately choosing basketball as his favorite sport.

After high school, Ray attended Buffalo State, where he earned his degree and began his career as a teacher; however, teaching school didn’t last long.  Ray turned to the Great South Bay for his livelihood. Ray worked on the water for 25 years, and was one of the best overboard clammers with his face covered in zinc oxide and his head bobbing up and down so fast under water, he looked like a washing machine at full speed, with the clams piling up.

After his years on the bay, Ray moved on to his current position as an employment specialist for a state-sponsored organization called FREE. In this organization, he assists people with disabilities in finding employment. It is during this period that Ray began his career officiating. First basketball drew Ray’s interest, followed by soccer and baseball. Ray also became actively involved in the governing boards of both basketball and soccer. We often hear his unmistakable voice greeting officials or calling for order at the meetings. In 2017, he was selected as the Suffolk County Soccer Officials’ “Man of the Year”.

His career in sports officiating is to be commended. Still, more than that, to his close friends and even casual acquaintances, they know Ray as a tirelessly caring and helpful person, from playing Santa Claus all over town to being the first to call if someone is sick or in need.  While Ray will be missed in the world of officiating, he will mostly be missed by those individuals whom he helped counsel through tough times.  May he rest in peace.

A Celebration of Life will be held sometime in July to honor Ray.