Tag Archives: featured

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.

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.

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.

Mount Sinai Native Joey Spallina Makes Syracuse Lax History

Mount Sinai native Joey Spallina continues to deliver on the hype at Syracuse Orange men’s lacrosse.

At the JMA Wireless Dome against Colgate, Spallina recorded his 308th career point in an Orange uniform with a highlight-reel, behind-the-back assist to Michael Leo, who finished the play in style with 3:04 remaining in the first quarter.

With that milestone, Spallina passed Mike Powell (307 points), long regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, to become Syracuse’s all-time leading scorer.

And he’s not done yet. As of April 24, Spallina has pushed his total to 313 career points, continuing to build on an already historic mark.

Congratulations, Joey!