Shoreham-Wading River flag football team suffers loss in state title game

HOMER — All good things must come to an end. But if you ask the Shoreham-Wading River flag football team, they’ll tell you they enjoyed the ride.

The Wildcats exceeded expectations in their memorable inaugural season. Shoreham-Wading River won the Suffolk and Long Island Class C championships, and the ride became even more exciting when they secured a dramatic overtime victory in a state semifinal on Saturday.

However, the Wildcats fell short of a state title when defending state champion Pioneer (Section VI) earned a 34-6 victory in the Class C final on Sunday afternoon at Homer High School.

“These girls were able to come together and learn a new sport and a new language of football,” Wildcats coach Bob DeSilva said. “I told the girls, even though we lost today, you’re still legends in my book.”

Junior quarterback Shealyn Varbero rushed for 109 yards and threw for 109 yards and a touchdown. Senior wide receiver Mia Mangano caught six passes for 66 yards and a score.

“Just being here was more than I could ask for,” Varbero said. “We all tried a brand-new sport, so being on the final stage was awesome.”

“I’m happy for the opportunity,” Mangano said. “I’m grateful that this group of girls was my team.”

SEE PHOTOSPhotos: SWR in the state Class C flag football final

Shoreham-Wading River (12-5) opened the scoring when Varbero connected with Mangano on a short drag route for a 6-0 first-quarter lead.

Pioneer (19-0) answered on the next possession when Ellie Edwards rushed for a 2-yard TD and connected with Jayden Leederman for a 7-6 lead. That began a run of 34 unanswered points.

DeSilva and the Wildcats are pleased with what they accomplished this season.

“I’m beyond proud of them,” DeSilva said. “I’ll remember coaching them for the rest of my life, and I’m sure they’ll remember it too.”

By Jonathan Ruban

jonathan.ruban@newsday.com

Jonathan Ruban covers high school sports for Newsday after graduating from St. John’s.