Newsday's 2026 high school football preview

By Jonathan Ruban

Port Washington returns a total of 32 seniors — six starters on offense and five on defense. The Vikings will look to lean on their experience to be one of the more dominant offenses in Nassau I. They'll also lean on their talented quarterback, Harry Eynon, and his favorite wide receiver, Levi Felix. Read more here.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Brian Gurney, Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK

Gurney is entering his fifth year as a head coach and last season led POB JFK to its best season in over a decade, as the Hawks made it to the quarterfinals. 

“The kids bought in,” Gurney said. “They trust us as a coaching staff and I trust them. I have an amazing coaching staff that also played for me over here in Plainview, so they are aware of the culture and how to navigate it.”

Gurney was an assistant coach for 15 years at Hauppauge and at Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK before taking the head coaching job in 2021. He wants to build off the momentum from last season and believes his team can learn from their experience for this coming season.

“We take it one game at a time,” Gurney said. “Playing in Conference I you have to, because top to bottom you could compete with anyone. We’re excited to compete oon our new turf and it’s going to be exciting. I can’t wait.”

GAMES TO WATCH

Oceanside at East Meadow, Sept. 10, 4 p.m.: As East Meadow returns to Nassau Conference I, what better way to make its presence known against one of the top teams in the Oceanside? All eyes will be on Oceanside's Chace Morris, one of the best running backs on LI. 

Syosset at Port Washington, Sept. 10, 6 p.m.: A rematch of the overtime thriller in the quarterfinals — a 49-48 win for Syosset. Harry Eynon had 392 all-purpose yards in that matchup. How many points will be scored this time? 

Oceanside at Massapequa, Oct. 10, 2 p.m.: If you like physical football, this game pitting the preseason No. 1 and No. 2 teams is the matchup for you. Oceanside gave Massapequa its only loss in three years in 2024 and Massapequa beat the Sailors to capture their third straight county title last season.

Hempstead at Port Washington, Oct. 23, 6 p.m.: Eynon (Port Washington) and Seth Montgomery (Hempstead) battle under the bright lights of Friday night football as two of the better quarterbacks in the conference. Hempstead looks as if it could be a surprise team this season.

Farmingdale at Massapequa, Oct. 24, 1:30 p.m.: This is one of best rivalries not only in the conference but on LI. Massapequa got the upper hand in the last two meetings.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

2021: Massapequa

2022: Farmingdale

2023: Massapequa

2024: Massapequa

2025: Massapequa

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEW

1. MASSAPEQUA (12-0)

Coach: Kevin Shippos, 16th year

Key players: Luke Garguilo, QB, Sr.; Nolan Wieczorek, OL/LB, Sr.; Jack Mulligan, OL/DL, Jr.; Giovanni Tarasi, TE/LB, Sr., Dylan Milio, WR/DB, Sr.; Michael Ippolito, WR/DB, Sr.

Massapequa: The program enters with only one loss in three years and is the first Nassau I team to win three straight Long Island championships. Massapequa returns Thorp Award nominee Garguilo, who won the Don Snyder Award as Nassau's top quarterback. Wieczorek returns as one of the top linebackers along with Mulligan to anchor one of Long Island's best defenses.

2. OCEANSIDE (8-3)

Coach: Rob Blount, 18th year

Key players: Chace Morris, RB/DB, Sr.; Dylan Parker, RB/DB, Jr.; Benny Jacofsky, OL/DL, Sr.; Hudson Triscari, RB/LB, Sr.; Bey Alexander, RB/LB, Sr., Jaden Belone, WR/DB, Jr.

The Sailors: Oceanside returns one of the best running backs in the county in Morris. He rushed for 1,300 yards and 28 touchdowns. Parker joins Morris is the backfield after he rushed for 700 yards and nine TDs and added 230 receiving yards and three TDs. Oceanside reached the conference final last year.

3. FARMINGDALE (8-2)

Coach: Buddy Krumenacker, 34th year

Key players: Nick Toto, QB, Jr.; Michael Bilello, OL/DL, Sr.; Jack Watrous, RB/LB, Jr.; Patrick Videau, WR/DB, Sr.; Tyce McLune, RB/DB, Sr.

The Dalers: In Krumenacker’s last season, he looks to lead the Dalers to another county title. Under his leadership, the Dalers won nine Nassau Conference I titles and two Long Island Class I championships. Farmingdale returns Toto, who completed 64% of his passes for 1,009 yards and 13 touchdowns. Bilello had 32 tackles and two sacks.

4. PORT WASHINGTON (5-4)

Coach: Kevin Cloghessy, ninth year

Key players: Harry Eynon, QB, Sr.; Levi Felix, WR/DB, Sr.; Joe Fox, RB/LB, Sr.; James McCormack, OL/LB, Sr.; Max Eynon, OL/DL, Sr.; Teddy Behan, WR/DB, Sr.

The Vikings: Port Washington is coming off one of its strongest seasons in program history, hosting its first home playoff game in program history, Cloghessy said. The Vikings return 32 seniors as they look to be one of the better offenses in the county. Harry Eynon completed 131 of his 214 passes for 1,868 yards and 24 touchdowns and Felix caught 34 passes for 728 yards and 10 TDs.

5. SYOSSET (5-5)

Coach: Raymond DeLucca, first year

Key players: Austin Cohen, RB/LB, Sr.; Raghav Ghosh, WR/DB, Sr.; Giovanni Daniele, RB/DB, Sr.; Max Glambosky, OL/DL, Sr.

Syosset: The program will rely on its strong defensive group, led by Cohen, who had 64 tackles in seven games. Daniele added 34 tackles and two interceptions. Ghosh will be the team’s offensive focal point due to his speed and athleticism.

6. HEMPSTEAD (3-6)

Coach: Matt Ali, fifth year

Key players: Lamarcus Parson, RB/S, Sr.; Seth Montgomery, QB, Jr.; Julian Chase, OL/DL, Jr.; Levon McKithen, OL/DL, Sr.; Zidan Lewis, WR/DE, Sr.; Ziare Dawkins, OL/DL, Sr.

The Tigers: Hempstead returns dual-threat QB Montgomery, who threw for 1,103 yards and rushed for 768 yards. Parson rushed for 754 yards and nine touchdowns behind an offensive line led by Chase (6-0, 215 pounds). McKithen and Dawkins add size and strength to the line.

7. EAST MEADOW (6-4)

Coach: Matt Castaneda, first year

Key players: Nicolas Schwabe, WR/FS, Sr.; Alexander Lengu, FB/LB, Sr.; Michael Petitto, QB, Sr.; Kalem Calderon, OL/DL, Sr.; Eddie Brown, TE/LB, Sr.; Josh Perez, RB/S, Sr.

The Jets: East Meadow moves up back up to Conference I and will rely on its strength and athleticism. The Jets return Schwabe, who caught 32 passes for 544 yards and eight touchdowns. He also added 45 tackles. Lengu had 85 tackles and Brown  had 60 tackles.

8. PLAINVIEW-OLD BETHPAGE JFK (5-4)

Coach: Brian Gurney, fifth year

Key players: Alex Zager, WR/DB, Sr.; Ethan Brake, QB/DE, Sr.; Ryan Kasper, WR/DB, Sr.; Andrew Novis, RB/DE, Sr.; Brendan Sciara, OL/DL, Sr.; Hunter Kass, OL/MLB, Sr.

The Hawks: Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK is coming off one its best seasons. The Hawks earned their highest playoff seed (No. 6) since 2005, Gurney said, and they want to build off that momentum. Brake had 494 all-purpose yards and six touchdowns and added 36 tackles, including four for loss. Kasper added 36 tackles.

9. WESTBURY (3-5)

Coach: Savalis Charles, 13th year

Key players: Marck Camille, OL/DL, Sr.; Jason Clarke, OL/LB, Sr.; Terron Hardy, RB/LB, Sr.; Brandon Chavez, QB/LB, Sr.; Richmond Derosier, WR/DB, Sr.; Jahlyl Barrett, WR/DB, Jr.

The Dragons: They are built around their top two offensive linemen. Westbury returns Camille (6-3, 265 pounds) and Clarke (6-3, 245 pounds). The two are dominant and imposing forces on the line.

10. FREEPORT (3-6)

Coach: Jimmy Jones, first year

Key players: Judah Murchison, ATH/LB, Sr.; Kyle Sandy, OT/LB, Sr.; Jaren Reeder, TE/LB, Jr.; Dylan Pigott, WR/DB, Sr.; Charles Wapples, WR/DB, Sr.; Jason Cantes, C/DE, Jr.

The Red Devils: Freeport looks to bounce back from tough injuries last year and will rely on its athleticism and skill group to do that. Murchison and newcomer Christian McCravey will be vital pieces for the Red Devils' offense.

11. HERRICKS/WHEATLEY/ROSLYN (2-6)

Coach: Tom Graef, sixth year

Key players: Alex Giuliano, QB, Jr.; Arjun Josan-Bryson, WR, Jr. Carlos Valderrama, LB, Sr.; Matt Barbosa, RB/DB, Jr.; Jawwad Kamal, OL, Sr.; Asher Berkowitz, WR/DB, Jr.

The Highlanders: They are building around junior quarterback Giuliano, who Graef said will be the leader of the offense.

12. HICKSVILLE (1-7)

Coach: Ron Modik, sixth year

Key players: Julian Woskowiak, WR/DB, Sr.; Jack Ferraro, QB, Sr.; Erijah Britto, RB/DB, Sr.; Matt Gonzalez, LB/OL, Sr.; Dante Pena, WR/DB, Sr.; Jake Wagner, TE/DL, Sr.

The Comets: Hicksville returns starters on both sides of the ball, led by Woskowiak, Ferraro and Britto.  

13. UNIONDALE (1-7)

Coach: Adrian Barry, second year

Key players: Abelardo Peralta, QB, Sr.; Jayden Armstead, OL/LB, Jr.; Jowell Facey, WR/FS, Sr.; Noah Raymond, OL/DL, Sr.

The Knights: The coaches expect a breakout season from Peralta, who will lead Uniondale's offense with his athleticism and strong arm.

By Jared Valluzzi and Matt Lindsay

Mepham might not be drawing the same level of preseason attention as some of the other top teams in Nassau Conference II, and the Pirates are fine with that. Defending champion Garden City enters with the nation’s longest active winning streak at 66 games, Carey has moved up to the conference and Long Beach returns plenty of talent after reaching the county title game for the first time in 39 years. But Mepham is seemingly always in the hunt; the Pirates have reached the semifinals or further in four of the last five seasons. Read more here.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Scott Martin, Long Beach

Martin enters his 18th season as coach of the Marines. A 1998 Clarke graduate, he was an All-County linebacker on their Nassau Conference III championship team in 1997. He played football at C.W. Post from 1998-2001, before becoming an assistant coach at Clarke and Herricks. 

Martin is 73-78 in his first 17 seasons at Long Beach and has guided the Marines to the playoffs in each of the last five years. Long Beach reached the Nassau semifinals in 2024 before advancing to its first county championship game since 1986 last season.

GAMES TO WATCH

Long Beach at Carey, Sept. 10, 4:30 p.m.: With Carey moving back up and Long Beach coming off a trip to the county title game, this is an immediate must-watch matchup. Brody Riedel of Long Beach and Justin DePietro of Carey are two of the best running back/linebackers in the county and will go head-to-head.

Mepham at Calhoun, Sept. 18, 3:30 p.m.: This in-district matchup did not happen last season. With Calhoun outperforming expectations a year ago, this sets up an early renewal of the rivalry. It should draw a big crowd and be a physical game.

Baldwin at Bellmore JFK, Oct. 3, 2 p.m.: It’s the first meeting since 1981, with Baldwin leading the all-time series 7-2. Last season Bellmore JFK made the playoffs after going winless in 2024. A key game in its push to get back to the postseason comes in this midseason matchup with Baldwin, which made the playoffs as the No. 8 seed last year.

Carey at Garden City, Oct. 17, 1:30 p.m.: If Garden City’s win streak is still alive, Carey is one of the main threats that could end it. Each of these teams switched conferences over the last two years, and now a staple Nassau Conference II matchup is back. 

Garden City at Long Beach, Oct. 31, 1:30 p.m.: Long Beach gave Garden City its toughest competition in Nassau last season, with each meeting decided by 15 points. Both teams return star players at the skill positions in a rematch of last year’s county title game.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

2021: Garden City

2022: Garden City

2023: Garden City

2024: Carey

2025: Garden City

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS

1. GARDEN CITY (12-0)

Coach: Dave Ettinger, 12th year

Key players: Anthony Asaro, RB/DE, Sr.; Brayden Robertiello, QB, Sr.; Luke Agrippina, OL/DL, Sr.; Andrew Dengler, TE/LB, Sr.; Will Curley, OL/DL, Sr.; Tommy Bacich, OL/DE, Sr.

The Trojans: Garden City owns the longest active high school football winning streak in the country of 66 games. Garden City overcame postseason injuries to Asaro, Robertiello and other key contributors to win its 10th straight Nassau title and fifth straight Long Island championship. Asaro, a North Carolina lacrosse commit, was a finalist for the Thorp Award. How much longer with the streak continue?

2. CAREY (7-3)

Coach: Mike Stanley, 20th year

Key players: Justin DePietro, RB/LB, Sr.; Jayden Radow, WR/DB, Sr.; Sal D’Amato, QB/LB Sr.; David Avila, RB/DL, Sr.; Logan Alvizures, WR/LB, Sr.; Matt Lemite, OL/DL, Jr.

The Seahawks: Carey reached the Conference III semifinals after winning the Long Island Class II title in 2024. DePietro was a finalist for the Flatley and Piner Awards, both of which he won in 2024. Radow is an explosive receiver for new quarterback D’Amato. The Seahawks, back in Nassau II, will look for their fourth Nassau title in Stanley’s tenure.

3. LONG BEACH (8-3)

Coach: Scott Martin, 18th year

Key players: Brody Riedel, RB/LB, Sr.; Danilo Corea, WR/DB, Sr.; Vaughn Bogacki, OL/DL, Sr.; Jaron Burns, WR/DB, Sr.; Brody Juan, WR/DB, Sr.; Jack Muskin, OL/DL, Sr.

The Marines: Long Beach reached the county final for the first time in 39 years. Riedel established himself as one of the best players in Nassau. Corea, Burns and Juan provide talent and experience on the outside. The Marines return plenty of defensive starters and expect to have one of the stingiest defenses in the conference.

4. MEPHAM (8-2)

Coach: Tom Mazeika, third year

Key players: Paulie Genovese, RB/LB, Sr.; Lucas Eagleston, WR/DB, Sr.; Adam Erlichman, QB/LB, Jr.; Will Braun, OL/LB, Sr.; Tyler Gaskin, WR/DB, Sr.; James Condoulis, C/DL, Sr.

The Pirates: Mepham reached the Conference II semifinals on the back of one of the top defenses in the county. Genovese is physical on both sides of the ball and Eagleston returns after producing 397 receiving yards and seven TDs. Erlichman gained experience last season, could have a breakout year. The Pirates have what it takes to return to Hofstra.

5. CALHOUN (6-3)

Coach: Nicholas Rawls, fifth year

Key players: Nick Maresca, RB/LB, Sr.; Joe Smith, WR/DB, Sr.; Anthony Cespedes, OL/DL, Sr.; Keith Schaefer, WR/LB, Sr.; Michael Teta, WR/DB, Sr.; Nicolas Esposito, QB/LB, Sr.

The Colts: Calhoun reached the postseason as a preseason No. 9 seed. Maresca will set the tone as the Colts look to be more physical. The Colts won't be afraid to take shots down the field with new quarterback Esposito. With depth and plenty of returning talent, the Colts are looking to get to Hofstra.

6. NEW HYDE PARK (3-6)

Coach: Colin Maier, 11th year

Key players: Tom O’Shea, OL/DL, Jr.; Rocco Natale, RB/LB, Sr.; Raveesh Verma, OL/DL, Sr.; Hunter Nacewicz, QB/LB, Sr.; Adam Abdullah, WR/DB, Sr.; John Casanova, WR/DB, Jr.

The Gladiators: They made the playoffs for the seventh straight year led by Lukas Rinaldi. Natale will be tasked with filling his shoes. O’Shea (6-1, 240 pounds) and Verma (6-4, 275 pounds) will be forces in the trenches. The Gladiators are looking for their first semifinal appearance since 2023.

7. MACARTHUR (2-6)

Coach: TBD

Key players: Connor Schmidt, OL/DL, Sr.; Vinny Szucs, QB, Sr.; Ryan Solomon, WR/DB, Sr.; Ethan Shapiro, RB/LB, Sr.; Tyler Centonze, RB/LB, Sr.; Jimmy DeSetto, OL/DL, Jr.

The Generals: They will be under new leadership after 27-year coach Bobby Fehrenbach resigned in August. Szucs, Shapiro and Centonze bring experience in the backfield, along with leading receiver Solomon. Schmidt is a returning starter at 6-2, 240 pounds. The Generals look to bounce back after uncharacteristically missing the playoffs.

8. BELLMORE JFK (5-4)

Coach: Johnny McGuire, ninth year

Key players: C.J. Siegler, DL, Sr.; Dylan Babek, QB, Sr.; Jonny Cohen, LB, Sr.; Nico Pasquariello, RB, Jr.; Dom Vaglica, RB/DB, Sr.; Demetri Christopoulos, RB/DB, Sr.

The Cougars: Bellmore JFK reached the playoffs for the first time since 2017 after an 0-8 season in 2024. They were voted Nassau’s most improved team. Siegler and Cohen were dominant on defense and Babek had a solid junior year at quarterback. Now, the Cougars look to get to Hofstra for the first time in program history.

9. BALDWIN (3-6)

Coach: Michael Robinson, third year

Key players: Aayden Robinson, OL, Sr.; Adam Hilburger, RB/LB, Sr.; Alejandro Acosta, WR/LB, Sr.; Gavin McGinley, K/P, Sr.; Mekhi Samuels, TE/LB, Jr.; Raphael Bourdeau, RB/LB, Jr.

The Bruins: Baldwin reached the playoffs for the second straight year under Michael Robinson but graduated many seniors. The 6-5, 280-pound Aayden Robinson is the only returning starting offensive lineman. Sophomore Giovanni Duplessy will take over at quarterback, leading the youth movement.

10. ROOSEVELT (4-5)

Coach: Joe Vito, 32nd year

Key players: Tyrese Williams, WR/DB, Sr.; Nigel Sealy, OL/DL, Sr.; Kyree Robinson, OL/DL, Sr.; Tyreik McClenic, WR/DB, Sr.; Bryan Thomas, WR/DB, Sr.; Ryan Jones, TE/LB, Sr.

The Rough Riders: They missed the playoffs, but won their final three games. Williams and McClenic provided plenty of explosive plays as Roosevelt found its stride down the stretch. They are joined by Thomas to form an exciting group of skill players. They will look to pick up right where they left off.

11. VALLEY STREAM CENTRAL (3-6)

Coach: Tom Schiavo, fifth year

Key players: Evan Nelson, QB/DB, Sr.; Matthew Feaster, WR/LB, Sr.; Zakai Phillips, WR/LB, Sr.; Chris Jarushewsky, OL/DL, Sr.; Nickoli Friday, RB/LB, Sr.; Danny Sanchez, WR/LB, Sr.

The Eagles: They return starting quarterback Nelson, who is an exceptional athlete and one coaches expect to break out this season. Feaster and Phillips bring good size to the outside. Depth and experience at the skill positions will be the keys to the Eagles pushing for the playoffs.

12. JERICHO (4-5)

Coach: Brendan Lahti, 10th year

Key players: Austin Weiss, QB/LB, Sr.; Zach Spivak, OL/DL, Sr.; Brody Morgan, WR/S, Sr.; Jake Morgan, WR/S, Sr.; Alex Mizrahi, TE/DE, Sr.; Walter Lai, WR/LB, Sr.

The Jayhawks: Jericho had a successful season but graduated many impactful seniors. Jake Morgan had six TDs and Brody Morgan has five TDs. They will lead the offense with new QB Weiss at the helm. The Jayhawks will look to build off last season’s success.

By Mike Anderson

The last time Plainedge took the field, Jaxson Torres was running the show with his powerful arm, leaning on standout skill position players like wide receiver Taylor Nitsch and running back Dylan Fella, all under the tutelage of 30-year coach Rob Shaver. That team made it to went to the Nassau IV championship game. Since then, the top skill players graduated, Shaver retired and Torres ended his football career prematurely in favor of baseball. But the Red Devils’ tradition is expected to show up this year and shake Nassau III up. Read more here.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Mike Lewis, Manhasset

Lewis has done it all.

The 53-year-old Smithtown native and current Merrick resident was a football, basketball and baseball star at St. John the Baptist. He played  college baseball at the University of South Florida before playing for the Detroit Tigers’ High-A minor league affiliate, then known as the Lakeland Tigers (now the Lakeland Flying Tigers).

He has done much of the same as a coach, coaching high school kids across all three seasons since 1999. He has coached football, boys and girls basketball, baseball and softball at the varsity level, with a couple of seasons coaching junior varsity teams, too. He has spent years as a year-round coach at Manhasset, Great Neck North and Bethpage. He is currently also Manhasset's varsity softball coach.

During the day, he is the supervisor of Great Neck’s special education program, where he teaches life skills to children with special needs.

GAMES TO WATCH

Wantagh at Plainedge, Sept. 10, 4:30 p.m.: A rivalry game in Week 1 between the visiting preseason No. 3 seed and the host No. 2 seed is a good way to reintroduce the Red Devils to their old conference.

Bethpage at Elmont, Sept. 19, 1:30 p.m.: Other than a showcase of physicality, this game should serve as a good test for both teams. They enter the season as the No. 4 and 5 seeds, respectively. The Eagles are coming off a surprising year and are looking to prove it was no fluke, while the Spartans are coming off a down year and are hoping to show they will regroup.

Division at Sewanhaka, Oct. 3, 2 p.m.: With an eight-team playoff format, the ninth seed at the eighth seed will vie for leverage in the playoff race. The Ravens will try to use their speed to outdo the havoc that Aiden Mirelis may wreak through the air for the Dragons.

Plainedge at South Side, Oct. 16, 6 p.m.: The top two preseason seeds will meet for the first time as conference rivals in three years to settle the debate on which one is truly the conference’s frontrunner.

South Side at Wantagh, Oct. 31, 1:30 p.m.: This regular-season finale between the preseason projected champion and the defending champion may very well decide who the top seed is entering the postseason.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

2021: Plainedge

2022: Plainedge

2023: South Side

2024: Garden City

2025: Wantagh

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEW

1. SOUTH SIDE (7-3)

Coach: Phil Onesto, 16th year

Key players: AJ Magaraci, RB/DB, Sr.; Ethan Johnson, RB/LB, Jr.; Kieran Vetter, WR/DB, Jr.; Rob Cesario, QB, Jr.; D’Andre Mullings-Newberry, DL, Sr.

The Cyclones: They hope to ride one of the best running back duos on Long Island in Magaraci and Johnson to the conference championship, which they last won in 2023. Three offensive linemen and the entire receiving corps — which added even more depth through transfers — return to support Cesario, who enters a full season as a starting quarterback.

2. PLAINEDGE (10-1)

Coach: Adam Hovorka, first year

Key players: Dom Agovino, RB/WR/DB, Sr.; Casey Auer, WR/LB/DB, Sr.; Jake McCloskey, OL/DL, Sr.; Aidan Ryan, QB/DB, Jr.; Jonny Cynar, RB/LB, Sr.

The Red Devils: Agovino, who played mostly slot receiver last year, will become the lead back, but he still offers a viable receiving threat out of the backfield. He and Auer will start opposite each other at safety and also give explosive targets to Ryan, the new starting quarterback, who himself has breakaway speed. Cynar will lead the defense after making 82 tackles, including five sacks, and notching a pick six along the way.

3. WANTAGH (9-3)

Coach: Keith Sachs, 34th year

Key players: Luke Martini, RB/LB, Jr.; Pat Forthofer, OL/LB, Sr.; Joe Adamo, WR/LB, Sr.; Tyler Owens, WR/DB, Jr.; Mike Amodio, TE/LB, Sr.

Wantagh: Martini was the first sophomore to win the Thorp Award and he led his team to the conference title. He is also a member of an elite linebacking corps that returns all three starters. Forthofer and junior Vincenzo Fullone both return as starting guards and will look to keep the pocket clean for new starting quarterback Max Avena, a senior with a strong arm and high intelligence.

4. BETHPAGE (9-2)

Coach: Thomas Galgano, first year

Key players: Louis Schneider, RB/LB, Sr.; Michael Mastrangelo, QB, Sr.; Matthew Brady, OL/DL, Sr.; Liam Farrell, RB/DB, Sr.; Chris Wendling, OL/DL, Sr.

The Eagles: The conference’s runner-up returns many starters. Mastrangelo proved himself a good decision-maker. Schneider will take a leadership role on offense and the defense. Brady (six tackles for loss, two sacks), Wendling (two sacks, two fumble recoveries) and senior Anthony Signoriello (two sacks, two forced fumbles) give them a chance to control both sides of the line of scrimmage.

5. ELMONT (3-6)

Coach: Tommy Innes, fourth year

Key players: Elijah Davis, RB/LB, Sr.; Kyle McGruder, OL/DL, Sr.; Ugom Nnabuogor, OL/DL, Soph.; Jaden Modelo, WR/LB, Sr.; Christian Pierre, WR/DB, Sr.

The Spartans: Elmont had an uncharacteristic year after graduating many valuable skill-position players. Sophomore quarterback Giovan Michel’s blind side will be completely protected by McGruder at left tackle and Nnabuogor at left guard. Pierre (6-0, 150 pounds) will provide him size and speed on the perimeter, while Modelo (6-1, 185) will create mismatches in the slot and also generate negative plays from outside linebacker.

6. MANHASSET (4-5)

Coach: Mike Lewis, second year

Key players: Michael DePietro, FB/RB/LB, Sr.; Max Cellura, WR/DB, Sr.; Luke DePietro, RB/DB, Jr.; Luke Armendariz, FB/DL, Sr.; Philip Daitsis, FB/LB, Sr.

The Set: They were picked to finish 11th out of 12 teams last season in what was supposed to be a rebuilding year, but they wound up winning four of their final five games. Michael DePietro will lead the way on both sides, and shares the backfield with his younger brother, Luke, who totaled 650 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns. Senior quarterback LJ Michon and classmate running back Andrew Lamarca — a highly touted recruit in lacrosse — join the DePietro brothers and Daitsis to make their triple option offense even more dangerous.

7. CLARKE (6-3)

Coach: Joe Roche, first year

Key players: Jake Thakkar, RB/LB, Sr.; Yaya Segura, TE/LB, Sr.; Anthony Vecchiano, OL/DL, Sr.; Joey Wehrman, OL/DL, Sr.; Victor Rosario, WR/LB, Sr.

The Rams: Thakkar, along with senior Luke Walker and junior Everett Barsauskas, give them a chance to run the ball effectively. Vecchiano and Wehrman will play key roles in opening creases for them. Senior Bryan Araujo will help them with the field-position battle with his average of 39 yards per punt.

8. SEWANHAKA (2-7)

Coach: George Kasimatis, 18th year

Key players: Chayce Clanton, RB/WR/LB, Jr.; Lance Williams Jr., QB/DB, Jr.; Joelle Matheson, OL/DL, Sr.; Aiden Jacob, OL/DL, Sr.; Justin Moreau, WR/DB, Jr.

The Ravens: They have speed at every position, most notably wherever Clanton is playing. A big target at 6-2, 205 pounds, he displayed an ability to make contested and difficult catches while lining up both out wide and in the slot. He will move to running back this year, where he got some snaps last yea. Matheson (6-0, 305 pounds) returns with multiple years as a starting left guard and will anchor the line.

9. DIVISION (5-4)

Coach: Jay Hegi, first year

Key players: Aiden Mirelis, WR/DB, Sr.; James Moeller, WR/LB, Sr.; George Gendekos, WR/DB, Jr.; Chris Ruggia, QB, Sr.; Michael Dedentro, RB/LB, Sr.

The Dragons: Mirelis may be the most dangerous receiver on Long Island. He got hurt on the opening drive of the regular-season finale after catching a 31-yard pass. Before that, he had scored at least one touchdown in every game, totaling 14 through the first seven games. Ruggia, a former tight end, will look to ride Mirelis’ ability in hopes to bring the team back to the playoffs.

10. GLEN COVE (2-7)

Coach: Brett Rubin, second year

Key players: Darius Bailey, OL/DL, Sr.; Michael Telese, WR/DB, Sr.; Devin Hernandez, OL, Sr.; Ryan Lebowitz, FB/LB, Sr.; Dylan DiMaggio, QB/RB/WR/DB, Sr.

The Big Red: DiMaggio can do a little bit of everything, between playing safety, going under center, lining up in the backfield or splitting out wide. His athleticism will be leaned on more this year, as will Telese’s, as he produced 365 yards and six touchdowns on just 22 catches. Bailey (right guard) and Hernandez (center) will give DiMaggio ample running room.

11. HEWLETT (2-6)

Coach: John Palladino, 10th year

Key players: Dylan Parchment, RB/LB, Sr.; Dominick Lord, OL/DL, Sr.; Jostin Poveda, OL/LB, Sr.; Kennlee Charles, WR/LB, Sr.; Jacob Zohar, WR/DB, Sr.

The Bulldogs: Several key starters return to their 3-4 defense, including Poveda (46 tackles, four TFLs), Charles (35 tackles, four TFLs, three fumble recoveries, one sack) and Lord (24 tackles, one sack). Parchment gives them an offensive centerpiece after rushing for 735 yards and seven touchdowns while averaging 5.4 yards per carry.

12. MINEOLA (0-8)

Coach: Matt Antoniou, first year

Key players: Brendan Torres, FB/RB/LB, Sr.; Dean Palmieri, WR/RB/DB, Sr.; Julian Pineda, QB/LB, Jr.; Cayden Brennan, OL/DL, Sr.; Michael Webber, OL/DL, Jr.

The Mustangs: Palmieri is an athletic player who will move to a skill position full-time after throwing some passes last year. He and Torres will be top weapons for Pineda, while Brennan (left tackle) and Webber (guard) will give them a chance to let big plays develop.

By Mike Anderson

Nassau Conference IV received quite the facelift this offseason, with one powerhouse departing, three new programs joining and two new combined teams forming. Essentially, five new members now exist in the renovated 14-team conference. Among them, expectations are high for the Rockin' Rams, the merged East Rockaway/West Hempstead team. Read more here.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Mike McHugh, Seaford

Nassau IV has been tough to navigate through in McHugh’s first two years, but the challenges he has faced do not even compare to the ones he used to deal with.

McHugh, a 55-year-old Floral Park-native, Sewanhaka alumnus and current Seaford resident, always wanted to protect a community’s peace and serve its people. At 16, he took the test to become a New York City police officer. After two years of playing college lacrosse at Limestone, he got the call from the NYPD in 1992, beginning what eventually became a 28-year career as a first-generation cop. 

During that time, he worked his way up to the Detective First Grade rank while handling robberies and homicides. He spent time at both the 48th Precinct in the Bronx and the 103rd Precinct in Queens. He loved the camaraderie and team aspect of the NYPD, which helped inspire him to become a coach.

His first official gig was coaching junior varsity football at Calhoun before becoming a special teams coordinator for Mepham’s varsity team. After retiring in 2020, he became the supervisor for Mepham’s security team. The skills he developed as a cop, such as thoroughness and preparation, have translated well to his coaching career — especially in the film room. Learning how to leave no stone unturned is part of how his Vikings were able to win the conference championship last year over Plainedge.

GAMES TO WATCH

Lynbrook at Seaford, Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m.: The conference’s top two preseason seeds will open their seasons head-to-head for some early bragging rights.

Cold Spring Harbor at Malverne, Sept. 18, 7 p.m.: There may be over 500 total rushing yards in this game between the two teams. Though there may not be much passing, expect a high-scoring game with many broken tackles and big plays.

Floral Park at Lynbrook, Oct. 9, 6 p.m.: Two former Nassau III rivals reconvene in Nassau IV. Both teams, which are the respective No. 3 and No. 2 preseason seeds, should be in midseason form by this point and put on a show.

Valley Stream North at Valley Stream South, Oct. 17, 1:30 p.m.: Their school district rivalry was preserved, as both teams moved down from Nassau III to Nassau IV together, allowing for this game to happen without a crossover. This may have playoff implications, as not only is it the penultimate week of the regular season, but VSN is currently seeded eighth and VSS is ninth.

East Rockaway/West Hempstead at Cold Spring Harbor, Oct. 30, 7 p.m.: Based on preseason seeding, this figures to be a defensive slugfest with potential home-field advantage for the opening round of the playoffs on the line.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

2021: North Shore

2022: North Shore

2023: Seaford

2024: Wantagh

2025: Seaford

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEW

1. SEAFORD (10-2)

Coach: Mike McHugh, third year

Key players: Michael Calvacca, RB/DB, Sr.; Jackson Pignataro, WR/DB, Sr.; Michael Kofod, WR/DB, Sr.; Brock Conway, TE/LB, Jr.; Finn Curry, QB/DB, Sr.

The Vikings: After losing the Long Island Class IV championship 20-19 on a last-second 47-yard field goal, Seaford returns one of the best secondaries in the conference with Calvacca, Pignataro and Kofod. Curry takes over under center, and will lean on Calvacca, who averaged 12.2 yards per carry, as well two new senior wideouts in Brady Falk and Carmine Pandolfino.

2. LYNBROOK (7-3)

Coach: David Yaker, fifth year

Key players: Orji Agwu, WR/DB, Sr.; Alex Ioannou, OL/DL, Sr.; Marco Palleschi, TE/LB, Sr.; Chris Sommer, RB/DL, Sr.; Thomas Potash, RB/DB, Jr.

The Owls: Agwu is a true No. 1 wide receiver who will haunt defenses. Palleschi will run their defense after making 82 tackles and four sacks. He also intercepted two passes. Ioannou (6-1, 270 pounds) is a strong, sturdy presence to anchor both the offensive and defensive line.

3. FLORAL PARK (5-4)

Coach: Ron Pickett, 10th year

Key players: Ryan Terwilliger, WR/DB, Sr.; Michael Kowalski, RB/LB, Soph.; Ryan DiPippa, WR/DB, Jr.; Rocco Berkey, OL/DL, Jr.; Maurice Perry, WR/LB, Jr.

The Knights: Terwilliger is already a big-time threat out wide, but DiPippa is primed to make them one of the best duos on Long Island while catching passes from junior Danny Ring. Four of their key players listed started as underclassmen on defense. Kowalski rushed for 569 yards and three touchdowns and averaged 5.6 yards per carry as a freshman.

4. COLD SPRING HARBOR (6-4)

Coach: Jon Mendreski, 11th year

Key players: Roy Testa, RB/LB, Sr.; Alex Vitale, OL/DL, Sr.; Denis Kiely, RB/DL, Jr.; Grant Peelle, OL/DL, Sr.; Andrew Ioannou, WR/DB, Sr.

The Seahawks: They are built perfectly to play their brand of smashmouth football, with a ground-and-pound rushing attack and a hard-hitting defense with sure tacklers. Vitale creates tough matchups on both the offensive and defensive line. Testa and Kiely will get more touches out of the backfield and continue to make an impact on the front seven.

5. EAST ROCKAWAY/WEST HEMPSTEAD (2-6/4-5)

Coach: Russell Pajer, 32nd year

Key players: Terry Hayes, OL/DL, Sr.; Michael Tizio, QB/LB, Sr.; Tristen Rose, RB/LB, Jr.; Yency Duran, TE/DL, Sr.; Timmy Pendergast, RB/DB, Sr.

The Rocks: The merging of the Rocks and the Rams has created an elite front seven, starring Hayes and Duran. Rose (35 tackles) joins the fray by moving up from free safety to linebacker.

6. LOCUST VALLEY (4-5)

Coach: Michael Gilbert, fifth year

Key players: Marcus Houghtaling, FB/LB, Sr.; Liam Roberts, OL/DL, Sr.; JT Encarnacion, RB/LB, Sr.; Jack Symanski, OL/LB, Sr., Christian Alfaro, OL/DL, Sr.

The Falcons: Houghtaling is the identity of this team, as he is one of the best players on Long Island at both of his positions. Encarnacion (57 tackles) helps form a solid linebacking duo, and Roberts (34 tackles) gives them some help stuffing the run at the line of scrimmage.

7. MALVERNE (3-6)

Coach: Kito Lockwood, 17th year

Key players: Isaiah Smith, QB/RB/LB, Sr.; Jayden Johnson, RB/DB, Jr.; Jace Richards, WR/DB, Sr.; Cameron Wesley, RB/LB, Jr.; Brian Major, OL/DL, Sr.

The Mules: Smith returned home after spending last year at Christ the King, where he rushed for 1,727 yards and 24 touchdowns on only 176 carries for 9.8 yards per rush. He also went 18-for-32 passing with 307 yards and two touchdowns. He will start at quarterback, forming a monstrous three-headed rushing attack with Johnson (798 yards, 7 yards per carry, 11 touchdowns) and Wesley (292 yards, 5.6 yards per carry, six touchdowns). Former West Hempstead running back Jamir Houston also transferred in for his senior year.

8. VALLEY STREAM NORTH (5-4)

Coach: Mike Paolillo, seventh year

Key players: Adebayo Kayode, RB/DB, Sr.; Eddy Turcios, OL/DL, Sr.; Jeremiah Thomas, WR/DL, Sr.; Alex Walfisch, OL/DL, Sr.; Mike Omojola, FB/LB, Sr.

The Spartans: Kayode intercepted two passes at cornerback last year, then spent the offseason sprinting for the school’s track and field team to improve his speed. He ran a 6.99-second 55-meter dash, which is on pace for roughly a 4.55-second 40-yard dash, making him one of the county’s fastest backs. He will run behind the blocks of Walfisch and Turcios.

9. VALLEY STREAM SOUTH (4-5)

Coach: Joe Guastafeste, 12th year

Key players: Hunter Rush, OL/DL, Sr.; Aiden Paris, RB/LB, Jr.; Sherry Raza, OL/DL, Sr.; Jace Thomas, RB/LB, Sr.; Angel Cruz, OL/DL, Sr.

The Falcons: Three starters (Rush, Raza, Cruz) return to the offensive line and are joined by juniors Kendall Martin, who has good footwork, and Jayden Alliance, a strong, tough 221-pounder. They will look to create running room for Paris, who ran for 384 yards (5.7 per carry) and three touchdowns.

10. NORTH SHORE (2-7)

Coach: Bill Madigan, second year

Key players: Casey Gates, RB/DB, Sr.; Joseph Cristofari, QB/DB, Jr.; Canon Evans, OL/DL, Sr.; Thomas Curran, WR/DB, Sr.; Brendan Conklin, RB/LB, Jr.

The Vikings: They return a dual-threat quarterback in Cristofari, who will have a reliable, multi-purpose running back to lean on with Gates. His top three wide receivers (Curran and juniors Lukas Jovanovic and Del Neal) are all over 6 feet tall and possess dynamic playmaking abilities.

11. CARLE PLACE (6-3)

Coach: Paul Selhorn, third year

Key players: Mario D’Alessandro, OL/DL, Sr.; Justin Powers, OL/DL, Sr.; Michael Seglin, RB/LB, Sr.; Jack Ryan, QB/LB, Sr.; Tyler Marquart, RB/LB, Sr.

The Frogs: D’Alessandro and Powers are an effective run-stuffing duo at defensive end, and are also strong blockers on the offensive line. They will look to keep Ryan on his feet and give him time to get the ball to Seglin and Marquart, as well as senior Devin Stellato: a 6-4 tight end.

12. ISLAND TREES (2-6)

Coach: Ryan Vinberg, fifth year

Key players: Markus Bazelais, RB/LB, Sr.; Fredy Lemus, OL/DL, Sr.; Gerard Ritter, TE/LB, Sr.; James Digena, FB/LB, Sr.; Caden McCoy, RB/DB, Sr.

The Bulldogs: Getting Bazelais back from injury changes things for them. In only three games, he rushed for 284 yards and five touchdowns. Lemus, Ritter and Digena are effective lead blockers who can help ensure his productivity stays high this year.

13. OYSTER BAY/FRIENDS ACADEMY (3-6)

Coach: Andrew Caramico, fifth year

Key players: Chase Lordi, QB/DB, Sr.; Christopher Barbera, OL/DL, Sr.; Craig Shelley, OL/DL, Sr.; Anthony Scheidet, RB/DB, Jr.; Sean Laurencon, WR/LB, Sr.

The Baymen: It is the first year of this combination. Oyster Bay used to field a team on its own, while Friends Academy used to merge with Roslyn, which is now combined with Herricks and Wheatley. Lordi moved from wideout to quarterback towards the end of last season and will stay there this year, but his athleticism will still be utilized.

14. LAWRENCE (0-8)

Coach: Akym Land, second year

Key players: Dilon Harris, WR/RB/DB, Jr.; Khalil Brassell, QB, Sr.; Anthony Martinez, OL/DL, Sr.; Tristian Darwin, WR/LB, Sr.; Joshua Jonas, OL/DL, Sr.

The Golden Tornadoes: Brassell will try to feed Harris, Darwin and sophomore Timothy Jimenez as often as possible to try and lead the historic program to its 550th all-time win. Lawrence is one win away.

By Jared Valluzzi

Sachem North senior quarterback Luke LaRocca is a three-year starter and already owns nearly every major passing record in school history. He's joined by teammates he’s won with his entire life, going back to their days together in PAL. But Sachem North has reached the semifinals the last four seasons with no title to show for it, and the last time the program won a county championship was 2013. Now this senior class has one final chance to get the job done. Read more here.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Mike Konsevitch Jr., Connetquot

Konsevitch enters his sixth season as  coach of the T-Birds. Connetquot has reached the playoffs in four of his first five seasons. A 1992 Connetquot graduate, Konsevitch played wide receiver and defensive back for the T-Birds and was part of the team that reached the Suffolk Division I title game in 1990. He joined the coaching staff in 1998 and later served as defensive coordinator for Connetquot’s Long Island championship team in 2008.

GAMES TO WATCH

Longwood at Whitman, Sept. 9, 6 p.m.: These teams played two thrillers last season. Whitman won the regular-season matchup by one point, and Longwood took the quarterfinal meeting, 22-14. Now they meet at Whitman to open the season in a tone-setting matchup.

Floyd at Ward Melville, Oct. 3, 2 p.m.: These teams have met in the last two Suffolk I championship games. Floyd won in 2024 and Ward Melville won in 2025. This year’s regular-season matchup will also be Ward Melville’s homecoming game. 

Patchogue-Medford at Sachem East, Oct. 15, 6 p.m.: Sachem East won last season’s matchup and the victory eventually helped it secure the final seed in the Division I playoffs. This meeting could have similar stakes. It’ll be a Thursday night matchup featuring physical linemen and two teams that could be fighting for their playoff hopes late in the season.

Longwood at Floyd, Oct. 24, noon: The Parkway Bowl has been one-sided as of late — Longwood hasn’t beaten Floyd since 2015. With the Lions returning plenty of talent and a new era beginning at Floyd, is this the year Longwood gets that elusive win? The matchup will feature Floyd’s Jake Rivera, one of the top pass rushers on Long Island, against Ed Princivil of Longwood, one of the top offensive linemen. .

Connetquot at Sachem North, Oct. 30, 6:30 p.m.: Connetquot has moved back up to Suffolk Division I, and its traditional rivalries are back. That includes a pivotal regular-season finale under the lights at Sachem North, with playoff seeding potentially on the line.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

2021: Whitman

2022: Ward Melville

2023: Floyd

2024: Floyd

2025: Ward Melville

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS

1. WARD MELVILLE (10-2)

Coach: Chris Boltrek, 13th season

Key Players: Hudson Philbrick, QB, Sr.; Joey Karpowicz, WR/DB, Sr.; Quinn Kurtz, C/DE, Sr.; Austin Sicoli, OLB, Sr.; Angelo Sorbera, WR/DB, Sr.

The Patriots: For the first time in school history, Ward Melville is the preseason No. 1 seed. The Patriots are led by Philbrick at quarterback, who is committed to Stony Brook. Karpowicz leads the receiving corps alongside Sorbera. Kurtz guides an offensive line returning four starters. Sicoli and Logan Schafer anchor the front seven for the Patriots in their quest for their first Long Island title.

2. SACHEM NORTH (6-3)

Coach: Dave Caputo, ninth season

Key Players: Luke LaRocca, QB, Sr.; Joseph Gambardella, WR/DB, Sr.; Lucas Bouchard, WR/DB, Sr.; Dwayne Dumpson, OL/DL, Sr.; James Chirichella, OL, Sr.

The Arrows: LaRocca returns for his third year under center after throwing for 23 touchdowns the past two seasons. Gambardella leads the secondary after totaling a team-high 63 tackles. Bouchard will impact the game as a runner, receiver, defensive back and return specialist. Chirichella and Dumpson lead an offensive line unit that returns four starters.

3. FLOYD (10-1)

Coach: Pete Friedman, first year

Key Players: Derek Glock, WR/DB, Sr.; Christian Hobson, WR/DB, Sr.; Jake Rivera, OLB/TE, Sr.; Devin Walker, OL/DL, Sr.; Dashawn Jackson, RB/ILB, Sr.

The Colonials: It’s a new era for Floyd under Friedman, and the Colonials bring back playmakers. Glock was impactful as a receiver, defensive back and returner. Rivera totaled 16 sacks and will lead the defense. After graduating 26 seniors, Friedman expects plenty of new names to step up, including Ryley Permenter and Matthew Cavaco.

4. LONGWOOD (5-5)

Coach: Sean Kluber, sixth year

Key Players: Kyon Sarwari, RB/OLB, Sr.; Ed Princivil, OT/DT, Jr.; Nyyir Thomas, FB/NT, Jr.; Ryan Greene, QB, Jr.; Giovanni Johnson, WR/DE, Sr.

The Lions: Sarwari leads an efficient ground attack after rushing for 971 yards and 13 TDs. Princivil and Thomas are coming off strong sophomore campaigns and are expected to have a big impact up front on both sides of the ball. Greene threw for 870 yards and nine TDs. Longwood has a new offensive coordinator in Tyler Collins and defensive coordinator in Andrew Ferriolo, both former CW Post teammates. The Lions return 17 players with starting experience.

5. CONNETQUOT (3-6)

Coach: Mike Konsevitch Jr., sixth year

Key Players: Jonas Mendez, WR/DB, Jr.; Sonny Kowalevich, LB/OL, Sr.; Chris Lindsay, OL/DL, Sr.; Marcus Anglin, RB/S, Sr.; Damian Sosa, WR/S, Sr.

The T-Birds: Mendez totaled more than 1,000 all-purpose yards as a sophomore. Kowalevich had 59 tackles and Lindsay registered 36, and both will lead the offensive line as well. Anglin rushed for 300 yards last season and will take on an expanded role. Sosa and Kingston Maugeri will be impactful two-way starters at receiver and in the secondary. Former Miller Place coach Adam St. Nicholas joins the staff as the team’s new OC.

6. WHITMAN (5-4)

Coach: Ralph Milazzo, first year

Key Players: Mark Rutledge, RB/LB, Jr.; Jason Thompson, WR/DB, Jr.; Dodge Alahverdian, QB, Sr.; Timmy Harrison, WR/CB, Sr.; Lucas Tonna, WR/CB, Sr. 

The Wildcats: Whitman will rely on an explosive duo in Rutledge and Thompson. Rutledge is a physical presence, rushing for 618 yards and six TDs and registering 50 tackles. Thompson is elusive and totaled 374 yards and three scores. Alahverdian passed for 505 yards and three TDs. Harrison and Tonna provide leadership in the secondary after the team graduated 30 seniors.

7. BRENTWOOD (4-5)

Coach: Rich DeJesus, 10th year

Key Players: Julius Herrera, QB/S, Sr.; Jonathan Martinez, OL/DL, Sr.; Brandon Leftenant, WR/DB, Jr.; Rai Ferrer, RB/LB, Sr.; Justin Rivera, LB, Jr.

The Spartans: Brentwood will lean on three-year starting QB Herrera. He will also anchor the secondary alongside Leftenant, who started every game at cornerback. Martinez is a key piece of an offensive line that helped Brentwood average 240 rushing yards per game. Ferrer was also a key blocker who returns.

8. PATCHOGUE-MEDFORD (3-5)

Coach: Greg Murphy, second year

Key Players: Andrew Johnstone, TE/DE, Jr.; Brett Rupolo, QB, Sr.; Sergio Martinez, OL/DL, Sr.; Aidan Bailey, OL/DL, Jr.; Ray Gonzalez, OL/DL, Soph.

The Raiders: They will be led by Johnstone, who received multiple Division I offers. Martinez, Bailey and Gonzalez are contributors to an offensive line that returns four starters. Rupolo threw for 1,136 yards and five TDs and enters his fourth season on varsity. The Raiders missed the playoffs by one game.

9. SACHEM EAST (3-6)

Coach: Anthony Gambino, second season

Key Players: John Pitocco, RB/DB, Sr.; Luke Watson, OL/DL, Jr.; Francisco Mercado, RB/LB, Jr.; Alex Schneider, RB/LB, Sr.; Chase Reynolds, RB/OLB, Sr.

The Arrows: A stable of athletic running backs will guide East in its Wing-T offense. Watson is a two-way lineman who will lead the team up front. East reached the playoffs as the No. 8 seed.

10. BAY SHORE (1-7)

Coach: Jim Rizzo, first season

Key Players: Cato Thomas, RB/LB, Sr.; Nate Perez, OL/DL, Sr.; Dario Albin, OL/DL, Sr.; Kaleb Bryant, WR/DB, Sr.; Khayden Alexander, WR/DB, Sr.

The Marauders: A core group of seniors hopes to lead Bay Shore back to the playoffs. Thomas and Perez had 41 tackles each. Albin will guide the offensive line. Bryant and Alexander both provide athleticism in the skill group. Rizzo takes over as coach after more than 20 years in the program.

11. CENTRAL ISLIP (2-6)

Coach: Rashan Umari-Stacker, first season

Key Players: Amare Motley, WR/DB, Sr.; Chris Catalan, OL/DL, Sr.; Benjamin Maldonado, OL/DL, Sr.; Jovanni Pamphile, OL/DL, Jr.; Zach Bozor, OL/DL, Jr.

The Musketeers: Central Islip is led by Motley, whose size and explosiveness could create big plays. Catalan, Maldonado, Pamphile and Bozor look to be impact linemen for the Musketeers. Junior QB Yandy Hernandez is a newcomer to Central Islip’s offense.

12. RIVERHEAD (0-8)

Coach: Don Nelson, second year

Key Players: Kavion Hobbs, RB/DB, Sr.; Franco Revelo, C/DT, Sr.; Jevuan White, WR/S, Sr.; Quentin Ward, WR/DB, Sr.; Kamel Coaxum, FB/LB, Sr.

The Blue Waves: Hobbs will be the engine for Riverhead after rushing for 549 yards and two TDs and earning All-Division honors. Ward and White provide speed on the perimeter. Revelo and Coaxum will be important blockers in front of them.

By Mike Anderson

Good football players come and go every year on Long Island, but the transcendent ones are few and far between. The guys people remember for years. Deer Park sophomore Christian Myrick might just be the next one As the only freshman on the Falcons’ roster last year, he racked up 12 total touchdowns in five ways. Read more here.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Phil Fortuno, Copiague

Copiague is in good hands, because adversity is not nearly enough to stop its second-year coach from getting to where he is headed.

The 35-year-old Lindenhurst native is entering his sixth year as a health teacher and coach at Copiague, and is hoping to build off a promising first year as varsity football coach that saw his Eagles go 2-6 with three one-possession losses. Building a program up from the foundation is not easy, but not much in Fortuno’s life has been. At just 16, he lost his father, Nick, who died on July 1, 2007.

Family means everything in the Fortuno household, and for him to lose his father, who was his Little League baseball coach, the best way to honor him was by becoming a coach himself. Fortuno studied at Nassau County Community College and later Queens College to become a physical education teacher, and later got his health teaching certification from Touro College, with the intent of also becoming a high school coach.

Fortuno got his start in teaching physical education at Ebbets Field Middle School in Crown Heights, and commuted from there to Center Moriches, where he was an offensive coordinator for two years. In 2021, he finally arrived at Copiague, where he became the junior varsity football coach for four years before being promoted to the varsity position last year. He also coaches the school’s junior varsity boys basketball and varsity flag football teams.

With family values still at Fortuno’s forefront, he has instilled a familial culture at Copiague by demonstrating to players that he cares about them, which has helped improve their buy-in.

GAMES TO WATCH

Huntington at Bellport, Sept. 10, 3:30 p.m.: Both teams improved last year and made the playoffs, with the Blue Devils taking one of the biggest leaps forward on Long Island. Both graduated plenty of impact players, yet both return a physicality and an edge to them that should be on display in this season opener.

Northport at North Babylon, Sept. 19, 1 p.m.: The preseason No. 3 seed visits the No. 2 seed for an early-season, heavyweight battle. It will be a good, early test for Tigers quarterback Gavin O’Brien, who returns to play football for the first time in four years, against a physical Bulldogs defense,

Northport at Half Hollow Hills East, Oct. 3, 2 p.m.: The preseason No. 3 seed takes on the No. 1 in what should be a game between two contenders in midseason form.

North Babylon at Half Hollow Hills East, Oct. 16, 3 p.m.: The top two preseason seeds square off for a late-season bout with major seeding implications toward the top of the playoff picture.

Copiague at Deer Park, Oct. 23, 6 p.m.: Two young, low-seeded teams that are both looking to break into the playoffs will meet in the penultimate game of the regular season, perhaps with a chance to move into — if not clinch — a postseason position.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

2021: Bellport

2022: Bellport

2023: North Babylon

2024: Half Hollow Hills East

2025: East Islip

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS

1. HALF HOLLOW HILLS EAST (8-3)

Coach: Alex Marcelin, sixth year.

Key Players: RJ Peters, WR/DB, Sr., Jayden Bryan, RB/LB, Jr., Michai Crump, DL/OL, Jr., Alejandro Gonzalez, DL/OL, Sr., Kaylib Merchant, DB/WR, Jr.

The RedHawks: With defending champion East Islip moving down a division, this is the team to beat. Crump (seven sacks, 15 tackles-for-loss) wreaks havoc on the defensive line, while Peters (three interceptions, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery) and Merchant (two interceptions, three forced fumbles) form an elite pairing in the secondary. Bryan, who rushed for 1,400 yards and 18 touchdowns while splitting carries with since-graduated Daniel White, now gets to be the lead back.

2. NORTH BABYLON (4-5)

Coach: John Rowland, sixth year.

Key Players: Jack Miller, RB/LB, Sr., TJ Shaw, FB/LB, Sr., Kenny Walls, RB/DB, Sr., Shane Bacchus, OL/DL, Sr., Michael Henry, OL/DL, Sr.

The Bulldogs: Many physically-imposing impact players return to both sides of the ball. Shaw (459 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns) and Miller (444 yards, five touchdowns) will lead their Wing-T offense in hopes of controlling the clock and grinding out wins.

3. NORTHPORT (8-2)

Coach: Pat Campbell, ninth year.

Key Players: Gavin O'Brien, QB, 6-3, 195, Sr., Tommy Zarcone, LB/RB, Sr., Thomas McGovern, RB/DB, Sr., Sean Morrissey, WR/DB, Sr., Liam Cassidy, OL/DL, Sr., Ray Giehl, OL/DL, Sr.

The Tigers: Many standouts return from a defense that surrendered only 14.8 points per game, led by Zarcone, who made 90 tackles. McGovern and Morrissey will lock things down in the secondary and also provide help for senior quarterback O’Brien: an All-American lacrosse player who is returning to football for the first time in four years. They also added senior running back/linebacker Tristan Magro, who transferred back in from St. Anthony’s.

4. HUNTINGTON (7-3)

Coach: Ron Wilson, fourth year.

Key Players: Blake Bender, LB/TE, Sr., Shates Miller, WR/DB, Sr., Zayvion McCoy, RB/LB, Sr., Zachary Matthews, OL/DL, Sr., Logan Mazure, OL/DL, Jr.

The Blue Devils: Several of their top players are gone, but the identity remains unchanged. Matthews and Mazure will pave the way for McCoy, a home-run hitter out of the backfield who can also make plays in the passing game. Miller, a crafty route-runner, provides junior quarterback Charles Rosselli with a reliable target. 

5. NEWFIELD (4-4)

Coach: Nick Adler, seventh year.

Key Players: Carlos Silvestre Gomez, OL/DL, Sr., Stephen Carney, TE/DL, Sr., Richi Almonte, RB/LB, Sr., Connor Stebbins, QB, Jr., Brayden Cotty, OL/DL, Sr.

The Wolverines: Two massive three-year starters return to the offensive line in Silvestre Gomez (6-4, 290 pounds) and Cotty (5-11, 300). They will open plenty of running lanes for the dual-threat Almonte, and also give Stebbins time to find Carney (21 catches, 305 yards, three touchdowns) and junior wideout Lucas Bryan.

6. BELLPORT (5-4)

Coach: Jamie Fabian, ninth year.

Key Players: Ali Mohammadi-Rad, OL/DL, Sr., Bryce Williams, DL/OL, Sr., AJ St. Fort Colin, WR/DB, Sr., Matt Chojnacki, RB/DB, Jr., Horace Smith, QB/DB, Sr.

The Clippers: Mohammadi-Rad (6-0, 285), alongside Williams (6-0, 255), senior Akaih Allen-Boutwell (6-1, 270) and junior Oliver Ross (5-11, 225), will move a lot of bodies out of the way for Chojnacki, who got some varsity action and rushed for two touchdowns as a sophomore. Williams (35 tackles) and Boutwell (24 tackles, two sacks) will also help stuff the run. 

7. LINDENHURST (5-4)

Coach: Mark Frole, third year.

Key Players: Mikey Russo, QB/DB, Sr., Cole Petzold, WR/DB, Sr.,   Gabe Proulx, WR/DB, Sr., Ryan Andreone, K/TE/LB, Sr., Daniel Lemmermann, OL/DL, Jr.

The Bulldogs: Russo’s precision (66.2% completion percentage, four interceptions) mixed with dynamic playmaking ability (1,295 yards and 13 touchdowns passing, 390 yards and one score rushing) make them a threat to win any game. 

8. SMITHTOWN EAST (5-4)

Coach: Greg Lauri, second year.

Key Players: Jack Reddock, WR/DB, Sr., Jackson LaMothe, DL/OL, Jr., Leo Medina, DL/OL, Soph., Derek Felix, DB/WR, Sr., Marco Intintoli, WR/LB, Sr.

The Bulls: Reddock (25 receptions, 425 yards, five touchdowns) presents a legitimate downfield threat for junior quarterback Niko Kostas, who already has two years of starting experience at the junior varsity level. Intintoli (10 catches, 152 yards, two touchdowns) and senior Henry Craft (12 catches, 197 yards, two TDs) round out the receiving corps. 

9. COPIAGUE (2-6)

Coach: Phil Fortuno, second year.

Key Players: Gregory Brooks, DL/TE, Sr., Jayden James, WR/DB, Sr., Kevin Mackey, RB/LB, Sr., Trameer Jones, WR/DB, Sr., Caelon Chiddick, OL/DL, Jr.

The Eagles: Brooks makes plays off the edge, having registered five sacks, seven tackles-for-loss and three forced fumbles as a junior. Jones provided some splash both ways, totaling 515 all-purpose yards at receiver and breaking up eight passes at cornerback. The offensive line is big, led by Chiddick (6-2, 240) and classmates Rayli Fernandez (6-1, 220) and Juan Pantaleon (6-0, 250).

10. DEER PARK (2-6)

Coach: Cody Ciolino, second year.

Key Players: Christian Myrick, WR/DB, Soph., Anthony Kern, QB, Jr., Rylan Keating, RB/LB, Jr., Tyler Cummings, RB/LB, Soph., Franklin Carbajal, OL/DL, Jr.

The Falcons: Myrick will never come off the field, and will probably play every skill position. The more he touches the ball, the higher his team’s chances are of winning. Kern adds a dual-threat weapon under center, highlighted by his 325 rushing yards and four touchdowns in five games.

11. CENTEREACH (1-7)

Coach: Michael Mikochik, first year.

Key Players: Jax Prokop, WR/DE, 6-4, 220, Sr., Jeremiah Rivera, RB/LB, Sr., Gabriel Moore, OL/DL, Sr., Austin Welter, OL/DL, Sr., Nasir Jeanlouis, WR/DB, Sr.

The Cougars: They already lead the county in offensive line chemistry, as all five starters return. Seniors Ashton Derival (left tackle) and Jayden Campoverde (right tackle) alongside junior Dante Delgado (center) will help Moore (left guard) and Welter (right guard) open running lanes for the shifty Rivera and the physical David Duhaney. 

12. COMMACK (3-5)

Coach: Joe Reggio, 14th year.

Key Players: Lincoln Riggs, QB/DB, Sr., Mason Ruocco, WR/LB, Sr., Spencer Weiss, TE/LB, Sr., Ryan Ostling, WR/DB, Sr., Corey Jacobs, RB/DB, Sr.

The Cougars: They are much younger after graduating 31 players. Riggs is  prepared to lead the way after throwing for over 1,600 yards and 16 touchdowns in seven games. Ruocco, who will be his top target, will lead the defense from the middle after making 50 tackles.

By Matt Lindsay

Top-seeded East Islip is set to host second-seeded West Islip in a renewal of one of Long Island’s toughest and most thrilling rivalries at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17. East Islip’s 38-7 win in the 2024 opener was the first time these teams had met in nine years. If both teams are healthy when they meet in Islip Terrace, expect a tighter battle that fits the rivalry’s rich tradition. Read more here.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Anthony DiLorenzo, Rocky Point

DiLorenzo graduated from Plainedge in 1998 and was a member of the Red Devils’ football team as a junior when the legendary Rob Shaver became coach. Plainedge had a losing record in Shaver’s first year but went 5-3 in DiLorenzo’s senior season and never looked back. DiLorenzo has taught in Rocky Point and been with the football program for 24 years and is entering his 16th year as head coach. He first worked under coach Bill Madsen, who led the Eagles to their only Suffolk finals appearance in 2025. “The kids here are tough and do everything asked of them,” DiLorenzo said. “It’s been an absolute pleasure to be here for this long.”

GAMES TO WATCH

Westhampton at Islip, Sept. 9, 7 p.m.: Islip has had explosive offenses the last few years and Westhampton will have Jake Calloway healthy. This is a potential high-scoring affair that could come down to the wire.

Westhampton at East Islip, Oct. 2, 6 p.m.: These teams last met in the 2023 Division III semifinals, with East Islip advancing on a 17-0 win. Westhampton has the size and athleticism to match up with the reigning Suffolk II champs. It could be a playoff preview.

Hauppauge at West Islip, Oct. 2, 6 p.m.: Hauppauge led West Islip late in the fourth quarter of a quarterfinal matchup last season, but the Lions stormed ahead for a 26-14 win. Liam O’Connor and Jake Kramer are two of the top rushers in the division. This will be a doozy.

Hauppauge at Islip, Oct. 16, 6:30 p.m.: Islip won a 34-22 tilt last September, in which more than 800 yards of total offense were amassed. This should be another high-scoring Friday night game. 

West Islip at East Islip, Oct. 17, 1 p.m.: These teams met in 2024 for the first time in nine years in a lopsided, 38-7 win for East Islip. Expect this rivalry game to be much closer this time.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

2021: East Islip

2022: Sayville

2023: East Islip

2024: Sayville

2025: Sayville

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS

1. EAST ISLIP (10-2)

Coach: Sal J. Ciampi, 26th year

Key Players: Kristian Burnett, HB/LB, Jr.; Evan Gordon, OT/DE, Sr.; Jaden DePinto, WR/DB, Sr.; Andrew Arena, RB/DE, Sr.; Parker Redding, HB/DB, Sr.; Makoa Jablonski, OT/DT, Sr.

East Islip: Graduated several impact players but return loads of talent after winning the Suffolk II title. Burnett and Gordon will lead another stout defense. Junior Owen Madden will take over at QB with the likes of Burnett, Arena, DePinto and Redding figuring to lead an offense with tons of versatility. The will look for its seventh title in Ciampi Jr’s tenure.

2. WEST ISLIP (7-3)

Coach: Steve Mileti, 18th year

Key Players: Jake Kramer, RB, Sr.; Luke Tate, OG/DT, Sr.; Peter Malone, WR/DB, Sr.; Matt Marker, LB, Sr.; Jack Elko, WR/SS, Sr.; Ryan Gaffney, QB/LB, Sr.

The Lions: Bounced back after an uncharacteristic 2024 season. Kramer will lead the offense in his third year as a starter. Tate’s athleticism and versatility will lead the defense. Gaffney, a St. John’s baseball commit, will bring the toughness of a linebacker and his pitching background to the QB position. They will look for their first title since the spring 2021 season.

3. WESTHAMPTON (2-7)

Coach: Bryan Schaumloffel, ninth year

Key Players: Nic Simone, RB/S, Sr.; Jake Calloway, QB, Sr.; Jaedyn Cobb, OT/DT, Sr.; Andrew Lewis, TE/LB, Sr.; Liam Brand, OG/DT, Sr.; Kyle Coffey, WR/S, Sr.

The Hurricanes: Had their first losing regular season in 25 years but still made the playoffs. Simone experienced a breakout year after Calloway’s season-ending injury in the opening game. With both healthy and another big, experienced offensive line, the Hurricanes have the ingredients to win their first Suffolk title since 2017.

4. HAUPPAUGE (5-4)

Coach: Chris Diesso, fourth year

Key Players: Liam O’Connor, RB/DB, Sr.; Dom Green, OL/DL, Jr.; Christian Mooney, WR, Sr.; Cruz Vargas, OL/DL, Sr.

The Eagles: Won their final four regular season games to make the playoffs. O’Connor ran for 1,145 yards to set a single season program record with Green and Vargas paving the way. Look for Mooney to add some explosive plays in what should be a high-powered offense.

5. ISLIP (7-2)

Coach: Jamie Lynch, 21st year

Key Players: Najee Simpson, RB/DE, Sr.; Carmine Rosselli, WR/LB, Sr.; Jack Halpin, QB/DB, Sr.; Jhon Elmonuce, OT/DT, Sr.; Christian Orosovich, OT/DE, Sr.

The Buccaneers: Will look to Halpin, who transitions from WR to QB, to lead another high-scoring attack. Simpson is a four-year starter who has had a big defensive impact and will be more involved on offense. Rosselli will play in the slot and in the backfield and will dictate get plenty of touches.

6. SMITHTOWN WEST (8-3)

Coach: Craig Perrino, fifth year

Key Players: Will Noto, OL/DL, Sr.; Sean Luikart, OL/DL, Sr.; Luke Brown, WR/DB, Sr.; Tommy Maloney, K, Jr.; Blake Stockwell, QB, Jr.; Collin Murphy, WR/DB, Jr.

The Bulls: Reached the Suffolk III final for the first time. Noto and Brown were impactful on a senior-heavy team and are poised for a big year. Stockwell, a dual threat QB, takes over for Nick DeVito. The Bulls will be young, but the foundation has been set for sustained success.

7. COMSEWOGUE (5-4)

Coach: Sean Tremblay, 15th year

Key Players: Izaiah Iacono, OL/DL, Sr., Robert DiFazio, RB/LB, Sr.; AJ Davis, WR/DB, Jr.; Dylan Giorlando, WR/DB, Sr.; Jack Edmunson, WR/DB, Sr.; Anthony Martinelli, QB, Jr.

The Spartans: Will lean on their rushing attack with the 6-2, 285-pound Iacono blocking for DiFazio, but could be more balanced with newcomer Martinelli at the helm. Giorlando and Edmunson form a dynamic duo on the outside. The Spartans will look for a fourth straight playoff appearance.

8. ROCKY POINT (4-4)

Coach: Anthony DiLorenzo, 16th year

Key Players: Peyton Reisinger, QB/DB, Sr.; John Nadeau, WR/DB, Sr.; Evan Cruz, RB/LB, Sr.; Nick Moore, WR/DB, Sr.; John McKenna, OL/DL, Sr.; Will Tenzler, OL/DL, Jr.

The Eagles: Bring back several experienced players after narrowly missing out on the playoffs. Reisinger will lead a more balanced attack with Nadeau on the outside. Moore, Reisinger and Nadeau form a strong-tackling secondary. If the Eagles can avoid the injury bug, they could be poised for a breakout.

9. HALF HOLLOW HILLS WEST (0-8)

Coach: Bradley McCoy, first year

Key Players: Just Zeva, WR/DB, Sr.; Logan Bihn, WR/DB, Jr.; Christian Sala, OG/DT, Sr.; James Nolan, WR/S, Sr.; Jordan Cruz, OG/DT, Jr.; Gerald Jackson Jr., S/LB, Jr.

The Colts: Are under new leadership with first-year coach McCoy. Zeva, Bihn and Nolan form a talented core of skill players. They will look to bring the Colts back to their winning ways.

10. EASTPORT/SOUTH-MANOR (4-4)

Coach: Guy Buckley, third year

Key Players: Joe Hershey, RB/LB, Sr.; Thomas Powers, TE/DE, Sr.; Cole Klein, WR/CB, Sr.; Joseph Green, RB/LB, Sr.; Jayden Durham, QB/CB, Sr.

The Sharks: Will lean on Hershey in the run game. He has been a productive second option in the Sharks’ run-heavy offense and will be the featured back this year. Powers, Klein and Green have plenty of experience and production under their belts. Durham moves from WR to QB.

11. EAST HAMPTON (6-4)

Coach: Jaron Greenidge, first year

Key Players: Jackson Carney, WR/DB, Sr.; Jackson Ronick, RB/LB, Sr.; Sullivan Matthews, OL/DL, Sr.; Tiger Brew, OL/DL, Sr.; Wylie Stern, WR/LB, Jr.; Billy Stern, QB, Jr.

The Bonackers: Return just four starters after earning their first playoff win in 25 years. Carney and Ronick give the Bonackers athleticism and playmaking ability. Matthews stands at 6-6, 275 pounds and Brew is 6-4, 230 pounds. They will be bulldozers up front for a young team.

12. WEST BABYLON (1-7)

Coach: Joe Ritacco, first year

Key Players: Jahavi Reyes, QB/DB, Sr.; Logan Hennessy, OL/DL, Jr.; Xavier Estevez, RB/LB, Jr.; Jackson Burmeister, RB/LB, Jr.; Damen Anderson, OL/DL, Soph.; Jayden Hansen, OL/DL, Soph..

The Eagles: Make the move from Division II to III. Reyes is a four-year starter who can play several positions on both sides of the ball at a high level. Hennessy and Estevez were productive as sophomores. The Eagles will look for more production from their youth.

By Matt Lindsay

A lot has been made about this season’s Nassau crossover game between Massapequa and Garden City, and for good reason. But what about the matchup between the two reigning Long Island champions from Suffolk? With Sayville’s move to Division IV due to lower enrollment, fans will be in for a treat on Oct. 16 when the Golden Flashes host Bayport-Blue Point. Read more here.

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Vin Ammirato, Mount Sinai

Ammirato grew up in Sachem and played football for legendary coach Fred Fusaro. He played baseball at Iona University, where he graduated from in 1986. Ammirato began his coaching career in the Longwood program from 1988-95. He became Mount Sinai’s coach in 1998 and has amassed a record of 168-93-1 ahead of his 29th year. Ammirato retired from teaching four years ago, but he still loves coaching.

“I still really enjoy watching the kids grow as people and as athletes,” Ammirato said. “Two of my former players got married this summer and I went to both of their weddings. That was a special experience.”

GAMES TO WATCH

Kings Park at Miller Place, Oct. 17, 2 p.m.: The Panthers won a 65-48 thriller last year, as Shane Kiernan and Brandon Shapiro combined for 886 passing yards. Both offenses will have a new look, but expect another exciting game.

Babylon at Harborfields, Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m.: The fourth-seeded Tornadoes have a chance to make a statement against last year’s runner-up Panthers. These teams could meet two weeks later in a quarterfinal matchup.

Mount Sinai at Bayport-Blue Point, Sept. 18, 6 p.m.: A field goal as time expired delivered Mount Sinai a 16-13 win over Bayport-Blue Point in the regular season, but BBP rebounded with a 23-7 win in the teams' semifinal matchup. Can Mount Sinai earn another win over the four-time reigning champs?

Sayville at Mount Sinai, Oct. 2, 6 p.m.: Mount Sinai has the size and athleticism to compete with Sayville. Don’t be surprised if this game is decided in the waning minutes.

Bayport-Blue Point at Sayville, Oct. 16, 6 p.m.: This game needs no introduction. Sayville has won five Division III titles since 2019 and Bayport-Blue Point has won the last four Division IV titles. Suffolk football fans would only be so lucky to see this game twice in one season. But it just might happen.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

2021: Shoreham-Wading River

2022: Bayport-Blue Point

2023: Bayport-Blue Point

2024: Bayport-Blue Point

2025: Bayport-Blue Point

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS

1. SAYVILLE (12-0)

Coach: Rob Hoss, second year

Key Players: Ben Kloska, OL/DL, Sr.; Timmy Holahan, RB/DB, Jr.; Robert Hoss, WR/DB, Sr.; Colin Darling, WR/DB, Sr.; Michael Morgan, OL/DL, Jr.; Chase Neugebauer, OL/DL, Jr.

The Golden Flashes: Move to Division IV after winning the Long Island Class III title and their second straight Suffolk championship. Junior Frankie Hanley and freshman James Coan are vying for the starting quarterback position. With Kloska, Morgan and Neugebauer leading a big, experienced line and Holahan, Darling and Hoss providing talent and experience at the skill positions, Sayville will still be a force to be reckoned with.

2. BAYPORT-BLUE POINT (10-2)

Coach: Mike Zafonte, 11th year

Key Players: Patrick Ahern, TE/DE, Sr.; Blake Romano, OL/DL, Sr.; Josh Franchak, RB/DB, Jr.; Brayden Waldbauer, WR/LB, Jr.; Tommy Steyert, K, Sr.; Jamison Hawkins, WR/DB, Jr.

The Phantoms: Won the Long Island Class IV title on a 47-yard field goal from Steyert as time expired. It was their fourth straight county title. A large senior class graduated, but Ahern is ready to lead a group of young players with championship experience. Franchak had several explosive plays, and Waldbauer - standing at 6-8, 200 - gives the reigning champs plenty of firepower.

3. MOUNT SINAI (7-3)

Coach: Vin Ammirato, 29th year

Key Players: Dan Paolella, RB/WR/DB, Sr.; George Saunders, OL/DL, Jr.; Nick Pramataris, OL/LB, Jr.; Ethan Arita, WR/LB, Sr.; Brandon Steele, OL/DL, Sr.; Jackson Rannazzisi, RB/DB, Sr.

The Mustangs: Return three starting linemen, with the 6-3, 235-pound Saunders leading the group. The versatile Paolella caught 26 passes for 617 yards and 11 touchdowns. Arita and Rannazzisi add to the Mustangs’ excellent team speed. Look for an enhanced passing game. this season.

4. HARBORFIELDS (3-5)

Coach: Rocco Colucci, 11th year

Key Players: Ethan Roman, WR/S, Sr.; Vern Bratton, RB/LB, Jr.; Kassim Oliver, DL/OL, Sr.; Richie Pryhocki, OL/DL, Jr.; Anthony Ciaramitaro, RB/OLB, Jr.; James Costello, OL/DL, Soph.

The Tornadoes: Dealt with injuries to key players that opened up playing time for younger players. Roman and Bratton were productive on both sides of the ball and Oliver was an imposing force, standing at 6-5, 290 pounds. Moving from Division III, the Tornadoes add to a competitive field.

5. BABYLON (10-1)

Coach: Rick Punzone, 24th year

Key Players: Myles Varley, LB/OL, Jr.; Kai Donnelly, OL/DL, Sr.; Joe Rubendall, OL/DE, Sr.; Jake Ostertag, WR/S, Sr.; JJ Reid, TE/DE, Jr.; Shamus Cunneen, OL/DE, Sr.

The Panthers: Reached the Division IV final behind all-time leading rusher Aidan Winter and quarterback Kai Jankow. They leave behind plenty of production, but the Panthers return four starting offensive linemen. Varley was Babylon’s leading tackler as a sophomore; expect him to become the Panthers’ leader.

6. MILLER PLACE (5-4)

Coach: Joe Mancini, first year

Key Players: Drew Meyer, FB/LB, Jr.; Brendan Cannon, WR, Sr.; Cameron Meadows, WR/DB, Sr.; Bradyn Ellis, OL/DL, Sr.; Jack Galligan, OL/DL, Jr.; Jack Miller, QB/LB, Jr.

The Panthers: Lost to Babylon in the semifinals. Quarterback Shane Kiernan graduated, leaving a void that Miller is ready to fill. Cannon and Meadows provide spark on the outside, while the 6-0, 265-pound Ellis is experienced and physical in the trenches. First-year coach Mancini has plenty to work with

7. GLENN (6-3)

Coach: TJ Brocking, second year

Key Players: Keith King, RB/LB Jr.; GJ Cook, RB/LB, Jr.; Aras Buz, OL/DL, Sr.; Jayce Boyle-Summers, WR/DB, Jr.; Grayden Aebisher, QB/LB, Sr.; Karim Rafiq, OL/LB, Sr.;

The Knights: Return several young, athletic skill players and some experienced linemen. King ran for 735 yards and four TDs and Cook and Boyle-Summers each had more than 300 receiving yards. The Knights have what's necessary to return to the postseason.

8. KINGS PARK (4-5)

Coach: Mark O’Brien, 32nd year

Five Key Players: Frankie Buffolino, TE/WR/LB, Sr.; Zach Lampert, WR/S/LB, Sr.; Diego Valladares, OL/DE, Sr.; Kevin Flynn, OG/DE, Sr.; Ethan Caruso, WR/CB, Sr.; James DeVirgilio, RB/OLB, Jr.

The Kingsmen: Will lean more heavily on the run game behind multi-year starters Valladares and Flynn. Buffolino and Lampert bring strength, athleticism and versatility to both sides of the ball. Kicker Angelo Urso has made 33 consecutive point-after attempts and has good range on field goals.

9. SHOREHAM-WADING RIVER (3-6)

Coach: Paul Longo, first year

Key Players: Noah Gregorek, QB/DB, Jr.; Brandyn Bland, WR/CB, Sr.; Gavin Cleary, WR/CB, Jr.; Javon Wright, WR/S, Soph.; Lucas Diamond, RB/S, Sr.; Luke Tezcan, OT, Sr.

The Wildcats: Add Longo, the winningest public-school coach in Suffolk history. He will have plenty of talent to work with, led by dynamic quarterback Gregorek, who is surrounded by Bland, Cleary, Wright and Diamond. The team is young, but can Longo work his magic in Year One?

10. HAMPTON BAYS (2-7)

Coach: Sean Gil, fourth year

Key Players: Michael Single, RB/LB, Sr.; Brayden Talmage, WR/LB, Sr.; Connor Bullinger, QB/DB, Jr.; Owen Haynes, WR/DB, Sr.; Kade Arkinson, OL/DL, Sr.; Jack DeBenedette, OL/DL, Jr.

The Baymen: Will be led by Single and Talmage. Single had 1,000 all-purpose yards and 11 touchdowns and will pair with Talmage as a powerful linebacker duo. The Baymen have grown each of the past two years and expect to continue the trend.

11. CENTER MORICHES (1-8)

Coach: Matt Millheiser, fourth year

Key Players: Christian Versacci, WR/S, Sr.; Caleb Delgado, RB/DB, Jr.; Michael Sheehan, OL/DL, Sr.; Max Cintron, OL/DE, Sr.; Franklin Heredia, FB/LB, Sr.; Joe Martuscello, OL/DL, Sr.

The Red Devils: Return a strong offensive line and running back in Delgado. Versacci caught two TD passes and added three kick return TDs. The Red Devils’ defense will be the team’s calling card.

12. WYANDANCH (0-8)

Coach: Dawhite Hines, third year

Key Players: Jayshawn Coleman, QB, Jr.; Dom Correnthi, RB/LB, Sr.; Ja’vion Kimble, OL/DL, Sr.; Kendall Martin, RB/DE, Sr.

The Wolves: Return a young group of players that saw extensive playing time. Seniors Correnthi and Kimble are poised for big seasons. The Wolves will look to play a more aggressive, physical brand of football.

13. GREENPORT/SOUTHOLD/MATTITUCK (N/A)

Coach: Bo Olshefsky, first year

Key Players: Emmett Tramontana, OL/DL, Sr.; Thomas Arena, OL/DL, Sr.; Alex Felakos, LB, Sr.; Markus Kruszeski, RB, Jr.; Owen Edgett, RB/LB, Soph.; Joey Stanzoni, WR/DB, Soph.

The Porters: Did not have a varsity team after making the playoffs for the first time in 11 years in 2024. With several returning players from that team, the Porters are looking to build their program back.

By Jared Valluzzi

COACHING SPOTLIGHT

Eric Meisse, Kellenberg

He enters his fifth season as coach and 16th year in the program. A 2006 Kellenberg graduate, he played football and lacrosse at C.W. Post from 2006-08. He joined the varsity staff in 2016 and was the defensive backs coach for Kellenberg’s CHSFL AA championship teams in 2017 and 2018. Meisse served as associate head coach for one season in 2021 before taking over as head coach.

GAMES TO WATCH

St. Anthony’s at Iona Prep, Oct. 3, 1:30 p.m.: The last two seasons, the Friars’ quest for a CHSFL AAA title has been cut short by Iona Prep, which rolled to a 42-0 win in the semifinals en route to it second straight state title. The game features several players committed to Division I FBS schools in one of the most highly-anticipated matchups of the CHSFL season.

Kellenberg at St. John the Baptist, Oct. 10, 1:30 p.m.: Last year’s contest was an instant classic. On the final play, the Cougars were marked less than a yard short of the end zone, and Kellenberg won, 14-10. This matchup could be crucial for playoff seeding in the CHSFL AA-I division.

Chaminade at St. Anthony’s, Oct. 16, 7 p.m.: Last season, Anthony Diieso threw three touchdown passes and ran for another score in a 33-19 rivalry win over Chaminade. Both teams bring back their starting quarterback and running back as they expect to compete for a CHSFL AAA championship.

St. Dominic at Kennedy Catholic, Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m.: With Xaverian moving up and Holy Trinity suspending its football program, CHSFL AA-II is wide open. Both teams have talented new pieces and could be fighting for playoff position in this matchup.

FIVE-YEAR TREND

Class AAA

2021: Iona Prep

2022: St. Anthony's

2023: Cardinal Hayes

2024: Iona Prep

2025: Iona Prep

Class AA

2021: Chaminade (AA-I), Holy Trinity (AA-II)

2022: Holy Trinity (AA-I), Xavier (AA-II)

2023: St. John the Baptist (AA-I), Mount St. Michael (AA-II)

2024: St. Joseph by the Sea (AA-I), Xaverian (AA-II)

2025: Xavier (AA-I), Xaverian (AA-II)

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEW

CHAMINADE (7-5)

Coach: Tom Claro, third year

Key players: Anthony Trapani, RB/LB, Sr.; Sean Carnevale, QB, Sr.; Luca Mastronardi, LB/DB, Sr.; Tommy Claro, OL, Sr.; Michael Genovese, WR/CB, Sr.

The Flyers: Chaminade reached the CHSFL AAA semifinals for a second straight season. Trapani returns after being the engine of both the Flyers’ offense and defense. Carnevale enters his second season as the starting quarterback after a successful junior season in which he threw for 200 or more yards in four games. Genovese had 526 receiving yards. Claro is the lone returner up front and will lead a new offensive line unit.

KELLENBERG (1-9)

Coach: Eric Meisse, fifth year

Key players: Christian Jean-Francois, OT/DE, Sr.; Christopher Biondi, OG/DT, Sr.; Brandon McCabe, WR/TE, Sr.; Joseph Mullin, FB/LB, Sr.; Brendan Barkley, RB/LB, Jr.

The Firebirds: After a down season last year, the Firebirds return a plethora of starters. Jean-Francois and Biondi are both Sacred Heart commits and will anchor both sides of the line. McCabe caught five touchdowns, and Barkley had 647 rushing yards to lead the ground attack. Mullin, who had 59 tackles, leads the linebacking corps. Brayden Farrelly moves up from JV to become the starting quarterback for an experienced offense.

ST. ANTHONY’S (7-5)

Coach: Joe Minucci, eighth year

Key players: Xavier Bala, RB, Sr.; Nathan Furnell, OL, Sr.; Justin Joseph, OL, Jr.; Anthony Diieso, QB, Jr.; Rory McDermott, WR, Jr.

The Friars: It all starts with Bala in his fourth varsity. The Boston College commit will run behind an experienced offensive line. Furnell is a leader in the trenches alongside Joseph, who has offers from Power Four schools. Quarterback Diieso and wide receiver McDermott are expected to take the next step in their second varsity seasons.

ST. DOMINIC (1-7)

Coach: RJ Del Giorno, third year

Key Players: Michael Ford, TE/LB, Sr.; Alfonso Terrana, OL/DL, Sr.; Nick Lang, WR, Sr.; Gianni Perullo, OL/DL, Sr.; Aaron Bengtsson, QB, Jr.

The Bayhawks: A core group of seniors leads St. Dominic. Ford and Lang are expected to be an impactful receiving duo. Ford has terrific hands, and Lang, at 6-8, is a matchup problem after scoring five touchdowns last year. Bengtsson returns at quarterback, with Terrana and Perullo being relied on to open lanes for him. The Bayhawks will have multiple freshmen looking to step up and contribute this season.

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST (5-5)

Coach: Phil Alba, seventh year

Key players: Kalen Percer, RB/LB, Sr.; Christopher Trinca, RB/LB, Jr.; Jordan Redding, TE/LB, Sr.; Brandon Hunter, WR/DB, Jr.; Nicholas Bykuc, OL, Sr.

The Cougars: They have one of the best linebacker units in the CHSFL, with Percer, Trinca and Redding leading that group. Trinca had 122 tackles and 11 tackles for loss. Percer totaled 890 all-purpose yards and will be running behind a veteran offensive line headlined by Bykuc and Guillermo Rodriguez. Transfers Nicolas Mastraino at wide receiver and Armando Luperon at linebacker will make an instant impact.

By Jared Valluzzi

GAMES TO WATCH

St. Joseph by the Sea (Staten Island) at Long Island Lutheran, Sept. 12, 1 p.m.: It’s the season opener for the Crusaders, who will get an early look at where they stack up against the 2025 CHSFL AA-I runner-up.

TEAM PREVIEW

LONG ISLAND LUTHERAN (1-8)

Coach: Tiquan Garner, second year

Key players: Alexander Johnson, TE/DB/LB, Sr.; Jackson Brown, OL, Sr.; Kalil Williams, WR/DB, Jr.; Jovan Greenhill, WR/DB, Sr.

The Crusaders: It’s a new look for Long Island Lutheran. North Babylon transfer Greenhill will be one of their top playmakers after rushing for 679 yards and seven touchdowns. Brown is expected to be a force on the offensive line, standing at 6-5 and 290 pounds.

NASSAU

Scores and schedules

Standings

Statistics

SUFFOLK

Scores and schedules

Standings

Statistics

CHSFL/INDEPENDENT

Scores and schedules

Standings

Statistics