Fall Athletes Recognized During Board of Education Meeting
During the Dec. 14 meeting of the Board of Education, Director of Health, Physical Education, Athletics and Recreation Peter Melore gave a recap of the fall athletic season and introduced some of the district’s most outstanding student-athletes. “We are truly blessed to have kids that rise to every challenge,” Mr. Melore told the trustees and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lynda Adams. “This was one of the district’s best athletic seasons.” Mr. Melore reported that of the fall season’s 483 student-athletes, 229 were recognized by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association as scholar-athletes, having acquired a 90% GPA or better. Of the 12 fall teams, the boys and girls cross-country, girls soccer, boys and girls volleyball, girls swim and dive, field hockey, girls tennis, gymnastics and boys golf teams were also recognized by NYSPHSAA as scholar-athlete teams. Additionally, 11 teams made the playoffs, including boys and girls cross-country, boys and girls soccer, boys and girls volleyball, girls swim and dive, football, girls tennis, gymnastics and boys golf. Boys volleyball also acquired the league championship. Alexandra Melchiona was also named Suffolk County All-Around Champion in gymnastics. Mr. Melore also introduced several exceptional athletes who were named state qualifiers in their sports. Lara Booth Alam (Grade 10, Connetquot High School) and Morgan Cassidy (Grade 12, Connetquot High School), as well as Kelsey Kreuscher (Grade 10, East Islip High School) were championship state qualifiers. Retiring coach Renee Guerrieri also introduced members of the gymnastics team who will attend the state championship in March 2022, and which included Noel Cutinella, Suffolk County All-Around Champion Alexandra Melchiona, Avery Melchiona and Arianna Platti. Varsity soccer players Kevin Johnson and Laney Schmidt were introduced as All-State players in their sports as well.
Seniors are Recipients of Suffolk Zone Award
The District is pleased to announce that seniors Leila Joseph and Ben Lillie were selected as recipients of the Suffolk Zone Award. Sponsored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, the award recognizes one male and one female Suffolk County high school senior from each school district who exemplifies outstanding scholastic ability, physical education performance and leadership qualities. To qualify for the Suffolk Zone Award, recipients must earn a 90% average in high school physical education and health classes and an overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale by the completion of junior year. Recipients must contribute to the positive outcomes of their physical education and health classes and school, always working to support the instructional efforts of the class. Additionally, the recipient must demonstrate physical education and health class leadership and serve in a leadership capacity in an extracurricular organization. Finally, the recipient must achieve a high level of physical fitness and live an overall healthy lifestyle. The district congratulates Leila and Ben on this outstanding accomplishment.
Weekly Sports Wrap – December 3, 2021
Swimming: Connetquot High School swimmer Tristan Weingarten broke a 14-year-old record in the 50 yard freestyle on Nov. 30, with a time of 21.88. He has qualified for the New York State championships to be held in March, 2022.
Junior Varsity Boys Basketball Falls Short in Sachem Home Opener: In one of the most exciting Connetquot High School junior varsity boys basketball games in recent memory, the 2021 junior T-Birds fell one bucket short of a spectacular and exciting win against visiting Sachem. In the season opener for both teams, the lead went back and forth and would be determined by a last second three-point attempt by the T-Birds, which would have tied the score and taken the game into overtime. Unfortunately, the ball hit the rim, bounced off the backboard, back off the rim, only to fall short, giving the visitors the win. While Coach Ryan Ingarozza was disappointed in the final score, he was very impressed with his team’s effort and poise. Connetquot fans left the gym confident that this will be an exciting season of boys basketball.
Boys Basketball Season Opens with Exciting Confrontation with Sachem: Connetquot High School boys varsity basketball coach Kyle Black had been looking forward to the team’s 2021 home opener on Nov. 30 against crosstown rival Sachem High School. So many fans were looking forward to watching the T-Birds in action, live, for the first time in over a year, and weren’t disappointed by the team’s outstanding effort. Connetquot exchanged leads with the visitors throughout the first half, but fell short in the second, taking the 56-41 loss, confident that they will improve and work towards their potential as the season progresses. The T-Birds were led by juniors Mike Catalano (17 points, 4 assists), Dan Youmans (10 points and 10 rebounds) and Malaki Rogers (10 points). Ryan Waring is the team’s only senior, and the coaches are expecting his leadership, along with the talented, yet inexperienced, underclassmen to excite the fans. Fans leaving the gym after the game could be heard expressing their optimism that this will be an exciting season of Connetquot High School boys’ basketball.
Weekly Sports Roundup –11/19/21
Congratulations to Connetquot’s Lady T-Birds Cross-Country Team Girls’ cross-country coach Mike Austin is so proud of this year’s team and shares the following accomplishments for these talented Lady T-Birds. To begin with, the team finished second in Suffolk League II with an impressive overall record of 5-1. The team also finished first in the two invitational tournaments of the season. Connetquot’s sophomores finished second in the Suffolk County competition at the Freshman/Sophomore Championships. The following young ladies earned All-League commendations: Marissa McDougall, Madeline Barget, Julia Mansfield and eighth grader Olivia DiGaetano. Marisa McDougall and Madeline Barget also qualified as All-Division. Marissa qualified for All-Suffolk County, and Madeline Barget qualified for the Academic All-County team. Congratulations, and thank you, to Lauren Murphy, the team’s senior captain. “She played an amazing role in the mental well-being of the team,” said coach Austin. “Lauren brought a tremendous amount of fun to all activities while leading by example and by demonstrating that hard work truly does pay off. This was an amazing group of girls to work with, and they made me very proud.”
Weekly Sports Update - 11/5/21
Connetquot Football Pounds Copiague 47-0 in Regular Season Final The varsity football team completed its regular season schedule at home against Copiague on Oct. 29, honoring its seniors and providing playing time for everyone. This impressive win, combined with Saturday’s final scores, earned the T-Birds a spot in the Suffolk County tournament. Connetquot will travel to Huntington High School on Nov. 5 for its county playoff challenge. Connetquot got off to a 26-0 first quarter lead, and T-Bird coach Mike Konsevitch had his team work on their ground game to control the score and give his seniors an opportunity to shine. Seniors, Nick LaMantia scored three touchdowns and Shaun Hill scored from the three; Nick Pepitone scored on a 93-yard run in the third period. Senior quarterback Michael Ross threw for 182 yards and four touchdowns on 13-14 passing. Christian Parades had eight tackles, including a quarterback sack. Billy Walker added a sack, while John Feramola forced two fumbles and Stephen Bubier recovered two for the T-Birds. Connetquot HS Honors Seniors Parents, teachers, coaches, teammates, family and friends gathered on Oct. 29 at the colorfully decorated Connetquot High School athletic complex to honor their graduating seniors. Prior to the football team’s last scheduled home game vs. Copiague, the seniors and their parents gathered on the football field. After being individually introduced, the seniors were presented with flowers and gifts, and photos were taken of the individual seniors and their family members. Congratulations and thank you to Connetquot High School’s graduating seniors and for your dedication to the program and leadership. Boys Soccer Advances to Suffolk County AA Semifinals On Oct. 29, the Connetquot High School boys’ soccer team hosted at home Patchogue-Medford High School in the second round of the Suffolk County Championships. Playing from behind from within the first minute of the game, the T-Birds pulled themselves together and scored three goals in less than five minutes late in the second half, to win 3-1 and advance to the country semifinals. It has been a decade since the boys have been this successful! The visitors scored the first goal of the game in the first minute of the first half, and the T-Birds played catch up until center-midfielder Andrew Johnson scored with less than 15 minutes left in the second half to tie the score. After going scoreless for more than 30 minutes, the T-Birds scored two more goals, three within five minutes, to take the lead and the win. Garfield Gillespie, who was recently brought up from the junior varsity team, scored the next two goals for Connetquot, providing the final margin of 3-1. Connetquot advanced to the AA semifinals, played at Huntington High School on Nov. 1. Connetquot Boys Soccer Bows to Huntington in Suffolk County Semifinals On Nov. 1, the boys varsity soccer team traveled to Huntington to take on the Blue Devils in one of the most anticipated games of the season. These two powerhouse teams combined for 26 wins this season and would now play in the semifinals of the Suffolk County championship tournament for the right to move on to the championship round. The teams played to an exciting, tense, scoreless tie for the first 35 minutes of the game. At that point, an official flag went up, play stopped and for the next twenty minutes the teams rested on the field while officials, administrators and coaches decided how the game would continue. When play resumed, neither team scored and the teams reviewed their game plans with the score remaining at 0-0. The second half was just as intense as the first, the type of game spectators expected in a championship tournament. There were several shots on each goal, outstanding defense by both goalies, and as the clock wound down into the last five minutes of the game, the score remained 0-0. With just over four minutes left to play in this outstanding 80-minute game, Huntington scored to take the lead and the win in this Suffolk Class AA semifinals. It’s been a decade since the boys’ varsity team reached the semifinals of the county championships. This has been an outstanding group of dedicated young men, and the community is proud of their effort this season. Congratulations to Coach Zambriski, his staff and his players for being such a source of pride for the Connetquot community. Varsity Girls Volleyball Ends Season with Eighth Consecutive Playoff Appearance Congratulations are again in order for coach Karen Edwards and her varsity volleyball team. For the eighth consecutive season, the Lady T-Birds earned another invitation to compete in the Suffolk County playoffs. Despite the fact that the ladies fell short (3-1) in the county semifinals to Patchogue-Medford High School, they have so much to be proud of. “I am incredibly proud of these young ladies, not only for their hard work during the playoff push, but for the work they've put in all season on and off the court,” said coach Edwards. “I'm excited for what the future holds for CGVV. We will work hard to come back better and stronger next Fall. As for my seniors you will be greatly missed. I wish you the best in all your future endeavors.” Congratulations to the girls’ varsity volleyball team, with a special thank you to the following graduating seniors: Karly Colletti, Lexi Raimondi, Joanna Forrest, Marissa Edwards and Sierra Baldock. Connetquot’s Lady T-Birds won the New York State AA Championship in 2015, 2017 and 2019. The T-Birds finished the 2021 volleyball season with an overall record of 11-2 As a result of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association decision not to hold a state championship tournament in 2020, Connetquot is still the reigning AA girls’ volleyball champion! Connetquot Boys Volleyball Eliminates Ward Melville 3-1 Coach Jessica Perry’s boys’ varsity volleyball team advanced to the semifinals of the Suffolk County championships on Nov. 2 by eliminating Ward Melville 3-1. The T-Birds dropped the first set 25-21 but came back in straight sets to take the match and move on. Playing in front of a loud and supportive crowd of friends and family, including Superintendent Dr. Lynda G. Adams, the T-Birds were motivated to move on to the next challenge. Dom Ruggiero had 43 assists, an ace, six blocks and 14 digs for Connetquot. Ben Lillie added 13 kills, four aces and six blocks and Connor Ruais totaled 21 digs. The T-Birds will face Smithtown-West on Nov. 4, the winner advancing to the Division I championship match scheduled for Nov. 9.
Boys Soccer v PatMed
Football v Copiague
Senior Night
Boys Soccer v Huntington Playoff
Boys Volleyball v Ward Melville Playoff
Weekly Sports Update - 9/24/21
Girls Varsity Volleyball: The girls varsity volleyball team hosted West Islip on Sept. 22, earning a 3-set win and maintaining an unblemished 3-0 record for 2021. The T-Birds were challenged early, but were consistent with wins of 25-19, 25-17 and 25-18. Connetquot is tied for second place with Smithtown West and Bellport in Suffolk League II. Highlights for the West Islip win are as follows: Alexa Colondona, two aces, one block, 23 assists and two digs; Marissa Edwards, 5 kills, 2 aces, 2 blocks, 7 assists and 9 digs; Lauren Konzen, 3 kills, 1 ace, 1 assist and 12 digs; Lexi Raimondi, 2 kills and 1 dig; Karly Colletti, 6 kills, 1 assist and 15 digs; Joanna Forrest, 11 kills, 3 blocks and 7 digs; Cadence Brown, 5 kills and 4 blocks. The annual Dezy/Hertz day will be celebrated on Monday, Sept. 27.
Girls Swim/Dive: Connetquot hosted the swim/dive undefeated team from Hauppauge/Smithtown on Sept. 21 and ended the meet on the short end of a 108-74 score. T-Bird coach Alex Scichilone was impressed by his team’s effort and looks forward to constant improvement as the season progresses. The coach singled out Karina Fitzpatrick who qualified for the Suffolk County meet in the 100 free style with a best time of 1:00.17. Kylie Martinez took second in the 200 free and qualified for the county meet in the 200 free, as well as the 100 back stroke. Morgan Cassidy won the diving competition with a score of 261.08.
Girls Varsity Volleyball V. West Islip
Swim/Dive V. Hauppauge/Smithtown
Boys Soccer V. Commack
Varsity Football V. North Babylon
Connetquot V. North Babylon Kickline & Cheer
Weekly Sports Update - 6/18/21
LACROSSE: In the CHS boys’ lacrosse team’s June 11 championship game against Smithtown, Tyler McCarthy and James Engley each scored two goals for Connetquot, and Michael Monahan is credited with 14 saves. The T-Birds ended the season with a 9-4 loss, but an impressive overall record of 12-4. The CHS girls’ lacrosse team made it to the second round of the Suffolk County playoffs. They ended the season with a 9-5 loss to Northport HS and a season record of 11-5. TRACK: The CHS boys’ track team had 24 different athletes score points in the Division 2 meet. The team placed second overall and the following athletes were division champions: Micah Cooper (Pole Vault), Jermaine Thompson (100m, 200m, 4x100m), Adam Specht (Triple Jump), Joseph Scaduto (4x100m), Aidan Mallon (4x100m) and Mark Fuchs (4x100m). Jermaine Thompson is now ranked #1 in the 200 for NY State. He also broke the 100m and 200m School Records. Jermaine Thompson, Joseph Scaduto, Aidan Mallon and Mark Fuchs tied the school record for the 4x100m relay which is also now ranked #1 in Suffolk County. BASEBALL: The CHS boys’ baseball team celebrated Senior Night on June 8, recognizing each senior his dedication to the program. Seniors James Goff and Mike DiFilippo were also named as recipients of scholarships from the 33 & Me Foundation, which was established in memory of Jesse Torborg, an outstanding CHS baseball and football player who passed away in 2018 at the age of 35. Jesse, who wore the #33 for both football and baseball, was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies, and Arizona Diamondbacks of Major League Baseball. Goff and DiFilippo will each receive a check from the foundation for $3,033 to be used upon graduation for academic and/or athletic expenses. On the morning of June 13, the T-Birds outscored Walt Whitman 5-4, and in the afternoon of the same day they beat Northport HS by a score of 4-2. The team finished the regular season with an impressive 15-3 record. Connetquot is seeded #2 in Suffolk Conference II, earning a “bye” in the first round. Ryan Waring pitched 6 innings and earned the win over Whitman. Liam Doyle was credited with the “save.” Anthony Scarabino sent 2-3 with three RBIs, and Justin Wilkinson was 1-2 with a triple and RBI. Mike DiFillippo pitched 7 innings, with 8 strikeouts, to earn a win against Northport. James Goff went 2-2, including a triple, scoring two runs. Colin Biesel went 1-3 and picked up an RBI in that win. The team’s winning streak came to an end on June 16 with a 1-0 loss to Bay Shore. Nonetheless, this was an outstanding season in which the T-Birds overcame many obstacles and were named Suffolk Conference II Champions, finishing with a 15-3 record. SOFTBALL: The CHS softball team lost 7-6 to Smithtown East on June 11. However, the T-Birds finished the season with an impressive 10-7 record.
Weekly Sports Update - 6/11/21
BASEBALL: The CHS varsity baseball team recently welcomed the baseball teams from OBMS and RMS to play at the varsity field on Saturday, June 5 for the “Middle School Baseball Challenge.” At the end of the game, the teams lined up and acknowledged their future teammates. On June 8, the CHS varsity baseball team team earned an impressive 6-1 win against Copiague. The T-Birds got off to a quick start against Copiague, scoring two runs in the first inning. Connetquot earned the win by a score of 6-1, improving its overall record to 11-3 in Suffolk league II. Freshman Ryan Kiendle earned the win, while senior Liam Doyle pitched three innings for the save. Prior to the game, coach Rob Burger honored the following graduating Ryan Appell, Mike DiFilippo, Liam Doyle, James Goff, Sean Mileti and Nick Ricci. The JV baseball season came to an end with a 12-1 win over visiting Smithtown East High School and the team finished with an outstanding record of 14-2. BADMINTON: Congratulations to Gabrielle Rowe and Katelin Garrone on finishing 4th in the Suffolk County badminton doubles tournament. They are the first All-County players for the badminton program. LACROSSE: On June 4, the CHS varsity boys’ lacrosse team played at home against Ward Melville HS. Connetquot got off to a quick 4-0 lead in the first period, and Melville came back to narrow that deficit to 5-4, and then lightning appeared, causing the game to be called. On June 5, Ward Melville returned to play the second half of the game, down one goal. The visitors scored the first three goals of the second half to a 7-5 lead. Connetquot lacrosse coach Brett Jefferes pulled his team together for the fourth and final period in which they outscored Melville 4-2 to tie the score (9-9) late in the final period. In the final second of the game, Connetquot’s Brayden Stellwagen scored the winning goal, assisted by Tyler McCarthy for the lead, and the 10-9 win. Brian Zicchini scored four goals, James Engley and Stellwagen scored two apiece while Tyler Moore and Tyler McCarthy added one each. Shaun Hill went 18-22 on faceoffs. Connetquot improves to 11-3 in Suffolk Division I, and has been seeded #7 for the Suffolk County playoff tournament. The T-Birds begin their pursuit of the championship with a first round game on Tuesday, June 8th with an opponent to be determined. The Connetquot’s girls’ varsity lacrosse team won against Middle Country on June 9 by a score of 10-8, advancing them to the next round of the Suffolk County Championships. In truly competitive-level championship play, The T-Birds took the 6-3 lead into the half. The visitors would not be denied though, and came back in the second half to score 5 goals on their own. SOFTBALL: CHS girls’ varsity softball celebrated the following graduating seniors prior to their league game with Riverhead on June 7: Sydney Gabay, Julia Kurzrock, Julianna Levanti and Jordan Cole. Capping off the special day for the seniors, the team then earned an impressive come-from-behind win, outscoring the visitors by a score of 5-4. The T-Birds scored four runs in the bottom of the 7th inning to earn a 5-4 win, improving its record to 8-6. Kaylee Coburn hit a two-run homer in the 7th inning to take the lead and the win. Julianna Levanti had two hits and two RBIs. Isabella Andres pitched in relief and earned the win. On June 9, the team improved its record to 10-6 with an exciting 5-4 win over visiting Northport. Paige Dreyfus had two hits including a two-run homer for the latest league II win. Ariana Palminteri had two hits and two RBIs. Jordan Cole recorded the win, and Isabella Andres pitched the last three innings and earned the save. The Connetquot T-Birds have advanced to the first round of the Suffolk County championships, playing at Smithtown East, on Friday, June 11th. TENNIS: Connetquot freshman Greg Baldinucci won the Suffolk County Division II Singles Championship on June 7. “Greg won 5 matches in a three-day period without dropping a set,” according to coach Cavanagh. Baldinucci will be competing in the Suffolk County Championship tournament on June 10, with a chance to earn All New York State honors. Greg is the fourth player to win the singles title in the Connetquot school history, one of whom was his older brother Ciro who won in in 2016.
Congratulating College Athletes
The 36 Connetquot High School student-athletes who have committed to pursuing athletics at the collegiate level were recently recognized during a ceremony at the school. With parents and coaches in attendance, each student-athlete was honored individually for their accomplishments both in and out of sports. Peter Melore, district director of physical education, health, athletics and recreation, also reminded the students that they are an inspiration to the district’s younger students and have been a great source of pride for the coaches, the community and their families. Connetquot Central School District congratulates the following student-athletes: Division I Katherine Cuozzo - lacrosse, University of Massachusetts Morgan Elliott - soccer, Stony Brook University Kayla Hansen - cheerleading, Hofstra University Katie Hickey - volleyball, Stony Brook University Nicolette Pasquarella - soccer, Stony Brook University Anna Thornton - lacrosse, Arizona State University Division II Ryan Appell - baseball, St. Thomas Aquinas College Oliva Blas - track, Seton Hill University Kevin Campbell - track, St. Thomas Aquinas College Micah Cooper - track, Holy Family University Erin McLoughlin - lacrosse, University of Tampa Sean Mileti - baseball, Molloy College Sarah Moussa - gymnastics, Southern Connecticut State University Angelica Polcini, bowling, Roberts Wesleyan College Benjamin Taylor, lacrosse, Caldwell University Division III Matthew Brennan - baseball, SUNY Canton Jordan Cole – softball, SUNY Herkimer College Matthew Coleman - lacrosse, SUNY Geneseo Isabella Cottone - track, SUNY Geneseo Mike DiFilippo - baseball, St. Joseph’s College Liam Doyle - baseball, Russell Sage College Jenna Drapala - swimming, SUNY Geneseo James Engley - lacrosse, Farmingdale State College Christian Figalora - track, Marywood University Sydney Gabay - softball, Johnson & Wales University Tyler Goldofski - track, Alfred State University Brett Harvey - wrestling, SUNY Cortland William Immel - football, Utica College Amelia Laible - swimming, Utica College Michael Monahan - lacrosse, SUNY Maritime College Nicholas Rizzuto, lacrosse, Farmingdale State College Anna Stahurski, swimming, SUNY Cortland Grace Wichelns, lacrosse, SUNY New Paltz Kylie Wixted, volleyball, Springfield College Tyler Youmans, football, Endicott College Julia Kurzrock, softball, University of Toronto
Weekly Sports Update - 6/4/21
TRACK: Congratulations to graduating senior Micah Cooper, who set the new school record for the pole vault by vaulting 14’7”, breaking the record of 14’6” set by Thomas Domozych in 2019. Domozych was on hand to watch Cooper break the record and was the first one on the mats to congratulate his former teammate. Cooper is now ranked #1 in Suffolk County, #2 in Suffolk County and #4 in New York State and is undefeated in the pole vault in league III, making him league champion. His goal now is to become division II and Suffolk County champion by season’s end. According to coach Shelby White, “Micah has spread his talents around for the team over his career at Connetquot, scoring in events such as the 100m, 200m, 4x100, high jump as well as the pole vault.” He will attend Holy Family University in the Fall. BASKETBALL: On May 27, the CHS unified basketball team welcomed Brentwood as they celebrated the program’s graduating seniors. Prior to what turned out to be an exciting, competitive game, Connetquot’s seniors and their parents were recognized in front of a supportive crowd of family and friends. Congratulations, and to Tyler Verdi, Gavin Lane, Andy Gil, Stephen McGahan, Angelina Espinal, Billy Curtin, Gabrielle Ruivo and Callie Messina for your leadership and commitment to the Connetquot community. SOFTBALL: On June 2, Alexandria LaBarba’s seventh inning homerun capped a 6-run seventh inning, giving the T-Birds a 7-6 win over visiting Lindenhurst. Julianna Levanti went 2-4 scoring one run and an RBI. Emily Crain had two RBIs. Isabella Andres pitched a complete game and earned the win. Connetquot is now 7-5 going into the final weeks of the season.
TENNIS: The boys’ tennis team celebrated it’s annual ‘Senior Day’ on June 1 by honoring their graduating seniors and earning a 7-0 win against Lindenhurst. Senior Jacob Danziger won at third singles in Suffolk league II. The other graduating seniors, Kevin Wilk and Joseph O’Brien, secured a win in second singles. Connetquot is now 5-5 and looking forward to consideration for a playoff bid.
Weekly Sports Update - 5/28/21
BADMINTON: On May 24, Connetquot HS badminton coaches Amy Cohen and Jim Sewell honored and congratulated graduating seniors Gabby Rowe and Adrianna Empaynado, thanking them for their dedication to the team throughout their high school careers. TRACK: The CHS boys’ track and field team celebrated senior night with an outstanding meet performance, and a school record pole vault against Smithtown-East. The T-Birds took the win by a score of 102.5 – 35.5, and Connetquot graduating senior Micah Cooper broke the school pole vault record by reaching 14’7”. Cooper currently ranks #1 in Suffolk County, and #4 in New York State. Kevin Campbell won the shotput with a throw of 46’ 3.25”, while Jermaine Thompson won the 100- and 200- meter dashes and anchoring the 4x800m relay. Graduating senior Justin Tedeschi won both the 1600 and 3200m races, and Chen Lin won the 110 and 400m hurdles with times of 15.5 and 64.0 respectively. The T-Birds are now 3-0. BASEBALL: On May 25, the CHS varsity baseball team hosted Huntington in a Suffolk league II conference game. The T-Birds fell behind early, despite 7 base hits. The visitors took the win by a score of 10-1. Connetquot now stands 7-3 for the season. The T-Birds are in fourth place, one win behind league-leading Northport. SOFTBALL: On May 25, the CHS girls’ varsity softball team went into the top of the last inning with a 1-0 lead, but the visitors from Commack scored a run to tie the score and put the game into extra innings. Commack scored twice in second extra inning to take the lead, and the win, 3-1. Connetquot’s league II record is now 5-5.
College Recognition Ceremony for Athletes May 26th
Our first group of certified Lifeguards from our PE Lifeguard training course taught by Leslie Sewell!
Weekly Sports Update - 5/21/21
TENNIS: The CHS boys’ varsity tennis team hosted Islip High School on May 17 and took the win by a score of 4-3. This was the T-Birds’ first win at home. The team won all four singles matches in this Suffolk league III match. BASKETBALL: The Connetquot unified basketball team recently welcomed both the Middle Country and Comsewogue unified basketball teams to CHS. The T-Birds remain undefeated at 3-0 and family, friends and support staff were excited to watch the teams play. LACROSSE: The CHS girls’ varsity lacrosse team beat Longwood High School at home by a score of 16-2. The T-Birds took a 9-1 lead into the half-time break, and scored 7 more goals in the second period. Outstanding offensive performances were led by Gabriella Carere (3 goals), Morgan Elliott (3), Anna Thornton (3) Erin McLoughlin (2) and one goal each from Anabella Cenci, Brooke Elizalde, Dylann Grable, Isabella Montouri and Reagan Silhan. Hannorah Ragus had 3 saves and Ella Deliso had one more to keep Longwood from scoring. The T-Birds are now 4-1 in Suffolk league play. The satisfaction of playing to their potential against the visitors was enhanced by the fact that it was Senior Night, recognizing the achievements of the team’s graduating seniors. Congratulations to the following graduating student-athletes, and thank you for your dedication to the girls’ lacrosse program: Grace Wichelens, Morgan Elliott, Jerica Rivera, Erin McLoughlin, Katelynn Marx, Daniella Bendetto, Holly Schack, Gabriella Carere, Anna Thornton, Emily Morris, Katherine Cuozzo and Katelynn Engeldrum. SOFTBALL: The Connetquot varsity girls’ softball team improved its record to 4-3 with an exciting 12-10 win over visiting Half Hollow Hills-East. Julianna Levanti had three hits, two RBIs and two stolen bases to lead the T-Birds. Cailin Hall had three hits, scored three runs and stole two bases. Emily Crain added two hits, scored two runs and earned a critical RBI to take the win. Connetquot’s Jordan Cole started on the mound, and earned the win.
Weekly Sports Update - 5/17/21
TENNIS: Congratulations to CHS tennis player Katerina Papandon, who ranked sixth place heading into the tennis counties. BADMINTON: The CHS boys’ and girls’ badminton teams hosted a Commack High School. The T-Birds tried their best but were outscored, the girls 5-4, and they boys 9-0. Coach Cohen is pleased with the team’s effort and believes that they will improve as the season continues. LACROSSE: The CHS girls’ lacrosse team lost for the first time in 4 attempts, as they fell to William Floyd by a score of 5-4. TRACK: CHS 10th grader Jermaine Thompson enjoyed one of the finest individual performances of the year for the school’s track team. Thompson placed first in the 100 and 200 meter dashes, and anchored the winning 4x100m relay. Despite outstanding individual performances by members of the team, Connetquot finished second to Northport by a score of 71-70. Additional highlights by the T-Birds included junior Ryan Iocca winning the two-mile with a time of 10:11.9, beating his Northport opponent by a single second. Senior Micah Cooper won the pole vault with a new personal best of 13’6” and currently ranks #1 in Suffolk County. The T-Birds are now 1-2 in conference play.
The CHS girls’ varsity track and field team faced off against Copiague HS on May 7 and won by an outstanding 126-22. Senior Emily Medina’s 14.9 finish in the 100 meter hurdles is the second fastest time in Connetquot HS track history. Medina also finished first in the 100-meter, 200-meter and 100-meter hurdles. Senior Kinza Yasmeen finished first in the 1500-meter racewalk and Olivia Blas won the shotput and discus events. Connetquot runners also swept the 800 meter race. The team is now 2-0 in Suffolk League I conference play. BASEBALL: The CHS baseball team won their home opener on May 13 against visiting Lindenhurst by a score of 4-0. Senior Sean Mileti earned a complete game win, striking out 11. Nick Ricci and Ryan Kiendle each had one hit and two RBI’s for the T-Birds. Connetquot remains undefeated, boasting a 4-0 record. The opening pitch for the team’s first home game was tossed by Liam Flaherty. Seniors Sean Mileti and James Goff were recognized for their selection by Newsday as among the Top 100 baseball players in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Click here to view photos
Weekly Sports Update - 4/26/21
GYMNASTICS: On April 19, the Connetquot gymnastics team became Suffolk County champions! Individual Suffolk County competition results for Connetquot were as follows: Alex Melchiona - 3rd on vault, bars, beam and 2nd on floor and all-around; Sarah Moussa - 2nd on the bars and 4th on the beam; Noel Cutinella - 5th on the beam; 7th grader Avery Melchiona - 6th on the bars and 6th all-around; Arianna Platti – BEAM - Suffolk County Champion! On April 21, the team was well-represented on the Section XI (Suffolk County) team that beat the Section VIII (Nassau County) team on April 21 in the Long Island Gymnastic Championships! As a result of Connetquot’s Suffolk County Championship, coach Renee Guerrieri coached the Suffolk County team against the Nassau County representatives. Superintendent Dr. Lynda G. Adams and Board of Education trustee Jaclyn Napolitano-Furno joined district Director of Health, Physical Education, Athletics and Recreation Pete Melore in supporting Connetquot and the victorious Suffolk County gymnastics team. FIELD HOCKEY: On April 22, the CHS girls varsity field hockey team celebrating its graduating seniors. Congratulations and thank you to Nicolette DiSilvestre, Caroline Kennedy, Rebecca DiGianni, Isabela Ragano and Gianie Toussaint. ATHLETICS FOR ALL: On April 22, the Connetquot Athletics for All team enjoyed a game of floor hockey against teams from other local districts. VOLLEYBALL: Connetquot High School boys’ varsity volleyball coach Jessica Perry brought together the players, coaches and family members on Saturday, April 17, to recognize and thank the team’s graduating student-athletes. Congratulations and thank you to the following graduating seniors for their dedication to the Connetquot HS boys’ volleyball program: Jake Riegger, Jacob Danziger, Andrew Gil, Michael Monahan, Brandan Rogalle, Tomas Reilly and Michael DiFilippo. The CHS girls’ volleyball team ended the 2021 season as Suffolk County League II Champions, and finalists for the Suffolk County Championship! Connetquot had a busy five days, having defeated Sachem (3-0) on April 20, Commack (3-1) on April 22, and playing for the Suffolk County Championship on April 24 against eventual champion Smithtown-West (3-1). As a result of New York State’s decision to cancel the state championship tournament, Connetquot is still the reigning New York State Champion (2020). Congratulations to the Connetquot players, coaches, parents and administration for continuing the winning tradition of the girls’ varsity volleyball program!
FOOTBALL: The Connetquot HS varsity football season experienced a 28-0 loss to visiting North Babylon HS, ending the season with an overall record of 1-6. Head football coach Mike Hansen and his staff look forward to a strong next season.
Weekly Sports Update - 4/16/21
GOLF: The CHS boys’ varsity golf coach Gary Pesko and JV coach Ryan Olin met with their respective teams at the Holbrook Country Club on April 14 to prepare for upcoming matches. Each team worked on their putting skills as the coaches provided tips to improve the players’ scores, before heading off to the beautifully manicured course. Both coaches see tremendous potential in their players. ICE HOCKEY: On April 12, the Connetquot/Sayville High School boys’ ice hockey graduating seniors celebrated with coaches and family members at the Superior Ice Rink in Kings Park. Thank you and best of luck to the following graduating seniors: Tom Adamo, Nicholas DeLuca, Liam Doyle, John Bozinos, Vincent Marchese, Christian Marinelli, Steven Miller, Connor Tloczkowski, Michael Verdecanno and Hunter Wooley. SOCCER: On April 9, the CHS girls’ soccer coach Ryan Cavanagh, along with family and friends, celebrated the careers of the program’s graduating student-athletes at their home game against Half Hollow Hills-East. Prior to the game the students were called out to the field along with their parents and presented with red roses. Morgan Elliott and Laney Schmitz scored for the T-Birds while Elliot, and Emily Morris picked up an assist apiece. Goalie Nicolette Pasquerella was credited with 9 saves for the T-Birds. Thank you to the following graduating athletes for their dedication to the girls' soccer program: Danielle Aylward, Morgan Elliott, Gabriella Gordon, Emily Morris, Jacqueline Palumbo, Nicolette Pasquarella, Samantha Peralta, Michala Perez, Sevana Smith and Isabella Truglio. After the ceremony, the athletes played a spirited game against the visitors, which they won 2-1, maintaining their undefeated record (5-0-3). VOLLEYBALL: The DezyStrong Foundation recently presented the CHS girls’ varsity volleyball team with an award recognizing their fundraising efforts to fight cancer. The team received a surprise visit from veteran Connetquot varsity volleyball coach Justin Hertz who wanted to congratulate the athletes on this honor. After the pre-game festivities, the T-Birds went on to defeat visiting Smithtown-East 3-1. After losing the first match 25-18, the T-Birds came back to win the next three (25-13, 25-15, 25-13). The T-Birds also recently won three straight matches (25-9, 25-13, 25-17) against Lindenhurst, improving its record to 12-1. Holly Schack, Gabby Carere, Kylie Wixted, Katie Hickey and Joanna Forrest led the attack and Ryann Grable led the offense with 23 assists. Prior to the match coaching staff, parents and friends congratulated the following seniors for their dedication to the program and community: Roos Maring, Holly Schack, Katie Hickey, Emma Cochran, Ryann Grable, Karly Coletti, Gabby Carere and Kylie Wixted. FOOTBALL: On April 10, the Connetquot JV football team had its first loss of the season (3-1) against Half Hollow Hills East, but the T-Birds look forward to working hard for the balance of the season.
Weekly Sports Update - 3/26/21
GYMNASTICS: The girls’ varsity gymnastics team celebrated senior night on March 18 with an impressive 164.5-150 win over visiting North Babylon. T-Bird Alex Melchiona had the meet high score of 9.250 on the bars. Thank you to the following graduating seniors for their dedication to the program throughout high school: Abigail Wshousky, Noel Cutinella, Emma Galanti and Arianna Platti. FOOTBALL: The varsity football team traveled to Smithtown East on March 20 for its first away game of the season. Smithtown East outscored the T-Birds 27-19, taking an early lead. However, the T-Birds did outscore the home team 12-6 in the last quarter. Jake Harvey scored on a 59 yard interception return, Tommy Montalvo scored from the one-yard line and Jordan Heath scored from the 10-yard line on a pass from Matt Marra. Charles Blanthorn scored one PAT. Jovanni Montalvo carried the ball 24 times for 154 yards and a touchdown, Matty Marra picked up 35 yards rushing including a TD pass, Brett Harvey was credited with two interceptions, 8 tackles and 3 receptions for 43 yards, Tyler Youmans had 13 tackles, and one forced fumble, Kevin Gatien had 9 tackles and Steven Bubier had 5 tackles and a fumble recovery. GIRLS’ SOCCER: The girls’ soccer team welcomed Copiague to March 23 and the T-Birds outscored them 7-0, keeping up their undefeated record. Makayla Doscher, Ava Boldi, Brianna Ramos, Michala Perez and Gabby Gordon scored for Connetquot. Goalies Nicolette Pasquarella and Gabby Pinero shared the shutout win. Connetquot’s record now stands at 2-0-3 in Suffolk league III. Congratulations to Morgan Elliott, Nicolette Pasquarella and Laney Schmitz, who were recently named to the prestigious Newsday Top 100 Long Island High School Soccer Players. Senior Morgan Elliot scored five goals last season along with nine assists and has committed to attend Stony Brook University in the fall. Nicolette, one of the finest goalies on Long Island, is an experienced “stopper” and has trained with professional clubs in the United Kingdom. She is also a senior and will join Morgan at Stony Brook in the fall. Laney, who is a junior, scored four goals last year and added four assists. She will take on a larger scoring role this season and is considered another team leader. BOYS’ SOCCER: The junior varsity boys’ soccer team was outscored 2-1 by Smithtown-West on March 22 but maintains a 3-2 winning record overall. Coach Chris Walsh is very proud of his team’s aggressiveness and defense despite the outcome of this game. The boys’ varsity soccer was defeated by visiting Centereach High School by a score of 4-1 on March 24. Down 3-0 in the first half, the T-Birds played even with Centereach in the second period, for the final score. Aaron Chetti scored a goal for Connetquot and goalie Tyler Moore recorded 15 saves. The T-Birds’ record stands at 2-4 with coach John Zambriski confident of continued improvement. VOLLEYBALL: Congratulations to the five CHS student-athletes who were recently named to Newsday’s Top 25 Long Island High School Volleyball Teams: Gabriella Carere, Katie Hickey and Kylie Wixted, Ben Lillie and Brendan Rogalle. On March 22, the JV boys' volleyball team outscored Bayport-Bluepoint HS in straight sets.
TENNIS: The Connetquot girls’ varsity tennis team earned a 7-0 homecourt win on March 17 against Brentwood High School. The team record is now 4-1 in Suffolk league II, and they are highly optimistic as they look forward to the league playoffs. SWIMMING: On March 16, the Connetquot swim team earned a 89-86 victory over visiting Huntington/Walt Whitman. Kylie Martinez led the way by winning the 500 freestyle (5:30.66) while Jenna Drapala won the 100 backstroke (1:03.68). Connetquot’s Suffolk league II record stands at 1-0. FOOTBALL: The Connetquot varsity football team was outscored by visiting Northport High School 26-0 on March 13. This was the T-Birds’ first game of the season and Coach Hanson and his team look forward to improved results as the season progresses. FIELD HOCKEY: On March 10 the Connetquot girls’ varsity field hockey team hosted Smithtown-East HS on their home field. T-Birds were outscored 4-0, but head coach Jen Piscitelli was impressed with her players’ aggressiveness, especially in the second half. Connetquot’s defense held Smithtown to only one goal in the second period. Connetquot goalies excelled against the visitors with Nichole Nylan registering six saves and Hannah Pitka recording 4 more.
FENCING: Connetquot 11th graders Daniel Gabay and Brooke Brown have been competing for the Sayville-Connetquot HS Fencing team. The two athletes are veterans of this combined fencing program and have been competing in the league championships. Good luck T-Birds! BOYS’ BASKETBALL: The CHS boys’ basketball team recently suffered a 67-55 loss to visiting Bay Shore HS. However, they did cut their opponent’s lead several times. Top scorers for Connetquot were Sean Mileti with 15, Aidan Orgonas and Jake Riegger with 11 and Mike Catalano with 7. Connetquot head basketball coach Kyle Black introduced his seniors prior to tip-off and thanked each of them for their dedication to the program and their community. Congratulations to the following graduating seniors: Kyle Flaherty, Sean Mileti, Tim Schwenker, Frankie Sprague, Jake Riegger, Tyler Youmans and Aidan Orgonas. The JV team recently suffered a tough 71-22 loss to Northport. However, Connetquot scorers were led by Mike Catalano (9) and Aidan Orgonas (4). Mike Catalano and Jake Riegger each scored on a 3-point basket. GIRLS’ BASKETBALL: On Feb. 23, the Connetquot High School girls’ basketball team took on conference opponent Lindenhurst HS at home, and celebrated the contributions of its graduating seniors. Coaches Sarah Ecke and Sal Piscitelli recognized each of the following graduating seniors for their dedication to the basketball program over the years: Ryan Kirby, Katelynn Marx, Jaylan Munoz, Elaina Zaczynski, Sevana Smith and Mikayla Gibbons. Each of the student-athletes was presented with a colorful bouquet of flowers by the coaches. While the T-Birds lost, the girls played their hearts out, and left the court knowing they had played their best against a talented and experienced League II rival. While the final score may have been disappointing, the Lindenhurst game allowed the team to demonstrate the tremendous spirit and intensity they displayed all season long. Congratulations to the entire Connetquot girls’ basketball team for its dedication throughout the season. WRESTLING: The T-Birds defeated visiting Bay Shore HS by a score of 47-18 and improved to 3-0 in Suffolk League II play. Coach Bill Santoro thanked this year’s graduating seniors for their dedication to the program and community. The following seniors were presented with a colorful plaque by district director of physical education, athletics and recreation Pete Melore and Connetquot High School rincipal Michael Moran: Thomas Adamo, Vin Catania, Aaron Chetti, Scott Gifford, Brett Harvey, Matt Muscolo, Ryan Obert-Thorn, Nicholas Ricci and Bradley Zieman. Click here to view photos
Congratulations to the Connetquot girls' track on their 80-43 win over Lindenhurst on Jan 16. Senior Emily Medina led Connetquot with three victories, winning the 55-meter hurdles in 9.1 seconds, the 55m dash in 7.6 seconds and anchoring the winning 4x200 relay to lead the team in Suffolk League II.
BOWLING: The Connetquot High School bowling team fell to North Babylon 3-0 on January 14th. The match was competitive with graduating senior Angelica Polcini rolling a high game of 215. Connetquot School District Athletic Director Pete Melore was on hand to congratulate Angelica Polcini who rolled a perfect 300 game in the opener against William Floyd.
SWIMMING: On Jan. 12, The CHS Swim Team won a match by an impressive score of 94-84 against crosstown rival Hauppauge High School. Eddie Smith won the 200 (1:56.49) and 100 free style in an outstanding individual effort. Jon Stanzione won the 100 breaststroke for the T-Birds. Connetquot begins the season with a conference record of 1-0. Coach Alex Scichilone announced that the following T-Birds have qualified for the Suffolk County Championships later in the season: Kyle Gorman, Edie Smith, Jon Stanzione, Tristan Weingarten, James Llewellyn and Nick Spameni. Congratulations on the team win, and good luck to the county qualifiers.
On Jan. 7, Connetquot High School’s Athletics for All team participated in their first event of the school year — bowling at AMF Centereach Lanes alongside teams from five other school districts.
This week marked the official start of the CHS winter sports season for bowling, boys swimming and diving and boys and girls track and field. Peter Melore, District Director of Health, Physical Education, Athletics and Recreation, held an extensive coaches meeting before Winter Break to review the NYPHSAA and Section XI COVID task force safety protocols with his staff, and all teams were successful in following them. Here are some shots of our student-athletes back in action!
Enjoy these photos of CHS boys volleyball players participating in the optional off-season athletic training program prior to Winter Break.
Connetquot Central School District congratulates Connetquot High School students Michael DiFilippo and Katherine Hickey who recently received Suffolk Zone Physical Education awards from New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. The students earned these awards for their leadership abilities both in and out of their physical education classes, their academic and athletic achievements, and their outstanding character.
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