SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Deer Park High School’s girls track and field team kept its league dominance going this spring, winning its third consecutive league title and remaining undefeated in league competition for the last three years.
Deer Park Girls Track Wins 3rd Straight League Title
The championship marked the Lady Falcons’ fourth league title in the past seven years. Deer Park capped the regular season with a win over Half Hollow Hills East — the last team to beat Deer Park, back in 2023.
The Lady Falcons overcame injuries and other adversity during the season, leaning on depth across multiple events.
Captain Vanessa Cayea scored in each meet in the 100-meter hurdles, high jump and long jump. Captain Chelsea Cornelia won the 800-, 1,500- and 3,000-meter races at nearly every event. Nadia Elsergany remained undefeated in the shot put, with support from captain Sophia Paduano, while captain Kayla Beaumont remained undefeated in the triple jump.
Cassidy Kelly and Madison Soltau formed what the district called the league’s top 1-2 punch in the 100- and 200-meter races, with one of the two winning every race. Malak Oztimurlenk added depth in the triple jump and 400-meter race, while Melissa Meraz-Akarsu contributed in the 800.
Captain Bailey Corcoran had her best season in the 100- and 400-meter hurdles, Ama Asare showed her dominance in the 400 meters, and sophomore Sophia Fasano emerged as one of the county’s top pole vaulters.
“It’s a testament to this program,” coach James Petti said. “Each year, we need to fill some gaps left as we graduate seniors. Each year, we find amazing new talent that helps us rebuild. This is the most complete team I’ve ever coached. We score well in all events and have the depth to put away many teams.”
The Lady Falcons now turn their attention to the county championship on May 28, where they will try to win the program’s first county title.
“This league isn’t easy, but these girls showed up every day ready to work and they bought in, which was half the battle,” Petti said. “I’m very proud of how they came together each contest and encouraged each other. We started in early March and haven’t stopped working since. I’m excited for the future of this team, but I’m taking it all in right now as we prepare for the county championship.”
East Islip Seniors Sign For College Athletics
East Islip High School recognized 18 senior student-athletes during a May 19 signing day ceremony hosted by Athletic Director Stephen Restivo in the school’s forum.
The seniors recognized for signing to play Division III college athletics this fall were
“Congratulations to each and every one of you — parents, coaches and our student athletes — for doing such a great job, culminating in going to play in college, which not many kids get to do,” Restivo said.
John Glenn Athletes Continue Careers In College
Elwood-John H. Glenn High School also celebrated college-bound athletes, with 14 seniors signing national letters of intent to continue their academic and athletic careers.
Athletic Director Dave Shanahan hosted the May 20 ceremony in the school’s gymnasium, honoring athletes and their families.
The honorees were
“Congratulations to all of our student athletes,” Principal Irene McLaughlin said. “The work that you are about to embark on at a collegiate level will be a big step from high school sports and academics, but you are well prepared for it. We can’t wait to hear about your successes.”
Smithtown East Track Honors Fallen Heroes
Smithtown High School East track athletes continued a Memorial Day weekend tradition by visiting Long Island National Cemetery on May 23 to place flags on the graves of fallen service members.
For the past five years, the Smithtown High School East track teams have spent the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend at the cemetery. The teams join members of the Long Island HOG, or Harley Owners Group, Association, led by Coach Anastasia Bayne’s father, George Krivosta.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to be a part of such an important event to remember and honor those that served our country,” Bayne said.
The event served as a reminder of the courage, sacrifice and dedication of those who gave their lives.
“It was an honor to read all the names of the soldiers,” Smithtown High School East freshman Michaleyanna Thompson said. “It was a memorable day. Be the reason people still believe good people exist.”
Don’t See Your Team Highlighted?
Patch is gathering weekly sports highlights and results from districts across Suffolk County. Coaches, athletic directors, and school communications staff are encouraged to share scores, highlights, and postseason updates for inclusion in upcoming weekend wrap-ups.
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