News by Tom Barton
News by Tom Barton on South Shore Press
Hernandez Sisters Make Girls Wrestling History
This past week, history was made for girls wrestling on Long Island at the 2025 St. Anthony’s Friar Bash Invitational. For the first time in the tournament’s history, three sisters entered the prestigious event—and all three left as champions.
104-Year-Old Vet Wows the Islanders Crowd
This past weekend at the Rangers–Islanders game, the hockey crowd received a remarkable surprise when 104-year-old Staff Sergeant Dominick Critelli took center stage to perform the national anthem.
Has JSN Already Won?
The NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year award has essentially become the honor for the best player in football who is not a quarterback. The MVP has been an almost exclusive quarterback award for years. Even historic seasons from Christian McCaffrey, Derrick Henry, Michael Thomas, and last year’s outstanding campaign by Ja’Marr Chase barely received serious MVP consideration. Instead, those players were recognized with Offensive Player of the Year honors.
Who's Closing in LA?
When fantasy managers are asked the question, “Who’s closing in LA?” the immediate response is usually simple. Edwin Díaz just signed a massive contract, and he will be the unquestioned endgame stopper for the Dodgers. But there is another Los Angeles team, and while they have not helped many fantasy rosters lately, they still need someone to handle the ninth inning. So the question becomes, “Who’s closing in LA—no, the other LA?” The answer is far from clear.
Savannah Pantry Leads William Floyd
There was never much doubt that William Floyd’s Savannah Pantry was going to turn heads this season. Already regarded as one of the top players in Suffolk County, Pantry has recently taken her game to another level, catching fire as the early portion of the season unfolds. Her dominant performances have helped lead the Colonials to an unbeaten start and have showcased just how complete her skill set has become.
Coach Gleason is Still Helping Others
Former Shoreham-Wading River coach Liam Gleason delivered one final act of selflessness and generosity that continues to change lives. The beloved Siena College men’s lacrosse coach, who passed away last month, helped save four people through organ donation. Gleason was a registered organ donor, and WNYT confirmed with the Center for Organ Donation that four individuals received life-saving transplants as a result of his decision.
Callahan Wins His 100th
The Rocky Point High School varsity wrestling program is known for its long-standing tradition of strong performances and individual excellence, and the team added another milestone to that legacy this past week.
Christmas Comes Early for Some Islander Fans
This holiday season, Christmas came early for some young fans as members of the New York Islanders paid a special visit to Stony Brook Hospital, bringing smiles, warmth, and holiday cheer to patients and families.
Hills West's Offense Leads to a Perfect Record
With this week’s convincing 87-60 win over East Hampton, the Half Hollow Hills West varsity basketball team has opened the season undefeated and firing on all cylinders.
The Phantoms Celebrate Their Championship Teams
At a recent Board of Education meeting, the Bayport-Blue Point School District honored two outstanding varsity teams for their remarkable accomplishments during the 2024–2025 school year.
Remein Earns a Trip to the NYS Championships
Patchogue-Medford High School freshman Jameson Remien has qualified for the New York State Swimming and Diving Championships, capping off an outstanding start to his high school career.
Student Leadership Conference is a Major Success
More than 40 Suffolk County high schools were represented at the latest Section XI Student Leadership Conference, an event designed to empower student-athletes through education, mentorship, and shared experiences. Organized by Center Moriches Athletic Director Jeremy Thode, the conference brought together students, educators, and leaders from across Long Island for a full day of learning and inspiration.
Longwood Cheer Champions Head to Nationals
The Longwood Varsity Cheerleaders are officially headed to the National Championships after an outstanding performance last week at UCA’s Keystone Regional Competition in Reading, Pennsylvania. Competing at a high level for the first time this season, the Lions rose to the challenge in impressive fashion, qualifying for nationals and capturing first place at the event.
Accompsett Cross County Team Runs to Another Award
The Nesaquake Middle School girls soccer team has been honored with the Smithtown Booster Club’s Fall Season Scholar Athlete Award, recognizing the team’s outstanding academic achievement and commitment both on and off the field. The team earned an impressive combined grade point average of 3.92, reflecting a season defined by hard work, discipline, and balance between athletics and academics.
Trump Announces the Patriot Games
President Trump has vowed to make America’s 250th anniversary an epic celebration, and he took another step toward that goal this week by leaning into the world of sports. President Donald Trump last week outlined festivities the White House is planning for 2026 to commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday, fulfilling his pledge to deliver what he has called “the most spectacular birthday party the world has ever seen.”
Legendary Coach Longo Steps Down
One of the greatest coaches in the history of Long Island football is stepping down. Paul Longo, the longtime head coach of the William Floyd Colonials varsity football team and the winningest public high school football coach in Suffolk County history, has announced his retirement. Longo leaves the school with a legacy that few can match, and his impact will be felt for generations of William Floyd students.
Torres is Steady in Rock City
In the 2026 fantasy baseball landscape, second base has become a near-barren wasteland for talent. Years ago—yes, I am dating myself—shortstop was the position where fantasy managers hoped to find a simple two-category contributor.
Rams are Still the Favorites Despite the Loss
This past Thursday night football game may have been the most important midweek matchup in a long time, and it could ultimately help determine not only the NFC West title, but also the NFC champion and the eventual Super Bowl winner.
Stony Brook Remains Unbeaten at Home
The Stony Brook men’s basketball team earned CAA Team of the Week honors this week after putting together an impressive stretch of performances at home. The Seawolves picked up victories over Columbia and Central Michigan, continuing their strong start to the season.
Smithtown Celebrates Night of Champions
The Smithtown Central School District Board of Education proudly recognized several championship teams this week during its Board of Education meeting, celebrating an outstanding year marked by dedication, perseverance, and athletic excellence. Each team was introduced by Director of Athletics Jason Lambert, who highlighted the remarkable accomplishments achieved throughout the season.
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