West Islip head coach Steve Mileti reached a major career milestone on Saturday, earning his 100th career victory as the Lions defeated Rocky Point, 14-7, in a hard-fought Suffolk County Division III matchup.
RB Jake Kramer powered the Lions’ offense with over 100 rushing yards and a touchdown on 20 carries, setting the tone with his physical play. Quarterback TJ Sonnenberg delivered in the clutch, completing 15 of 20 passes for 121 yards, including the dramatic game-winning 10-yard touchdown strike to Matt McDermott with just 26 seconds left. The late scoring drive capped a disciplined and determined effort by the Lions, who showed resilience on both sides of the ball.
Defensively, West Islip was fantastic, they limited Rocky Point’s offensive opportunities and came up with key stops in the second half to preserve the narrow lead. Playing stellar defense is their calling card. They have not allowed more than 17 points all season and have held three opponents to a single TD or less. The win improved West Islip’s record to 4-1 on the season, keeping them firmly in the playoff picture as they continue their push toward another postseason berth.
For Mileti, the victory marked another memorable chapter in his remarkable 17-year tenure at the helm of the program. Since taking over, he has built a tradition of consistency, discipline, and competitiveness — guiding the Lions to numerous playoff appearances and cultivating a strong football culture within the community. With this latest win, Mileti now boasts an impressive career record of 100-54, a testament to his leadership and dedication.
Players and coaches celebrated the milestone following the game, recognizing their coach’s longevity, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to excellence. For Mileti, the achievement reflects not only years of hard work but also the pride and unity that define West Islip football.