Shoreham-Wading River senior Leyton Mangiamele broke his own record this weekend, soaring 22 feet, 8¾ inches to surpass the indoor school mark of 22-4 that he set just last season. With the victory, Mangiamele also defended his Suffolk County title in the long jump, a championship he has now claimed three consecutive years. The performance was made even more dramatic as he was seen limping after his jumps, raising concerns about his health while highlighting his toughness and determination. Despite the discomfort, he delivered the best jump of his career when it mattered most.
The Wildcats enjoyed a strong overall team showing at the county meet, highlighted by several standout performances across multiple events. Senior Logan Jung added to the celebration by capturing the county title in the high jump. Jung cleared 6 feet, 2 inches to secure first place and give Shoreham-Wading River another championship performance in the field events.
Sophomore Frank Valenti was the point leader of the day for the Wildcats and played a major role in the team’s success. Valenti finished third in the long jump with an impressive leap of 20 feet, 6½ inches, earning valuable team points. He also captured a county title of his own in the 55-meter high hurdles, crossing the finish line with a winning time of 8.00 seconds.
The combination of experienced seniors and emerging underclassmen showcased the depth and balance of the Shoreham-Wading River program. With record-breaking performances, multiple county champions, and strong finishes throughout the meet, the Wildcats demonstrated why they continue to be one of the top track and field programs in Suffolk County. The momentum from this weekend’s success sets the stage for an exciting remainder of the indoor season and beyond. The confidence gained from this meet should carry the team into postseason competition strongly.