Long Island once again proved it wears the crown in the battle for New York football supremacy.
The Island stood tall and defeated New York City, 21-13, in the second annual National Football Foundation All-Star Football Classic, held at Hofstra University’s James M. Shuart Stadium in Nassau County. It marked the second straight victory for Long Island, which also won last year’s inaugural game, 33-15. The matchup renewed the rivalry between the two squads, which had not faced each other since 2019 before the event returned last year.
Long Island jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, taking a 14-3 advantage into halftime behind a dominant defensive effort. East Islip standout Jovan Bonilla was named the Boomer Esiason MVP in fitting fashion, as the former East Islip and NFL quarterback’s name was attached to the award. Bonilla was a stalwart on defense, recording eight tackles and helping lead a unit that allowed just one touchdown all evening.
Long Island extended its lead in the second half when Miller Place quarterback Shane Kiernan connected with William Floyd running back Ja’Quan Thomas for a touchdown. Later, Mount Sinai’s Dontae Spadaro put the game away with a huge kickoff return that helped seal the victory and send Long Island fans home celebrating.
William Floyd was well represented with four players selected to the roster. Joining Thomas were teammates Matthew Benjamin, Jeru Hall and Joseph Melecio.
For Thomas, the touchdown and victory provided a fitting ending to one of the most decorated high school careers in recent memory. He captured the Gregg Sarra Trophy as Long Island’s top offensive player and the Hansen Award as Suffolk County’s Most Outstanding Football Player. He also earned MVP honors in both Division I and Suffolk County and was a co-recipient of the Joe Cipp Jr. Award as Suffolk County’s top running back in back-to-back seasons.
Thomas was also selected as the New York Jets High School Offensive Player of the Year in 2024 and collected numerous All-Long Island and All-County honors throughout his standout career.
Once again, when the best of Long Island lined up against the best from New York City, the Island proved it still reigns supreme.