The Farmingdale boys soccer team received a hero's welcome, complete with a fire truck parade and cheering fans, following their historic 2-1 victory over Lindenhurst to capture their first Long Island championship.
Longtime head coach Brian Weber described the scene outside the high school as "amazing," with parents, the superintendent, and a large crowd gathering for the late-night celebration. "I just stood back and tried to take it all in," Weber said.
This season has also been marked by emotional resilience for the team, particularly junior striker Adam Vitulano. His father, John, passed away from liver cancer during the playoffs. Vitulano scored the golden, double-overtime goal that propelled Farmingdale to the Nassau finals the day after his father's death. "The bond that they formed certainly later in the season, and certainly up to now, is unbreakable," Weber commented on the team's support for Vitulano. "They really love each other."
The Dalers are now set to face Westchester's Mamaroneck in the state championship regional final on Saturday at Byram Hills High School in Armonk.
In other local soccer news, the Reedy sisters, Madison and Tyler, are leading the Carle Place girls team toward a state championship run after their own Long Island title victory. Senior midfielder Madison and sophomore defender Tyler share a notable on-field connection, with Madison noting, "We automatically change, and I take her position, she’ll take my position."
Carle Place is preparing for a regional qualifier against Pleasantville on Sunday at Farmingdale State College. "Just knowing that we may not have another day is motivating us," said Madison, who is committed to play lacrosse at Northwestern next year. Tyler added, "The sister bond on the field, it’s different," with Madison emphasizing the trust she has in her younger sister's play. The team is aiming to make a significant impact in the state tournament, with Madison stating, "I think we can shock the world."
