Jaden AlfanoStJohn Wins Hansen Award

Westhampton Beach football standout Jaden AlfanoStJohn was named the 60th recipient of the Carl A. Hansen Award, presented to Suffolk’s best player, at the Suffolk County Football Coaches Association banquet at the Hyatt Regency December 2 in Hauppauge.

The running back rushed for 1570 yards on 224 carries, had 25 touchdowns, and set a school record with eight interceptions his senior season, and finished his three-year varsity career 30-3, which included winning two undefeated league titles, seven playoff games, and a Long Island Division III title. He was also part of a 22-game win streak, and finished his career with 2701 yards on 357 carries and 42 touchdowns.

It was the third straight year that a Westhampton player took home the Hansen Award. Halfback Dylan Laube won it in 2017 and middle linebacker Liam McIntyre in 2018.

AlfanoStJohn and his twin brother Jesse were also presented the 12th Man Award, presented to players who have the courage to overcome adversity. These two turned tragedy into triumph with highlight performances each week following the loss of their mother, Rose, a week before the season started.

Zone Awards

Bridgehampton High School seniors Olivia Cassone and Max Tiska were each named Suffolk Zone Physical Education Leadership Award winners by the New York State Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance December 3. This award is presented annually to the top female and male senior physical education leaders in each Suffolk County high school, chosen for their outstanding character, leadership skills in schoolwide and physical education activities, positive attitude toward instructional activities, scholastic achievements, and for being role models for their peers.

“These students were chosen by the physical education staff not only because of their performance and leadership in class, but also because of their academic accomplishments and their contributions to their community,” Principal Mike Miller said.

Hampton Bays High School seniors Lucas Brown and Rebecca Heaney were also chosen.

During her tenure in Hampton Bays, Heaney has played soccer, basketball, and softball. She plans to attend SUNY Cortland in the fall to study physical education. Brown has played football and basketball. He plans to study physical education at Suffolk County Community College in the fall.

Southampton High School seniors Phillips Ferraiuolo and Caraline Oakley, and Westhampton Beach High School seniors Isabelle Smith and Jack Naglieri were also honored with zone awards.

Make-A-Wish

Several fall sports teams at Riverhead High School helped make a dream come true for a 12-year-old diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia by raising nearly $4000 through a Make-A-Wish raffle.

The money raised by the Riverhead cheer, field hockey, and tennis booster clubs was donated to the Riverhead resident, allowing him to fulfill his dream of going on a shopping spree at Best Buy to purchase new electronics and gadgets.

Southampton Soccer Standouts

Southampton’s girls varsity soccer players Ellie Avallone, Carli Cameron, and Taylor Zukosky were also recognized at the Suffolk County Division II awards dinner on November 26 at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook. Avallone and Zukosky received All-Division awards, while Cameron was honored with an All-County nod.

desiree@indyeastend.com