This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

SACHEM NORTH FOOTBALL

My son Michael is a special education student at Sachem North.  He has been a part of the football program at Sachem since 7th grade.  He has had many memorable experiences but none greater than what happened in Friday nights game vs. Lindenhurst.  There was about 2 minutes left and we were winning 31-6. Coach Falco put Michael in on defense and on the first play Michael recovered a fumble.  He kept him in for the next play and Mike Licata threw him the ball and Michael caught it!!  4 years playing high school football and he had his first ever career catch and fumble recovery!!  As exciting as that was for my husband and I words can never express how overwhelmed we were by the reactions of those around us.  The parents and students in the stands cheered, cried and hugged us. We could hear the players on the field chant his name as his friend and teammate Bryan Gresalfi lifted him in the air.  The coaches were going crazy giving him high fives and jumping up cheering.  He was presented with the game ball by Coach Falco. Since Friday we have received calls, emails, texts and Facebook posts from all who were there to witness it as well as those who heard about it congratulating us.  The way this school has embraced my son is incredible.  We are so lucky to be a part of this program and part of this Sachem community!! Each time Michael steps on the field he is surrounded by coaches and teammates that show the true meaning  of sportsmanship.  Every week my husband and I are moved by the way the fans in the stands cheer for him.  I know Sachem Football is known for winning and a tradition of excellence but it is so much more than that.  Getting in the car to come home after Friday's game Michael said the happiest person on the field was Coach Falco.  As I said, this program, this school , this community is special and we are lucky to be a part of it.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?