The Huntington girls’ lacrosse team honored its six seniors following a recent game against Half Hollow Hills at Blue Devil Stadium, celebrating the careers and contributions of a group of talented teenagers.
Jordan Forte (Stony Brook University), Julia Steinberg (University of Miami), Charlotte Maggio (North Carolina State), Alexa Amorison (Molloy College), Lisa Martin (Sacred Heart University) and Julia Gorecki (SUNY Oswego) were recognized for their exceptional commitment to the Blue Devils over the years and their rugged play on the field.
Many of the teenagers have been playing together for years as they moved through the ranks of youth programs and onto school teams. They will soon be heading off in many different directions to attend college, but will always consider Huntington to be their home.
“Over the years wearing a Blue Devil jersey has meant so much to me,” Forte said. “It has truly been an honor to be part of the Huntington program throughout all these years and I will forever cherish all the amazing memories I have made. Being the captain of such an amazingly close and fun team this year is what is making it so hard to say goodbye. The bond this team has created is why our team has been so successful as we strive to have a couple more weeks of lacrosse. Although I will be putting on a new jersey next year, as I represent the Seawolves of Stony Brook, I will forever be a Blue Devil at heart.”
Huntington head coach Elizabeth Vogelsang spoke about each member of the group as the seniors and their teammates and family members listened. Assistant coaches Vincent Tannazzo and Carli Clementi stood nearby. Underclassmen presented each of the teenagers with a bouquet of flowers.
“Being a part of the Huntington lacrosse program has been an amazing experience,” Martin said. “Even though the uniforms have changed since I put my first one on at five years old, the pride I have while representing Huntington has only grown. Blue Devil lacrosse has been a major part of my life. I have made lifelong friends, played with amazing teammates and learned from great coaches. It really is a second family. The Huntington lacrosse program has pushed me to be a better player and I will always cherish being a part of Huntington Blue Devil lacrosse.”
Blue and white balloons were tied to the railings of bleachers. Individual posters filled with photos commemorating the career of each senior were on display.
“It’s a privilege to be able to wear a Huntington jersey and represent our town,” Amorison said. “Playing for Huntington is unforgettable and I’m thankful that I had the opportunity to play with my teammates and coaches.”
While one chapter is closing for the seniors another one is about to open. There were tears shed as the teenagers and their parents sensed the transition from high school to college is about to begin in earnest
Splashed in the afternoon’s sunlight, the teenagers took delight in the moment until it was time to finally head home. Parents said they are going to miss coming to games next year with more than one getting choked up while discussing it. Blue Devil lacrosse has been a big part of their lives, too.
Letting go won’t be easy for the six seniors who have been together for so long. They grew close to one another through trials and tribulations on and off the field.
The seniors are planning to pursue a wide range of college academic majors tailored to their personal interests as they go about preparing for various careers.
