Sammy Mac Arner is a popular young man who loves being a member of the Huntington High School community. The sophomore has surrounded himself with close friends, caring teachers and a trusted mentor as he goes about pursuing his academic and co-curricular interests.
Mr. Arner is known for his engaging personality and fun-loving ways. He said he especially looks forward to working with teachers Michael Corcoran, Elizabeth Casazza and Maria Canino. The teenager plans on playing football and lacrosse and joining the Key Club.
“One of my favorite courses this year has to be Marine Ecology because I love the ocean,” Mr. Arner said.
The sophomore is an essential member of the high school community, playing an important role in many lives around the building.
The teenager’s closest friends include Michael Kline, Joseph Algieri, Anthony Annunziata and Agostino Abbatiello. “Mr. [Jason] Suarez, Ms. [Maria] Canino and Mr. [Keith] Meyers have been some of my greatest teachers,” Mr. Arner said.
Being a Blue Devil athlete is a distinction cherished by Mr. Arner, who loves suiting up with his teammates, many of whom are good friends.
“I want to play Division I lacrosse,” Mr. Arner said. “Some colleges I am interested in are Ohio State, Vermont, Salisbury and more. I would love to study business, but also marine ecology if I get the chance.”
The teenager considers himself fortunate to have a mentor who cares deeply about him. “Ron Wilson has really been good to me since I was a kid,” said Mr. Arner about the popular high school dean and coach. “He has set a great example for me and teaches me how do things right!”
Mr. Wilson feels equally passionate about Mr. Arner, whom he has taken under his protective and nurturing wing, helping to guide the teenager in and out of the classroom.
“I’ve had the greatest privilege in coaching this young man on and off the field,” Mr. Wilson said. “Sammy Mac is a mild-tempered young man who gives his all on the football field. He’s had to endure one of the toughest battles known to man; the earthly loss of a loved one. He continued to work hard both in the classroom and on the field despite the hard times he was going through personally. He’s an individual who would often ask about how you are doing rather than about his own feelings.”
The sophomore’s advice to incoming Huntington ninth graders? “Just try your best and don’t cause trouble,” Mr. Arner said.
As he goes about his daily school routine, the teenager is happy to be in the place he finds himself today.
“My experience in Huntington has only gotten better,” Mr. Arner said. “Through the years, the students, teachers and principals have made me the person who I am today!”