Blue Devils Participate in Bellmore-Merrick Challenge

Bellmore-Merrick’s Challenge Day at Calhoun High School welcomed hundreds of students from about two dozen high schools for a spectacular program filled with energy, teamwork and fun. The Huntington High School Life Skills classes of Kelly Trites and Alyssa German were among those who enjoyed the day.

Each student was paired up with a partner from Calhoun High School. Students proudly participated in the Opening Ceremonies and then jumped right into events including longest throw, hockey, cup stacking, long jump and the 50-yard dash.

Throughout the day students showed enthusiasm and sportsmanship while cheering each other on in each event. After activities, the teenagers enjoyed pizza for lunch and a Kona Ice truck, which was perfect on the hot day.

Huntington physical education teachers Eric Mininni and Lauren Blackburn accompanied the Blue Devil contingent and coached the teenagers throughout the day.

During the closing ceremonies, Huntington’s own Jake Cordes and Aliz Raymundo took home medals for their outstanding efforts during the competitive event.

The Bellmore-Merrick Challenge is an annual field day of fun activities designed to make connections between students from across Long Island. The district has been hosting the competition for nearly two decades.

The Bellmore-Merrick Challenge provides an opportunity for special needs students to have fun, develop their strengths and socialize with students from nearby districts. Every participant was given a t-shirt commemorating the event, which they happily wore during the opening ceremony walking the track holding the Huntington banner. Students especially loved the DJ and danced from station-to-station throughout the day.