Garden City Thunder Halaby 11's Kick Off Season

The Halaby 11's began this year's campaign under a hot, late summer afternoon sun at Stewart Field against the bigger and stronger Farmingdale Hawk team that had dominated its opponents last year in their unbeaten run to the championship. The Halaby 11's, how-ever, were determined to prove they were tougher than the rest. And prove it they did. Although the final score had Farmingdale ahead by 33 - 20, the Hawks came off the field knowing that they had faced their toughest challenge. The Thunder came off the field knowing that they had given everything they had and, although beaten, they were unbowed.

All of the boys played great and to the best of their ability. David Gage, Albert Soussis and Kyle Wein were head to head with much larger opponents but never flinched. Timmy Barbaro, playing in his first football game, displayed his hockey toughness. Richie Mattone showed why its called "Strong" safety by coming up and taking out running backs twice his size. Zach Stamoulis and Mike Cassano did double duty with outstanding play from both sides of the line. Jack Connors manned his Defensive End position like Davy Crockett at the Alamo. Matt Greene not only got his first action at QB but also played defense. The returning line-backer corps of Timmy Halaby, Danny Miller, Danny Dolan, Connor Riedel and Anthony Kritis were all over the field taking down ball carriers and defending passes. "General" Jack Reina anchored the offensive line and also played on defense. Brett Stewart played some D and also hooked up with Matt Greene for a 60 yard Touchdown pass and run. Danny Simmons chipped in with some nice runs and heads up defensive play. Scott Irwin held down the Tight End position with some nice blocking. Unfortunately, brother Brian was unable to play due to back spasms and Tommy Reina sat out due to an arm injury.

There were several electrifying bolts of lightning mixed in with the Thunder. Brett Stewart also pulled down a pass from Danny Dolan for a 30 yard gain. Timmy Halaby jitterbugged through the Farmingdale eleven for a score on a 70 yard kickoff return. And, to close out the scoring, Timmy Halaby threw an option pass to Danny Miller who got behind the Hawk secondary for a 70 yard touchdown. With time running out late in the fourth quarter, the Thunder was not about to concede. Timmy Halaby recovered a Farmingdale fumble at midfield. The offense took over and the game ended with the Thunder driving down the field.

The coaches, family and friends appreciated the 100% effort that the team gave from the opening kickoff to the final whistle. Their performance bodes well for the rest of the season. GO THUNDER!