Blue Devil Football Players Honored
After a season that saw it win seven-of-ten games and reach the Section XI Division III semi-finals, three of the Huntington High School football team's most outstanding members were honored earlier this week at the Suffolk County Coaches Association's annual awards dinner at the Hyatt Regency Wind Watch in Hauppauge.
Blue Devil stars Ben Kocis, Levar Butts and Tyler Greenhill earned All-County recognition after turning in year filled with outstanding performances. As their respective name was announced to the overflow crowd, each player stood and a spotlight was focused upon them for dramatic effect. A video clip of their season highlights was then shown.
The hotel ballroom was jammed with elite players and their parents, athletic officials and media members and Suffolk's football coaches. "It was a great night for our athletes to receive such honors," Huntington assistant coach Ron Wilson said. "They were thrilled to see some of their highlights being displayed on a large screen for all to see."
Kocis, a junior who was the Blue Devils' field general, led the division in passing with a dazzling set of stats. The junior completed 96-of-166 passes for 1,715 yards and 16 touchdowns, throwing just three interceptions. He also rushed 35 times for 269 yards and five touchdowns.
Butts recorded 121 tackles, including 41 for a loss from his linebacker position. The junior was among the nominees for the Collotta Award, presented annually to the county's top linebacker. "Unfortunately he didn't win it, but he now has something to strive for next year," Huntington head coach Steve Muller said.
Greenhill, a senior who was Kocis' prime target, compiled 32 catches for 549 yards and six touchdowns. His sometimes acrobatic catches and fancy footwork electrified Blue Devil fans and inspired his teammates.
"It was truly an amazing year for these three young men," Wilson said. "Their talents combined with their efforts helped us rise from a 12th seed to finishing fourth in our division."
A plaque was presented to Muller in recognition of Huntington being a Suffolk Division III Big Four champion. The handsome award will be put on display at the school.