H-ton JV Football Enjoys Strong Season
Six premier players and a solid supporting cast helped propel the Huntington High School junior varsity football team to a 6-2 record this fall.
“This was the best JV football team that I have ever coached,” said head coach Timothy Madden, who was assisted by Jim Byrnes. “We had good players, but we had even better people. I believe the reason why we won six games was because of the great character of each individual on this team. They all have the characteristics that will bring them success.”
Huntington was led by sophomore standouts Kei Ron Byrams (QB/OLB), Lawrence Leake (RB/S), Nick Lanzisero (FB/MLB), Jake Salese (OL/LB), Brian Weigold (TE/DE) and Tim Flythe (OL/DE).
“Kei Ron performed extremely well this year,” Madden said. “He started out the year playing running back, but as the season progressed he took on the quarterback role and shined. He has good arm strength. I believe he can be a very good quarterback if he puts in the time necessary to be great.”
Leake displayed explosive running ability after returning to the field from an injury filled freshman campaign. “Lawrence was determined to play well,” Madden said. “He runs ‘angry’ and that is not a bad thing. He has the potential to takeover any game. I believe he will do extremely well as the varsity level.”
An old-school, throwback type of player, Lanzisero was another gem for the Blue Devils. “He has laser-like focus in his preparation and welcomes contact,” Madden said. “Nick was like an assistant coach on the field. He was the best captain I have ever coached.”
Salese and Lanzisero proved to be a formidable combination smack in the middle of Huntington’s defense. “Jake and Nick have similar traits,” Madden said. “They both play as fast as they can, all the time. Jake is one of the toughest players on the field. His motor is always running full speed and that is why he will be successful on the varsity level.”
Weigold quickly became invaluable on both sides of the ball. “Brian is by far the most improved player from last year,” Madden said. “He is a strong and reliable football player. We would teach a technique and he would do it! He is a coach’s dream. I am very proud to have coached him and I am sure he will be a great addition to the varsity.”
Flythe’s play on the offensive and defensive lines drew the attention of teammates and opponents alike. “Tim has unlimited potential to be a great football player,” Madden said. “He was one of the reasons why we ran the ball so well this year. He was also a force at defensive end.”
The 44-player team was captained by Lanzisero, Salese and Byrams. The Blue Devils defeated Islip (28-10), Hauppauge (49-12), Miller Place (46-35), Rocky Point (26-6), Eastport-South Manor (25-6) and Westhampton Beach (43-0). Huntington lost to Amityville (28-20) and Sayville (41-26).
Huntington’s roster had a good mix of veterans and newcomers to high school football. “They worked hard, paid attention to details and executed when the lights came on,” said Madden about the team. “Coach Byrnes and I are truly thankful to have coached these kids.”