Long Island Chiefs Aim for History
On a Friday night under the bright lights, Long Island’s Massapequa football team stands poised to potentially create its own dynasty. The undefeated squad is on the verge of making high school history by winning a third consecutive Nassau County title—something never achieved at the Conference I level.
“We all grew up together,” shared Anthony Dinero, a senior linebacker and tight end. He reflected on his days playing youth football for the Massapequa Mustangs, asserting, “We’ve really worked for this moment all our lives to get as many wins as possible.”
Interestingly, the Chiefs’ list of recent victories is notably longer than the queue at the local burger spot, All American. They remain undefeated at 10-0, only falling short in their opening week of the previous season against Oceanside, in a close match that ended 42-39.
This Friday, the Chiefs will face the Sailors again at Hofstra University, a rematch they narrowly secured last month with a score of 36-33, thanks to Dinero’s crucial touchdown.
Balancing Act
Both teams recognize that the upcoming Nassau County title game will be a fresh start. The past doesn’t define them, and Massapequa will need to navigate challenges with a determined, blue-collar spirit to achieve their three-peat.
Oceanside head coach Robert Blount noted the resilience of his 7-2 team. “We don’t have any true superstars, and we do things as a group. Our players are really selfless,” he commented, recalling how this mindset helped them bounce back during the season.
“That moment made us say, ‘Hey, let’s figure out who we are.’ I’m proud of how the team responded, which kept us moving forward.”
Chiefs head coach Kevin Shippos understands the buzz surrounding this game and knows his players can handle the pressure. “I always say, I’ll play anytime, anywhere, with anyone,” he stated after practice in the chilly environment of Massapequa, known as Burns Park.
Shippos sees the strong bond among his players, having played alongside some of them during his Mustang days. “They come into high school tight-knit and family-oriented. It just carries over into the next four years,” he explained.
The Brotherhood
Nurturing their camaraderie, the team gathers weekly for pregame pasta parties, shares prayers to process their emotions, enjoys NFL Sundays, and has special meals at Chick-fil-A on Mondays.
“We stick together and weed out the little cliques on the team,” said senior safety/wide receiver Cole Villalta, illustrating their closeness.
Tristan Taurasi, a senior offensive and defensive lineman, also shared a special moment: his younger brother, Giovanni, a junior outside linebacker and tight end, made a memorable varsity debut with a pick-six against Freeport. “I always told him that his name would be called, and he should strive for that starting spot,” he recalled.
“It’s pretty special for me to play together in our last year, and especially being on this run,” Tristan added. Giovanni felt embraced by his teammates. “I have my own brothers on this team, and now they’re all my brothers,” he said. “That bond is a big part of our success this year.”
As a fourth-year varsity player, Tristan is eager to finish his high school career on a high note, aiming to add more accolades for a community that deeply cherishes the Chiefs. “Everyone who lives in this town bleeds blue and gold,” he remarked, adding, “But honestly, we don’t need reminders. The inspiration comes from within us.”
