In Sachem, there’s a certain standard, particularly when it comes to tackling. The high schools in Suffolk’s northern and eastern regions have players who might be friendly off the field, but on it, their gridiron rivalry is intense, almost monumental, as they prepare for the 2025 season.
“For the lineman development program, I think they should really take their time, almost like slow cooking. They’re going to evolve from small athletes to much larger ones over a span of four years,” said Sachem North head coach David Caputo.
He pointed out that they’re monitored year-round, keeping tabs on their calorie intake. Plus, they have a game plan laid out for them from ninth grade.
Take senior lineman Valdeipierre, for instance—he was under 200 pounds in ninth grade and has since bulked up to a solid 268.
“They really build you up from being a little guy,” the 6-foot-1 athlete explained.
I’ll make it a hoggy
The rivalry has long been forged in the trenches, with roots that stretch back to the glory days of Giants and Jets lineman Jumbo Elliott in 1983. Recently, the school celebrated the graduation of four Division 1 offensive linemen, among them Syracuse’s Guard Joke Cruise, who is set to start big with Tennessee this weekend.
“You want to perform at the highest level,” said Sachem North junior center, James Chirichella, who stands at 6-3. He was reflecting on the school’s strong football heritage.
“Our coach really pushes us, and that’s part of what makes us who we are,” he added.
Vincent Giuliano, the offensive line coach, introduced the “pork roast mentality” to the team after hearing it from Giants Center Sean O’Hara. He found this metaphor fitting for the level of dedication required in the often grueling positions on the field.
“All these big guys are passionate about the game. They really enjoy it, and it pays off,” Giuliano shared.
“One of the best compliments is when an opposing coach comments on how physical you played,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Caputo is already looking forward to the next wave of talent. Four freshmen are already standing over six feet tall, ready to dive into the rigorous training.
“I’m excited about them,” he said, smiling.
4.0 stance
Just down the road, Sachem East has its own formidable lineup, anchored by Jack Martins, a left tackle bound for Princeton, making him the first Ivy League football player from this century.
“My mom wasn’t too keen on me playing tackle football,” joked the 6-foot-5, 285-pound senior.
As Martins vies for the Zellner award, recognizing Suffolk’s best offensive lineman, both starting quarterbacks at East know they are fortunate to have such a solid protector in front of them.
“I work hard to protect them; it feels great,” he said.
This sentiment hasn’t gone unnoticed by junior QB Ryan Pickersgill. His father, coach Ray Pickersgill, believes that Martins’ performance is enhancing the reputation of island football.
“In the past, there’s been a perception about Long Island football. But now, people are starting to appreciate the quality here, especially the linemen,” he affirmed.
Ray Pickersgill expressed confidence in Martins as a player and a leader, assuring that he’s doing right by the team.
“Jack is fantastic—a smart kid doing things the right way,” he praised. “He’s a great leader on the field.”
For Martins, though, training alongside tough competitors from Sachem North just sharpens his skills further.
“Being around them just makes you better,” he said.
