Seawolves Host Football Clinic in Massapequa

Stony Brook University football coaches and players hosted a free clinic and scrimmage on Saturday afternoon at John J. Burns Park in Massapequa, marking the first year the town and university ran this program for youth athletes.

“We certainly want to give back and love the support we get here locally. It is a great opportunity to help the young men of the future,” said Stony Brook head coach Chuck Priore, who is entering his sixth season with the team. 

The campers, which totaled upwards of 300 total sign-ups for the day, first participated in a two-hour clinic, rotating between different stations to practice different skills and drills. The Seawolves players then ran through a two-hour scrimmage for the fans in attendance.

A number of local coaches were on hand to give a helping hand, including newly appointed Massapequa head coach Kevin Shippos.

“It is a great turnout here, not only for our town, but for football in general. It is a growing sport for young kids and it is for a great cause,” Shippos said. “The players from Stony Brook are serving as role models. The kids can savor this opportunity and use it as an example to see how the guys got to where they are.”

Players stuck around afterwards for a photo session and autographs, along with an opportunity for attendees to purchase an array of Seawolves merchandise, tickets and seasonal posters.

“Sports is a microcosm of life, so there is a ton of things they can learn, such as organizational skills, teamwork, work ethic as well as how important it is to academically do well in school if you want to continue to be an athlete,” Priore said.

Athletic director Jim Fiore called the event "a total success."

"We're always looking to reach out to new fans to get them excited about all programs, not just football," he said.