In dramatic fashion, Sachem North threw an unforgettable homecoming weekend this year. The Flaming Arrows beat Pat-Med, 17-14, off the leg of sophomore Will Szewczuk, who drilled a 35-yard field goal in overtime.

“It’s unreal,” said Szewczuk, who missed two field goals during regulation and overcame in-game adversity to be the hero. “To hit something like that is great and I’m glad to have helped the team.”

Students had been celebrating all week leading up to the game with spirit festivities. From a pep rally on the field to a homecoming dance, a first-ever carnival on Saturday afternoon and a club parade around the track, every event was well received and attended by large numbers of students, staff and alumni.

Homecoming royalty were honored during the dance on Friday night. Among those honored were seniors Nick Gambino (King), Meaghan Lombardo (Queen) and Austin Ziegler (Jester); juniors Matt McCord (Prince), Ally LaSala (Princess) and Kelly Curran (Jester); sophomores Vinnie Giordano (Dutch) and Meagan O’Halleran (Duchess); and freshmen Trey Morstaht (Count), Sarah Contrast (Countess) and Zachariah Miller (Jester).

On the gridiron, Gambino, a senior quarterback, was 17-for-34, throwing for 218 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He connected with Josh Walker on a 52-yard touchdown pass. Sam Walker also rushed for 11 carries, 17 yards and one touchdown. Ryan Kinsley had six catches for 71 yards. Justin Wank had 17 carries for 52 yards. 

With his passing performance, Gambino reached the 1,000-yard passing mark for his career.

The win is also the first career victory for Sachem head coach and alum Dave Caputo.