Warriors edge Eagles in Homecoming bout

A warm, sunny Saturday provided the perfect milieu for Wantagh High School as it celebrated its annual Homecoming parade and game. The parade provided plenty of spectacle, and the afternoon was crowned with the additional spectacle of a Warriors’ 21-20 victory over the powerhouse Bethpage Golden Eagles.

The parade featured the theme of cities of the world. Each class chose an international center as the theme around which class members built their floats. Athens, Las Vegas, New York and Paris all vied for the title of best float. Top honors went to the class of 2021, whose members chose Las Vegas as their city, with a float that featured the sign from the iconic Sands casino and a roulette wheel, alongside other games of chance. Second place went to the class of 2020, with its representation of New York. Third and fourth places went to the sophomores, with their representation of Paris; and the freshmen, with their float representing Athens, respectively.

Other highlights included the Wantagh Pipe and Drum Corps, which stepped off immediately behind the American Legion color guard to lead the parade. The pipers were followed by the parade’s grand marshal — this year’s girls volleyball team, which brought home the team’s first state championship in 17 years. They were followed by the Homecoming court candidates; the school’s marching band, resplendent in uniforms of black, white and gold; and the corps of cheerleaders, drill team and color guard.

Halftime featured the crowning of seniors Michael Rodin and Olivia Tomeo as the school’s Homecoming king and queen. Matthew Drago and Kate Padgett were first runners up, with Jack Padula and Nicole Hooker claiming second runner-up honors.

After the coronation ceremonies, and band gave a spirited rendition of songs by Earth, Wind & Fire.

This year’s game was a seesaw battle with the Golden Eagles, as the two teams traded touchdowns until the Warriors’ Peter DelGais connected with Tom VonBargen for a 23-yard touchdown to tie it up. Michal Coney made good the extra point with 2:30 left to play, sealing the deal for the Warriors.