Thursday, October 1, 2026
Amityville’s girls flag football team is finding its stride at the right time.
After a challenging start to the season, the Tide has surged back into contention with a four-game winning streak, improving its overall record to 5-6, including an even 5-5 mark in league play.
Under the guidance of head coach Bill Maisel, the team is beginning to show the growth and cohesion that comes with perseverance, youth development, and strong leadership.
“We had a rough start, really tough schedule at the beginning of the year,” Maisel said. “We have a lot of young players, including a freshman quarterback who is learning the game.”
That early adversity now appears to be paying dividends. Amityville’s recent run has been fueled by balanced performances on both sides of the ball, highlighted by decisive victories including an 18-12 win over Eastport-South Manor on April 21, a 30-7 triumph against East Hampton on April 27, a 31-12 victory over Riverhead Charter Schools on April 28, and a commanding 25-6 win against Smithtown Christian School on April 30.
At the center of the team’s leadership is a strong senior class. Captain Beverley Polemon, a standout running back and defensive lineman, has been a force on both sides of the ball and is set to continue her career at LIU. Alongside her, fellow senior captains Jaelle Aiken, who plays wide receiver and safety, and Anayah Hampton, who’s the center and defensive lineman, provide experience, stability, and intensity, helping guide a roster that blends veterans with emerging young talent. She’s headed to Five Towns College.
Junior captain Grace Luis has also played a key role, contributing as both a wide receiver and defensive lineman while setting the tone for underclassmen. Meanwhile, freshman quarterback Amaya Hendricks has steadily grown into her role, gaining confidence and composure with each game. Her development has been a key factor in the team’s midseason turnaround.
The Tide has also benefited from contributions beyond their core leadership group. Senior newcomer Mya Wilson has made an immediate impact at wide receiver and defensive back, adding depth and playmaking ability. Another senior, Pauvy Morales, now in her second year on varsity, has stepped up “in a big way,” according to Maisel, delivering key performances during the team’s winning streak.
With momentum on its side, Amityville is now focused on finishing the season strong. The team’s goals are clear and within reach.
For a team that weathered early struggles and leaned on a mix of youth and leadership, the recent turnaround is a testament to resilience and growth. As the regular season winds down, the Tide is no longer just developing, its competing, and doing so with confidence.
Playing your best at the end of the season right before the playoffs is the best time to get hot. Amityville may have figured things out at the perfect time which has the Tide in position to do something the program has never achieved before.
“We want to win out and finish the season with a winning record for the first time in program history,” Maisel said. “If we do our part, there’s also a chance we can make the playoffs. Most importantly, though, we have to take care of our business.”
