Thursday, October 1, 2026
After a season that started with plenty of promise before ending in frustration, the Tigers enter the new campaign determined to prove they can finish what they start.
Hempstead went 3-6 last season after opening the year with three wins in its first four games before dropping its final five. While the late-season skid left a disappointing taste, head coach Matthew Ali believes the experience gained during that stretch, combined with a veteran core and a strong offseason, has positioned the Tigers to take a step forward. Now entering his fifth season as head coach, Ali has seen his players embrace the challenge.
“We bring back a really strong group,” Ali said. “They’ve worked hard in the offseason and want to compete with the top teams in the conference.”
The biggest emphasis throughout the program has been simple: finish.
“We talked a lot about finishing games and finishing the season strong,” Ali said. “The word ‘finish’ has been used a lot. Most of those losses came down to not playing well in the second half. Finishing practices now will lead to finishing games.”
Hempstead, seeded No. 6 in Conference I, returns a significant amount of offensive production, giving the Tigers confidence they can put points on the board. Leading the way is senior running back Lamarcus Parson, who rushed for 754 yards and 9 touchdowns last season. One of the unquestioned leaders of the team, Parson combines explosive playmaking ability with a strong work ethic that sets the tone for everyone around him.
Ali praised Parson not only for his production but also for the example he sets every day.
“He sets the standard,” Ali said. “He keeps his teammates accountable.”
Junior quarterback Seth Montgomery will be entering his third season as the starter. Montgomery burst onto the scene as a freshman by throwing four touchdown passes in his first varsity game and has steadily developed into one of the conference’s more experienced signal-callers. According to Ali, the biggest difference has been Montgomery’s growth as a leader.
With another year of experience, Montgomery will have several reliable weapons around him. Senior receiver Sylas Pratt, a transfer from Westbury, has impressed the coaching staff with his consistency and willingness to put in the work every day. Senior Zidan Lewis is expected to make an impact on both sides of the ball as a wide receiver, defensive end and linebacker after a productive offseason that included competing in both winter and spring track.
Sophomore Noah Smith provides additional versatility and playmaking ability at both wide receiver and running back.
The offensive line also returns a solid mix of experience and toughness. Senior left tackle Levon Mckithen has transformed himself during the offseason, getting into excellent shape while maintaining the physical style that makes him effective in the trenches. Ali also highlighted Mckithen’s quick feet as one of his biggest strengths.
Junior Zaire Dawkins returns at left guard after an injury during preseason camp limited him last season, while junior center Bryan Bonilla anchors the middle of the line. Bonilla has emerged as one of the team’s leaders, providing stability up front. Jaden Butler has also put together an impressive preseason camp and is expected to contribute in the trenches.
Defensively, Ali expect several returning and new faces to play key roles. Junior linebacker Amir Dawkins returns as one of the leaders of the defense, while junior defensive back Devotne Burton adds size and athleticism to the secondary after spending last season on JV. Hempstead also welcomes sophomore Josiah Diddem, a transfer from Georgia who is expected to start at both linebacker and fullback, giving it another physical presence on each side of the ball.
Ali believes the talent has always been present within the program. The challenge now is turning that potential into consistent execution throughout an entire season.
“Every team and every year is different,” Ali said. “There’s always going to be talent here.”
The Tigers’ first opportunity to put their hard work to the test when they host Uniondale.
To read more from the Herald's 2026 High School Football Preview, click here.
