The varsity boys and girls soccer teams were both victorious at the state level, for the first time in Suffolk County history.
Athletic Director Patrick Friel attributed the success of the teams to their relationships with one another.
“The culture that they both have formed, they’re both families…” said Friel.
Friel praised the coaches for instilling the philosophy of, “If they have a common goal, they can achieve anything.”
The team’s friendships as teammates and their hard-work led them to winning it all.
“The kids just decided that they were going to refuse to lose and when the going got tough they worked harder,” said boys varsity coach David Moran.
This feat has not happened for the boys since 2014. Coach Moran believes that the success will continue next year, rather than having a long period of time without success.
“By outworking people, by being gritty and by sticking together will rub off on the younger generations.” said Moran.
Coach Moran has the unique accomplishment of having won the state championship three times for Commack. Moran won as a player in 1995, an assistant coach in 2014, and now as a head coach in 2025.
Girls varsity coach Joseph Brandofino is also a Commack alum, Class of 2012, who is the first coach to guide the team to a state championship victory.
“To help guide this amazing program to its first-ever state championship is a true honor,” said Brandofino.
He also touched upon their process making it to Cortland.
“Our goal of becoming state champions never changes, but the path to get there always does. Past captains, players, and experiences helped build the foundation, but this year’s group pushed us over the top,” said Brandofino.
Commack has a strong foundation in soccer with the Commack Soccer League where many of the players were able to start at a young age.
“I’m proud of the team, excited for the community, and confident that this achievement has raised expectations for years to come,” said Brandofino.
The community’s impact was felt for both of these teams success.
“It is not just a school championship, but it’s a community championship,” said Friel.
