As pro football training camps are in full swing throughout the country and interscholastic football programs prepare to open practice, Glen Cove High School (GCHS) hosted a free evening “Knights Under the Lights” football clinic for young aspiring players ranging from ages five through 12 on August 7.
Held for the third straight year under the lights of GCHS’s football field, the clinic brings Glen Cove football coaches and players together with North Shore High School football coaches to teach youngsters who participate in the Glen Cove City Junior Football League some basic skills. Six different stations were organized to teach approximately 85 youngsters on hand proper passing, receiving, blocking, and tackling techniques, with agility drills also conducted.
Glen Cove Varsity Head Coach Pete Kopecky, Assistant Coaches Tony Gallo and Steve Tripp, JV Head Coach Frank Curatolo, Finely Middle School Head Coach Steve Kocienda and volunteer Finley Assistant Coach John Nagle all volunteered on behalf of the Glen Coach School District, along with GCHS Big Red Varsity players and North Shore Head Coach Dan Agovino and members of his staff.
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GCHS’s Big Red varsity football is coming off their best season in 50 years in which they compiled an 8-2 record and an appearance in the Nassau County Football playoffs. Coach Kopecky and the team also won the Howie Vogts award as the most improved football team in Nassau County.
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“It’s a win-win situation for everyone. The coaches are happy to donate their time and our players really enjoy working with the younger kids,” said Glen Cove School District Director of Athletics, Physical Education and Health Denise Kiernan. “The players enjoy serving as mentors to the little guys and girls, as many of them played in the Junior League themselves. They hone their leadership skills and the kids learn a lot. It’s a great night for everyone involved and we are happy to host it with help from our neighbors at North Shore.”
Peanuts, PeeWee, Midget, and Pony players all enjoyed a warm evening of fun and informative instruction on the GCHS field as they prepared for the upcoming season. For more information on the Glen Cove City Junior Football League, please refer to the league website at www.eteamz.com/gcfootball/
The GCHS Big Red varsity football home schedule kicks off on Thursday, September 12 at 7pm vs. Hewlett.
