New Storm Brewing in Tornado Alley

It’s that time of year again for high school football and HF’s first home game was Saturday September 8th against Comsewogue. The Tornadoes were shut out by the Warriors 42-0. Halfback Reno Molina ran all over HF’s defense totaling 163 yards and 4 TDs, while Harborfields was unable to get anything going on offense. Coming off a strong finish of 6-3 last season, Harborfields entered the 2018-19 season ranked 13th in NYS Class III and 26th in Section 11, according to MaxPreps.

There were many unanswered questions coming into the season as many of the team’s star players from last year are gone. Last season, starting quarterback PJ Clementi threw for 14 TDs and over 1200 yards, while rushing for over 400. Running back Jimmy Bifulco ran for 450 yards and receiver Gavin Buda had 48 receptions, over 700 yards receiving, and 11 TDs. Seniors Anthony Christie, Drew Fresolo, and Ryan Topolovec combined for 10 sacks.

Those are some big shoes that players such as this year’s seniors Chris Mullings, Thomas Sangiovanni, and Esteban Roman must fill. Mullings had 20 catches for 200 yards and a TD last season, and Sangiovanni rushed 20 times totaling 205 yards and 3 touchdowns.

The defensive side of the ball will be led by Roman who had 2 interceptions and 40 tackles last year. Each of them showed promise last year and this weekend, and hopefully they can make adjustments this week to prove they are ready to lead this team to some wins.

Varsity sophomore running back Ian McGullam has faith in his squad: “Last year’s team is in the past. This year we have big plans for our success this season. We are going to bring it harder than ever. We are going to go for it all, even if that means sacrificing everything.”

Hopefully, the Tornadoes can move past a tough loss, as they look to defeat the Islip Buccaneers at home this Saturday at 1pm.