Back-to-Back Section XI Championships

The Smithtown High School East girls volleyball team has once again reached the top of Suffolk County, capturing its second consecutive Section XI AA championship after an exciting comeback victory over Half Hollow Hills West.

The Lady Bulls showed plenty of heart and determination in the championship matchup, overcoming a 2-1 deficit to win the final two sets and secure the title. With their season on the line, Smithtown East rallied together, refusing to let the opportunity slip away and bringing home another county championship.

The victory capped off a remarkable 2026 campaign for the Bulls, who also finished the season as undefeated League III champions. Their ability to deliver in the biggest moments was on full display, as the team battled through adversity and found a way to finish the job.

Head coach George Alamia praised the leadership of Skyla Sullivan and Brianna Cerullo, who stepped up when the team needed them most.

“Skyla Sullivan, Brianna Cerullo really stepped up,” Alamia said. “When your leaders are playing like that, let’s go!” For Sullivan, winning another championship was the payoff for all the hard work the team put in throughout the season. “It feels amazing. We’ve worked so hard for this and it really showed tonight,” Sullivan said.

Cerullo also pointed to the chemistry and support that helped make the Bulls successful, giving credit to the entire team, including the players cheering from the bench. “I just know my team wants more, we all support each other,” Cerullo said. “Our bench is crazy!”

That energy and togetherness helped Smithtown East complete another memorable season. Winning back-to-back Section XI AA championships is a tremendous accomplishment, and doing it after an undefeated run through League III makes the achievement even more impressive.

From the leadership on the court to the enthusiasm coming from the bench, the Lady Bulls once again showed what makes their program special. Their latest championship adds another memorable chapter to Smithtown East volleyball history.