Former Suffolk Standouts Earn Academic Honors at Cortland

Success isn't measured only on the football field, and two former Suffolk County standouts proved that this spring.

Eleven members of the Cortland football team were named to the Empire 8 Conference President's List for the 2026 spring semester, recognizing their outstanding academic achievements. Among those honored were former Suffolk County stars Patrick Moloney and Shane Reilly, who continued to excel in the classroom while pursuing their collegiate football careers.

To earn a spot on the President's List, student-athletes must achieve a 3.75 grade point average or higher during the semester while also demonstrating positive conduct both on and off campus. The award highlights the dedication required to balance the demands of college athletics with academic excellence.

For Moloney and Reilly, the recognition is another accomplishment in careers that have already made an impact both on Long Island and now at the collegiate level.

The connection between Cortland and Suffolk County football is expected to grow even stronger this fall.

The Red Dragons will welcome another talented group of local standouts, led by former William Floyd High School star Ja'Quan Thomas, one of the most decorated players in the program's recent history. Thomas, an all-around standout for the Colonials, will continue his football career at Cortland after a remarkable high school career.

Joining him will be two familiar faces from William Floyd's offensive line, Jeru Hall and Joseph Melecio, who helped pave the way for Thomas' success during their time together with the Colonials.

The trio gives Cortland another strong infusion of Long Island talent, continuing the tradition of Suffolk County athletes making an impact with the Red Dragons.

While football season is still a few weeks away, the recent academic honors earned by Moloney and Reilly serve as a reminder that success at the collegiate level extends well beyond the scoreboard. With another talented group of Suffolk standouts set to arrive on campus this fall, the future looks bright for both Cortland football and the Long Island athletes who continue to represent their hometowns with pride.