Wildcats Take Home Some Hardware

The inaugural season of Shoreham-Wading River girls flag football was one for the record books, and now the Wildcats are being recognized for their remarkable accomplishments both on and off the field.

This past week, members of the Shoreham-Wading River girls flag football team were honored at the National Football Foundation’s annual awards brunch, a fitting tribute to a team that made history in its very first season.

The Wildcats quickly established themselves as one of the premier programs in New York State, capturing the Suffolk County Championship, the Long Island Championship and advancing all the way to the state finals. What began as a brand-new program turned into one of the most memorable seasons in recent Suffolk County sports history.

Several standout players were recognized for their excellence in athletics and academics.

Leading the way was Mia Mangano, who earned both All-County honors and League Two All-County Scholar-Athlete recognition. Her success in the classroom matched her contributions on the field, making her one of the most well-rounded student-athletes in the county.

Freshman Brenna Molinelli also received All-County honors after an impressive debut season that showcased her talent and bright future within the program.

Star quarterback Shealyn Varbero was likewise recognized with All-County honors following a sensational playoff run. Varbero played a major role in the Wildcats’ championship journey and emerged as one of the area's most exciting players throughout the postseason.

The Shoreham-Wading River flag football program celebrated the accomplishments of the players and the team as a whole in a social media post.

“From learning a brand-new sport to hoisting league, Suffolk County and Long Island championship hardware — and now bringing home NFF honors — these student-athletes have officially set the standard for SWR Flag Football,” the post read.

For a program in its first season, the Wildcats accomplished more than anyone could have imagined, and the future looks incredibly bright for Shoreham-Wading River flag football.