On Friday, Jan. 27, more than 500 friends and family members of the Farmingdale Hawks football organization gathered at the Melville Marriott to celebrate the 2005 season for the final time at the annual awards dinner.

Local dignitaries, including Farmingdale Village Mayor George Graf, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, Assemblyman Joseph Saladino, Senator Kemp Hannon, Town Clerk Steve Labriola and Legislator Dave Mejias, were on hand to view all players, ranging from ages 5-14, receive participation awards and deserving boys receive MVP, Coaches and Most Improved Awards as well as other specialty trophies.

In keeping with the tradition of the 44-year-old organization, three main awards highlighted the evening. Peter Mormino was this year's recipient of the Michael L. Petito Award, given each year to a graduating senior Hawk based on a formula including scholastic achievement, on-field performance and years of service to the Hawks.

Farmingdale High School varsity football coach Buddy Krumenacker was in attendance to present Joe Marve the Clinton Award. Marve thanked his coaches, teachers and family in accepting the trophy and scholarship, presented annually to a graduating FHS senior who, after competing in the Hawks, goes on to academic and athletic success at the high school level. Coach Krumenacker also announced the inception of a football camp, beginning in July of 2006 to be supervised by the Daler football staff and former players (many are ex-Hawks) for children entering grades 2-9.

Hawk president Tim Jones was presented the Man of the Year Award for his dedication to the youth of Farmingdale, even after his children have moved on from the Hawk organization. Jones, a New York City fireman and coach on the NYFD football team, thanked the organization and encouraged current and future Hawk players to love the game as he does and coaches to continue to act as positive role models.

It was a wonderful evening and representative of the commitment the Hawk organization continues to show the Farmingdale community. On Friday, Feb. 3, the Hawk cheerleaders gathered to celebrate their successful 2005 season.