On April 5, the Manhasset boys lacrosse team defeated Friend Academy by a score of 16-8. This appears to be just one more victory, but, in fact, this is a milestone accomplishment. This win was Coach Alan Lowe's 500th victory of his illustrious career at Manhasset High School. Since 1975, his team sports a record of 500 wins and only 107 losses, a truly remarkable feat. In 2004, Manhasset High School, a Class C School in terms of population, was the No. 1 ranked team in the United States.

In looking at the box score of the Friends' game, I noticed the usual pattern. Our boys jump out to an early lead and then Coach Lowe gives everyone a chance to play. He never "rolls up the score" to embarrass his opponent!

In addition, I have the privilege of sharing an office with Coach Lowe. You should see the dozens of plaques that show the individual and team awards the boys lacrosse program has achieved. I have listened to Coach Lowe talk to countless college coaches for hundreds of his student athletes and use lacrosse as an important factor for some players getting into the most prestigious colleges in the nation. His personal recommendation is held in such high regard at places like Princeton and Johns Hopkins that his word can be the difference between acceptance and rejection.

Coach Lowe would be the first to tell you that the success of the program is directly related to the quality of all the people who make contributions to the program. Bob Rule, his assistant, and Bill Cherry, the JV Coach, who does a tremendous job getting the players ready for the varsity as the Junior Varsity Coach. Add to this the entire middle school staff that begin the process of producing top quality players.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the wonderful contributions made by parents and other adults who have spent countless and often thankless hours in helping to guide the youth programs in the Manhasset community. The Millers, the Baughers, the Fields and the Levine families are just a few of the names that come to mind. Plus, I don't want to forget the wonderful job the Manhasset Athletic Booster Club does for all the sport programs in Manhasset and to all the parents who work with kids to help them develop athletic skills in whatever sport they choose.

My 37 years in this district have indeed been a pleasure and a privilege. I thank everyone involved in our community who has given their time selflessly for our children.