On Dec. 2, the Jericho Youth Football League hosted their annual end-of-season party, which concluded their second successful season. The event was held at Westbury Stadium Theatre where the children enjoyed pizza, soda and the movie. (Remember the Titans)

All players proudly received participation trophies, and the champions of each division were honored. The league was presented with a plaque engraved with the winning team's names. The winning teams will be added to the plaque each year. But this is not to say that all the players and coaches aren't winners because they are; just for exhibiting their determination, dedication and sportsmanship.

Coaches and players anxiously began their practices in August. The season began in September and ran through Nov. 17. The players continued learning football skills and fundamentals in a fun way. Each week the games were played proficiently and competitively with positive energy from all. The sidelines were always filled with supportive spectators cheering on the teams.

The league took off the week during the Sept. 11 disaster. In response to the tragedy, the league collected over $1,000, which was donated to the Sept. 11 fund.

For the first time, the season concluded with playoff games and championship games, and the teams were ranked. The championship games drew the largest crowd of the season. Coaches and players were introduced over a loudspeaker filling the field with excitement and anticipation. At the start of each game, Mallory Popper sang the National Anthem. Mallory is a Jericho High School student and star of many local and off-Broadway productions. A commemorative video was taken of the final games, which was available to the players to purchase.

This year the league grew by four teams making a total of 250 players. The great success of the league is contributed to the dedicated coaches, ambitious players, supportive parents and professional referees.

Registration for next season will begin in the spring (February/March) and will be open to boys and girls between the ages of seven - 13 years old who are residents of Jericho and the outside communities. Coaches and volunteers are always needed and appreciated. It's because of your dedication the league continues to grow and be successful.

Congratulations to league coordinators, Steve Brett and Jeff Falk, for another great season which wouldn't have been possible without the support of the community.