Three years ago, the boys' varsity basketball coaches at Carle Place, Herricks, Mineola and New Hyde Park High Schools organized the Coaches vs. Cancer Holiday Tournament to help raise money for the American Cancer Society, specifically cancer research. This year's tournament was hosted by New Hyde Park High School. Combined, the four-teams raised $3,500 and Carle Place High School donated $1,000.

In the first round of the tournament, the Frogs posted an impressive 73-65 victory over Herricks High School, overcoming a 10-point deficit at halftime. Seniors Evan Shanahan and Matthew Sterlacci, tri-captains along with J.P. Metress, led the Frogs with 20-points each. Sophomore Justin Schmiemann and freshman Peter Gaffney combined 24 additional points, with Gaffney contributing four assists and three steals. Shanahan led the team with six assists and also grabbed eight rebounds. Sophomore Chris Conlon led the team with 13 rebounds. The team played superbly in the second half, scoring 47 points and shooting 70 percent from the floor.

In the championship game, the Frogs faced host New Hyde Park High School - who beat Mineola in the opening round. After ending the first half down 12 points, the Frogs dug themselves a 20-point deficit by mid-third quarter before igniting a huge comeback. Sophomore Conor Reardon scored all 11 of his points in the second half while Justin Schmiemann added 15 points (seven of eight from the foul line) and rebounds.

Once again, Peter Gaffney's defensive effort helped the Frogs in their comeback. Seniors Matt Sterlacci and Evan Shanahan combined for 26 points. It was Conor Reardon who hit the big three-pointer with one minute remaining in the fourth quarter to tie the score at 57, but in the end, Andee Miller of New Hyde Park scored the winning basket - a shot from 25-feet at the buzzer - that secured the championship.

Coach Jim Colligan was very proud of his team's "no quit" attitude and their efforts to compete. The team is now 2-1 in their non-league season. Congratulations to Evan Shanahan and Justin Schmiemann for being selected to the All-Tournament Team.

The team would like to thank the teachers, parents, students, coaching staff and, especially, the Carle Place teachers' Association, for their generosity.