Boy in color guard shines at Floral Park homecoming

Floral Park Memorial High School students marched throughout the village last Saturday for the homecoming parade, as onlookers viewed the homecoming king and queen, floats and the band.

Among the marchers was 16-year-old Matthew Kenna, a sophomore and member of the color guard, who continues to find his comfort zone when it's time to perform.

"Last year he was the star of our play. We did 'Hairspray' and he was John Travolta's role," principal Kathleen Sottile said. "He was always quiet, but when he came out on the stage he transformed in front of everyone's eyes."

Kenna is finding the same enjoyment in color guard, and isn't fazed participating in an activity dominated by females.

"I wanted to do something new," Matthew said. "Last year there was a senior guy on the team so it feels like I am filling up the spot, and I am thinking about continuing through senior year."

Kenna and his teammates placed fourth in a recent color guard competition on Long Island, and is welcomed by teammates.

"Having him on the team unites everyone," sophomore and color guard member Emily Villani said. "We are all new so it is a new experience for all of us."

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Following his love of performing, Kenna is also active in the Broadhollow Theater Company and Saint Gregory's Theater Group in Bellerose.

"He likes to perform," Laura Kenna, mother of Matthew Kenna, said. "He is also passionate about promote tolerance and making sure everyone gets along."