"Rookie" Collyer wins in home opener

Chuck Collyer is one old rookie.

The 60-year old, who was Bill Cherry’s defensive coordinator/line coach the last 27 years at Manhasset, took his home field for the first time as the team’s head coach yesterday and came away with a 35-14 victory over Valley Stream South to improve to 2-1 in Conference III.

Quarterback Harry Kucharczyk rushed for 70 yards and three touchdowns on six carries and was 6 of 8 passing for 89 yards and a score. Alessandro Troia added 139 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries.

“I gave it a shot,” Collyer said about taking the job on Friday, “and I’m glad I did.”

Cherry was in attendance for yesterday's games, and Collyer said they have "shared a lot of talks" since practiced started in August. 

Collyer retired from teaching after last school year, freeing up some time to lead the Indians. He had head coaching experience in girls basketball and baseball, and remains the boys golf coach, but had never called the shots on the football field — until now.

“I try to approach every job the same way,” said Collyer, who still calls the defensive plays. “Coach with enthusiasm and a lot of emotion out there. I’m very content with this year so far.”