Inside Suffolk Division II
Evan Chieca of Lindenhurst is stopped by his Northport defender from grabbing the pass during the Suffolk Conference II semifinal on Nov. 12, 2021, in Lindenhurst. Credit: Dawn McCormick
MUST-SEE GAMES
Sept. 10, West Islip at Half Hollow Hills East, 1:30 p.m.
This is a very tough game right out of the gate for both teams. Both teams reached the playoffs last season and they want to get an early foothold on that once again. Hills East has won only five of the 30 games between the teams including last year’s 42-14 game.
Sept. 17, Lindenhurst at Bellport, 2 p.m.
The Bulldogs and the Clippers met twice last season and Bellport won both including a 13-0 win in the Division II final. These teams have four Suffolk titles between them in the last five years. This game will show who is the top dog.
Oct. 1, Smithtown West at North Babylon, 2p.m.
This week four showdown could determine a playoff spot. In the last six meetings between the teams the average score has been 40-27. Expect another wild one.
Oct. 15, Northport at Bellport, 2 p.m.
Bellport is the defending Division II champ. Northport hasn’t won a Suffolk title in 31 years. No. 2 Northport has lost its last three playoff games by a total of14 points. This game could determine who finishes first in the regular season in the division and who is the top seed for the playoffs.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW
Former Lindenhurst star Jeremy Ruckert is now with the Jets. He played for the Bulldogs from 2014-2017 and was a co-recipient of Newsday’s Hansen Award given to Suffolk’s most outstanding player.
GOOD VENUE
West Babylon is an exciting environment to watch a game because all of the stands are on one side of the field so the fans from both teams are packed in together in a tight area.
GREAT ENTERTAINMENT
Copiague has an award-winning marching band. Don’t miss the halftime show.
WHAT A CHARACTER
Newfield has the Wolverine mascot patrolling its sideline. The character who looks both cute and ferocious.
COACHING SPOTLIGHT
Green is the favorite autumn color for Nick Lombardo. He has spent most of the last 40 years involved with Lindenhurst football. Lombardo played for the Bulldogs and is a 1985 graduate. He spent 14 years as an assistant coach. Lombardo is in his 13th year as the head coach. He has a record of 92-36 with four Suffolk titles and two long Island crowns. “I love Lindenhurst,” Lombardo said. “It’s always been family to me.”
