Last month, Josh Mileto, 16-year-old Sachem East football player, was struck in the head by a 400-lb, 10-foot log, while performing a training exercise during an off-season conditioning camp, resulting in the death of their teammate. The death of Josh Mileto left the Sachem East community devastated and in complete grief from the horrific accident. On September 9, 2017, Lindenhurst faced Sachem East in their season opener playing their first game since the death of their teammate. Although Lindenhurst was victorious, the game represented the unification of the Lindenhurst and Sachem East Communities to pay tribute to Josh Mileto. Bobby Tee’s, an Amityville clothing store, donated 100 t-shirts in honor of Josh Mileto raising over $1,000 in proceeds which went to a scholarship in Josh Mileto’s name. Many members of the Lindenhurst community attended the game, wearing red instead of their Lindy green and white.  Additionally, the Varsity Bulldogs wore stickers on their helmets with Josh Mileto’s number 5 to show support for Sachem East as they retired Josh Mileto’s jersey, paying tribute to Josh, the Mileto family and the Sachem East community.  As an attendee of the game, there is no doubt in my mind that every person, both spectators and the Lindenhurst and Sachem East teams, felt the pain and grief of the Sachem East community. Many parents acknowledged that it could have been anyone of their children and that we all must stand together in times of hardship. Although the event was very upsetting for all attendees, the support of Lindenhurst exemplifies true Lindy Pride and the power of the bulldog community.

(Photo Credit: Bob Sorensen)