The high school’s stadium field was dedicated Wayne Shierant Field at Alumni Stadium in honor of former coach, teacher and athletic director Wayne Shierant on Sept. 20. The dedication ceremony took place during halftime of the home varsity football contest against Centereach, the first game played under West Islip’s new stadium lights. The Lions continued the celebration with a 24-17 victory.

Shierant was West Islip’s head varsity football coach from 1981 to 1995. During his tenure, he achieved unprecedented success, with his teams earning a Long Island championship, three county championships, 10 county final appearances, nine division championships and 112 wins. The 1994 squad was the county’s first to finish 11-0. His record of 112-26-3 and .805 winning percentage remain the best among Suffolk County football coaches with more than 100 victories. Shierant himself won numerous coach of the year honors and was inducted into the Suffolk County Sports Hall of Fame.

Paying tribute to longtime educator Shierant at the dedication were his family, district administrators and Board of Education members. Also in attendance were three special guests, Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter, Suffolk County Legislator Steven J. Flotteron and New York State Assemblyman Michael LePetri.

 “We are honoring one of our greats,” said Board of Education President Steve Gellar. “There isn’t a single name more synonymous with the success of West Islip football and athletics than Wayne Shierant.”

Superintendent Bernadette Burns praised his loyalty and dedication, telling Shierant, “It is a privilege to recognize your contributions and everything you have done to support West Islip athletics.”

“We honor the profound positive impact Wayne has had on generations of West Islip’s students, athletes, coaches, faculty and staff, and the community during his 40-year career here,” said Athletic Director Tim Horan. “His leadership and work ethic is a template for teachers, coaches and administrators to implement for decades to come, and his commitment to excellence and his influence continue to shape today’s generation, 11 years after his retirement.”

“I want to thank this great community of West Islip, which I was fortunate enough to be a part of for 40 years,” Shierant said. “Go Lions!”