Led by the high school’s proud Marching Lions band, the blue and gold-clad community proudly participated in the homecoming parade on Oct. 26. From the color guard and cheerleaders, to festive floats, the sunny autumn day proved perfect for a walk to Wayne Shierant Field at Alumni Stadium. Homecoming king Paul Ciesluk and homecoming queen Jenny Brodmerkel were lauded as Mr. and Miss West Islip, flanked by runners up Mark Lu and Jaymie Espinola.

Once at the football field, the varsity Lions took on Division II rival Bellport. A thrilling Matt Calhoun touchdown with 59 seconds left in the fourth quarter earned the home team a 38-34 victory, improving their record to 6-1. Highlights included a fourth-quarter interception by Anthony Sagginario, 130 rushing yards and two touchdowns for Joe Costantino, 50 yards rushing and a TD for Dominic Sagginario, and two sacks each by Kyle Haff and Donnie Ryan.