The Rye Neck football team just completed their second consecutive undefeated season. They dominated their opponents throughout the season, except at Woodlands October 12 when the Panthers won in dramatic fashion, 41-40 in overtime. In a non-league game, October 19, Rye Neck defeated Palisade Prep 56-0.
By Melanie Cane
The Rye Neck football team just completed their second consecutive undefeated season. They dominated their opponents throughout the season, except at Woodlands October 12 when the Panthers won in dramatic fashion, 41-40 in overtime. In a non-league game, October 19, Rye Neck defeated Palisade Prep 56-0.
The Woodlands game was huge for many reasons, most especially because Rye Neck lost to Woodlands in the sectional finals last year. This come-from-behind win was so huge in fact, that The New York Giants selected Rye Neck Coach Nick Ianello “The Lou Rettino High School Football Coach of the Week” for the week of October 14.
The Giants awarded Ianello a certificate of recognition signed by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Giants Head Coach Tom Coughlin, as well as a check for $1,000 to the Panthers football program.
The selection is based on Ianello’s continuing commitment toward promoting youth football, developing motivated student-athletes and overall community involvement.
Ianello has been coaching Rye Neck football for 11 years. He has a record of 57-36 with eight playoff berths, three sectional final appearances, four league titles, and two Section 1 class C/D coach of the year honors. He accepted the award on behalf of his team and staff.
The bond between Ianello and his team and the community was demonstrably displayed at the senior recognition celebration during halftime at the October 19 game. In fact, it was a sort of love fest on the field for the ten seniors, their parents, and the Coach. Ianello said the key to the team’s success was the family atmosphere among the players, coaches, and their real families. He thanked the parents for “bringing excitement and unity to the team and for loaning their sons to the program for the last four years.” He gave special thanks to the seniors for “hanging in there through good and bad;” the team struggled in 2010 and 2011.
The League C Champions begin playoffs at home against Bronxville on October 26. Coach Ianello said the journey is not yet complete, as the team’s goal is to win the state championship.
