Varsity female athletes have been in the spotlight this season, bringing pride to the district.

Varsity basketball player Claire McKenzie joined an elite group of athletes this season as she scored her 1,000th career point during a game against Port Jefferson on Jan. 21. Claire entered the game needing eight points to reach this milestone but managed to set her record with 4:42 left on the clock. The gym erupted in cheers, announcements, pictures and hugs from teammates, as well as a heartfelt speech by coach Vandood. Moments later, Claire stepped up to the free throw line to complete a call that was made during a foul, making her 1,001st point. The Tuckers won 51-26 with Claire finishing with 21 points and rounding out her career points at 1,013.  

The girls varsity cheer team has also been in the headlines as they competed against Suffolk and Nassau county teams at the Newsday Cheerfest, held at Hofstra University on Jan. 11. In between competition, the cheer team and pep band have been adding an extra spark during home basketball games.

Congratulations to senior Jillian Fogarty, who was selected as one of Newsday’s Top 50 Cheerleaders for the 2025-2026 season. Jillian is a four-year varsity cheerleader and one of the team’s most versatile athletes. She competes in all stunt positions as a flyer, base and back. Jillian’s standing and running tumbling skills are in the elite category, including standing tucks, cartwheel tucks and jump to tucks. Additionally, Jillian is a student leader who demonstrates dedication, discipline and commitment to her team sport.