Deer Park Unites For 2025 Homecoming Celebration

DEER PARK, N.Y. — The Deer Park school community came together on Oct. 18 to celebrate homecoming with a parade and football game filled with school spirit.

The parade kicked off at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School and made its way to Deer Park High School, led by grand marshal Tony Santoro — a 1977 Deer Park alumnus, longtime district custodian and member of the Deer Park Fire Department.

At Al Centamore Football Field, Student Council President Ava Bush led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the Phoenix Club's rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

The district also recognized its 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees, and Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly presented Santoro with a special commendation.

"Tony lives his life as a great example of what it means to be a valued community member," Board of Education President Donna Marie Elliott said. "For all that you do, Tony — here at Deer Park High School, for all the happiness you bring to our beautiful town, and especially for what you mean to Deer Park and all of us - we celebrate and honor you today."

The celebration featured performances by the Robert Frost Middle School and varsity kickline teams, along with the PAL, Frost, JV and varsity cheerleaders. Adding to the excitement, seniors Kerwin Bartholomew and Alexis Borowski were crowned homecoming king and queen, taking their ceremonial ride around the track as the Phoenix Club performed the school's alma mater.

Members of the homecoming court included Ilayda Avcu, Pearse Boylan, Heidy Gonzalez Morales, Thomas Luscardi, Jaheim McCallum and Mischa Rose.

While awaiting kickoff, the Student Council hosted a Fall Festival behind the stands, featuring pumpkin decorating, face painting with the Art Club and a food drive to support local families.

On the field, the Falcons struck first as wide receiver and defensive back Christian Myrick returned a 71-yard punt for a touchdown. Myrick added two more scores before halftime, but Newfield's Wolverines ultimately came out on top, 42-21.

During halftime, the Marching Falcons energized the crowd with a rousing performance, and the winners of the high school's float contest were announced. The seniors earned first place, followed by the juniors, sophomores and freshmen.