Hicksville Celebrates Homecoming

The early morning rain didn’t dampen the spirits of the Hicksville faithful, and shortly after the annual Homecoming Fair at Hicksville High School began, the grey skies cleared and the only colors that reigned were the school’s signature orange and black. The Oct. 13 homecoming celebration proved to be an overall success, beginning with plenty of school spirit and ending with many happy football fans as the Comets, the Hicksville varsity team, defeated rival Westbury 26-6.

Friday’s pep rally served as the informal kickoff to a fun homecoming Saturday. The PTA-sponsored Homecoming Fair brought children, parents, siblings, alumni, teachers and other members of the Hicksville High School family and greater Hicksville community together for a great cause. Student, parent and school community organizations featured tables offering various activities, games, spirit wear, gift basket raffles, food and refreshments, all to raise funds for student activities. Inflatable slides and bouncy houses set up inside the gymnasium offered additional entertainment for youngsters.

Hicksville High School’s four classes displayed banners during the homecoming procession onto the field, just prior to the game kickoff. The senior class took the best-banner honors this year with its 3D “Monopoly” game board banner.

Connor O’Keefe led the Comets with three touchdowns, including a 20-yard score midway through the third quarter to snap a 6-6 tie, giving Hicksville the lead for good. As a team, Hicksville ran for a total of 245 yards, led by quarterback Liam Lipien (70) and Connor (61). Shane Buquicchio added a 20-yard touchdown reception. The defense had a strong game as well, with Chris Benitez and Esai Garcia combining for 15 tackles and three quarterback sacks and Brandon Lang adding an interception.

Halftime performances by the marching band and color guard, the varsity cheerleaders and Starlets kickline team also had the fans up and cheering from the stands. Anthony Cerrato and Kerry Bernet were also crowned homecoming king and queen, respectively.

Photo Captions:

1: Anthony Cerrato and Kerry Bernet were crowned homecoming king and queen.
2: The Starlet kickline team performed during the halftime show.
3: The Hicksville marching band performed during the homecoming parade.
4: Hicksville’s cheerleaders performed during the game and on the field at halftime.
5: The senior class won best-banner honors with its 3D “Monopoly” game board.
6: Connor O’Keefe puts the Comets ahead for good with a 20-yard touchdown run.
7: Comet quarterback Liam Lipien threw for 55 yards and also led the Hicksville ground game with 70 yards rushing.
8: Face painting was one of many fun activities at the Hicksville Homecoming Fair.
9 Inflatable slides and bouncy houses set up inside the gymnasium offered additional entertainment for youngsters.
10: Hicksville High School’s Key Club held a bake sale fundraiser.

Story, Photos courtesy of the Hicksville Public Schools