Week 1 Preview: Sachem East vs. Central Islip

This is it, the first game of the 2011 season for Sachem East and the beginning of yet another new chapter in the program's early history.

It marks the first game in new head coach Mark Wojciechowski's coaching career as well.

"This is a big game because it’s the next game and that’s just the way it is," he said. "On Saturday we’ll have another game to prepare for and that’s the way I want these guys to focus and understand.

"Win or lose, how we handle it is going to determine how our season goes. If we lose and think we’re eliminated from everything, it’s not the case. It’s dealing with the highs and lows and getting kids to understand that and hopefully they do."

Match-up: No. 13 Sachem East (0-0) vs. No. 14 Central Islip (0-0)

Time/Venue: Friday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m./Sachem High School East

In game battles: Sachem East will need to control lineman Joe Pierre, who has started four straight seasons for Central Islip and throws his 6-4 frame around with force. Quarterback Eric McCoy threw for almost 1,000 yards last season, which is a huge number for the lowest ranked team in Suffolk County's Division I.

As for Sachem, you all know the story lines by now. Wait until Friday night to see how the new look Flaming Arrows come out.

Live Tweeting: Throughout many games this season, follow live updates through twitter with the hashtag #sachemeastfb @SachemPatch.

Game Facts

• Sachem East is 2-5 all-time in Week 1 games
• Sachem East is 4-1 all-time against Central Islip
• East is also looking to break a 15-game losing streak and are 1-15 in last 16 contests

Next Up

• Sachem travels to Bay Shore for Week 2 action Saturday, Sept. 17 at 2 p.m.

Related Content

Stay tuned to Sachem Patch for complete coverage of Friday's game.