Smithtown’s Relay For Life Team Wins Community Service Challenge: 'Inspiring'

SMITHTOWN, NY — The Smithtown Central Schools’ Relay for Life Club won the Spring 2025 NYSPHSAA Community Service Challenge, the New York State Public High School Athletic Association announced.

The club’s culminating event was selected by the NYSPHSAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee for its "outstanding impact and student engagement," according to the school district.

"The remarkable dedication shown by the student-athletes of Smithtown Central Schools Relay For Life Club is nothing short of inspiring," said NYSPHSAA Executive Director Dr. Robert Zayas, in a news release. "Their determination and compassion reflect the very best of NYSPHSAA’s
student-athletes, proving that with heart and purpose, anything is possible."

The club, combined with students from Smithtown East and West, took months to plan the 2025 Relay For Life event. Held at Smithtown High School West on June 7, the team-based fundraiser is one supported beyond high school halls and into Smithtown’s community. Each team developed a plan to take turns walking the track for 12 hours straight, raising more money with increased participation.

Additional donations were made through food sales and supplemental activities provided during the evening. All proceeds from the event were donated to the American Cancer Society. At the end, $86,660 was raised to fund cancer research and support those in need during their time battling the disease.

This accumulates to over $400K raised by the club since its conception.

Schools across the state submitted their initiatives through the Team Up 4 Community platform, which NYSPHSAA uses to highlight community service initiatives.

During the Spring 2025 Community Service Challenge, a total of 203 service projects were submitted, engaging more than 11,600 student-athletes across New York state. Collectively, participants contributed more than 82,700 volunteer hours and helped raise an impressive $341,490 for charitable causes.