Category Archives: Section XI News

East Islip Softball Coach Jason McGowan Earns 300th Career Win

East Islip High School varsity softball coach Jason McGowan reached an important milestone on April 2, earning his 300th career win as a coach in a memorable 8-2 victory at West Babylon.

This is McGowan’s 19th season coaching softball, and his milestone total includes prior wins coaching Half Hollow Hills and Plainedge in addition to his 13 years in East Islip.

At the team’s home game on April 4, his appreciative players presented McGowan with a banner congratulating him on his achievement.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to have players that believed in me and trusted the process,” McGowan said. “We’ve had some tough, resilient players come through this program and it’s a credit to them for their commitment and dedication to this program.”

Bay Shore Student-Athletes Join Elementary March Book Madness as Mystery Readers

March Book Madness got an exciting boost this year at Gardiner Manor Elementary School, thanks to a special group of student-athletes from Bay Shore High School.

A big shoutout goes to Shani Clark, Briana Sierra, Lily Gargan, Khaleis London, Carter Wilson, Corey Faines, Niall Haughney, and Armani Smith from the boys and girls basketball teams, who stepped up as Mystery Readers for the event.

March Book Madness is a tournament-style reading competition in which books compete head-to-head, and students cast their votes for their favorites—all while sharpening essential reading skills. The presence of these talented athletes added an extra layer of fun and inspiration, as they took time out of their busy schedules to read aloud and connect with younger students.

The visit was a slam dunk for readers and the listeners, proving teamwork and leadership extend far beyond the court.

Support Marty Lyons Foundation, Win Luxury Beach Front Rental

Fleur de la Mer is a luxurious vacation beachfront rental with 6 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, nestled in the exclusive Palm Cove community of Sunset Beach, North Carolina.

This elegant property offers breathtaking 270-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, Tubbs Inlet, and Jinks Creek, providing an unparalleled coastal experience – plus the beach is literally just steps from the backyard.

WIN an Experience & Create Memories!

Tickets are $20 each or 6 for $100

Proceeds will help grant wishes to children with critical illnesses.

Drawing will be held on July 14th, 2025
LIVE on our Facebook & Instagram Pages!!
The winner need not be present to claim a prize.

Please call the MLF office at 631-543-9474 to coordinate your stay, review exclusions, and blackout dates (May 15 – Sept. 15, 2025).

The winner is responsible for all applicable taxes and travel to & from the premises.

Purchases of raffle tickets are not tax deductible.
Prize is non-transferable and can NOT be exchanged for a cash prize.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER!