The young, talented and undefeated Garden City Trojans capped off Saturday’s homecoming festivities with a convincing 34-3 win over the Calhoun Colts (2-4).
Garden City, which extended its season-opening win streak to six games, opened up a 31-0 lead by halftime on three touchdown passes from senior quarterback Mike Comiskey (seven completions for 105 yards). Senior wide receiver Devin Dwyer (four receptions for 79 yards) sealed the win with two touchdown receptions in the first half, proving to the hometown crowd why he’s one of the most potent threats on offense in Nassau Conference II.
Senior kicker Ryan Norton helped Garden City open up a 37-0 advantage by the end of the third quarter, notching a career-long 49-yard field goal that earned him a standing ovation from the crowd. According to team statistician Jack White, Norton’s field goal was his 12th as a Trojan, which is more than any other player in school history. The Trojans also extended their personal winning streak over Calhoun to 17 games, a mark that dates back to 1982.
Senior Mark Ellis handled the bulk of the rushing duties, as he ran for 27 yards on 11 carries. On defense, seniors Conor McDonnell and Anton Dobrolezhin tallied one sack apiece and held Calhoun scoreless for three quarters.
Prior to the game, thousands of spectators lined the sidewalks of downtown Garden City to cheer on the local clubs which participated in the annual homecoming parade. Among the many groups, which walked in the parade were the Garden City High School Key Club, Student Council, Trojan Club, Best Buddies, Spanish Club, Andy Club, Cyberbullying Committee and the Freshman Class of 2015.
“Homecoming is always a special day,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Feirsen said. “It brings together the whole community. The kids are so proud, and we have students from every grade level participating in the parade. It really brings the whole school district together.”
Garden City Baton Twirlers, Thunder football, Varsity Kickline, Garden City Fire Department, GCTA, Varsity Cheerleaders, Stewart/Stratford Middle School bands, local Girl Scouts, Garden City School District Central Administration and high school alumni also marched in the pre-game parade.
The homecoming court included Kim Ryan, Kaitlin Wilson, Zoe Zeno, Tom Butler, Franklin Dickinson and Rob Tomao, plus Homecoming King Nick Zawisha and Queen Amanda Ferraro. Carlo Mazarese was honored as the Grand Marshal of the parade.
