February 1 was National Signing Day in high schools across the country and Garden City was no exception. With his family beside him, Ryan Norton was one of three Long Islanders to sign with Syracuse University on a full football scholarship. “This is the first time for a number of years that a Garden City student has received a full scholarship to a Division 1 school, and we are thrilled for Ryan,” commented Nancy Kalafus, director of physical education and athletics. The Garden City senior has played varsity football for the reigning Nassau County Champion Trojans for the past three years.
Ryan, sporting his new Syracuse cap, was joined at the signing by his father, Michael, and mom, Kristen, Athletic Director Nancy Kalafus, Stewart Avenue Principal Linda Norton, Ryan’s grandmother and sister Brittany Norton, Assistant Football Coach David Ettinger and Head Football Coach Tom Flatley.
“Ryan is a terrific student and athlete who has worked very hard to achieve this goal,” commented Assistant Football Coach Dave Ettinger. “It has been a dream for him to earn a Division 1 football scholarship. Now that it’s come true, I couldn’t be happier for Ryan and his family.”
“He has worked very hard to achieve this and I am very, very proud of him,” commented Ryan’s aunt, Linda Norton.
MSG Varsity was present for the signing and interviewed the talented kicker for several MSG Signing Day features that aired that evening.
