The Nassau County flag football scene witnessed a dramatic climax as the Cold Spring Harbor squad edged out East Rockaway 18‑13 in a contest that swung back and forth until the final whistle.
The Final Drive
With just two seconds remaining, quarterback Ciara Luparello dropped back and launched a 9‑yard strike to Serena Glantz, who turned the throw into the decisive touchdown that sealed the win.
The victory marks the first championship in Cold Spring Harbor’s program history, a milestone that has electrified the school community and highlighted the rapid rise of flag football at the varsity level.
Luparello proved a dual threat, adding two rushing scores — a 36‑yard run and a 2‑yard plunge — to her passing heroics, while Glantz contributed nine flag pulls and Emma Antoniello recorded six on defense.
What’s Next
The victors will now meet the champion of the Shoreham‑Wading River/Kings Park matchup in the Class C Long Island title game, a prospect that has coaches and players alike buzzing with anticipation.
Coach Jon Mendreski praised East Rockaway for their relentless effort, while East Rockaway’s mentor Fred Cange acknowledged the opponent’s strong season and vowed a stronger campaign ahead.
Beyond the scoreboard, the game underscored the growing competitiveness of high school flag football in New York, with standout performances from players such as Ava Caradonna and Danilynn Fardella, who each found the end zone for East Rockaway.