We are thrilled to share the heartwarming efforts of East Rockaway Jr./Sr. High School’s winter sports teams, along with our girls varsity and JV volleyball teams, as they once again went above and beyond to spread holiday cheer through the annual toy drive!

This meaningful initiative supports children receiving care at the Cancer Center for Kids at NYU Langone and local families in need. The dedication and generosity of our student-athletes and their families are truly inspiring and showcase the spirit of the season.

The following teams participated in this incredible event:

• Boys Varsity Basketball (joined by West Hempstead Boys Varsity)
• Boys Junior Varsity Basketball
• Boys Junior High School Basketball
• Girls Varsity Basketball (joined by Cold Spring Harbor Girls Varsity)
• Girls Varsity Volleyball
• Girls Junior Varsity Volleyball
• Girls Junior High School Volleyball

A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved for embodying the spirit of giving and making a positive difference in the lives of so many this holiday season.

 

Click here to view the slideshow.

Date Added: 12/23/2024

On Friday, East Rockaway High School warmly welcomed back members of the Class of 2024 for a special alumni panel. Speaking to students in grades 9-12, these recent graduates shared their experiences from their first semester away from home, offering valuable insights and advice.

The alumni discussed challenges they have faced in college and strategies for overcoming them, giving current students a realistic view of what to expect. They emphasized the rigor of college-level coursework and shared tips on staying organized and managing time effectively.

Highlighting their roots at ERHS, the alumni reflected on the resources and opportunities that were instrumental in preparing them for college success. From extracurricular activities to academic programs, they credited their time at ERHS for building a strong foundation for their future.

The event served as an inspiring and informative session, giving East Rockaway students a clearer picture of what lies ahead and the tools they can use to thrive in their own journeys.

The East Rockaway varsity football team has added another prestigious accolade to its list of achievements, being honored with the 2024 Conference 4 community service award at the 58th Annual Nassau County Gridiron Dinner on Dec. 9. This recognition highlights the team's extraordinary commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the field.

Under the guidance of their dedicated coaches, the East Rockaway football program has long emphasized the importance of giving back to the community. This year, the players truly embodied that spirit, engaging in initiatives that demonstrated leadership, compassion and teamwork beyond the game.

As part of a leadership group, the varsity players visited elementary schools during the spring, serving as role models and inspiring younger students to strive for excellence in all aspects of life. Additionally, the team organized and executed a successful fundraiser this past fall, selling T-shirts to support the Making Strides for Breast Cancer Society. Their collective efforts raised over $3,000 for the cause, showcasing their dedication to helping others and supporting critical health initiatives.

“We weren’t just successful on the field, but off the field too,” said Coach Russell Pajer, reflecting on the dual impact of their season. This ethos of service and community engagement has become a hallmark of the East Rockaway football program, instilling values that extend far beyond the scoreboard.

The community service award is a testament to the team’s character and the strength of the program, which prioritizes not only athletic achievement but also the development of young men who are committed to making a difference. Congratulations to the East Rockaway Varsity Football Team for exemplifying the true meaning of leadership and community spirit.

Date Added: 12/12/2024

Eighth grade students from East Rockaway Junior/Senior High School recently participated in the village’s annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony, held on the scenic East Rockaway waterfront. Sponsored by the American Legion, this solemn event brings the community together each year to honor the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

This marks the 15th year that East Rockaway students have been invited to take part in this historical tribute. Prior to attending the ceremony, the students engaged in a comprehensive lesson about the events of that fateful day, deepening their understanding of the attack that propelled the United States into World War II. The lesson emphasized the bravery and sacrifice of those who served and set the stage for their participation in the ceremony.

The event drew a diverse assembly of veterans, dignitaries, and community members, including representatives from the village government, the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post, the women’s auxiliary and local religious institutions. Together, they gathered to reflect on the significance of Pearl Harbor and the enduring impact it has had on the nation.

During the ceremony, a wreath was solemnly thrown into the river, a poignant gesture symbolizing the community’s respect and remembrance for those who perished in the attack.

 

Click here to view the East Rockaway eighth graders honor heroes at annual Pearl Harbor remembrance ceremony slideshow.

Date Added: 12/5/2024

 

 

East Rockaway’s student athletes recently received recognition from Team Up 4 Community for their impactful community service projects, embodying the organization’s mission of empowering young athletes to lead and inspire positive change within their communities.

The East Rockaway varsity and junior varsity volleyball teams hosted a special Dig Pink game against Oyster Bay High School, raising awareness for breast cancer. The teams came together in support of the cause by organizing a bake sale, which raised $300 for the Susan G. Komen Foundation, dedicated to advancing breast cancer research and supporting those impacted by the disease. Players from both teams wore pink jerseys during the game, proudly displaying their commitment to the cause.

In an additional show of kindness, the East Rockaway players prepared snack bags for the Oyster Bay team members, game officials and supervisors. This gesture demonstrated the athletes’ dedication to fostering goodwill and respect for their opponents and the greater community.

The East Rockaway varsity cross country team recently extended their gratitude to the officials who oversee their meets. Recognizing the hard work and dedication of these individuals, the team presented each official with a token of appreciation at a recent meet. Their thoughtful gesture highlights the respect East Rockaway athletes hold for those who contribute to their sports experience.

East Rockaway’s varsity cheerleading squad recently held cheerleading clinics for local youth, providing two sessions tailored to grades K-3 and 4-6. Throughout the clinics, the cheerleaders taught the fundamentals of cheerleading, including motions, cheers, stunts and jumps. Young participants were thrilled to learn these new skills and were captivated with a performance by the cheer team.

The cheerleaders’ commitment to sharing their expertise and passion with the next generation of athletes underscores their dedication to building a supportive and inclusive athletic community.

The East Rockaway community celebrates these young athletes for their selflessness and leadership, embodying the values of Team Up 4 Community. Through their dedication to giving back, these athletes are setting a powerful example, proving that sportsmanship goes beyond the game.

Date Added: 11/21/2024