Port Washington’s Paul D. Schreiber High School applauded three seniors who signed National Letters of Intent to participate on collegiate sports teams and receive athletic scholarships. Members of the Board of Education, administration and staff, along with parents and other students, gathered to support and celebrate with the honored athletes.
Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Stephanie Joannon explained the significance of the milestone event.
“The National Letter of Intent is a binding agreement between a prospective student-athlete and the member institution,” she said. “The athlete agrees to attend the school full time and the school agrees to provide a financial scholarship for at least one academic year.”
Aidan Finnerty will play lacrosse at Quinnipiac University. This is his third year participating on the high school’s varsity team, and he is also a three-year member of the football and track teams. Last year, he was named an All-Conference player for football. Seth Obadia will join the lacrosse team at Lafayette College. He has been on the high school’s varsity team since his freshman year and was recognized as an All-County Honorable Mention player as a junior. Demetra Vlahos will participate on University of Miami’s Crew Team. Demetra, who has been a member of the crew team since the eighth grade through the Friends of Port Rowing program in Port Washington, currently serves as captain and holds the 5K boathouse record.
The three students each had an opportunity to address the audience and express enthusiasm and appreciation.
“The process was not easy, but definitely worth it,” said Aidan. “I’m looking forward to playing lacrosse next year.”
“Lafayette really stood out to me,” said Seth. “I’m so happy to be going there and making this commitment.”
Head Crew Coach Darren Gary introduced Demetra and commended her for putting a great deal of effort into her sport, which involves intense team rowing practices.
“I want to thank Coach Darren and my teammates,” said Demetra. “Without them, I wouldn’t be the athlete I am today.”
“We couldn’t be prouder that you will continue to represent Schreiber in your new schools, and we wish you the best of luck,” said Principal Ira Pernick.
After formally signing their letters and declaring their future decisions, the athletes and their guests enjoyed a small reception held in the school’s conference room.
