Cyclones Running Back Thrown Off Team

One of the key pieces missing during South Side's Saturday loss to Great Neck North was sophomore running back Eric Willie. The underclassman, 15, was conspicuously absent from the team's road game only a few days after police released that the Cyclones running back received two appearance tickets for drinking alcohol.

According to police, Willie was issued two appearance tickets for possessing and imbibing alcohol on Sept. 25. Police spotted Willie with alcohol near Hempstead Avenue and Richmond Street. Football head coach Paul Mastronardi would not give specifics on Willie's dismissal, but noted that it was a disciplinary matter.

Athletic Director Carol Roseto seconded that Willie's dismissal from the team had to do with a disciplinary issue. "Actions have consequences," she said.

Willie was a rising star with the Cyclones, and was considered one of its best players this season. The sophomore had his best game two weeks ago during a home loss to Carle Place, when he churned in 90-plus yards and two touchdowns.