West Islip HS Honors Longtime Football Coach Wayne Shierant

WEST ISLIP, NY - West Islip High School recently dedicated it's stadium field in honor of former coach, teacher and athletic director, Wayne Shierant.

The dedication ceremony of Wayne Shierant Field at Alumni Stadium took place during halftime of the home varsity football contest against Centereach on Sept. 20.

The Lions continued the celebration with a 24-17 victory.

Shierant was West Islip’s head varsity football coach from 1981 to 1995, during which, he achieved unprecedented success.

"We are honoring one of our greats," Board of Education President Steve Gellar said. "There isn’t a single name more synonymous with the success of West Islip football and athletics than Wayne Shierant."

Under his leadership, his teams earning a Long Island championship, three county championships, 10 county final appearances, nine division championships and 112 wins.

Image via West Islip School District

The 1994 squad was the county’s first to finish 11-0. His record of 112-26-3 and .805 winning percentage remain the best among Suffolk County football coaches with more than 100 victories.

Shierant also won numerous coach of the year honors and was inducted into the Suffolk County Sports Hall of Fame.

"We honor the profound positive impact Wayne has had on generations of West Islip’s students, athletes, coaches, faculty and staff, and the community during his 40-year career here," Athletic Director Tim Horan said. "His leadership and work ethic provide a template for teachers, coaches and administrators to implement for decades to come, and his commitment to excellence and his influence continue to shape today’s generation, 11 years after his retirement."

His family, district administrators and Board of Education members were all at the game to pay tribute to Shierant. Also in attendance were Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter, Suffolk County Legislator Steven J. Flotteron and New York State Assemblyman Michael LePetri.

Superintendent Bernadette Burns praised his loyalty and dedication, telling Shierant, "It is a privilege to recognize your contributions and everything you have done to support West Islip athletics."

"I want to thank this great community of West Islip, which I was fortunate enough to be a part of for 40 years," Shierant said. "Go Lions!"