Joe Golio from the Facebook page “Sayville Happenings & History” graciously shared an impressive photograph featuring nine graduates from Sayville High School who attended the Army-Navy game on December 14, 2024.

The Army-Navy Game is recognized as one of the oldest and most celebrated rivalries in college football, with its inaugural match taking place in 1890, where Navy triumphed with a score of 24-0. Since that time, the two teams have faced each other annually, with only a few interruptions during World War I and due to eligibility issues.

It is quite remarkable and rare for a single high school to have ten graduates accepted into military academies. And, here is why; 

Intense Competition: Gaining admission to service academies such as West Point, Annapolis, and the Air Force Academy is highly competitive. Candidates must undergo thorough academic, physical, and medical assessments.

Limited Slots: Each academy has a restricted number of available appointments, making the acceptance process highly selective.

Exceptional Achievement: The admission of ten students from the same high school indicates an extraordinary level of academic excellence, leadership skills, and physical fitness within that graduating class.

This reflects very favorably on Sayville High School’s academic standards, its focus on leadership development, and the commitment of both students and faculty. This inspiring story may also be highlighted by Long Island’s News12.

The graduates, listed from left to right, are:

Nick Gibbons

Thomas Golio

Nick Buffardi

Ally Reilly

Colin Caraher

Mac Murtha

Jack Quinlan

Yirdaw Rivera

Brock Murtha.  

Matt Yonkers is not included in the photograph, as he is a Navy Midshipman who had responsibilities on the field at the time.

A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Joe Golio for generously sharing this photograph and providing the names of the graduates.