Aug. 23 event features interactive scrimmage with LIU Post Pioneers, youth clinic and barbeque
The Town of Oyster Bay is ready to kick-off the football season with its annual “Family Football Night” at John J. Burns Town Park in Massapequa on Tuesday, Aug. 23, at 7 p.m. Football fans are sure to enjoy the event which features a collegiate scrimmage of the LIU Post Pioneers.
“This is a great event where football fans are close to the action,” Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto said. ”LIU Post has many talented players and it’s very impressive to watch the team’s knowledgeable coaches, led by head coach Bryan Collins, work with the players during a scrimmage. It’s a unique perspective that everyday fans don’t get a chance to see on television.”
Admission will be free for town residents, but all attendees are encouraged to bring two cans of food, which will be donated to Island Harvest to benefit the fight against hunger. The event will be preceded by a youth clinic, which is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Players and coaches from LIU Post will instruct youth football players and to help improve their skills.
“The student athletes on the LIU Post football team serve as true role models for the many young players in attendance,” Venditto said. “Perhaps one day, these youngsters will also be able to further their academics though athletics.”
There will also be a barbeque following the scrimmage where youth players will have an opportunity to speak with the LIU players and coaches and receive autographs.
“This scrimmage is always a fun night for the players and I know the team looks forward to coming to John J, Burns Park in Massapequa for this annual event,” Venditto said. “Over the years, this fan-friendly practice has become important night for LIU Post as they prepare for the season.”
Last season, the Pioneers boasted a 7-4 overall record and a 5-4 mark in Northeast-10 Conference play. The team finished fifth in the league standings and dispatched Bentley University, 34-20, on NE-10 Championship Weekend to close out the season. This year, they are looking to build on that success.
John J. Burns Park is located at 5158 Merrick Rd. in Massapequa.
