News Summary

Xavier Ali from Whitman and William Handley from Chaminade have been awarded the prestigious James Conrad Metzger Top Scholar Athlete Award at the National Football Foundation’s annual ceremony. Both athletes excel in academics and athletics, with plans to play Division I FCS football next season. The event also recognized other outstanding local athletes and special awards for coaches and teams throughout Suffolk County, highlighting the wealth of talent in the area.

Exciting Honors for Local High School Superstars!

Big news coming from Whitman and Chaminade as two outstanding high school athletes, Xavier Ali and William Handley, have been honored with the prestigious James Conrad Metzger Top Scholar Athlete Award. This exciting recognition took place at the annual Scholar Athlete Awards Brunch hosted by the National Football Foundation’s Suffolk County chapter at the lovely Melville Marriott on Sunday.

Shining Bright with Academic and Athletic Excellence!

Both Xavier and Will not only excel on the football field but also shine in academics, making them truly worthy recipients of this award. Next season, they are ready to take their football talents to the next level by diving into Division I FCS football. Xavier has committed to play for Rhode Island, while Will is all set to don the colors of Lafayette.

Amazing Achievements by Xavier Ali

Xavier Ali, hailing from Whitman, has an impressive GPA of 100.3. He has been recognized twice as part of the Newsday All-Long Island first-team in both 2023 and 2024. His football stats reveal he is not just a player but a powerhouse. Over the last season, he achieved a whopping 114 tackles (with 25 for a loss) and 10 sacks in just nine games as a four-year starter on both sides of the ball. His talent did not go unnoticed, as he was also a finalist for the coveted Burnett Award for Suffolk’s best defensive player and the Collotta Award for the best linebacker.

But wait, there’s more! As a junior, he still managed to rack up 91 tackles (14 of which were losses), seven sacks, two fumble recoveries, and three pass deflections! On top of his athletic prowess, Xavier is actively involved in several clubs at Whitman, including the Natural Helpers Club, Business Honor Society, Leadership Club, and Finance Club. He doesn’t stop there; he also participates in varsity track where he throws both shot put and discus while lending a helping hand as a youth football and wrestling coach!

William Handley’s Stellar Contribution

Now, let’s shine the spotlight on Will Handley from Chaminade, who also boasts impressive accomplishments. Will holds a 95 unweighted GPA and has recorded a solid 1310 on his SAT. His outstanding performance in football earned him recognition as an All-CHSFL selection. He actively participates in various clubs, including the National Honor Society, Business Club, Economics Club, and Sodality Club. Much like Xavier, Will finds time to give back to the community as a mentor and youth football coach.

Recognition for More Local Athletes

This fabulous brunch didn’t just stop at honoring Xavier and Will. The NFF Golden Eleven took the opportunity to recognize 11 other outstanding Suffolk athletes: Finn Drake from Westhampton, Aaron Fisher from Floyd, Michael Frankie from Bellport, Gavin German from Smithtown West, Jack Kalinowski from East Islip, Brennan Kurtz from Ward Melville, Cole Madden from Glenn, Kyle Messina from Sayville, Brady Nash from Islip, Nick Paliotta from Kings Park, and Dylan Spano from Bayport-Blue Point! How exciting to see so much local talent being recognized!

Special Awards and Recognition

The event also saw Longwood’s Mike Warren receive the inaugural Paci Iron Grit Award. Additionally, various teams and coaches were acknowledged for their accomplishments, including the toughest offensive lines in each Suffolk division. The coveted Norman D. Carter Official of the Year award went to Marc Negrin Jr., another highlight of the day!

With such bright futures ahead and their commitment to excellence, both Xavier Ali and Will Handley are not only role models for their peers but also shining beacons of hope for the community!

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