The fourth annual Dezy Strong Run took place at Sachem North on Friday, Oct. 25. Cross country teams from Sagamore, Samoset and Seneca competed in a 1.65-mile race around the North campus. Parents, spectators, coaches and athletes enjoyed the weather, the competition and the sportsmanship between the three middle schools.

The race was created in 2021 to honor the late Matt “Dezy” DiStefano, his family and the Dezy Strong Foundation. Matt was a proud teacher and coach in Sachem who battled every day until the very end. His motto, “WE GET TO” has inspired all of us in the Sachem community as well as other districts across Long Island.  

The Samoset cross country team was able to win both races and ultimately, win the meet.

Top 3 Girls

Leah Nowakowski – Samoset

Sophia Ariza – Seneca

Breana Anderson – Samoset

Top 3 Boys

Andrew Bitz – Samoset

Ethen Espinal – Sagamore

Gavin Hogan – Sagamore

“When people find out they have cancer, they think their life is over. For me, it's different. For me, it's the beginning of something special in life. A life in which I can help others change their way of mentally approaching the disease, learning to be a warrior, a fighter, and have hope.  I prefer to say that I am going to conquer this disease. I will control it, rather than have it control me.  This is why I founded the DezyStrong Foundation.  To help others stay positive, control their mindset, and most of all - keep grinding DezyStrong style!

- Matthew "Dezy" DiStefano