Long Island City Football Turning the Tide with Talent-Loaded Team

Last season, Long Island City (LIC) High School Football posted a 4-3 record in the PSAL’s Cup Conference, establishing a solid foundation from which to build.

Though the Bulldogs (1-1) were moved up to A division, they proved they could hang with the big boys, defeating the 2021 Cup Conference Champs, Dewitt Clinton, 21-14 on Sunday.

“I could not be prouder of this group of young men,” LIC head coach Joe Giardina said. “They put the work in, on the field and in the classroom, and it is starting to pay off. I preach discipline football every day at practice. Sunday was a perfect example of guys doing their job and trusting their teammates.”

Here are the Bulldogs that have helped turned the LIC’s program into a winning culture at the school thus far in the 2022 campaign.

Seniors Saiquan Morris and Rijkaard Charmont combined to secure the victory for LIC. Charmont split a double team to sack the Clinton QB and forced him to fumble while captain Morris pounced on the ball.

Senior quarterback Zen Fuiaxis, who led the Cup Conference in completions last season, has amassed 202 yards and two TDs through three contests.

“I don’t think anybody expected us to perform the way we did, let alone get the win. But I think we showed what type of team we are and how hard we work,” Fuiaxis said. “Clinton played a great game and at the end, I just had to trust our guys to make plays and they delivered.

“Shoutout to one of my best friends, Patrick, the wide receiver who caught the game-winning touchdown, which was his first catch in a regular season game,” he continued. “I am so proud of how far he’s come along as well as the rest of our guys”

Senior middle linebacker/fullback Tyler Chapple has scored two touchdowns and made 26 tackles through three games.

Senior running back/linebacker Ronnie Biglow, a first-year player, has carried the ball 16 times for 168 yards, and made 21 tackles through three games.

Senior Patrick Calixto free safety/wide receiver is a utility player that can play anywhere on the field, Giardina noted. He caught game-winner versus Clinton as well as recording five tackles.

Senior wide receiver/cornerback Ulices Coyotli enjoyed a stellar tilt, making multiple pass break ups.

Junior guard/linebacker Justin Rodriguez has made eight tackles through two games.

Sophomore wide receiver/cornerback Billy Fuiaxis has rushed for 43 yards and one score, and collected six receptions for 165 yards, one TD as well as made six tackles and picked off three passes this year.

— Jerry Del Priore

Photos: LIC Football.