The William Floyd Colonials wrestling program under the leadership of head coach Tony Mecca recently hosted the 14th annual “Take Down Autism” Tournament, a day of fundraising and competition among the best teams in Suffolk County. In total, the tournament raised $2,442 which includes a generous donation of $1,000 from the Rotary Club of Shirley and the Mastics. The money raised will benefit Autism Speaks, an autism advocacy organization that sponsors autism research and conducts awareness and outreach activities aimed at families, the government and the public. To date, this event along with “Nicky’s Team” donations raised in the Autism Speaks Walk, has garnered more than $50,000 for the organization. Nicky’s Team is named for Coach Mecca’s 20-year old son.

The Colonials also found success on the mat finishing the tournament with a 4-1 record, with their only loss coming in the championship round to county-ranked Islip by a score of 38-33. The Colonials defeated Bay Shore (57-20), Glen Cove (70-12), Smithtown West (39-33) and Ward Melville (53-29). The team recorded an outstanding 30 pins on the day and had four wrestlers finish the tournament undefeated. Freshman Nick Barone went 5-0 with five pins, senior captain Cosmo Stoia was 5-0 with three pins. Additionally, All-County wrestler Norris Robinson and heavyweight Santiago Strick went 5-0 with four pins apiece.