Longwood Lions Roar Through Season, Stumble in Semis

The Longwood Lions delivered a season to remember in 2024, establishing themselves as one of the top contenders in Suffolk County’s Section XI Division I.

Regular Season Surge

Longwood roared out of the gates, piling up eight wins against just two losses in both conference and overall play5. The Lions’ regular season was marked by dominant victories, including a 52-0 rout of Brentwood, a 28-0 shutout of Sachem North, and a convincing 35-7 win over Sachem East12. Their offense proved explosive, as seen in a 49-28 triumph over Lindenhurst and a 38-15 victory against Walt Whitman12. The Lions also notched a statement win over Ward Melville, handing the Patriots a 35-7 defeat in late October12.

Playoff Push and Key Battles

Longwood entered the postseason with momentum, dispatching Walt Whitman 31-10 in the opening round12. In the semifinals, they squared off against a familiar foe, Ward Melville. Despite a valiant effort, the Lions fell short in a defensive struggle, losing 14-7 and ending their championship hopes13. This loss was a reversal from their earlier regular season win over the Patriots, highlighting the fierce competitiveness at the top of Division I.

Standouts and Season Legacy

The Lions’ season was defined by a balanced attack and a stingy defense that recorded multiple shutouts. While individual player statistics are not detailed in the available sources, Longwood’s ability to consistently score and keep opponents off the board was a hallmark of their 2024 campaign12. Their 8-2 record placed them among the division’s elite, just behind Ward Melville and William Floyd in the standings5.

Looking Ahead

Though their playoff run ended in disappointment, the 2024 Longwood Lions showcased the depth and resilience of their program. With a strong core and a proven ability to compete with the best in Suffolk County, the Lions have set the stage for another exciting season in 2025.