The tradition never graduates: Stranski to wear ‘44' in 2006

Warwick - There are many traditions associated with the athletic programs at Warwick Valley High School and for the football program the selection of the player to wear the “44” jersey ranks at the top. Since 1896 Warwick has put a football team on the field to compete with the best and many great traditions have accumulated along the way. The “44” jersey represents the finest qualities in athletics from toughness and competitive spirit to leadership and integrity. The Wildcats want the player wearing the “44” jersey on the field during critical plays because that is what the jersey represents - a difference maker. Warwick Football’s 111th football team has selected Matt Stranski, the junior running back and linebacker to wear the jersey this fall. The number was handed down from graduating 2005 captain and “44” jersey recipient Ryan Darcey. Legend has it that the tradition started when Class of 1988 linebacker Bobby Kreutz asked then Defensive Coordinator George St. Lawrence if he could hand the “44” down to a guy he felt stood for all the qualities that represent the best of athletics. So began the journey of “44.” Since 1988, the players who have worn the number “44” have been: • Bobby Kreutz (Fall 1988) • Steve Birmingham (Fall 1989) • Steve Birmingham (Fall 1990) • Bryan Whalen (Fall 1991) • Bryan Whalen (Fall 1992) • Anthony Palercio (Fall 1993) • Joe Marcilio (Fall 1994) • Mike Kearns (Fall 1995) • James Sciarra (Fall 1996) • Ash Morgan (Fall 1997) • Ash Morgan/ John Marcilio (Fall 1998) • John Marion (1999) • Jeff Hahn (Fall 2000) • Jeff Hahn (Fall 2001) • Saul Diaz (Fall 2002) • Shawn Walsh (2003) • Tim Marion (Fall 2004) • Ryan Darcey (Fall 2005) • Matt Stranski (Fall 2006) Gregory Sirico is the Warwick Valley High School football coach.