North Football Suits With Up Concussion Reduction Helmets

The 35 members of the Clarkstown North High School varsity football team suited up for their first day of fall season practice on Monday with brand new concussion reduction helmets. 

The student athletes took the opportunity to thank North graduate Senator David Carlucci who helped obtain $60,000 in bullet aid funding for the state-of-the-art helmets. Now, Clarkstown’s two high school varsity football teams are in possession of Riddell Concussion Reduction Technology helmets. 

The presentation of the Riddell Revolution helmets to the squad took place on the school’s long-awaited and newly completed bleachers and attached press box. Assistant School Superintendent John LaNave said prioritizing a list of district security measures and programs moved the helmets to the top.

“At Clarkstown Schools, we have a long history of being focused on student safety,” said LaNave.

Carlucci said safety was paramount and the lessons about the importance of discipline and strength of focus learned on athletic fields are as critical as staying safe and healthy.

“Those skills are so important,” said Carlucci. “It has led me to be able to work in the state senate with 62 other senators with different ideas with different opinions but that teamwork working together has allowed us to advocate for every district, every school district.” 

Carlucci pointed out the benefits of the helmet acquisition was twofold for players who would have greater protection from debilitating injuries and parents who would gain greater peace of mind.  

Team Co-captains Christian Lugo and Matt McMullin presented Carlucci with Rams football jerseys as a gesture of appreciation for securing the funding for the hi-tech purple and gold helmets. 

“The helmets are really good helmets,” said McMullin.

LaNave said the district purchased 40 helmets at a cost of approximately $210 each. The remainder of the bullet aid was put towards the other safety and security projects ongoing in the district that had been discussed as part of the 2013-14 budget.

Among those on hand to thank Carlucci were Varsity Football Head Coach Joe Trongone, North Principal Harry Leonardatos, District Assistant Superintendent of Personnel Jeff Sobel, North Athletic Coordinator Tess Brogan and Clarkstown School Board member Wendy Adolff.

Clarkstown South’s varsity football team received the helmets in 2011 after two graduates raised the money to purchase 30 helmets.