Long Island's  Mike Denimarck

When he walks on to the field of James M. Shuart Stadium on July 1, Mike Denimarck will be both drawing one phase of his athletic career to a close while making his debut on a field he hopes will see many great moments over the next several years.

As a member of the Long Island squad in the Outback Steakhouse Empire Challenge, the 6-5, 230 pound defensive end will be teaming with former high school rivals and future college teammates in one last celebration of high school competition.  As an incoming freshman at Hofstra, he’ll be getting an advanced look at his home field for the next four years.

“It will be the first time I will play on that field, but not the last, “Denimarck notes. “ It’s a way to end my high school career and start my college career at the same time.”

Playing in the Empire Challenge is something Denimarck values, not only because he has been in the stands for the several of the previous games, but because he will be the first to carry Miller Place High School’s name into the game. “I followed the game the last couple of years and wanted to play in it. I wanted to be in the spotlight, in the big game and I was fortunate enough that things worked out and I now I have that chance.  I’m the first player from my school to be in the game, so that makes it even more special.”

He will be joined by three other Hofstra signees (Tom Daddino, Stanley Gutierrez and Eddie Wansor) on the Long Island side, while a fourth will be across (Shemiah LaGrande) will be on the opposing bench.  They’ll get a jump start on bonding as future teammates.  “I got to meet a couple of guys during the Hofstra spring game, and they seemed like good guys. This will give us a chance to get to know each other even better,” he said.

While Fourth of July weekend is traditionally reserved for a game of touch football on the beach, Denimarck does not foresee any challenges in preparing for the full contact variety.  “Football is football, no matter what time of year it is. I’ve been running and working out since the start of May to be sure and be ready and in shape. I know the other guys are going to be ready to play as well. It’s going to be a great game,” he predicted.

“It’s fun to be a part of the game, and all the stuff that will lead up to the game is great, but once we get on the field, it’s football. You’ve got to play to win every time you put on the pads,” he noted.

Through all the events and practice time leading up to the game, Denimarck and his other Empire Challenge teammates will not lose sight of the real reason the game is being played.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to not have anyone in my family have any personal experience with CF, but that doesn’t make me any less excited or inspired to play the game,” he said. “Boomer is doing great work with his Foundation and I am proud to get a chance to help with that work.”