Blake Cascadden always embraces the crucial moments for the Garden City football squad. “He’s incredibly competitive. He strives for victory in everything he attempts,” coach Dave Ettinger stated. “It’s quite impressive that two of his top performances occurred during the Long Island championships.” Last year, Cascadden accumulated 144 rushing yards and two touchdowns on just […]
Blake Cascadden always embraces the crucial moments for the Garden City football squad.
“He’s incredibly competitive. He strives for victory in everything he attempts,” coach Dave Ettinger stated. “It’s quite impressive that two of his top performances occurred during the Long Island championships.”
Last year, Cascadden accumulated 144 rushing yards and two touchdowns on just 13 carries, propelling the Trojans to their third consecutive Long Island title.
This year’s performance mirrored that excellence. During the senior’s final appearance in the Long Island championship, Cascadden rose to the occasion under the spotlight.
The Trojans triumphed over Sayville, 31-28, at LaValle Stadium at Stony Brook University last Saturday, earning their fourth consecutive Long Island championship and extending their winning streak to 54 games.
“It’s incredible. Even when we mention it, it feels hard to grasp because it seems unreal,” Cascadden remarked. “It’s wonderful to be part of something significant and to have contributed to so many of those victories.”
The wide receiver/linebacker recognized that it was his last opportunity, alongside his fellow seniors, to seize the championship, so he was determined not to let it slip away.
“Many of us understood it was our final time donning our uniforms. It boiled down to who desired it more,” Cascadden expressed. “Our team and our seniors were eager to secure one more win and one more LIC while maintaining our unbeaten record. That was a crucial element in our success.”
“He has never suffered a defeat during his high school journey. He has enjoyed an outstanding high school career on both offense and defense,” Ettinger shared. “I know he will be sorely missed.”
Offensively, Cascadden recorded 130 all-purpose yards, rushing for 45 yards and one touchdown on nine carries while also making seven receptions for 85 yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, he registered eight tackles along with one tackle for loss.
“He is capable of doing a bit of everything. He played as our wide receiver, tailback, fullback, linebacker, and defensive end, all within the same game,” Ettinger noted. “His ability to contribute in various positions provides our team with a distinct advantage.”
For his standout performance, Cascadden has been named Newsday Athlete of the Week.
Following their LIC victory, Cascadden is taking a break while gearing up for the upcoming spring lacrosse season. His football experience aids him in preparing for lacrosse.
“Honestly, I’m kind of missing it every moment, but lacrosse is on the horizon,” Cascadden mentioned. “Both sports share similarities. Football has provided me with strength and the fearless mentality needed to charge through anyone in my path.”
The senior has committed to Cornell for lacrosse and looks forward to starting this new chapter in his life.
“It’s going to be fantastic. My older brother (Jack) is currently attending there, so I’ll have the chance to play alongside him for two years,” Cascadden stated. “I’m extremely thankful to have been recruited by them and to be attending such a prestigious school with a remarkable team.”
