UPDATE: The Garden City Trojans are set to defend their remarkable 54-game win streak starting this Saturday, September 9, 2023, against Long Beach. As they open the 2025 season, the stakes couldn’t be higher for head coach Dave Ettinger and his team, who are aiming for their 10th consecutive Nassau County title and fifth straight Long Island championship.
With all eyes on the Trojans, Ettinger emphasized the weight of legacy, stating, “Winning never gets boring.” His impressive record of 109-3 as head coach underscores the pressure on the players to uphold the team’s storied tradition. “They give us every ounce of effort that they have throughout the entire season,” he added, highlighting the commitment necessary to maintain their elite status.
The Trojans have adopted a rigorous training regimen, sacrificing summer vacation for a sleepaway football camp in Connecticut, and committing to at least two team dinners weekly during the season. Senior players like Zach Olson, who will be attending Harvard, shared his perspective: “Nobody expects to win. We just try to drill down… and keep the energy up.” His dedication reflects the team’s collective mindset as they strive for another championship ring.
As the Trojans prepare to face Long Beach, Ettinger remains focused on the immediate challenge. “Our only focus right now is Long Beach on Saturday,” he said. This approach, taking it one week at a time, is critical as the team has been moved up from Conference III to the larger Conference II, adding a layer of complexity to their campaign.
The Trojans are well aware of the challenges ahead. With only three losses in the past decade, Ettinger notes that those rare setbacks have provided valuable lessons. “Sometimes you learn more when you lose than when you win,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of preparation and attention to detail.
Senior kicker Christopher Desiderio, who aims for perfection after missing two kicks last season, encapsulates the team’s mindset: “Since being a little kid, you see all these championships they’ve won. That’s really all you want to do when your time comes.” His goal to excel highlights the personal stakes for each player as they gear up for the opener.
As the game approaches, excitement builds around the team and their unwavering commitment to excellence. The Trojans’ deep-rooted culture of hard work and resilience is evident as they prepare to battle Long Beach, a formidable opponent. Whether this storied program can extend their win streak remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the pressure is on, and the stakes are high.
Fans can expect a thrilling matchup as the Garden City Trojans take the field this Saturday, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 PM at Long Beach. With everything on the line, this season opener promises to be an unforgettable chapter in the Trojans’ legacy.
