YMCA OF LONG ISLAND HELPS HONOR LOCAL SOCCER COACHES AT FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 WATCH EXPERIENCE ON LONG ISLAND
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
YMCA OF LONG ISLAND HELPS HONOR LOCAL SOCCER COACHES AT FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 WATCH EXPERIENCE ON LONG ISLAND
Huntington YMCA Sports Director Thomas McMahon Presented FIFA World Cup Tickets to Community Coaches Recognized for Growing the Game
STONY BROOK, NY (June 12, 2026) – Thousands of New Yorkers gathered today at Stony Brook University’s LaValle Stadium for the free New York State United — 2026 World Cup Watch Experience, celebrating the excitement of the FIFA World Cup and the communities that make the sport thrive.
As part of the day’s festivities, the Alliance of New York State YMCAs recognized seven local soccer coaches for their dedication to youth development and community engagement through soccer. Representing the YMCA of Long Island, Huntington YMCA Sports Director Thomas McMahon attended the event and helped present complimentary FIFA World Cup tickets to the honorees as a token of appreciation for their commitment to inspiring and mentoring young athletes throughout their communities.
“At the YMCA of Long Island, we see firsthand the positive impact coaches have on young people every day,” said Anne Brigis, President and CEO of the YMCA of Long Island. “Coaches do much more than teach skills and strategy—they build confidence, encourage teamwork, and help shape future leaders. We are proud to recognize these dedicated individuals and thank them for their commitment to strengthening our communities through sports.”
The full day of programming featured live broadcasts of the FIFA World Cup matches, including Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina and the highly anticipated USA vs. Paraguay matchup. Attendees also enjoyed family-friendly activities hosted by more than 25 partners, including New York State agencies, local law enforcement organizations, community groups, and soccer organizations. The award-winning rock band Third Eye Blind performed prior to the USA match, while the Sachem Flaming Arrows Marching Band showcased local talent during the event.
The YMCA of Long Island remains committed to strengthening communities through youth sports programs that promote teamwork, confidence, healthy living, and personal growth. Through soccer and other youth sports opportunities, the YMCA continues to provide pathways for young people to develop skills, build friendships, and reach their full potential.
About the YMCA of Long Island
The YMCA of Long Island is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community-based service organization dedicated to improving the lives of children, teens, adults, and families through programs and services that nurture youth development, foster healthy living, and inspire social responsibility. Long Islanders learn to live their healthiest and fullest lives inside the YMCA’s located in Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue. For information and locations, visit ymcali.org.
Images:
Photo 1: Thomas McMahon, Sports Director, Huntington YMCA with local coaches at the Stony Brook FIFA Watch Party Event
Photo Credit: Hayes Initiative
Photo 2: Local coaches celebrating their free FIFA Tickets
Photo Credit: Hayes Initiative