Top 7 East Meadow Sports Stories of 2011

With 2011 winding down and 2012 upon us, we now reflect on the year that was.

In 2011, there were plenty of sports stories that made the local community proud. Here's a look at what went down in 2011.

No. 7 —

Now, while not a current East Meadow athlete, Danowski grew up right near Veterans Memorial Park.

He went from playing pick-up basketball games with his friends to winning a National Title with Michael Jordan while at the University of North Carolina. Check out the link above for the full story.

No. 6 —

The East Meadow Police Athletic League went above and beyond to raise both money and awareness for breast cancer.

While the little athletes were competing on the field, people walked around selling raffles and clothes to try to accumulate funds. Click the link above for the full details.

No. 5 —

East Meadow was just one win away from a District 32 championship when Ryan Wallstedt pitched the game of his life.

He allowed just three base-runners, two on walks and one on an error in the 7-0 East Meadow win. Check the link for all the details.

No. 4 —

With the Jets already having their backs against the wall, it was an unlikely hero that stepped up to help East Meadow even the series.

Down 1-0 in the fourth, Madison West clubbed an opposite-field two-run homer to put the Jets up for good. Check out the full game story above.

No. 3 —

Jack Kaley's influence was never lost with his players.

His abilities in coaching went way beyond an on-the-field capacity. He also stressed the importance of excelling in the classroom as well. Kaley was given an outstanding honor this year. To find out more about his time in East Meadow and the recent honor, check the link above.

No. 2 —

Having his father guide him in wrestling since the age of three has paid off for Mike Leonard, reaching a milestone in Nassau County wrestling with his 200th victory on Jan. 22.

Leonard is only the fourth wrestler in Nassau County history to reach 200 wins and has the most ever by a wrestler. The win came at home on senior night in front of his friends and family.

No. 1 —

This was a highlight in what was a storybook season for the East Meadow Football team.

The Jets came from behind to upset Freeport 34-33, thanks in part to 220 all-purpose yards from Dylan Curry.

"The feeling is unbelievable," Curry said. "I have never been prouder to be on a team like I am right now." For the full story, click the link above.

Do you think a story deserves recognition that didn't make the list? Tell us in the comments.